99% (128) • 462 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Essex
Maryland Health Society
1. Maryland Health Society
99%
(35)
28mi from Essex · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are the Maryland Health Society, one of the oldest clothing optional resorts and campgrounds in the USA. Established in 1934, we are 100% not-for-profit and 100% volunteer run. We have 98 secluded acres of wooded beauty, including cabins, RV sites with 50amp service, tent sites, swimming pool, clubhouse with kitchen and full restrooms, BBQ pit, 5 outdoor showers, 7 miles of hiking trails. Bordering the Patuxent River, we are 10 minutes from Washington, DC. We host many large fundraising events every year. We are in a rustic setting and our offer total acceptance. We are a 100% AANR Club.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$25
/ night
The Agape
2. The Agape
100%
(19)
29mi from Essex · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Agape is located on 20 acres and over 2000' of shoreline in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, with breath taking sunsets every evening.
Pull up your RV [or rent ours], pitch a tent, kick up your feet and relax by the water. Soak in the sounds of nature and the sight of wild birds, from the Osprey, Bald Eagle and even the Great Blue Heron.
We are a pack it in, pack it out leave-no-trace camping site. There are no hookups, but during your stay, feel free to patronize the entire property.
The views of the Wye River from the dock are absolutely beautiful and peaceful! There is also plenty of water for fishing, crabbing and even a small, man-made beach!
OUTDOOR POOL AND RAFT USE - The outdoor pool is closed indefinitely. There is a 4-person raft and a 2-person inflatable kayak available, for an additional fee per day. Both require PRIOR APPROVAL and a WAIVER to utilize.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$110
/ night
Conowingo Creek Campsite
3. Conowingo Creek Campsite
99%
(72)
37mi from Essex · 1 site
Walking paths leading to the scenic Conowingo Creek make this private setting located in southern Lancaster County a perfect relaxing get away. A short walk will put you on the banks of ideal fishing or a refreshing dip in the beautiful waterway. Some experts claim that plopping a chair in the middle of the creek with a good book is the only way to go! Then, after an evening by the campfire and a cozy night of sleep, a short drive gives you access to the Susquehanna River where hiking and scenic overlooks abound. The area is surrounded by Amish farms and loads of country charm. Got an itch for a historic city experience? Lancaster city is a 30 minute drive north where the historic Lancaster Central Market is open Tuesday, Friday and Saturday and surrounded by lots of quaint shopping. Recently added to Camp Conowingo Extras is the "Henry Hilton" which sleeps two and is an add-on for larger groups or anyone who wants to take in the view, sleeping closer to the stars. See photos in the listing and talk to Gini for details. We look forward to having you visit us.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$145
/ night
Susquehanna State Park
4. Susquehanna State Park
90%
(10)
State park 26mi from Essex · 71 sites
Feeling the river or the bay today? At Susquehanna State Park, both are at your fingertips. Boaters can hit the big waters from the Susquehanna River, and fishers can test their skills while catching bass, perch, catfish and carp. Head out in the spring, and you can catch the annual shad and herring runs. If you’re more of a landlubber, the park offers 15 miles of hiking trails, shared by humans and horses, and lots of sites to walk back in time, including The Rock Run Grist Mill and mansion. For tots, Susquehanna State Park interpretive programs are available throughout the summer.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tuckahoe State Park
5. Tuckahoe State Park
100%
(5)
State park 36mi from Essex · 56 sites
Say hello to Tuckahoe! 20 miles of hiking and biking surround the upper branch of Tuckahoe Creek, making it no surprise that this park hosts an annual triathalon. Don’t worry, though, you don’t have to be in race-shape to enjoy yourself here. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the view of 60 acres of the Tuckahoe lake, or get familiar with the local flora at the Adkins Arboretum. This 500-acre public garden boasts more than 600 species of local plantlife. Curious about that flower you saw on your morning bike ride? The Arboretum can help you out. Tours and information are available, or you can wander on your own and geek out on all that greenery.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Codorus State Park
6. Codorus State Park
83%
(6)
State park 42mi from Essex · 198 sites
From the lake to the trail, this York County state park has it all.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lums Pond State Park
7. Lums Pond State Park
100%
(1)
State park 43mi from Essex · 70 sites
Discover Lums Pond State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor fun.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Martinak State Park
8. Martinak State Park
100%
(1)
State park 45mi from Essex · 62 sites
At Martinak State Park, you find the best of everything: beautiful forests, golden fields, and mysterious marshes. With Choptank River and Watts Creek bordering the park, you're surrounded by lush flora and fauna in this perfect, thriving environment. If you consider yourself an avid angler, you’re in luck. There's plenty of bass, sunfish, and catfish to be reeled in here. Tucked away within a forest of hardwood and pine, you can truly leave the city woes behind you when you explore this beautiful park. With all that water to enjoy, it’s not hard to imagine why boaters love this place. Teeming with good times and camp vibes, this outdoor haven is a pretty solid gem.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
99% (128) • 462 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Essex
Maryland Health Society
1. Maryland Health Society
99%
(35)
28mi from Essex · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are the Maryland Health Society, one of the oldest clothing optional resorts and campgrounds in the USA. Established in 1934, we are 100% not-for-profit and 100% volunteer run. We have 98 secluded acres of wooded beauty, including cabins, RV sites with 50amp service, tent sites, swimming pool, clubhouse with kitchen and full restrooms, BBQ pit, 5 outdoor showers, 7 miles of hiking trails. Bordering the Patuxent River, we are 10 minutes from Washington, DC. We host many large fundraising events every year. We are in a rustic setting and our offer total acceptance. We are a 100% AANR Club.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$25
/ night
The Agape
2. The Agape
100%
(19)
29mi from Essex · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Agape is located on 20 acres and over 2000' of shoreline in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, with breath taking sunsets every evening.
Pull up your RV [or rent ours], pitch a tent, kick up your feet and relax by the water. Soak in the sounds of nature and the sight of wild birds, from the Osprey, Bald Eagle and even the Great Blue Heron.
We are a pack it in, pack it out leave-no-trace camping site. There are no hookups, but during your stay, feel free to patronize the entire property.
The views of the Wye River from the dock are absolutely beautiful and peaceful! There is also plenty of water for fishing, crabbing and even a small, man-made beach!
OUTDOOR POOL AND RAFT USE - The outdoor pool is closed indefinitely. There is a 4-person raft and a 2-person inflatable kayak available, for an additional fee per day. Both require PRIOR APPROVAL and a WAIVER to utilize.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$110
/ night
Conowingo Creek Campsite
3. Conowingo Creek Campsite
99%
(72)
37mi from Essex · 1 site
Walking paths leading to the scenic Conowingo Creek make this private setting located in southern Lancaster County a perfect relaxing get away. A short walk will put you on the banks of ideal fishing or a refreshing dip in the beautiful waterway. Some experts claim that plopping a chair in the middle of the creek with a good book is the only way to go! Then, after an evening by the campfire and a cozy night of sleep, a short drive gives you access to the Susquehanna River where hiking and scenic overlooks abound. The area is surrounded by Amish farms and loads of country charm. Got an itch for a historic city experience? Lancaster city is a 30 minute drive north where the historic Lancaster Central Market is open Tuesday, Friday and Saturday and surrounded by lots of quaint shopping. Recently added to Camp Conowingo Extras is the "Henry Hilton" which sleeps two and is an add-on for larger groups or anyone who wants to take in the view, sleeping closer to the stars. See photos in the listing and talk to Gini for details. We look forward to having you visit us.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$145
/ night
Susquehanna State Park
4. Susquehanna State Park
90%
(10)
State park 26mi from Essex · 71 sites
Feeling the river or the bay today? At Susquehanna State Park, both are at your fingertips. Boaters can hit the big waters from the Susquehanna River, and fishers can test their skills while catching bass, perch, catfish and carp. Head out in the spring, and you can catch the annual shad and herring runs. If you’re more of a landlubber, the park offers 15 miles of hiking trails, shared by humans and horses, and lots of sites to walk back in time, including The Rock Run Grist Mill and mansion. For tots, Susquehanna State Park interpretive programs are available throughout the summer.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tuckahoe State Park
5. Tuckahoe State Park
100%
(5)
State park 36mi from Essex · 56 sites
Say hello to Tuckahoe! 20 miles of hiking and biking surround the upper branch of Tuckahoe Creek, making it no surprise that this park hosts an annual triathalon. Don’t worry, though, you don’t have to be in race-shape to enjoy yourself here. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the view of 60 acres of the Tuckahoe lake, or get familiar with the local flora at the Adkins Arboretum. This 500-acre public garden boasts more than 600 species of local plantlife. Curious about that flower you saw on your morning bike ride? The Arboretum can help you out. Tours and information are available, or you can wander on your own and geek out on all that greenery.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Codorus State Park
6. Codorus State Park
83%
(6)
State park 42mi from Essex · 198 sites
From the lake to the trail, this York County state park has it all.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lums Pond State Park
7. Lums Pond State Park
100%
(1)
State park 43mi from Essex · 70 sites
Discover Lums Pond State Park's lush landscapes and outdoor fun.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Martinak State Park
8. Martinak State Park
100%
(1)
State park 45mi from Essex · 62 sites
At Martinak State Park, you find the best of everything: beautiful forests, golden fields, and mysterious marshes. With Choptank River and Watts Creek bordering the park, you're surrounded by lush flora and fauna in this perfect, thriving environment. If you consider yourself an avid angler, you’re in luck. There's plenty of bass, sunfish, and catfish to be reeled in here. Tucked away within a forest of hardwood and pine, you can truly leave the city woes behind you when you explore this beautiful park. With all that water to enjoy, it’s not hard to imagine why boaters love this place. Teeming with good times and camp vibes, this outdoor haven is a pretty solid gem.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Melissa
December 2025
2 nights at Conowingo Creek Campsite
I've been camping at Conowingo Creek for four years, and every time is just as delightful as the last! Gini & Kelly are spectacular hosts who will do everything they can to make sure your trip is perfect. I couldn't imagine camping anywhere else!
See moreH
Hannah
November 2025
With pets
The site is well stocked and had everything we could need along with very responsive and helpful host! Would absolutely recommend to anyone looking for some time away with loved ones (and the dogs of course!)
See moreL
Laura
October 2025
With pets
We had a lovely fall weekend glamping on Gini’s land. The site is beautiful and well maintained and the tent is very comfortable and filled with everything you could want even for cold weather camping. Gini’s hospitality was also exceptional (going out of their way to provide extra blankets and hot water bottles to one of our party who camped in a tent), and the land is perfect to walk through. Our dogs enjoyed the freedom safely. Will definitely be back!
See more
Arelis
October 2025
With pets
Our family had a wonderful stay at this site! Gini and her husband are great hosts. They truly think of everything and made sure we were comfortable throughout our stay. Even with a little rain, we had a great time.
See more
j
jessica
September 2025
With pets
Beautiful property & trails! This was my first time camping in a couple years and my dog's first time ever camping. We would definitely visit again.
See more
J
Joshua
September 2025
With pets
My wife and two older dogs loved glamping at Conowingo creek! When they say they take care of everything, they mean it. We definitely overpacked thinking, “surely they won’t have x item, we should bring it from home” but they do have everything except your food, clothes, and toiletries outside of the normal soaps. Being able to let the dogs off leash on the 23 acres and take a dip in the creek made our weekend. It was nice to just connect with each other in nature with ease. Would definitely recommend!
See more
K
Krista
September 2025
With pets
We stayed two nights, and the experience far surpassed our expectations. I've been camping all my life, and this is one of our favorite, most memorable camping experience ever. The feeling of peace and serenity was amazing. We both unplugged from regular life and relaxed so much that it was hard to remember my password when I returned to work at the end of our trip!
Some highlights:
-Friendly, helpful, communicative (but inobtrusive) hosts
-The gift of whoopie pies was a nice nod to the local Pennsylvania Dutch culture
-Lots of tools and amenities, such as cooking pots and multiple flashlights and candles
-The wide, well maintained paths and walking trails were appreciated
-The woodchip base at the campsite kept everything neat and dry
-The amount of privacy was unmatched
-Being able to let our dog off leash was a plus. It made us so happy to see our dog bounding around with a happy grin on her face
- The creek was next level and our dog enjoyed splashing around and chasing sticks
-The hammock by the creek is a beautiful little peaceful spot
-The fairy lights that came on at dusk were both beautiful and practical, as were the tiki torches & torches made out of repurposed wine bottles
-We had mentioned we were celebrating our anniversary, and they left us a jar of Hershey kisses, a card, and flowers
-A regular fire ring is available as well as one with a cooking grate that can be raised, lowered, or moved to the side
-A supply of firewood right at the campsite
10/10 stay
See more
Sherry
September 2025
With pets
This is now our THIRD year camping at the Conowingo Creek Campgound. There are lots of reasons we come back. We leave refreshed and renewed. The grounds are peaceful. Our dog loved Gini and Kelly's dogs. The campsite has everything you could think of. But it is the remote peacefulness that you will simply not find anywhere else in the area.
See moreD
Diego
August 2025
With kids
We loved camping at Gini and Kelly’s site. They are excellent hosts and we had everything we needed and more. Such a beautiful spot. The space by the creek is so peaceful, great to go on a small stroll, play with kids or just read a book in the hammock. My wife, child (7) and I were in need of a little getaway and it exceeded our expectations. Our daughter loved going to the creek and making smores. It was her first time camping so this was such a treat. We wish we could have stayed longer. We took them up on some extra things that they offer like the power bank and propane for cooking although we did the cooking mostly on the wood fire grill which made everything so delicious. We also met the doggies and chickens that they have, so fun, we of course bought a dozen eggs which fried in a cast iron on the wooden fire made breakfast incredible. Gini was very attentive and available for anything we needed. Like they say when booking, bring only your clothes. They have everything else you can think of and they were kind enough to let us know if we are missing something to let them know. We will definitely be back and for longer.
See moreS
Stoney
August 2025
With pets
This campsite is truly special. The hosts have gone above and beyond to think of every detail you might need during your stay. We had everything we could ask for and more, including fresh, great-tasting water, a spotless restroom and shower, firewood, a picnic table, a cozy tent and bed, and so much more. They checked in just enough to make sure we were comfortable, then gave us plenty of space to relax.
We loved exploring the grassy trails and cooling off in the creek; such a peaceful spot. On top of that, the location is convenient to great restaurants, fresh Amish markets, and other fun places to explore.
We had a wonderful time here and can’t recommend it highly enough. We’d definitely stay again!
See moreM
Mary Cate
August 2025
With pets
Well… it’s just our happy place! I will keep coming here over other sites for sooooo many reasons. Walking the paths barefoot, playing in the river with the dog, holding the baby chick, and having everything you could think of before you can think to ask for it. We LOVE this place.
See moreD
Dana
August 2025
With kids
This was our second year at this campsite. We love it. The host is so nice. She really goes above and beyond. We will definitely be back
See more
Diana
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Conowingo Creek Campsite
I had a great time at Gini’s camp! She greeted me upon arrival, and went over some basics, a nice chat! Starting off, there’s a wagon to help bring all your belongings to the site just a short walk from the parking spot. The tent was very clean, and had freshly made linens with extra blankets/portable fan for comfort depending on the season. The loo was very spacious, clean, well stocked and supplied with easy to change toilet bags that don’t smell or get too gross. I opted for the cooler with ice and camp stove Harley package which was a great deal, and made cooking by myself so much easier! The tiki torches with bug repellent were a nice touch to not only keep the bugs away, but also add ambiance and a feeling of comfort. The table has 2 levels which made cooking and prepping a breeze. Gini has thought of everything you could need and already supplies it! I brought too much, and ended up not needing most of it because it’s already supplied! The bed was surprisingly comfortable and it gets a little chilly at night so I was happy to have some extra blankets. I felt very safe and relaxed the whole weekend as a solo camper. I enjoyed bird watching and the campfire the most. The whole site is maintained so well, but still tucked away enough to feel like you’re in the deep woods. Gini recommended visiting Fishing Creek Nature preserve and it was an awesome drive! Swimming and driving on the creek was the highlight of the trip. I’m going to have to come back with my husband next
See moreK
Kirsten
August 2025
With pets
My teenaged son was eager to take a camping trip before school started but my days of sleeping on the ground are long over (my next dirt nap will be the final one). I didn’t know what to expect with glamping but I’m so glad we found Gini’s place. I really didn’t believe her when she said all we would need are clothes and food (and she provides a guide to nearby restaurants if you don’t want to cook). But she was right! Gini and her husband Kelly have thought of everything right down the last detail to make your trip fun and stress-free. She has managed to concentrate all of the good aspects of camping into a lovely place for a family trip (there’s a spot for a tent and an additional treehouse (!) can be rented) or a romantic getaway. I slept better than I have in months! This place is a gem and a reasonable drive from Philadelphia. I highly recommend it if you were looking for peace and quiet and nature but without the hassle that comes with tent camping. She also offers add-ons, like a generator and cooler with ice (there is a grocery store nearby), at a very reasonable fee to make the experience more comfortable. There are plenty of nature trails on the property and a couple of state parks nearby if you want something more strenuous. My partner and I are planning to return in the fall.
See moreJ
Julie
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Conowingo Creek Campsite
Couldn't have asked for a better experience or better hosts. They've really thought of everything. Just show up with some food and you're all set. Tent is perfect, setting is so serene and private, grounds and area are beautiful and well maintained, hosts are lovely. I'm almost hesitant to leave this review because I don't want anyone else to know about it because I want it to be available when we come back!!! But seriously, just book it. You won't be disappointed.
See moreD
Dylan
July 2025
Weekend Trip to Conowingo Creek Campsite
It was great staying at Gini's campsite! very minimal, yet everything you need. sitting in the creek is very refreshing! the dogs were very well behaved as well.
See more
K
Kyle
July 2025
2 nights at Conowingo Creek Campsite
Stayed here with my wife and two dogs, and we absolutely loved it. The site has everything you need from dish’s and cooking utensils to fresh drinking water. We spent most of our time at the creek which is a short walk away. The dogs loved playing in the water and I enjoyed just relaxing with a cold beer in the cool creek. I’d highly recommend this site and I can’t wait to return!
See more
Jessi
July 2025
With pets
We had an absolutely magical weekend glamping with our family! We have two young girls- a 3 year old and an infant, as well as a big black lab and desperately needed time away as a family. It was SO nice to get away, and spend time together outdoors without having to really think. Literally everything we needed was provided! The property is simply gorgeous, well maintained and private. Gini and Kelly went out of their way to make us feel safe, welcomed and cared for. My 3 year old absolutely loved the camp shower, playing in the creek and meeting Ms. Gini’s chickens. We even accidentally left our daughter’s sleep sack, and she was kind enough to let us know and mail it to us right away! Highly recommend. We are already making plans to return and have shared with friends!
See moreA
April
July 2025
With kids
Gini’s campground was wonderful, the perfect spot to introduce my toddlers to camping. The river was calm enough for the kids to go tubing for the first time as well. Gini and her husband are incredible hosts, highly recommend!
See more
N
Nichole
July 2025
With pets
We loved our glamping adventure. The peace and quiet and the quality time was priceless. Actually when we got home did not turn the TV on until nighttime. We highly recommend this site.
See more
