Tent camping options near Felton, Pennsylvania spread across mostly wooded terrain at elevations ranging from 400-700 feet. Campsites in this region typically remain open from April through October, with seasonal closures during winter months. Weekend reservations fill quickly during peak summer months when daytime temperatures regularly exceed 85Ā°F.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: At Susquehannock State Park Campground, multiple trails lead to scenic river views. "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River. There's a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles," reports David G.
Fishing opportunities: Hibernia County Park offers dedicated fishing areas for different age groups. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes Anna, making this an excellent spot for introducing kids to the sport.
Kayaking access: Lower Allen Community Park provides direct water access for paddlers. "You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site. There is parking right there," explains Joann, who appreciates the convenience for kayak camping along Yellow Breeches Creek.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds feature recreational areas for children. "There is a huge playground, nature play space, sensory trail, and a small nature center. There are a lot of easy, but beautiful hikes," writes Sean M. about Patapsco Valley State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront cooling: Mill Creek Camping Area provides tent sites along a stream that helps moderate summer temperatures. "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night," shares Meagan J.
Budget-friendly rates: Hibernia County Park offers affordable camping options at $15 per night with basic amenities. "Super great price at $15/night as well. Each site has a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill," Anna comments.
Hammock spots: Hibernia County Park features heavily wooded sites conducive to hammock camping. "Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined," explains Jennifer S.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities exist along trails and waterways. "It's look out over the Susquehanna River is fantastic and puts you up with the birds," notes Nick S. about the scenic vantage points at Susquehannock State Park.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. Mill Creek Camping Area charges "$25 a night flat rate, for up to 6 days. Campground will refund you if rain prevents your stay or allow you to rebook," according to Meagan J.
Limited privacy: Tent sites at some locations lack defined boundaries. "There is absolutely no privacy. The campsites are right next to each other with hardly any trees... You can see everything other campers do any they can see everything you're doing," cautions Abi D. about her experience at Hibernia County Park.
Trail traffic: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area has trails that can become congested. "When it rains it really flushes through the grounds. We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm," reports Alexandra T.
Hiker interference: Some campsites experience foot traffic from day visitors. "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in a private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites," reports Sakina P. about Mill Creek Camping Area.
Tips for camping with families
Seek accessible amenities: Look for campgrounds with child-friendly facilities. "My kids are age 3-12. There's running water available, porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp," notes Anna about the Lake Campground at Hibernia County Park.
Consider playground proximity: Some campgrounds feature play areas within the camping loops. "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park. The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground," reports Angel G.
Evaluate trail difficulty: Assess hiking options based on children's abilities. "The hike I did was not very long but was well worth it. The trail was well marked but there was some confusion at one point on where we were suppose to go," shares Anthony S., suggesting careful navigation when bringing children.
Tips from RVers
Check site angles: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area requires careful positioning for larger vehicles. "The crushed stone at the sites isn't comfortable for tents, and they won't let you pitch it on the ground, so bring extra pads and alternative ways to secure the tent," advises Sean M.
Water planning: Many campgrounds near Felton lack hookups, requiring self-sufficiency. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," Jennifer S. recommends for Hibernia County Park.
Limited dump facilities: RV campers should plan for waste management. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," Jennifer S. notes about facilities at Hibernia County Park.
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