Lampeter camping areas offer diverse outdoor experiences in the rolling hills of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Located at approximately 400 feet elevation, the region experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and moderately cold winters. Fall camping is particularly popular when temperatures range from 45-65°F and the surrounding deciduous forests display vibrant foliage colors.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At French Creek State Park Campground, campers can fish in two separate lakes. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: The park offers numerous walking paths through wooded areas. "There are so many wonderful activities. There really is something for everyone here and if you can't find it you aren't looking very hard," explains a frequent visitor. Many trails are rated easy to moderate, making them accessible for most skill levels.
Amish farm experiences: Camping at Country Acres Campground provides unique cultural opportunities. "Our site backed up to horse farm," reports one camper, while another mentions, "Very close to all Amish flea market. The people that run the camp ground are great." Sites facing farmland offer direct views of traditional farming practices.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Tucquan Park Family Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Clean bathhouses! Fun activities planned through the season," reports one camper. Another notes, "The staff who run it are super helpful and the store is well stocked with anything you need."
Riverside relaxation: Water features enhance camping experiences. "We chose the lower, Riverside sites and we're glad we did! 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!" shares one enthusiastic visitor.
Proximity to attractions: Lancaster-New Holland KOA offers strategic location benefits. "This is a great spot for visiting Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County and about a one-hour drive to Hersheypark," explains a reviewer. Another mentions, "Great KOA in all aspects: location, views, friendly, cleanliness."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Lampeter area operate from April through October, with limited options during winter months. At Old Mill Stream Campground, "Camping options include tent sites, water and electric sites, and full hookup sites. There are also numerous cabins and park models for rent," which provides flexibility during shoulder seasons.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have complex entrances. "This Campground is in the town of Lancaster, close to everything. A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway," cautions one reviewer.
Environmental factors: Agricultural areas have specific considerations. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville specializes in family entertainment. "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" mentions one parent. Another adds, "The water park was GREAT for kids and adults. Super clean. Lots to do. Well worth a week."
Playground accessibility: Consider proximity to play areas when booking. "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line. All kids and adults agreed it was the most fun!"
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds schedule special events. "We just got back from this campground after spending 5 nights there. The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," reports a summer visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on specific needs. "We were in site 50 for this trip, however if you have a decent sized rig I would steer clear of this row. The road for this row is narrow and there is a fence that makes backing in more difficult, especially for a 30+ ft travel trailer."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Lampeter, Pennsylvania, several campgrounds offer alternatives to traditional RV setups. "From a foodie standpoint, take my word for it, there is VERY little around these parts and what you can find nearby are local joints, which we loved BTW," advises a yurt camper at Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park.
Levelness considerations: "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," reports one RVer, making setup easier for larger vehicles. Many campgrounds offer pull-through options for larger rigs, but availability varies seasonally.
