Camping options near York, Pennsylvania include a mix of Pennsylvania state parks and private campgrounds along creeks and lakes. York County sits within the lower Susquehanna River Valley at elevations ranging from 370 to 885 feet, creating varied camping terrain from riverside sites to more elevated woodland settings. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with higher humidity levels during July and August.
What to do
Disc golf courses available: Gifford Pinchot State Park offers two distinct 18-hole disc golf courses at opposite ends of the lake. "The Conewago day use area on the south side of the lake and the Quaker Race day use area on the north side of the lake. Both areas have great access for fishing... Both areas also have their own 18 hole disc golf course," notes Danielle V. Be aware that poison ivy can be prevalent along the courses, especially in summer.
Farm animal interaction: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm provides unique opportunities to connect with farm animals. "The sounds of the farm animals all around was fun and amusing for us. It was an easy hike as suggested on the map to circle around and through the cornfield, you get a great view of the farms nearby and the river," shares Mary H. Children can feed animals during scheduled times each morning.
Rail trail walking access: Indian Rock Campgrounds offers direct access to the historic rail trail for hiking and biking. "We spent a lot of time on the historic rail trail that you can get to straight from the property," according to AdventureStang. The trail provides a flat, accessible walking path suitable for all skill levels.
What campers like
Clean, spacious tent sites: Cedar Lake Family Campground maintains 195 well-maintained campsites with particular attention to cleanliness. A camper named Lee P. described it as "Everything was on point here! The staff run the place like a resort or a cruise ship. So many activities for kids and adults and a huge family atmosphere with staff and campers! Tent site near the lake is HUGE."
Shaded waterfront camping: Codorus State Park Campground provides lakeside sites with good tree cover. "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," reports Catherine H.
Private riverside camping: River Rock Recreation offers a unique private camping experience where you rent the entire campsite. "This is a single campsite that you rent, no other campers on site unless you are bringing them with you! You can camp with up to 10 people and there is certainly plenty of room for everyone to spread out," explains Kellyann M. Rates range from $90-200 per night depending on group size.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience train noise at night. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, Kit warns that "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!"
Seasonal weather impacts: York-area campgrounds can experience significant weather variations. Campers at Merry Meadows report that "Power outage at a lot of the campground Friday night due to a tree down on the power lines," particularly after storms with high winds. Always check weather forecasts before heading out.
Site selection importance: At many campgrounds, choosing the right site significantly affects your experience. One Gifford Pinchot camper noted: "When I arrived, someone was in my spot. After working it out and came back I noticed just how crowded it was. Lots literally right on top of each other. 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)."
Tips for camping with families
Animal-focused activities: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm provides exceptional opportunities for children to interact with farm animals. One camper with children noted: "Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn. Perfect campground for the family." The farm typically allows animal feeding at designated morning hours.
Lake recreation options: Multiple campers praise the combination of fishing and boating available at Codorus State Park. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," reports Catherine H.
Budget-friendly swimming: While Codorus State Park does not allow swimming in the lake, they offer a pool at no additional cost for campers. The pool is popular during peak summer months and can get crowded on weekends, so consider visiting during weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
Tips from RVers
Level site recommendations: Thousand Trails Circle M offers concrete pad sites that provide easier leveling. "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," according to Nick E. Most reviews suggest requesting upper sites away from the river to avoid potential flooding issues.
Flooding concerns: Several dog friendly campgrounds near York have areas prone to seasonal flooding. At Circle M, campers advise avoiding the riverfront sites during rainy seasons: "We first had a 2 point site near the river, but when it rains the sites get flooded with runoff from the campground. We moved to a full hookup on the Delaware section."
Site allocation systems: When camping at Thousand Trails locations, be aware of their "first come, best site" policy. As Karla R. explains about Circle M: "As with all thousand trails, this campground is first come best site. While the top part of the campground seemed more communal, we chose the lower, Riverside sites and we're glad we did!" Arrive early for best selection, especially during peak season.
