Camping sites near Felton, Pennsylvania range from riverside retreats to wooded escapes throughout York County. Felton sits at approximately 600 feet elevation in the Piedmont region, creating moderate hiking conditions even in peak summer months. Most campgrounds maintain natural buffers between sites, though quality of site privacy varies significantly from exposed field-style layouts to densely wooded perimeter options.
What to do
Explore riverside trails: Otter Creek Campground offers direct access to both Otter Creek and the Susquehanna River, with several hiking trails nearby. "There was a nice pavilion right aside of the playground which was only one road behind us. We could hear our son from our campsite," notes one reviewer who appreciated the family-friendly layout.
Visit covered bridges: Several historic covered bridges are accessible within a 20-minute drive of many campgrounds in the area. "Covered bridges and road side shopping are close by," shared a visitor at Pequea Creek Campground, where many campers use the location as a base for regional exploration.
Try water activities: The Susquehanna River provides kayaking and fishing opportunities at multiple access points. "The boat launch is in great shape and with the close islands makes it great to put the kayaks in this huge gorgeous river! Then throw in Otter Creek... it's a great adventure paddling up the creek," reports one Otter Creek Campground visitor.
Play disc golf: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground features two complete 18-hole disc golf courses. "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge all over the prime walking areas through the course."
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with natural separation. "The site we originally picked was advertised as 'partially shaded' but when we got there we found one small tree per site in a grass field. But on the way in we noticed there are lots of wooded sites, and asked to move. The 'full shade' sites were amazing. Large, fire ring with grate, and nice picnic table," explained a camper at Codorus State Park.
Seasonal activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville hosts themed weekends throughout their April to November season. "I have taken my kids to the Quarryville location on multiple occasion for their Halloween events. Absolutely amazing! We can't wait to go back!" mentioned one recurring visitor.
Clean facilities: Campground bathroom cleanliness receives consistent mention in reviews. "The bathhouses / restrooms are clean (about average for PA state park system) and the campground has a very friendly atmosphere - we really enjoyed our stay," noted a visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park.
Lake and river access: Multiple campgrounds provide direct water access. "The camp sink says to not leave food in sink, where exactly are you supposed to throw it away?!?! Other than that, nice sized spots, wooded, paved roads, beautiful lake," commented a Gifford Pinchot camper, highlighting how water features often outweigh minor inconveniences.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Level sites can be limited at some campgrounds. "Went to front gate and got a much more isolated tent spot (front gate said they were ALL the same size and privacy and I can tell you he was very wrong). After we pitched in the new spot, all was good," explained a camper at Gifford Pinchot State Park, emphasizing the importance of site selection.
Water hookup challenges: Bring extra hose length at certain campgrounds. "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," advised a camper at Muddy Run Rec Park.
Seasonal weather variations: Spring camping often means dealing with river conditions. "Unfortunately, with all of the rain we have had here in Pennsylvania this summer the river was brown with mud and tree debris. There was no way any fish was going to see anything in that water," reported an Otter Creek Campground visitor about early season conditions.
Reservation requirements: Holiday weekends book months in advance. "We have camped here several times and love the waterfront sites and the yurts," noted a Gifford Pinchot visitor, pointing to the popularity of premium sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. "We were in site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape," recommended a camper at Gifford Pinchot State Park.
Activity planning: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers structured recreation throughout the season. "We have visited 5x this year. Wooded sites, open sites, tent sites. All great!" shared a regular visitor who appreciated the consistent programming.
Swimming options: Pools provide alternatives to lake swimming. "The pool is decent but a bit far of a walk from the camp sites," noted a visitor to Codorus State Park, highlighting the importance of checking amenity locations when booking with children.
Budget considerations: Factor in additional costs for activities. "It was a shock we had to pay to swim when we camped there," mentioned a camper at Gifford Pinchot, where the pool charges separate admission even for registered campers.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Thousand Trails Circle M accommodates large rigs but requires planning. "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," shared a satisfied RVer.
Electrical options: Many campgrounds offer 30-amp service as standard with limited 50-amp availability. "No water but the bath house was close and very clean," reported a Codorus State Park camper who found the trade-offs acceptable.
Dump station timing: Plan for peak checkout periods. "The campground sits in the center of a horseshoe curve of the river, bring tubes and kayaks! We didn't know but went and bought a tube and spent the day on the river!" advised a Thousand Trails Circle M visitor who discovered unexpected recreation options.
Water access challenges: Some hookups require extra equipment. "Lower sites are muddy, all in all, we had a great weekend here!" noted another Circle M visitor, showing how terrain considerations affect RV site selection.
