Camping spots near Quarryville, Pennsylvania sit at elevations between 300-600 feet in Lancaster County's southern end. The region features rolling farmland with small streams and creeks cutting through limestone terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall camping benefits from milder 50-70°F conditions with occasional showers.
What to do
Creek exploration and water activities: At Pequea Creek Campground, visitors can enjoy water-based recreation in the shallow, kid-friendly waters. "We welcomed grandkids' visit for splashing and floating in Pequea Creek. (Nearby site 24 had steps down the 'levee'; affording easier access to the creek)," notes camper J W. The campground provides convenient water access from many sites.
Disc golf courses: Muddy Run Rec Park offers a well-maintained disc golf course among its recreational options. "The large lake is great for a day of kayaking and fishing with supplies readily available for rent at the boat dock store. If you are looking for some hiking there is a hiking trail that will take you all around the parameter of the large 144 acre park," reports Alanna M.
Amish country tours: Campgrounds in the region serve as excellent bases for exploring Amish communities. Country Acres Campground provides special access opportunities. "There are free tickets available for the Amish Farmland Bus Tour," reports Matt S., adding that the campground offers a 2:00 pm check-out which allows more exploration time on departure day.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campers appreciate generous site spacing at certain campgrounds. At Tucquan Park Family Campground, "We had a corner site and had plenty of room. We met a whole bunch of very nice people and would definitely go back," shares Jennifer R. Others note the campground's "huge group site" with well-separated sleeping and cooking areas.
Family-oriented activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville receives high marks for its extensive family programming. "We had stayed in this canpground about 5 years ago and we loved it. We returned this year with my 12 and 14 year olds and a 12 year old friend," reports Gina R. Another visitor, Ashley S., noted: "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently mention deer watching as a highlight. "My favorite evening activities (besides enjoying a campfire) are dusk deer-watching! There are hundreds of deer in this protected park," explains Jenn D. from Muddy Run Rec Park.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Some campgrounds require extra planning for hookups. At Muddy Run Rec Park, "Bring 50 ft of hose for water hook up and an extension cord with a converter. The water hook ups are randomly placed, ours was 2 sites away," advises Chris G.
Seasonal farm operations: Agricultural activities can occasionally impact camping experiences. "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot. The smell was not present the first day or so we were there and we enjoyed sitting outside in the afternoon, but when the wind shifted the horrid smell drove us inside during the rest of our visit," reports Nancy W. from Old Mill Stream Campground.
Primitive site access: Those seeking tent sites should check accessibility details. At Tucquan Park, "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. Note: The campground WiFi does not reach the primitive sites and I had 0 cell/GPS service on the entire premises (my carrier is AT&T)," shares christine L.
Tips for camping with families
Water park options: The water amenities provide excellent hot-weather relief. "This is a nice, family oriented campground... Playground and pool were both nice and clean. Wonderful place for a family," reports Jennifer R. about Tucquan Park Family Campground.
Age-appropriate activities: Consider your children's ages when selecting a campground. One Jellystone Park visitor noted: "The go carts are old. The air pillow was flat. They took out the pool table. Hardly any games in the game room. We were very disappointed. They really need to ass something new to make it more teen-friendly."
Halloween camping events: Thousand Trails Circle M offers special seasonal programming. "They had Halloween ever at every weekend of October and we spent Halloween weekend here. The kids loved it!!" says Kasey M., who found the resort's seasonal activities particularly appealing for families with children.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection strategies: Concrete pads provide advantages in wet weather. "We got pretty lucky and were assigned one of the concrete pads that was pretty level. It is absolutely beautiful out. The grounds are well-kept," notes Nick E. about Thousand Trails Circle M.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for leveling RVs. At Mill Bridge Village & Camp Resort, "We had a nice site that backed up to a small creek. Very scenic and laid back campground. Mostly older folks. Very quiet except for the neighbor who rode his quad for hours on end... Look at the map when selecting a site. The sites in the center are like a parking lot. Small, no shade and wide open," advises Stacy D.
Senior-focused campgrounds: Beacon Hill Camping caters specifically to adult campers. "Great little adults only campground. Quiet and surrounded by Amish farm lands and shopping locations nearby. It's not a big campground but it's friendly, clean, and well maintained," explains Alex & Mary O. The no-children policy creates a peaceful atmosphere that appeals to many RV travelers seeking quiet surroundings.