Pet friendly camping near Stewartstown, Pennsylvania offers diverse landscapes along the Susquehanna River, with elevations ranging from 300 to 900 feet throughout York County. Summer temperatures often reach the high 80s with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping provides milder conditions with daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range. The area's proximity to the Mason-Dixon Line means campers can easily access both Pennsylvania and Maryland camping options.
What to Do
River access opportunities: At Otter Creek Campground, campers enjoy direct water activities. "The river is only a short walk from the campground which is directly across the street at Otter Creek Picnic Area where there are private and public boat docks," notes Jen R. The boat launch provides convenient kayak entry points, with one reviewer adding, "Then throw in Otter Creek... it's a great adventure paddling up the creek."
Disc golf courses: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground features two complete 18-hole disc golf courses across its day use areas. "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," warns Danielle V. The courses offer different terrain types - one flat and one hillier through wooded areas.
Fishing options: At Muddy Run Recreation Park, the large lake provides excellent fishing access. "The large lake is great for a day of kayaking and fishing with supplies readily available for rent at the boat dock store," shares Alanna M. Morning and evening fishing often yields the best results, with bass and bluegill commonly caught.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate Pequea Creek Campground for its generous site dimensions. "We had a huge spot on the end and hardly saw the other campers," noted Danielle C. Sites back up against trees and offer privacy uncommon in busier campgrounds. Another visitor shared, "Beautiful picturesque campground with large spots and a lot of trees."
Clean facilities: Codorus State Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms and showers. "Paved sites, modern, clean bathrooms," reports Mike C. Another camper adds, "Campground bath houses were clean, nice hot showers with great showerhead that stayed on without pushing a button."
Family activities: At Tucquan Park Family Campground, children have multiple recreation options. "The family that runs the campground makes everyone feel welcome and feel like you've been their 1000 times. Bathrooms are nice and plenty of things to occupy the kids," states Dan A. Another visitor mentioned, "Our 3 young kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground."
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Springtime camping often includes muddy conditions after rain. "Due to my father passing, me and my daughter stayed there 3 nights. I will be back another time to actually enjoy the lake," shares a Gifford Pinchot visitor. Fall provides colorful foliage but cooler nights requiring extra blankets.
Water access varies: Some campgrounds require significant planning for water hookups. At Muddy Run, "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. Always check specific site details when booking.
Terrain differences: Camping terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "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," explains a Tucquan Park visitor. Consider your equipment and needs when selecting sites.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: When camping with children, consider site proximity to play areas. At Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, "The pool through RV sites are in the centerfield and kind of exposed to the elements but you are right across from the pool and right across from an amazing playground." Positioning near recreation facilities reduces walking time for small children.
Water activities: Pequea Creek offers child-friendly water play. "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 J W. Shallow creek areas provide safer water play than deeper lake swimming.
Special events: Holiday weekends often include extra activities for children. At Tucquan Park, "We stayed here for the weekend of Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol," shares Melissa E. Check event calendars when booking holiday weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Codorus State Park, RVers should note the varied site options. "There is a wide variety of sites so finding one that you like should not be difficult, there are some in wide-open park-like settings, and some that are treed," advises J K. Sites 100-140 offer the most shade during summer months.
Leveling considerations: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. At Muddy Run, "We lucked out with a lot that was slightly more secluded on the end of a road, but paid for it with a very sloped lot that made sitting at the picnic table or camp chairs a bit of a struggle," warns a visitor. Bring extra leveling blocks for challenging sites.
Connectivity issues: Cell service can be problematic at more remote locations. "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)," reports a Tucquan Park visitor. Download maps and information before arrival if staying in remote areas.
