Lancaster County offers a diverse camping experience with the Susquehanna River providing scenic water access at many sites. The area's rolling farmland sits at elevations between 300-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain for outdoor activities. Seasonal temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer, with most dog friendly campgrounds near Lancaster operating from April through October.
What to do
Creek exploration: Water activities at Pequea Creek Campground range from fishing to riverside relaxation. "We enjoyed the birds singing in the mornings and welcomed grandkids' visit for splashing and floating in Pequea Creek," notes camper J W. Sites near the water feature convenient creek access: "Nearby site 24 had steps down the 'levee' affording easier access to the creek."
Mini golf outings: Several parks maintain courses for family entertainment. At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, the activity remains popular despite needing some maintenance. "Mini golf was fun but need to be regreened...several holes needed maintenance," notes Beth B. The course offers entertainment regardless of condition, with one camper mentioning it was part of their "relaxing and fun" experience.
Amish countryside tours: Some campgrounds offer special access to local culture. At Country Acres Campground, campers appreciate the complimentary cultural activities: "There are free tickets available for the Amish Farmland Bus Tour." The campground's location provides authentic rural experiences, with one camper describing "watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Mill Bridge Village & Camp Resort offers creekside camping that provides extra room. "We had a nice site that backed up to a small creek. Very scenic and laid back campground," mentions Stacy D. The stream-adjacent sites are particularly sought after: "The site was right next to the creek. Shade is perfect for our dogs."
Modern facilities: Clean, updated bathrooms are highly valued by campers. At Country Acres Campground, the facilities exceed expectations: "The new bathhouse has better restrooms than my own home! Everything is clean and well managed," shares Megan T. Another camper confirms this sentiment: "Bath house was immaculate."
Family entertainment: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park specializes in kid-focused activities. "The water park was GREAT for kids and adults. Super clean. Lots to do. Well worth a week," writes Aaron E. Special events make celebrations memorable: "Our first year we did a birthday package where they brought a cake to the camp with Booboo for my daughter."
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Tucquan Park Family Campground, location within the campground significantly affects your experience. "We were originally supposed to be in the woods — which FYI is far out of the way of the main activities, and also has a pretty steep incline. But the site was too uneven for our taste so we moved down in the main area," explains melissa.
Proximity to farms: Agricultural smells can be noticeable at some locations. One camper at Old Mill Stream Campground noted: "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot. The smell was not present the first day or so we were there and we enjoyed sitting outside in the afternoon, but when the wind shifted the horrid smell drove us inside."
WiFi limitations: Internet access varies widely between campgrounds and sites. At Beacon Hill Camping, one visitor mentioned: "Wifi is a big pain so beware." At another campground, a camper noted: "Internet was ok and they ask folks to not stream," while another mentioned, "Wifi at our site was a bit weak."
Tips for camping with families
Playground quality: Different pet-friendly Lancaster campgrounds offer varying play equipment. "This campground features an amazing playground, a pond, a beautiful pool, a rec room, a wonderful hiking trail, and a basketball court," writes christine L. about Tucquan Park. However, quality varies: "Nice playground with a rockwall, slides and swings," versus "a small playground (with broken equipment)."
Activity schedules: Otter Creek Campground organizes events for different age groups. "We received the information on the events planned for the weekend... They had a few kid friendly events planned like the Hershey Zoo and Family Bingo," shares Jen R. Weekly activity offerings change seasonally, so check ahead.
Water features: Swimming options vary between locations. "There is a small, slow flowing river that runs along the front of the park which some people play in and float down in inner tubes," notes one camper, while another mentions: "The pool is nice and clean to cool off on those hot camping days. They also have a nice little pond you can fish."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for variable terrain at pet-welcoming campgrounds near Lancaster. "Our campsite was perfectly level and had a large gravel patio area and a large shade tree behind us. The site was plenty long for our 45' RV and tow car," reports Nancy W. Another camper notes: "We got pretty lucky and were assigned one of the concrete pads that was pretty level."
Parking arrangements: Some campgrounds have specific layout challenges. "Look at the map when selecting a site. The sites in the center are like a parking lot. Small, no shade and wide open. We prefer the creek side sites," advises Stacy D. Another camper mentioned: "Sites are tight, so know in advance how your going to park etc."
Hookup quality: Electrical service varies between sites. One camper at Mill Bridge Village noted: "Newer electric connections. EWS all at great locations to hook up." At other campgrounds, visitors specifically mentioned availability of "50 Amp W/E/S" options versus "30 amp W/E" options, so check specifications when booking.
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