Camping options near Landenberg, Pennsylvania span across three states due to the area's location at the tri-state border of Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet and predominantly deciduous forest terrain. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while winter camping can experience temperatures dropping into the 20s, particularly at French Creek State Park where year-round camping remains available even during snowy conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 5-7 species available: Elk Neck State Park Campground offers multiple fishing spots with species including "northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish." One camper noted they "spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site."
Kayaking on multiple lakes: electric motors only: At French Creek State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy two separate lakes for water activities. "There are two lakes in French Creek, Hopewell and Scott's Run and each contain many species of fish," with one reviewer adding "We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely!"
Hiking trails: multiple difficulty levels: The region offers numerous hiking options, particularly at Hibernia County Park where trails are suitable for families. A visitor mentioned, "Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," while another noted, "There are a half dozen, easy trails, the longest is around 2 miles."
Playground access: multiple locations: Many campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. At French Creek State Park, "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line."
What campers like
Spacious sites: rare privacy: Many campers appreciate the site layout at Lums Pond State Park Campground, with one reviewer noting, "This place is a gem, even among nice state parks" with "beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved." Another mentioned, "The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun."
Water views: premium locations: At Elk Neck State Park Campground, waterfront views are a highlight with "views of the Elk River from many sites." One camper mentioned, "Each has a fire pit, and there is a store on site that sells general campground supplies (fire starter, hot dogs, band aids). Has a great walking trail to an awesome lighthouse that overlooks the Chesapeake Bay."
Off-season availability: year-round options: Several campgrounds in the area remain open during winter months. According to one visitor to Elk Neck State Park, "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water."
Proximity to attractions: day trip potential: The region's location allows for easy access to regional highlights. The Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers "close to Longwood Gardens; Wilmington, Delaware; and a handful of local museums and gardens. Not too far from Philadelphia," according to a recent visitor.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, terrain can present challenges. One reviewer warned, "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road."
Reservation difficulty: book early: Some campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Lums Pond State Park, a visitor shared, "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond... Book early because it fills up fast!"
Bathroom maintenance issues: Facility cleanliness varies across campgrounds. A Hibernia County Park visitor noted, "Bathrooms were clean with showers and wash stations," while a French Creek camper reported, "The bathroom at the campground is very nice and new however it is a little on the dirty side."
Seasonal limitations: check before visiting: Many facilities operate with reduced services in off-seasons. "Most campgrounds operating year-round but offering limited amenities during winter months," with one Elk Neck State Park visitor noting that "the beach, was closed for major renovation" during their summer visit.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: plan accordingly: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville offers extensive water features. "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," shared one visitor. Another added, "We do go fishing while we are here and my daughter loves this place."
Playgrounds: multiple options: Many campgrounds feature recreational areas specifically designed for children. At French Creek State Park, "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground" while a visitor noted, "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)."
Kid-focused programming: varies by season: Some campgrounds offer specialized activities. At Jellystone Park, they have "Breakfast with Yogi! (just make sure the kids you have are not afraid of people in costumes, we found out the hard way!)," while another visitor shared, "Our first year we did a birthday package where they brought a cake to the camp with Booboo for my daughter."
Age-appropriate options: consider demographic: Not all facilities cater to all age groups. One family noted about Jellystone Park, "We returned this year with my 12 and 14 year olds and a 12 year old friend. The kids were bored," indicating certain campgrounds may better suit younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: verify before booking: At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, site size can be restrictive. "Get cozy, the sites are quite small and tightly packed together," while another camper warned, "Don't stay in this site in a big motorhome. The trailers/5th wheels seem better because they 'bend' at the hitch."
Hookup availability: varies widely: Campgrounds offer different utility options. At Lums Pond State Park, sites were "redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer," while Hibernia County Park has "NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV."
Dump station access: limited options: RVers should plan ahead for waste disposal. 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."
Leveling challenges: bring equipment: Terrain throughout the region can require adjustments. At Ridley Creek State Park, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," while at Hibernia County Park, sites "aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
