Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area spans 5,656 acres of preserved woodland and meadow in Maryland, approximately 10 miles from Landenberg, Pennsylvania. The area features a network of multi-use trails through rolling hills with elevations ranging from 220 to 420 feet above sea level. Camping options include primitive equestrian group sites and youth group areas, with specific regulations governing their use.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: Lums Pond State Park Campground is situated around a 200-acre millpond where visitors can fish for northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and panfish. "There are a huge pond that you can rent paddle boats and small v-bottom boats! We did enjoy the paddle boats and saw a few cranes! They offer fishing at the pond which was also enjoyable!" shares Amanda H.
Trail riding: The extensive trail network at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area accommodates equestrians with designated paths through diverse terrain. Youth groups can access primitive camping areas for overnight horse camping experiences. Gen F. notes, "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website."
Hiking: French Creek State Park Campground offers multiple well-marked hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," explains Mark, highlighting the accessible nature of the park's pathway system.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers at Hibernia County Park appreciate the secluded nature of the camping areas. Jennifer S. describes, "We LOVE this campground. It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded. There is NOTHING to do except walk or bike the beautiful trails, spend time on Chamber's Lake, spend time in the hammock and stare at the fire."
Clean facilities: Blackbird State Forest Campground maintains well-kept camping areas despite their primitive nature. Sarah M. reports, "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return! No running water- only port a potties but they were clean."
Equestrian accommodations: Horse owners value the specialized facilities at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area. The management area maintains specific camping areas designated for equestrian use, with access to water points and trail connections. Heather P. notes the "Clean family friendly environment with tons of extra curricular activities for all."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Landenberg require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For Lums Pond State Park, Ellen B. advises, "Book early because it fills up fast!"
Limited amenities: Several horse campgrounds near Landenberg offer primitive sites without full hookups. Hibernia County Park provides basic facilities as John Z. explains: "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups."
Site variations: Campsite quality and size can vary significantly within each campground. At Starlite Camping Resort, Craig F. observed, "Overall the sites were large, with trees between, providing additional privacy. Except for the Plateau sites, which have the amazing view, the rest of the campground had a great tree cover!"
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly fishing spots: Hibernia Park offers dedicated fishing areas for younger anglers. Anna notes, "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At French Creek State Park, Katie M. found, "There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained."
Easy trail options: For families with young children, select shorter trail segments at equestrian campgrounds near Landenberg. Jen R. from French Creek State Park observed, "There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake, and an amphitheater at the campground where they hold events."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds in the Landenberg area have uneven terrain requiring preparation. Jennifer S. notes about Hibernia County Park, "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Full hookup availability: For RVers seeking more amenities, Lums Pond State Park offers complete services. Matt S. shared, "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved."
Access considerations: Some horse campgrounds near Landenberg have challenging approach roads. Chris G. warns about Starlite Camping Resort, "There is also a great view of the surrounding countryside because it's up on a big hill. If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills."