Codorus State Park Campground

For Pennsylvanians seeking a comprehensive outdoor escape with abundant recreational opportunities, Codorus State Park Campground in West Manheim Township, PA, stands out as a premier destination. Nestled within the expansive 3,490-acre Codorus State Park, the campground offers a vibrant hub for campers to explore the natural beauty of southern York County. Its crown jewel, the 1,275-acre Lake Marburg with its impressive 26 miles of shoreline, provides a picturesque backdrop and a wealth of water-based activities that truly define the park's appeal.

Codorus State Park Campground is renowned for its diverse camping options, catering to a wide range of preferences from traditional tent camping to comfortable cabin and yurt stays. With approximately 180 campsites, including many with electric hookups and some offering full hookups, it accommodates recreational vehicles up to 50 feet in length. The availability of modern amenities like warm showers and flush toilets consistently receives positive feedback from visitors, ensuring a comfortable stay even in the great outdoors. This blend of accessibility and natural beauty makes it an "AWESOME family campground" as noted by satisfied guests.

Beyond the campsites themselves, the park's extensive offerings truly set it apart. Lake Marburg is a haven for boaters, with multiple launch ramps and even shoreline mooring available, and a 20 horsepower motor restriction ensures a more peaceful experience. Anglers will delight in the warm-water fishing opportunities within the lake for species like yellow perch, crappie, bluegill, and northern pike, while Codorus Creek offers trout fishing. For those who prefer land-based adventures, 19 miles of multi-use trails await, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and even horseback riding, allowing visitors to explore diverse habitats from wetlands to deciduous forests.

The park is not just about the lake and trails; it also boasts a popular swimming pool and sprayground area, offering a refreshing alternative for cooling off during warmer months (open seasonally with an admission fee). The presence of diverse wildlife, including migrating waterfowl and shorebirds, along with the majestic bald eagles often spotted within 1500 yards of the campground, adds an exciting dimension to any visit. With a variety of planned environmental education programs, campfires, and family-friendly activities, Codorus State Park Campground ensures there's always something engaging for everyone, creating memorable experiences for all who visit.

In essence, Codorus State Park Campground offers a comprehensive and deeply satisfying outdoor getaway. It's a testament to the fact that a well-run state park with clean facilities and engaging natural features can provide an exceptional outdoor vacation. For locals, it represents an accessible and reliable choice for repeated visits, promising consistent quality and a welcoming environment every time.

Codorus State Park Campground is located in West Manheim Township, PA 17331, USA, within the expansive Codorus State Park in southern York County, Pennsylvania. This geographical positioning provides excellent accessibility for residents across a wide swath of Pennsylvania, especially those in the south-central and southeastern regions.

The park is easily reached via major roadways. While the specific routes would depend on the traveler's origin within Pennsylvania, the general location near Hanover and the greater York County area means it's well-connected by state highways. This straightforward access is a significant advantage, making weekend getaways or longer vacations to Codorus State Park convenient and stress-free for families and individuals alike, minimizing travel time and maximizing recreational opportunities.

Despite its vast natural landscape, Codorus State Park is not isolated. The proximity to towns like Hanover ensures that campers have convenient access to essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, and various dining options. This balance between being immersed in nature and having urban conveniences within a reasonable drive is highly valued by local Pennsylvanians, allowing them to enjoy a full outdoor experience without feeling completely disconnected.

Furthermore, the park's location in York County places it within reach of numerous other attractions. Historic Gettysburg is a relatively short drive away, offering a wealth of historical and cultural exploration. Local breweries, cidermakers, and small-town charm add to the regional appeal, providing opportunities for day trips beyond the campground. This blend of onsite natural beauty and nearby regional highlights makes Codorus State Park Campground an ideal base for exploring the diverse offerings of South Central Pennsylvania.

Services Offered:

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: Approximately 180 sites accommodating tents or RVs up to 50 feet.
• Electric Hookups: Many campsites are equipped with electric hookups (30 amp and 50 amp available).
• Full Hookup Sites: A limited number of full hookup sites (water, sewer, electric) are available.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean flush toilets and warm showers are provided within the campground facilities.
• Sanitary Dump Station: An on-site dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch within the campground provides direct access to Lake Marburg.
• Shoreline Mooring: Available for those bringing their own boats.
• Camping Cottages: Three rustic cottages, sleeping five, with electric heat, lights, and outlets.
• Yurts: Round, canvas and wood-walled tents sleeping four or five, equipped with electric heat and outlets, a cooking stove, and a refrigerator.
• Black Rock Lodge: A year-round rental accommodating up to 12 people, featuring modern conveniences like heat, AC, a full kitchen, and warm showers.
• ADA Accessible Sites and Facilities: Seven campsites with electricity and camping cottages are ADA accessible.
• Pet-Friendly Sites: Designated campsites where pets are permitted for a fee (two-pet maximum per site, leash required).
• Campground Host Program: Hosts are available to provide information and assistance to campers.

Features / Highlights:

• Lake Marburg Access: The centerpiece of the park, offering 1,275 acres for boating (20 hp motor restriction), sailing, and warm-water fishing.
• Swimming Pool and Sprayground: A popular seasonal attraction (with fee) located on a bluff overlooking Lake Marburg, offering a refreshing alternative to lake swimming.
• Extensive Trail System: 19 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, exploring diverse natural habitats.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot migrating waterfowl, shorebirds, and majestic American Bald Eagles within the park.
• Fishing Opportunities: Excellent fishing in Lake Marburg (yellow perch, crappie, pike, bass) and trout fishing in Codorus Creek.
• Disc Golf Course: A significant 54-hole disc golf course available for enthusiasts.
• Environmental Education Programs: The park offers a variety of programs, walks, talks, and campfire events to enhance visitors' understanding of nature.
• Playfields and Picnic Areas: Designated areas for sports and picnicking, some with grills and restrooms.
• Winter Recreation: Opportunities for ice fishing, sledding, cross-country skiing, and ice skating in the colder months.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Regular planned activities, including the annual Halloween Trick or Treat Weekend with pet parades and nature programs.

Promotions or Special Offers:

As a Pennsylvania State Park campground, Codorus State Park operates under the standardized pricing and reservation system set by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). While specific, short-term "promotions" like discount codes might not be regularly advertised directly by the park, several inherent benefits and discounts are typically available:

• Affordable State Park Rates: State park camping is generally more affordable than private campgrounds, providing excellent value for the amenities and natural access offered.
• Senior and Disability Discounts: Pennsylvania residents aged 62 and over, and individuals with disabilities, may be eligible for reduced campsite prices (e.g., $4.50 per night discount from base price).
• Weekly Discounts: A small discount may apply for longer stays (e.g., $15.00 discount per week for residents).
• Seasonal Opening: The campground is open from mid-April to November 1, providing a long season for planning trips.
• Pet Fee: A modest nightly fee ($2.00) for designated pet sites.
• Swimming Pool Seasonal Passes: While there's a fee for the swimming pool, seasonal passes are available for frequent visitors, offering savings over daily admission.
• Trick or Treat Weekend: Special event programming during the Halloween season, which might include specific site rates ($60-$95 for non-electric, electric, and full hookup sites for this event).

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, availability, and to make reservations, it is essential to visit the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or use the state park reservation system (e.g., ReserveAmerica.com). It is recommended to book well in advance, especially for popular weekends and during peak season.

Contact Information:

Address: West Manheim Township, PA 17331, USA (located within Codorus State Park)

Phone: The general park office phone number for Codorus State Park is (717) 637-2816. This is the best contact for inquiries regarding camping, reservations, park operations, and specific program details.

For reservations, visitors should utilize the official Pennsylvania State Parks online reservation system, which can be accessed through the DCNR website. This system allows you to check site availability, view maps, and book your preferred campsite, cabin, or yurt.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Codorus State Park Campground is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for Pennsylvania locals seeking a well-rounded and activity-rich outdoor experience. Its prime location in southern York County offers convenient accessibility from many parts of the state, making it an ideal choice for both short weekend getaways and extended family vacations without lengthy travel.

For Pennsylvanians, the campground provides an impressive array of activities right at their doorstep. Whether it's boating or fishing on the expansive Lake Marburg, taking a refreshing dip in the park's swimming pool, exploring miles of scenic trails, or simply enjoying the peaceful presence of nature and wildlife, Codorus State Park offers something for every interest. The consistently praised clean facilities, variety of site types (from rustic tents to modern RV hookups, cabins, and yurts), and accessibility features ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all visitors.

The added value of environmental education programs and special events like the Halloween Trick or Treat weekend further enhances its appeal, creating opportunities for learning and unique family fun. For locals, Codorus State Park Campground isn't just a place to camp; it's a dynamic recreational hub that consistently delivers memorable outdoor adventures, fostering a deep connection to Pennsylvania's natural beauty year after year.

Codorus State Park Campground

West Manheim Township, PA 17331, USA