Tent camping near Georgetown, Pennsylvania offers access to unique waterside experiences along the Susquehanna River and smaller creeks throughout Lancaster County. The region's elevation varies from 300 to 1,000 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates with temperatures often 5-10 degrees cooler in forested sites compared to open areas. Local campgrounds remain open from March through November, though some county parks limit camping to weekends only.
What to do
**Creek exploration: Mill Creek Camping Area's streamside sites provide direct water access. "The 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," notes camper Meagan J. at Mill Creek Camping Area.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Sites at Hibernia County Park offer access to dedicated fishing areas. According to Anna at Hibernia, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing." Kids 12 and under can fish in specially designated ponds.
Hiking to river overlooks: Susquehannock State Park features trails with panoramic views. "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. There are amazing wildflowers on that trail," shares David G. at Susquehannock State Park Campground.
What campers like
Woodland shade coverage: The tree canopy at Hibernia provides natural temperature regulation. "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12... Very quiet at night. The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms," reports Anna at Hibernia County Park.
Water sounds for sleeping: Streamside sites offer natural white noise. Philip B. notes at Lancaster County Mill Creek: "The stream is refreshing and the site stays fairly cool. When it hits the high temperatures a quick dip in the water is amazing."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Eagles and other birds are common sights along the Susquehanna. "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River," explains David G., highlighting the diverse ecological zones accessible from campsites.
What you should know
Limited bathroom facilities: Most tent sites offer basic amenities only. At Hibernia, Jennifer S. explains: "There are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance of the loop. I'm not sure if these are open all night, but they are open dawn to dusk."
Water access limitations: Tent campers should prepare to carry their own water supply. "There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'... If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," advises a camper at Hibernia.
Trail traffic through camps: Some sites experience hikers passing through. Sakina P. at Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area notes: "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer play areas near tent sites. John Z. mentions at Hibernia: "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground."
Short hiking options: Family-friendly trails under 2 miles are available. According to Chelsea at Hibernia: "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving - the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites. Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites can supplement camping experiences. Ridley Creek State Park provides diverse terrain for exploring. "I had the best time here hiking up and down the mini mountains. The water was clear and beautiful and I absolutely loved it," shares Meg F.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Many tent campgrounds aren't designed for larger vehicles. Jennifer S. cautions about Hibernia: "Lake loop is the bigger of the two, however the 'sites' are smaller and it's more open. It is popular with group tenters. I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there."
Creative leveling needed: Uneven sites require preparation. Jennifer notes at Evansburg State Park Campground: "As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
No dump stations: Plan for self-contained 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," warns an experienced RVer about facilities near Georgetown.
