Tent camping near Millersville, Pennsylvania offers sites on predominantly flat terrain with elevations between 300-500 feet above sea level. The area experiences humid continental climate with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations from April through October, with several parks limiting camping to weekends only outside of summer months.
What to do
Hiking trails network: At Susquehannock State Park Campground, trails lead to scenic river overlooks. "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River. There's a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles," notes David G.
Fishing opportunities: Several sites provide creek and lake access for fishing. At Lower Allen Community Park, the Yellow Breeches Creek offers good fishing spots. "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about... The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site," explains Joann.
Water activities: Many campsites offer creek access for summer cooling. Chambers Lake at Hibernia County Park allows non-motorized boating. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," writes Anna in her review.
What campers like
Natural cooling: Creekside locations provide temperature moderation during summer heat. Meagan J. describes Mill Creek Camping Area as having "large spaces for multiple tents... 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."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature generously sized sites. At Mill Creek Camping Area, "campgrounds are spaced out large spaces for multiple tents, camping cost $25 a night flat rate, for up to 6 days. Campground will refund you if rain prevents your stay or allow you to rebook."
Hammock-friendly trees: Wooded sites at Hibernia County Park provide ideal hammock setups. As Jennifer S. explains, "Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined which means the distance between you and your neighbor can vary depending on how you set up camp."
What you should know
Weekend-only operations: Many parks have limited schedules. Jennifer S. notes about Hibernia County Park: "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration."
Water access limitations: Water sources vary by campground. At Hibernia, "There is NO DUMP STATION... 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."
Trail traffic issues: Some campsites experience significant hiker traffic. At Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area, Philip B. observed: "The site is public access and there are lots of hikes, joggers, and people expecting you not to be camping. I was woke up every morning by people walking through the site but the conversation were friendly and pleasant."
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Hibernia County Park offers affordable rates with basic amenities. "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," explains John Z.
Kid-friendly fishing: Designated children's fishing areas exist at several parks. "The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," reports Anna about her family's experience.
Park lock-up awareness: Some parks close gates at specific times. At Lower Allen Community Park, "The park is in the suburbs so it's close to lots of things. They do lock the park at dusk though. They have portapotties, fire pits, and picnic tables."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV capacity: Most sites accommodate smaller RVs only. Jennifer S. advises about Ridley Creek State Park: "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. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Prepare for no hookups: Most tent-focused sites lack RV amenities. "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," notes Jennifer about Hibernia County Park.
Alternative dump locations: No onsite dump stations means planning ahead. "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."
