Tent camping around Glen Rock, Pennsylvania centers on several county and state park options within a 30-mile radius. The region sits in the Piedmont Plateau with elevations ranging from 400 to 800 feet and receives moderate rainfall throughout summer camping months. Weather conditions in peak camping season (May-September) typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels in July and August.
What to do
Hiking with river views: At Susquehannock State Park Campground, campers can access trail networks with varying difficulty levels. "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," notes reviewer David G., who mentions you can bike directly from the campground but should "be ready for the climb back up."
Family-friendly playground access: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area offers recreational facilities beyond standard camping. "This area is, possibly unintentionally, geared toward children. There is a massive playground, nature play space, sensory trail, and a small nature center," reports reviewer Sean M. The playground isn't within easy walking distance for small children but is "a very short drive by the entrance to the park," according to Alexandra T.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide fishing access, with Hibernia County Park offering specific options for younger anglers. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes reviewer Anna, who found the location ideal for families with children ages 3-12.
What campers like
Creek-side cooling: During summer months, Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area provides natural relief from heat. One camper, Philip B., appreciated that "the stream is refreshing and the site stays fairly cool. When it hits the high temperatures a quick dip in the water is amazing."
Trail access from campsites: Many tent campers value direct access to hiking trails. At Susquehannock State Park Campground, Chuck C. notes, "The camping area is small but worth it. A short walk from the scenic overlooks and other hiking trails."
Basic amenities with privacy: The primitive nature of some campgrounds appeals to those seeking a simpler experience. At Hibernia County Park, campers get "picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups," explains John Z., who appreciates the $15 per night cost despite limited amenities. Chelsea adds that the "large campsites at the Lake Loop" provide adequate space despite being "farther from the lake than expected."
What you should know
Trail traffic through campsites: Be prepared for hikers passing through your camping area at certain locations. At Mill Creek Camping Area, one reviewer noted: "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas." Philip B. at Lancaster County Mill Creek similarly reported: "The site is public access and there are lots of hikers, joggers, and people expecting you not to be camping. I was woke up every morning by people walking through the site."
Limited shower access: While most established campgrounds have toilet facilities, shower amenities vary widely. Many primitive camping areas like Hibernia County Park have only "porta potties [that] are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp," according to Anna.
Weather considerations: Rain can significantly impact camping comfort at certain locations. At Patapsco Valley, Alexandra T. warns that "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When tent camping Glen Rock with children, consider proximity to play areas. Patapsco Valley State Park offers extensive recreation options with "a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," says Angel G., though she cautions these areas "are not stroller friendly."
Campsite selection for privacy: At Annapolis Rock Campground, you'll find "about a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private," according to Christopher B. This allows families to select more secluded spots when camping with children.
Water features for hot days: Stream access provides natural cooling and entertainment for children. At Hibernia County Park, Anna notes the "lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails" from the camping area, making it accessible for supervised children.
Tips from RVers
Limited access for larger vehicles: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Glen Rock have significant limitations for RVs. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. advises: "I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there. Fiddler's loop is where we always camp... We camp in a 28ft 5th wheel... 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."
Water tank preparation: For RVers considering primitive campgrounds, Jennifer S. notes at Hibernia County Park: "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. There is one spigot at the bathroom."
Dump station planning: When RV camping near Glen Rock, prepare for limited waste disposal options. At Hibernia County Park, "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."
