Tent campsites near Middletown, Pennsylvania offer primitive camping experiences within state and county parks approximately 30-40 miles from town. The region features wooded areas with elevation changes of 200-400 feet, providing natural drainage during summer storms. Seasonal availability varies widely, with many locations operating only from May through October and weekend-only schedules at certain parks during spring and fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hibernia County Park, campers can access the children's pond specifically stocked for anglers under 12 years old. A reviewer noted, "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too."
Trail hiking: Susquehannock State Park Campground features several short but scenic hiking trails with river views. One visitor commented, "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River," while another mentioned "It's look out over the Susquehanna River is fantastic and puts you up with the birds."
Paddling excursions: Creek-side tent sites allow for unique water access. At Mill Creek Camping Area, campers enjoy proximity to flowing water. One camper shared, "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
What campers like
Woodland privacy: Hibernia County Park offers heavily wooded sites with natural separation. A reviewer explained, "It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded... Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities."
Budget-friendly pricing: Many tent sites in the region maintain affordable rates compared to larger commercial campgrounds. One visitor at Hibernia County Park appreciated the "Super great price at $15/night as well."
Unexpected amenities: Despite being primitive, some campgrounds provide better facilities than expected. A camper at Hibernia County Park mentioned, "The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms."
What you should know
Site accessibility challenges: Many tent-only areas require walking to reach your campsite. At Shambala at Mystic Hollow, all sites are walk-in access alongside a creek, requiring gear to be carried from parking areas.
Trail traffic: Some campgrounds experience unexpected trail users passing through camping areas. At Mill Creek Camping Area, one visitor reported, "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites."
Bathroom limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds have minimal facilities. At Hibernia County Park, a camper explained, "There are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance of the loop."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities exist at select locations. At Hibernia County Park, a visitor reported, "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12... The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms."
Fishing for kids: Designated fishing spots for children provide entertainment. One Hibernia camper mentioned, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing."
Campsite selection: At Greystone Manor Backyard Camping, families benefit from drive-in access to tent sites with picnic tables and drinking water, reducing the gear-carrying burden when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many tent campgrounds near Middletown can accommodate small RVs but require careful planning. At Hibernia County Park, a reviewer with a larger rig explained, "We mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel... though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper."
Water access planning: Tent-focused campgrounds often have limited water hookups. A camper at Hibernia advised, "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."
Dump station alternatives: Plan for waste disposal before arrival. The same Hibernia camper warned, "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."
