Timberdoodle Camping Area

Timberdoodle Camping Area is a premier outdoor destination nestled within the expansive 3,500-acre Codorus State Park in Hanover, Pennsylvania. Located in the rolling hills of southern York County, this camping area provides a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and families seeking an authentic Pennsylvania outdoor experience. As a vital part of the state park's overnight facilities, Timberdoodle is particularly favored for its proximity to the stunning 1,275-acre Lake Marburg, offering a landscape where forested hills meet miles of scenic shoreline. The area is designed to cater to a variety of camping styles, from traditional tent enthusiasts to modern RV travelers, all while maintaining the serene atmosphere that defines the Keystone State's natural heritage.

The name "Timberdoodle" itself—a local colloquialism for the American Woodcock—hints at the rich biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities available to those who stay here. For local residents and visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic region, this camping area serves as more than just a place to sleep; it is a gateway to a massive recreational complex. Whether you are interested in the quiet rhythm of the woods or the active buzz of a summer day on the lake, Timberdoodle provides the infrastructure and natural beauty to support a fulfilling getaway. The park's commitment to conservation and public enjoyment is evident in the well-maintained sites and the array of educational and recreational programs hosted throughout the season.

Location and accessibility are among the strongest attributes of Timberdoodle Camping Area. Situated within Codorus State Park at the heart of the 17319 and 17331 zip codes, the campground is easily reached via major Pennsylvania thoroughfares. Travelers from the Harrisburg or York areas typically find the park via I-83 and PA 216, while those coming from Maryland or the south have a straightforward drive through Hanover. The park is positioned approximately 18 miles west of Interstate 83, making it a convenient "spur-of-the-moment" destination for many locals. Once inside the park, clear signage guides visitors through the various loops that make up the residential sections of the park.

Accessibility is a priority at Timberdoodle, ensuring that the beauty of the Pennsylvania outdoors is available to everyone. The park features wheelchair-accessible entrances and designated accessible parking lots. Within the camping loops, several sites are specifically designed to meet ADA standards, featuring level pads and proximity to accessible restrooms and shower houses. The paved roadways throughout the campground are well-suited for easy navigation by foot, bicycle, or mobility device, allowing all guests to reach the amphitheater, playground, and lakeside vistas with ease.

Timberdoodle Camping Area offers a robust selection of services designed to provide comfort without detracting from the rustic charm of the woods. The management of Codorus State Park ensures that essential utilities and administrative supports are available to make every stay safe and enjoyable. From traditional camping needs to modern conveniences, the services provided are tailored to the needs of the diverse Pennsylvania camping community.

• Electric hookups available at a majority of the sites, supporting 20, 30, and 50-amp service for various RV sizes.
• Clean, modern bathhouses equipped with flush toilets and warm, high-pressure showers for resident use.
• A sanitary dump station and potable water fill stations conveniently located for RV and trailer owners.
• On-site camp store (The Outpost) providing essential supplies, including firewood, ice, and basic camping gear.
• 24-hour ranger patrols and a dedicated contact station at the campground entrance to assist with check-ins and security.
• Regularly scheduled environmental education programs, including campfire talks and historical walks.
• On-site recycling and trash collection points to help maintain the park's pristine environment.

The features and highlights of Timberdoodle and the surrounding Codorus State Park make it a standout choice in the York County region. The sheer variety of land and water-based activities ensures that there is never a dull moment for those who choose to venture out from their campsite. Highlighting the park's status as a year-round destination, many features are designed to capitalize on the unique geography of the Lake Marburg area.

• Lake Marburg Access: Steps away from 26 miles of shoreline, perfect for fishing for warm-water species like bass, catfish, and northern pike.
• Swimming Pool: A large, bluff-side swimming pool and spray-ground overlooking the lake (open seasonally with a separate entrance fee).
• Family Fun: A large playground and an amphitheater hosting weekend movies and educational presentations.
• Boating Opportunities: Proximity to seven boat launches and a full-service marina offering canoe, kayak, and pontoon rentals.
• Hiking and Biking: Over 19 miles of trails, including the scenic Mary Ann Furnace Trail and a dedicated mountain biking area.
• Disc Golf: A world-class disc golf course that winds through the hills and woods adjacent to the camping areas.
• Pet-Friendly Loops: Dedicated sections of the campground allow visitors to bring their dogs, featuring open spaces for walking.

To arrange a stay at Timberdoodle Camping Area, reservations are highly recommended, particularly during the peak summer months and the popular Halloween events in October. The campground typically operates from mid-April through the beginning of November. For the most up-to-date information on site availability, seasonal hours, and specific park rules, you can contact the park office directly or use the statewide reservation system.

Contact Information for Timberdoodle Camping Area (Codorus State Park):
Address: Codorus State Park, Hanover, PA 17331, USA
Main Park Office Phone: (717) 637-2816
Reservations: 1-888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)

What is worth choosing about Timberdoodle is the unique opportunity to experience a "best-of-both-worlds" vacation. For many Pennsylvania families, it represents an affordable and high-quality alternative to more expensive commercial resorts. The "worth" lies in the details: the spaciousness of the sites, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the quiet, respectful atmosphere maintained by the park staff and community. Choosing Timberdoodle means choosing direct access to Lake Marburg, where the sunrises over the water are often cited as some of the most beautiful in the county. It is a place where you can spend the morning kayaking, the afternoon at the pool, and the evening roasting marshmallows by a private fire pit.

Furthermore, for those who value variety, the park's location in Hanover makes it an excellent base for broader York County exploration. You are just a short drive from the Utz Quality Foods factory tour and the historic battlefields of Gettysburg. Whether you are looking for a vigorous weekend of mountain biking and disc golf or a slow, peaceful week of birdwatching and shoreline fishing, Timberdoodle provides the perfect backdrop. Its reputation as a "family-oriented" and "kid-friendly" space makes it a reliable choice for creating lasting memories in the heart of Pennsylvania's rolling hills.

Would you like me to find the specific dates for the 2026 Halloween "trick-or-treat" weekend at the campground?