Campground Loop D

Nestled within the expansive and activity-rich Codorus State Park in Hanover, PA, Campground Loop D offers a distinct and inviting camping experience for Pennsylvanians seeking an escape into nature. While the entire park is celebrated for its stunning Lake Marburg and diverse recreational opportunities, Loop D specifically appeals to those who appreciate open, sunny sites with ample space and easy access to modern amenities. It’s a section of the larger Codorus State Park Campground that combines the best of outdoor living with the comforts that make a camping trip truly enjoyable.

Campground Loop D provides a refreshing contrast to more shaded areas, featuring primarily sunny and grassy sites. This makes it an excellent choice for RVs and larger setups, allowing for plenty of sunlight and an open feel. Reviewers have highlighted the spaciousness of these sites, often noting that they are "all grassy areas with no brush separating sites," which offers a sense of privacy and room to spread out, even when other sites are occupied. This open layout is particularly appealing for families with children, providing ample space for play and outdoor activities right at your campsite.

One of the most praised aspects of Loop D is the condition of its facilities. The bathhouse in Loop D has received excellent reviews for being "in great condition" and "very clean," with "unlimited long hot showers." This commitment to cleanliness and comfort elevates the primitive camping experience, ensuring that guests can refresh and unwind after a day of exploring Lake Marburg or hitting the park's numerous trails. The friendly and helpful staff at the park's main contact station further contribute to the welcoming atmosphere that permeates Codorus State Park.

Operating seasonally from mid-April to November 1st, Campground Loop D allows Pennsylvania locals to experience the beauty of spring, the warmth of summer, and the vibrant colors of autumn. Whether you're looking for a convenient base for boating on Lake Marburg, enjoying the adjacent park pool, or simply relaxing in a sunny, open setting, Loop D provides an excellent environment within one of Pennsylvania's most cherished state parks. Its combination of openness, modern conveniences, and integration into the broader park's offerings makes it a highly suitable choice for a memorable outdoor getaway.

Location and Accessibility

Campground Loop D is an integral part of the larger Codorus State Park Campground, situated within Codorus State Park at Hanover, PA 17331, USA. This location in southern York County offers excellent accessibility for many residents across Pennsylvania, making it a convenient destination for a refreshing natural escape. The park is easily accessed via Pennsylvania Route 216, just a few miles from the borough of Hanover.

For Pennsylvanians embarking on a camping trip, the drive to Codorus State Park is generally manageable. From the state capital, Harrisburg, the journey typically takes around one hour, primarily involving I-83 S before connecting to local routes. Residents of Philadelphia can expect a drive of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, usually utilizing the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76 W) to US-30 W, then transitioning south. For those coming from Pittsburgh, the drive is longer, roughly 3.5 to 4 hours east, typically via the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76 E) to US-15 S. The park's well-established road connections ensure a smooth and direct travel experience for most visitors.

While Loop D itself is known for its open and sunny sites, its location within Codorus State Park means campers benefit from the park's immediate access to the 1,275-acre Lake Marburg. This massive lake is a hub for boating, fishing, and various water activities. The campground's proximity to the lake, including a boat launch and shoreline mooring, is a significant advantage for those bringing their watercraft. Additionally, the park pool and splash pad area are conveniently located adjacent to the main campground, offering a perfect spot for recreation during warmer weather.

Beyond the park's boundaries, the nearby town of Hanover provides all necessary amenities, including grocery stores, gas stations, and dining options, ensuring campers have everything they need close at hand. The region is also rich in historical significance, with Gettysburg National Military Park being a relatively short drive away, offering opportunities for enriching day trips. This strategic location, combining natural beauty with convenient services and cultural attractions, makes Campground Loop D and Codorus State Park an ideal choice for a well-rounded Pennsylvania outdoor adventure.

Services Offered

• Campsites: Loop D offers campsites suitable for both tents and recreational vehicles up to 50 feet in length. Sites are noted for being open, sunny, and grassy, providing ample space.
• Electric Hookups: Many sites within Loop D are equipped with electric hookups (30 and 50 amp service) for RVs and trailers, enhancing convenience.
• Warm Showers: A bathhouse within Loop D provides clean facilities with warm showers, described as "unlimited long hot showers" by a reviewer.
• Flush Toilets: Modern flush toilets are available in the Loop D bathhouse for camper comfort and hygiene.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available within the overall campground area for RV waste disposal.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch is conveniently located within the main campground area, offering direct access to Lake Marburg.
• Shoreline Mooring: Campers can utilize shoreline mooring for their boats directly from the campground area.
• Campground Host: A campground host may be present to provide assistance and information to campers.
• Firewood and Ice: Firewood (for a fee, often on an honor system) and ice are typically available for purchase near the entrance or a designated shed.
• Pet-Friendly: Loop D includes designated pet-friendly campsites, allowing pets on site for a fee, and some sites like "Timber Doodle sites" are noted as dog-friendly and closer to the water.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite generally includes a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor dining and campfires.

Features / Highlights

• Open, Sunny, and Grassy Sites: A distinctive highlight of Loop D is its open, sunny, and grassy campsites. This layout provides more natural light, a spacious feel, and plenty of room around your setup, which is ideal for RVs and family activities.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Bathhouse: The bathhouse in Loop D receives high praise for being in "great condition" and "very clean," offering "unlimited long hot showers." This focus on cleanliness significantly enhances the camping experience.
• Spacious Sites: Reviewers note that sites in Loop D are often "all grassy areas with no brush separating sites," providing plenty of room and a less crowded feel, even when other sites might be empty.
• Proximity to Lake Marburg: Located within Codorus State Park, campers in Loop D have easy access to the vast 1,275-acre Lake Marburg for boating, fishing, and other water activities, including a boat launch and shoreline mooring within the campground.
• Adjacent to Park Pool: The Codorus State Park swimming pool and splash pad area are conveniently located right next to the campground, offering a fantastic recreational option during warmer months.
• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: Beyond water activities, the park offers 19 miles of trails for hiking (including the Mary Ann Furnace Trail), mountain biking, and equestrian use, as well as a 54-hole disc golf course and various picnicking areas.
• Friendly Staff: The staff at the park's office and contact station are consistently described as "helpful & friendly," contributing to a welcoming and positive atmosphere for campers.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground operates from mid-April to November 1st, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the beauty of spring, summer, and autumn in Pennsylvania.
• Accessibility Features: While Loop D specifically might not have all ADA sites, the overall campground offers seven ADA accessible campsites with electricity and two ADA accessible yurts, ensuring accessibility for various needs.
• Community and Events: The campground hosts events, such as Sunday worship services, and the park sometimes features seasonal activities like a Halloween trail, fostering a sense of community and added entertainment.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a loop within a Pennsylvania State Park campground, Campground Loop D operates under the standard fee structure set by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Therefore, it does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a privately owned business might. The pricing is transparent and based on various factors, including residency, type of hookups, and any specific amenities desired.

The base nightly rates for campsites at Codorus State Park (which apply to Loop D) are approximately $16.00 for Pennsylvania residents, with additional charges for specific amenities. For instance, electric hookups add about $7.00 per night, water hookups $8.00 per night, and water and sewer hookups range from $13.00 to $14.00 per night depending on the year (2024 vs. 2025). Designated pet campsites incur an additional fee of $2.00 per night. There is also a $4.00 per night surcharge for premium nights (Friday, Saturday, holidays, and special events). Non-residents generally pay slightly higher base rates.

Discounts are available for eligible Pennsylvania residents, including seniors (62 years and older) and individuals with disabilities, who can receive a nightly reduction of $4.50. A weekly discount of $15.00 for residents (or $17.00 for non-residents) is also applied for stays of seven consecutive nights. All reservations for state park campsites, including those in Loop D, incur a non-refundable $6.50 transaction fee.

For the most accurate and current pricing, specific site availability within Loop D, and detailed information on all fees and guidelines, it is always recommended for prospective campers to visit the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or contact Codorus State Park directly. This will ensure you have the latest information before planning your visit.

Contact Information

Address: Codorus State Park, Hanover, PA 17331, USA

Park Office Phone: 717-637-2816

Email: codorussp@pa.gov

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Campground Loop D at Codorus State Park is an exceptionally suitable choice for Pennsylvanians seeking a well-rounded and enjoyable outdoor experience. Its location within the highly popular Codorus State Park in Hanover, PA, ensures easy and convenient access from many parts of the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing leisure. This regional accessibility makes it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation without the hassle of a cross-country journey.

What makes Loop D particularly appealing to local campers is its specific characteristics. The open, sunny, and grassy sites provide a refreshing change from densely wooded campgrounds, offering ample space for both RVs and tents. This layout is especially beneficial for families, allowing children plenty of room to play and explore in a secure environment. The consistently praised clean and modern bathhouse, complete with hot showers, significantly enhances comfort, ensuring that even while camping, essential conveniences are readily available.

Beyond the immediate campsite, being part of Codorus State Park means direct access to the immense 1,275-acre Lake Marburg, a hub for boating, fishing, and various water activities. The park pool, located right next to the campground, offers another fantastic option for warm-weather recreation. Combined with miles of hiking and biking trails, a disc golf course, and a friendly staff, Loop D offers a rich tapestry of activities that cater to diverse interests. It allows Pennsylvanians to fully immerse themselves in outdoor recreation and make lasting memories, all within the beautiful and accessible setting of one of their own cherished state parks.

Campground Loop D

Codorus State Park, Hanover, PA 17331, USA