Camping near New Cumberland offers convenient access to both wooded retreats and lake-based recreation centers. The region sits at elevations of 1,000-1,200 feet above sea level, providing moderate temperatures during spring and fall camping seasons. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February, making seasonal availability important when planning trips.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: McConnells Mill State Park trails connect directly to Breakneck Campground where visitors can access approximately 30 miles of hiking routes including sections of the North Country Trail. "From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail. Approx. 30min walk along the creek down into McConnells Mill State Park," reports one camper.
Fishing options: Cast a line at Clendening Lake Marina & Campground where the lake remains uncrowded due to boat motor restrictions. "The lake is amazing fishing spot with 9.9 hp boat restrictions. The locals are very nice," notes a visitor. Rental options include pontoon boats at reasonable rates for those without their own equipment.
Seasonal activities: Winter camping remains available at some locations despite the colder climate. "This was an awesome place for a winter trip! The tent sites were big and right on the lake. Everyone was so kind!" shares a visitor about their Salem-Lisbon Ohio KOA experience during colder months.
What campers like
Peaceful waterfront options: Many campers appreciate sites positioned along creeks and lakes. "We were lucky enough to be able to camp down by the stream. There are designated fireplaces. It is quite a walk up the hill to the campground amenities, but worth it to feel secluded down by the creek," notes one camper about their Breakneck Campground experience.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses matter to visitors in this region. "The park itself and the bathrooms were very clean. We book a lakefront site and it is just gorgeous! We have our own private little beach which our dog loves," explains a visitor at Mill Creek Camping.
Variety of terrain: Camping options range from open fields to wooded sites with varied elevation. "Section 5 is the bomb!! We stayed in the 5-520-531 section. Sites are new, clean, full hookups, with plenty of paved surfaces to park. Camper sites are level and the hookups are new and easy to use," reports a camper about Tappan Lake Park Campground.
What you should know
Varying noise levels: Weekends tend to be busier and potentially louder at some campgrounds. "A gorgeous place with great scenery. 100 10-year-olds on golf carts without supervision. Traffic non-stop. Lots to do with very pleasant folks. Loud music on Saturday. They are doing something right. It's packed with a waiting list. Don't go to relax," warns a Salem-Lisbon KOA visitor.
Uneven terrain: Many sites require careful setup due to sloping ground. "We were lucky to get a walk up electric spot, although hilly it was beautiful! We were right by the private dock and the residents were very kind, some offered us worms or help with our fire," explains a camper at Clendening Lake Marina & Campground.
Limited cell service: Prepare for poor connectivity at most campgrounds. "There is no cell service up there so be prepared, we lost it for about 20 minutes before the camp site. Make sure to pack an old school map so you can get around," advises a Clendening Lake visitor. Download maps and information before arriving.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific family activities. "This was a Fall camping experience in a cabin as we knew it would be cold in the evenings. We also had a non-camper with us so this was a nice compromise. We had a cozy cabin with 2 bathrooms," notes a Salem-Lisbon KOA visitor describing their family accommodation.
Consider accessibility needs: When camping with older family members, evaluate terrain carefully. "They do also have amazing prices for renting out a pontoon, it's only a max 10 mph. I was able to comfortably fish for 4 hours on this. For the boats we were allowed to park down below right by the docks so I wouldn't have to walk the hill," mentions a Clendening Lake visitor.
Try shoulder seasons: Early fall offers fewer crowds but pleasant conditions. "The trees are everywhere and wonderful during the fall season. We had a big night of rain and with the wind it dried up pretty quickly," notes a visitor at Tomlinson Run State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose campgrounds with level, properly-sized sites. "The sites are pretty level and the hookups are new and easy to use," notes a Tappan Lake Park camper. Request specific site information when booking since many campgrounds have varied terrain.
Winter preparation: For cold weather camping, verify which utilities remain active. "We've stayed twice in the off season. There is so much for families to do. We were upgraded to a pull through. The sites are a bit tight. It's been raining and our step out is into mud. To be expected in the area during the winter," advises a Salem-Lisbon KOA visitor.
Bring leveling equipment: Many sites throughout the region feature uneven terrain requiring blocks or levelers. "A lot of the RV spots are unlevel up a hill, so backing in would be a hassle," warns a visitor about Barkcamp State Park's camping conditions.
