Aberdeen's campgrounds offer diverse options beyond the main RV parks. Within a 50-mile radius of Aberdeen, visitors can find state parks, municipal campgrounds, and private facilities. Most camping areas in the region sit on relatively flat terrain between 1,300 and 1,400 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with occasional thunderstorms, while shoulder seasons bring cooler weather and fewer crowds.
What to do
Explore Storybook Land: Families camping at Wylie Park Campground & Storybook Land enjoy direct access to the adjacent theme park. "Great place right next to Storybook Land. Very clean, well laid out, everyone was very nice," notes one visitor. Activities include go-karts, mini-golf, and bumper boats.
Fish local lakes: Fisher Grove State Park provides access to the James River for fishing opportunities. "This is one of those little gem state campgrounds. Shade in sites 11e - 12e - 13e and 14e are an absolute delight when temps get around the 90°F mark," reports a recent camper at Fisher Grove State Park Campground.
Play disc golf: The Leola City Park offers frisbee golf courses for active campers. "This is a very well maintained campground. No litter. Roads are level. Sites are gravel back in. There is also frisbee golf. The little lake has a boat dock and seating around it," shares a visitor to Leola City Park.
What campers like
Affordability and hospitality: Some municipal parks offer excellent value. "1st 2 nights free, $15 after that, 10 day max, full hookups as in water, sewer & 20/30amp electrical at all 4 sites, must call number or sign in at city hall," explains a visitor to City of Britton RV Park.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained shower buildings. "Shower building was great. There is a dump site but no water or sewer hook ups at the sites. Still a good town and campground," notes a hunter who used Hav-A-Rest Park as a base camp.
Midweek tranquility: Several campgrounds offer quieter experiences during weekdays. "Midweek, though, the place was terrific, maybe 50% occupied. Staff was friendly and welcoming," reports a visitor about Wylie Park Campground, contrasting with busier weekends.
What you should know
Site length limitations: Many municipal parks have shorter spaces. "Sadly, the sites are very short. From the front of my tow vehicle to the back of my camper is around 22 feet, and both barely make it into the site," cautions a visitor about Leola City Park.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: While some parks maintain clean facilities, others may not. "Bathrooms have a great deal to be desired. They are dirty and smell horribly. I've used pit toilets that are cleaner and fresher smelling," warns a camper at Groton City Park.
Seasonal closures affect amenities: Many facilities close during the off-season. "Bath shower house open during peak season only. Pit toilet year round. Water the same, shut off after peak season," notes a Fisher Grove visitor regarding facility availability beyond summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for shade: For summer camping, target specific sites with mature trees. "Tall older healthy trees, what a joy. In my humble opinion sites 11e, 12e, 13e and 14e are the superior choices of this campground," recommends a Fisher Grove visitor.
Playground options: Several parks offer child-friendly recreation. "Playground has swings and a slide. There is also frisbee golf. The little lake has a boat dock and seating around it," describes a Leola City visitor about available amenities.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Wylie Park caters specifically to families with attractions beyond camping. "Great, clean park for families with young kids. Numerous playgrounds scattered all over with a small theme park," shares a pleased family camper at Wylie Park.
Tips from RVers
Pay attention to site configurations: Some parks place RVs unusually close together. "Sites are small, and each site has 2 campers, so your camper rear is nearly touching the next person's rear of their camper," cautions a visitor about Melgaard Park's unique arrangement.
Electrical reliability varies: Check electrical hookups before settling in. "Site 11 was my first choice, stop, but it registered an open ground in the electrics," warns a Leola City Park visitor who had to move to a different site.
Municipal park etiquette: Free camping areas depend on visitor respect. "Be smart, be courteous, & they'll keep it available (for FREE) to use. Thank you Town of Roscoe!!" advises a grateful user of Roscoe City Park.