Tent camping opportunities near New Freedom, Pennsylvania blend wooded landscapes with water access at 800-1,200 feet elevation. The region features creek-side sites within a 30-mile radius of the Pennsylvania-Maryland border, with most campgrounds open seasonally from April through October. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with higher humidity levels near water sources.
What to do
Hiking along scenic trails: Susquehannock State Park Campground offers excellent hiking options with "amazing wildflowers" along bike trails. As camper David G. notes, "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River," with a unique feature being "two amazing specimen trees" along one trail.
Fishing at stocked ponds: Hibernia County Park maintains a dedicated children's fishing area. According to Anna, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," making it ideal for young anglers learning to fish.
Water activities on multiple waterways: Lower Allen Community Park offers creek-side camping with paddling options. As Joann notes, "You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site," creating a unique kayak-to-camp experience on Yellow Breeches Creek.
Rock climbing for adventurers: Annapolis Rock Campground provides technical climbing opportunities. "The Annapolis Rock cliffs offer beautiful views and all kinds of single pitch rock climbing," explains Cory D., with routes accessible via a moderate 2-mile hike from Route 40.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Tent sites positioned along creeks create natural cooling and ambient sounds. A camper at Mill Creek Camping Area shared that "camping down by the creek makes for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being rustic, campers appreciate clean bathrooms and common areas. At Hibernia County Park, a visitor noted "porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp," showing attention to basic comfort even at primitive sites.
Scenic overlooks and viewpoints: High-elevation sites offer reward for hikers. Bob S. describes Annapolis Rock Campground as having "great views" with a "moderate difficulty 2+ mile hike from Route 40," making the trek worthwhile for panoramic vistas of the Maryland countryside.
Family-friendly amenities: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area receives praise for its playground facilities. Camper Angel G. describes it as "perfect for keeping the kids entertained" with "a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park."
What you should know
No-alcohol policies: Several parks enforce strict no-alcohol rules. Hibernia County Park has this restriction, with John Z. noting it's "inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups" and reminding that as a "county park so no booze."
Tent pad surfaces: Many campgrounds use crushed stone surfaces rather than natural ground. Sean M. at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area warns: "The crushed stone at the sites isn't comfortable for tents, and they won't let you pitch it on the ground, so bring extra pads and alternative ways to secure the tent."
Fire restrictions: Some campgrounds prohibit open flames. At Annapolis Rock Campground, Cory D. explains there are "no fires, but there are two privies and a really nice spring near the campsites" plus "two bear poles" for food storage.
Parking and access limitations: Parks may lock gates after hours. At Lower Allen Community Park, "They do lock the park at dusk," according to Joann, requiring campers to arrive before closure or coordinate with park staff.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Some sites offer direct access to play areas. Angel G. recommends Patapsco Valley's Hilton entrance because "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," though notes these areas "are not stroller friendly."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several parks offer nature encounters for children. At Susquehannock State Park, camper David G. mentions "a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles."
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Dedicated ponds make fishing accessible for beginners. Anna notes that at Hibernia County Park, "The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms," with the lake "about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails."
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent-focused sites lack RV amenities. Jennifer S. warns that at Hibernia County Park, "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."
Site leveling challenges: Uneven ground requires preparation. Jennifer S. notes that at Hibernia, sites "aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," with a few specific sites that can accommodate larger rigs: "there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18."
