Quarryville, Pennsylvania camping areas offer access to Lancaster County's rural landscapes at elevations ranging from 400 to 700 feet above sea level. The region's temperate climate features warm summers with average highs of 85°F and mild spring and fall conditions ideal for outdoor recreation. Campsites typically sit among rolling agricultural fields with seasonal variations in surrounding farm activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Muddy Run Recreation Park maintains a large lake for fishing and boating with supplies available for rent. "There is a small, slow flowing river that runs along the front of the park which some people play in and float down in inner tubes," notes Nancy W. about Old Mill Stream Campground.
Mini golf and games: Many local campgrounds offer recreational activities beyond hiking. "Putt putt is still open and fun, so is playground. Arcade was open. There is an indoor pool and spa," reports Kasey M. about her stay at Thousand Trails Circle M.
Seasonal events: Halloween celebrations are popular across multiple campgrounds. "We had stayed in this campground about 5 years ago and we loved it. We returned this year with my 12 and 14 year olds," shares Gina R. about the seasonal events at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
What campers like
Spacious natural sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with natural features. "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," writes Christine L. about Tucquan Park Family Campground.
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned across reviews is the quality of bathhouses. "This campground is probably the most well maintained campground we have ever stayed at. The grounds are beautiful, facilities above and beyond the expected," according to Stephanie S. about Country Acres Campground.
Peaceful settings: Many sites offer quiet camping experiences. "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, and aside from the 8pm Saturday night golf cart parade that was beyond loud, it's been really quiet," notes Nick E. about his stay at Beacon Hill Camping.
What you should know
Site variations: Campground quality and site conditions vary significantly. "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.
Hookup locations: Water and electric connections can be placed irregularly. "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," warns Chris G. about Pequea Creek Campground.
Seasonal farm impacts: Agricultural activities affect 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," reports Nancy W. about her stay near Lancaster.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for hot days: Pools and water access are important during summer months. "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," shares Ashley S. about her experience at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Playground quality: Kid-friendly facilities vary by campground. "The kids enjoyed the park, they offer a small paddle boat to take any time you want on their little lake on site, the area is beautiful," explains Stephanie about Tucquan Park Family Campground.
Budget planning: Some activities require additional fees. "This campground is amazing. I brought my family (4 children - 8 yrs, 6 yrs, 2 yrs, 3 months) and we had a great week. The pool is new and has a sloped entrance so my two year old could play by himself," shares Megan T. from Country Acres Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many reviewers note uneven sites. "We camped here over Memorial Day weekend and it was full. Miniature golf course could use some upkeep as there was trash strewn throughout the course," comments Jen R. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground.
Big rig access: Some campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "This is a small campground that is a little tight for big rigs. We did manage to fit two 40' motorhome's with planning. The hosts were very helpful," advises Mike H. about Beacon Hill Camping.
Hookup quality: Full-service sites often receive higher ratings. "Our site was perfectly level and had a large gravel patio area and a large shade tree behind us. The site was plenty long for our 45' RV and tow car. Each site has a firepit and picnic table," describes Nancy W. about amenities for larger vehicles.