Camping opportunities near Felton, Pennsylvania center around Lancaster County's rolling farmlands and the scenic Susquehanna River corridor. The region sits at approximately 400-600 feet elevation with mild summers averaging 80°F and cool spring and fall seasons that extend camping viability from April through October. Winter camping is limited with temperatures often dropping below freezing, though some campgrounds maintain year-round operations with heated facilities.
What to do
Fishing at accessible lakes: Codorus State Park Campground offers a stocked fishing pond with excellent bank access. "Nice campground. Very clean facilities. We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake. It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat launch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private," explains Catherine H.
Hiking local trails: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground features multiple well-maintained paths for all skill levels. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," shares Danielle V. The park also offers multiple interconnected trails for various skill levels.
Kayaking the Susquehanna: River Rock Recreation provides direct river access for water activities. "We spent our time fishing the river banks right outside our tents and kayaking on the Susquehanna to fish the warm waters. We caught a ton of catfish and carp using live bait," notes Zach R. Bring your own watercraft or rent on-site during summer months.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural privacy at Tucquan Park Family Campground where primitive sites offer seclusion. "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," mentions Christine L., highlighting the natural cooling benefit.
Clean, updated facilities: Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA maintains excellent washrooms and showers. "Spotless bathrooms. Nice pool and playgrounds. Not a lot of traffic. Quiet. Friendly. Price is fair and not nearly as expensive as many other KOAs but the quality is just as good," reports Regina C. Most facilities are updated seasonally.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Parents consistently rate campgrounds in the area high for kid-friendly amenities. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced," notes SkywaystoHighways.com Y. about Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
What you should know
Train noise affects some areas: Hersheypark Camping Resort sits near active rail lines that can disturb light sleepers. "Nice camp ground but super loud bc of the trains. Bath houses are nice and clean. I would suggest making sure you aren't close to the tracks bc the trains run all night long," warns Kit. Request sites away from tracks when booking.
Seasonal popularity requires advance booking: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer months and holiday weekends. "An old favorite. As you can tell by the title I've been coming to Mary Meadows for a very long time as a child I came with my grandparents they had a full-time spot in the chipmunk area," shares Brian S. Reservations 2-3 months in advance are recommended.
Farm odors can impact experience: Agricultural activities near Old Mill Stream Campground create occasional strong smells. "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," notes Nancy W.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for hot days: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville offers extensive water activities for children. "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," writes Ashley S. The water park includes slides, splash features, and shallow areas for younger kids.
Playgrounds and recreation options: Multiple campgrounds offer structured play areas. "We totally loved our camping trip here! 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, coworkers are friendly," shares Stephanie about Tucquan Park Family Campground.
Themed weekends and activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged throughout stays. "We had a wonderful time - the playground and pool were very clean and well taken care of," noted a visitor about Tucquan Park. Most campgrounds post activity calendars online or at check-in with seasonal programming.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Thousand Trails Circle M offers varied terrain options for different rigs. "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 and peaceful," explains Nick E.
Full hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer water, electric, and sewer connections but with varying amperage. "We were in a back in site #4. The patio was concrete stone, very pretty. Nice chairs, fire pit, and picnic table," shares Cat R. about Elizabethtown-Hershey KOA, which offers premium RV sites with 50-amp service.
Leveling considerations: Be prepared for varied terrain at some campgrounds. "We stayed here for a few days for a quick getaway. We were originally supposed to be in the woods — which FYI is far out of the way of the main activities, and also has a pretty steep incline," warns Melissa about Tucquan Park, suggesting sites closer to amenities for larger rigs.
