Tent camping near Hanover, Pennsylvania includes wooded settings along creeks and rivers with sites ranging from 500-1200 feet elevation. The region experiences warm summers with nighttime temperatures typically dropping into the 60s during peak camping season. Many campgrounds are situated near water features with rocky terrain requiring proper tent stakes and footprint protection.
What to do
Kayaking and floating: Lower Allen Community Park offers creek-side camping with convenient water access. One camper mentioned, "You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site."
Rock climbing: Explore climbing opportunities at Annapolis Rock Campground where "rock climbing available" according to one reviewer. The site offers "moderate difficulty 2+ mile hike from Route 40" to reach the camping area.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Trails near Susquehannock State Park lead to river viewpoints. A reviewer noted, "It's look out over the Susquehanna River is fantastic and puts you up with the birds."
Wildlife watching: The region offers opportunities to spot various bird species, especially near water. At Antietam Creek Campground, campers can enjoy "relaxing it was to just sit and people watch and enjoy the warm sun."
What campers like
Creek-side tent sites: Mill Creek Camping Area features "spaced out large spaces for multiple tents" with "campsite down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
Natural springs: Campers at Annapolis Rock appreciate access to fresh water sources, with one noting a "Short walk to cold natural spring for water."
Tree cover and shade: Most tent sites in the region have good tree coverage. Mill Creek provides "great tree coverage" which helps keep camping areas cooler during hot summer months.
Seasonal wildflowers: Several trails feature wildflower displays, particularly in spring. As one Susquehannock State Park camper mentioned, "There are amazing wildflowers on that trail."
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Some parks strictly prohibit alcohol while others allow it. At Patapsco Valley State Park, "no alcohol or firewood can be brought into the park" according to a reviewer.
Site surfaces may affect tent setup: Some crushed stone sites require adaptation. One camper at Patapsco Valley noted, "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."
Walk-in requirements: Many tent sites require carrying equipment from parking areas. At Antietam Creek, "You have to park on the road and walk about 75 feet to your site."
Rainfall drainage issues: Pay attention to site elevation and location during wet seasons. One camper reported, "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 and it was very wet even after the rain died down."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Susquehannock State Park Campground has "two loops. One has a few sites with electric and some cabins. Potable water is available in several places on each loop."
Nature programs and playgrounds: Patapsco Valley State Park offers excellent family activities. A reviewer mentioned, "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park."
Trail difficulty considerations: Assess trail ratings before hiking with children. One camper noted, "The trail was well marked but there was some confusion at one point on where we were supposed to go. Luckily I had an app that kept me on trail."
Check-in timing: Some parks have strict check-in policies. A reviewer mentioned, "This was also the first time we have ever had to wait till exactly 3pm to check in. So if you arrive early expect to wait until 3."
Tips from RVers
Campground access challenges: Some parks have entrances that can be easily missed. One RVer at Patapsco Valley noted, "Getting in to the park was a little difficult. We missed the entrance and had to turn around. Friends who were camping with us had the same problem."
Mini cabins for comfort: For those wanting an alternative to tent camping or RVs, Dahlgren Backpacker Campground is "a bit different than most AT stops, as there are no real sites, just a large grassy area to pitch tents."
Bathroom and shower facilities: Facility quality varies between campgrounds. A Dahlgren visitor reported it has "a basic, but clean, bathroom with showers" and "a year-round water source."
Park lock-up times: Be aware of park closure times if planning off-site activities. At Lower Allen Community Park, "they do lock the park at dusk though."
