Susquehanna State Park Campground

Susquehanna State Park Campground offers one of the most diverse outdoor experiences in Maryland, blending rugged natural beauty with a profound sense of American history. Located along the banks of the lower Susquehanna River, this park is a sanctuary for those looking to escape the hustle of Baltimore or Philadelphia without traveling far. The campground itself is known for its peaceful atmosphere, characterized by heavily wooded lots that provide a cool, shaded canopy during the humid Maryland summers. Whether you are an avid hiker, a history buff, or a family looking for a weekend retreat, the park provides a well-maintained home base that highlights the very best of the Mid-Atlantic landscape.

What sets this destination apart is its dual identity as both a recreational hub and a living museum. While the campground provides the essential quiet and immersion in nature that campers crave, the surrounding park grounds are home to some of Maryland's most significant historical landmarks. Visitors can wake up to the sound of birds in the old-growth forest and spend their afternoon touring a working 19th-century gristmill or exploring the remnants of the Susquehanna and Tidewater Canal. This combination of "get-back-to-nature" simplicity and educational enrichment makes Susquehanna State Park a top-tier choice for local Marylanders and travelers alike.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 729 Craigs Corner Rd, Havre De Grace, MD 21078, the campground is exceptionally easy to reach from Interstate 95, making it a convenient destination for residents across the state. It is nestled in Harford County, just three miles northwest of the historic city of Havre De Grace. This proximity allows guests to enjoy the seclusion of the forest while remaining only a ten-minute drive from the charming shops, restaurants, and waterfront views of the Chesapeake Bay's upper reaches.

The park is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the great outdoors. The campground features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and a restroom facility that meets modern accessibility standards. The main roads within the park are paved and well-marked, and several of the flatter trails, such as the Lower Susquehanna Heritage Greenways Trail, are suitable for those with limited mobility. For RV travelers, the sites are generally level and spacious, though it is always recommended to check specific site dimensions during the reservation process to ensure a perfect fit for larger rigs.

Services Offered

• RV and Tent Camping: The campground features 69 well-defined sites, ranging from primitive tent pads to more modern setups for trailers and motorhomes.
• RV Hookups: Select sites offer electric and water hookups, providing extra comfort for those who prefer "glamping" or have specific power needs.
• Campfire Amenities: Each site is equipped with a sturdy barbecue grill and a picnic table, perfect for evening cookouts and gathering under the stars.
• Sanitation Facilities: The park maintains clean public restrooms and public showers with running water, frequently cited by visitors as some of the best-maintained in the state system.
• On-Site Parking: Dedicated parking spaces are available at each campsite, with additional free parking lots located near major trailheads and picnic areas.
• Payment Flexibility: The park office and reservation system accept major credit cards, debit cards, and electronic payments for site fees and firewood sales.
• Waste Management: Conveniently located trash receptacles and a dump station for RVs help keep the park pristine and environmentally friendly.

Features and Highlights

• Extensive Trail Network: Over 15 miles of marked trails cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and even equestrian users, with the "Green Trail" being a favorite for its scenic, family-friendly incline.
• Historic Rock Run Area: This unique highlight features the operational Rock Run Grist Mill, the Carter-Archer Mansion, and the Jersey Toll House, offering a glimpse into the 18th and 19th centuries.
• Steppingstone Farm Museum: Located within the park grounds, this private museum preserves rural Maryland arts and crafts from the late 1800s.
• Susquehanna River Access: The Lapidum Boating Facility provides a boat launch for those looking to fish or explore the river, which is famous for its annual shad and herring runs.
• Kid-Friendly Recreation: A modern playground and several "kid-friendly" hikes with gentle terrain and interesting geological features keep younger campers engaged.
• Picnic Areas and Pavilions: Large, shaded picnic areas are available for day use, complete with slides for children and ample space for large group gatherings.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is a haven for birdwatchers, where bald eagles and ospreys are frequently spotted hunting along the river corridor.

Contact Information

Address: 729 Craigs Corner Rd, Havre De Grace, MD 21078, USA

Phone: (410) 557-7994

Reservations: Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) official website or by calling the park office directly.

What is worth choosing

Susquehanna State Park Campground is worth choosing because it manages to deliver a high-quality camping experience that feels both intimate and expansive. For Marylanders, it is one of the few places where you can combine world-class mountain biking with significant historic sightseeing in the same afternoon. The cleanliness of the bathhouses and the helpfulness of the park rangers are consistently highlighted in user reviews, providing a level of comfort and security that makes it an ideal spot for first-time campers or families with young children.

Furthermore, the variety of the terrain is a major draw. You can spend your morning on the rocky outcrops of the Susquehanna Ridge Trail overlooking the river, and your evening relaxing in a quiet, shaded campsite that feels miles away from civilization. The integration of the Steppingstone Farm Museum and the Rock Run Mill means there is always a "Plan B" if the weather doesn't cooperate for hiking, ensuring that your trip is never a washout. If you are looking for a refreshed, nature-filled escape that honors Maryland's heritage while offering modern camping amenities, this Havre De Grace gem is undoubtedly worth your time.