Camping options near Pequea, Pennsylvania span across the Susquehanna River valley at approximately 300 feet elevation. The region's moderate climate provides camping opportunities from April through October, with some campgrounds extending their season into November. The Lancaster County area receives around 42 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush landscapes but occasional muddy conditions during spring months.
What to do
Water activities on Pinchot Lake: At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and lakeside recreation. "The lake was really nice. You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina," notes Catherine H. The park features "a huge wood pile and it was only $10 per wheelbarrow full" for evening campfires according to Jen R. from Tucquan Park.
Mini-golf and recreation: Many campgrounds offer on-site activities regardless of weather. "They had a lot of events for everyone of all ages. The pool and playground were very clean and well taken care of," explains Jennifer R. about Tucquan Park Family Campground. Families particularly enjoy the variety of structured programs.
Amish countryside exploration: The unique cultural landscape provides educational opportunities. "The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground," advises Chuck W. about navigating to Old Mill Stream Campground, which offers access to numerous Amish attractions within a short drive.
What campers like
Quiet wooded tent sites: For those seeking solitude, several campgrounds offer secluded options. "The primitive sites are back in the woods which kept us nice and cool on hot July nights. The location also kept us fairly bug free," shares Christine L. about her experience at Tucquan Park Family Campground. These sites typically cost $30-35 per night during peak season.
Farm views and ambiance: The agricultural setting enhances glamping close to Pequea, Pennsylvania. "Nice site with a nice fire pit and picnic table. The site was very level so that was great!" Joe B. observed about Thousand Trails Circle M. Campers frequently mention the scenic farmland vistas as a highlight.
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the attention to cleanliness. "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" reports Karla R. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville. Bathhouses at most locations are maintained multiple times daily during peak season.
What you should know
Site selection strategies: Choose carefully based on specific needs. "We first had a 2 point site near the river, but when it rains the sites get flooded with runoff from the campground. We moved to a full hookup on the Delaware section," advises Kasey M. about Thousand Trails Circle M, highlighting the importance of elevation when selecting sites.
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping near Pequea closes seasonally. "It gets very full on the weekends here," notes Kasey M., emphasizing the need for advance reservations, especially for premium glamping accommodations during summer months.
Variable connectivity: Cell service and WiFi availability differ significantly between properties. "WiFi too isn't free and only available in certain areas. Verizon cell service is weak but useable," reports Joe B. about his stay at Circle M, a consideration for those needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule around peak usage times. "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," shares Ashley S. about Jellystone Park at Quarryville, where morning hours typically see fewer crowds at water features.
Playground access: Consider proximity to play areas when booking. "Our site was close to the bath, a trail head, and field where we lay in the sun and played frisbee," mentions J K. about Codorus State Park Campground, demonstrating the convenience of strategically located sites.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's programming. "Fun fun and more fun loads of activities for the kids! Breakfast with Yogi!" reports Terri S., though cautioning, "just make sure the kids you have are not afraid of people in costumes, we found out the hard way!"
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Some locations have tricky entrances. "This is a nice quiet little campground. The people who run it are super helpful and the store is well stocked with anything you need," notes Dan A. about Tucquan Park, adding that "the amount of permanent sites makes it seem more like your staying in a trailer park then a campground."
Leveling requirements: Be prepared with leveling blocks at certain campgrounds. "We got pretty lucky and were assigned one of the concrete pads that was pretty level," notes Nick E. about Thousand Trails Circle M. Country Acres Campground receives high marks for site preparation with Jack B. mentioning, "Pull-Thru site will all hookups in good working order. Site felt spacious with a nice grass strip."
Hookup variations: Check specific site amenities before booking. "Full hook-ups with 50-amp service all worked fine," reports Matt S. about Lancaster/New Holland KOA, though noting, "This is a 5-star campground EXCEPT that there was no wi-fi or cable. It's 2023 and internet connectivity is important."
