Codorus State Park Campground Entrance/Contact Station

For Pennsylvanians yearning for an outdoor escape that combines the tranquility of nature with an abundance of recreational activities, Codorus State Park Campground in Hanover, PA, offers an ideal solution. This expansive state park, centered around the magnificent 1,275-acre Lake Marburg, provides a diverse range of camping options to suit every preference, from traditional tent sites and spacious RV spots to comfortable yurts and cozy cottages. It’s more than just a place to stay; it’s a vibrant hub for water sports, hiking, disc golf, and family fun, all set within the beautiful rolling hills of southern York County.

The campground at Codorus State Park is exceptionally well-equipped to host a variety of campers. With approximately 190 campsites, it can accommodate everything from compact tents to recreational vehicles up to 50 feet in length. Many of these sites come with electric hookups, providing the convenience that modern campers often seek. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, dedicated tent-only sites are also available. The commitment to accessibility is evident, with several ADA accessible campsites equipped with electricity, ensuring that the joys of the outdoors are available to everyone.

What truly enhances the camping experience at Codorus State Park is the array of amenities and recreational opportunities immediately at hand. Campers have access to clean, warm showers and flush toilets, making for a comfortable stay. The campground's proximity to Lake Marburg is a huge draw, featuring a convenient boat launch and shoreline mooring for those bringing their watercraft. Beyond the water, the park pool is right next to the campground, offering a refreshing retreat during warmer months. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff at the office and contact station, ensuring a welcoming environment from the moment you arrive.

Codorus State Park operates seasonally, typically opening its campground the second Friday in April and closing on November 1st, allowing for ample time to enjoy the spring, summer, and fall splendor of Pennsylvania. This extended season means campers can experience the park's vibrant transformation through different times of the year, from lush summer greenery to the breathtaking colors of autumn. Whether you're an avid boater, a keen angler, a hiking enthusiast, or a family simply looking for a relaxing and engaging outdoor adventure, Codorus State Park Campground provides a comprehensive and memorable experience right in the heart of Pennsylvania.

Location and Accessibility

Codorus State Park Campground is located within Codorus State Park, at Hanover, PA 17331, USA. This prime location in southern York County places it within easy reach for many Pennsylvania residents, offering a convenient escape without requiring excessively long travel times. The park is situated on Pennsylvania Route 216, just 3 miles from the borough of Hanover, providing a blend of natural tranquility with nearby town amenities.

For Pennsylvanians traveling from major cities, access to Codorus State Park is relatively straightforward. From Harrisburg, the state capital, the drive is approximately an hour south, often involving I-83 S and then connecting to US-30 W towards Gettysburg, before heading south on PA-616 S. From Philadelphia, the journey typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, usually via the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76 W) to US-30 W. From Pittsburgh, the drive is longer, around 3.5 to 4 hours east, primarily via the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76 E) to US-15 S. The park's well-connected location via state routes ensures a relatively smooth journey for most visitors.

The park's setting in the rolling hills of southern York County means visitors can enjoy picturesque rural landscapes. While being immersed in nature, campers also benefit from the proximity to Hanover, which offers a variety of amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations, ensuring that all essential needs are met. Beyond the park's boundaries, the region is known for its agricultural heritage, with opportunities to visit local farms and markets, especially during harvest seasons. The famous historic battlefields of Gettysburg are also within a reasonable driving distance, offering an enriching educational excursion for history buffs. This blend of natural recreation and nearby cultural and practical resources makes Codorus State Park an exceptionally convenient and appealing destination for Pennsylvania locals.

Services Offered

• Campsites: Approximately 190 campsites are available, suitable for tents or recreational vehicles up to 50 feet in length. Fifteen sites are designated for tents only.
• Electric Hookups: Many campsites are equipped with electric hookups (30 and 50 amp service) for RVs and trailers.
• ADA Accessible Sites: Seven campsites with electricity are ADA accessible, designed to accommodate campers with disabilities.
• Pet-Friendly Sites: Designated campsites allow pets for an additional fee, ensuring furry family members can join the outdoor adventure. It's noted that the Timber Doodle sites are closer to the water and are dog-friendly.
• Warm Showers: Clean facilities with warm showers are available for all campers.
• Flush Toilets: Modern flush toilets are provided within the campground for convenience.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch is available within the campground area, providing direct access to Lake Marburg for boating enthusiasts.
• Shoreline Mooring: Campers can utilize shoreline mooring, allowing convenient access to their boats directly from the campground area.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs to dispose of waste.
• Camping Cottages: Three rustic camping cottages are available, offering a more comfortable, semi-primitive experience. These typically include electric heat and outlets, and may have a stovetop, microwave, and refrigerator.
• Yurts: Two yurts are offered, which are round, walled tents on a wooden deck. They include bunk beds (sleeping four or five), a stovetop, refrigerator, countertop, table, chairs, electric heat and outlets, a fire ring, and a picnic table. Both yurts are ADA accessible.
• Campground Office/Contact Station: Staff at the office and contact station are available to assist campers with check-in, information, and general inquiries.

Features / Highlights

• Lake Marburg Access: The campground's prime location on the shores of the 1,275-acre Lake Marburg is its crowning jewel. This massive lake offers exceptional opportunities for boating (motorized and non-motorized), warmwater fishing (bass, crappie, catfish), and wildlife viewing (migrating waterfowl, bald eagles).
• Diverse Camping Options: With 190 campsites for tents and RVs (up to 50 ft), plus three cottages and two yurts, the campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences and comfort levels. Many sites offer electric hookups, and pet-friendly options are available.
• Modern Amenities: The presence of warm showers, flush toilets, and a sanitary dump station provides essential comforts for campers, enhancing the overall experience.
• Adjacent to Park Pool: The park's swimming pool and splash pad area are conveniently located right next to the campground, offering a perfect way to cool off and have fun during the warmer months.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Reviewers consistently praise the staff at the office and contact station for being "always helpful & friendly," contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
• Extensive Recreational Activities: Beyond camping, the park boasts 26 miles of shoreline, 19 miles of trails for hiking (including the Mary Ann Furnace Trail directly from the campground), mountain biking, and equestrian use. There's also disc golf (a 54-hole course!), picnicking, and environmental education programs.
• Designated Pet Areas: Specific campsites are designated for pets, allowing families to bring their furry companions along for the adventure, with some "Timber Doodle sites" being closer to the water and dog-friendly.
• ADA Accessibility: Several electric campsites, as well as both yurts, are ADA accessible, demonstrating the park's commitment to inclusivity.
• Seasonal Operations: Open from the second Friday in April until November 1st, allowing campers to enjoy the full spring, summer, and fall seasons.
• Community Spirit: Features like Sunday worship services at 9:30 AM (as noted in reviews) contribute to a sense of community within the campground.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a Pennsylvania State Park campground, Codorus State Park Campground operates under a standardized fee structure set by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). This means that traditional "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense (like flash sales or loyalty discounts) are not typically offered. Instead, the value is built into the state park pricing, which is generally quite competitive for the amenities and natural resources provided.

Pricing for campsites at Codorus State Park varies based on residency, electrical hookups, and whether a site is pet-friendly. For Pennsylvania residents, base nightly rates for a campsite might be around $16.00, with additional charges for electricity ($7.00/night), water ($8.00/night), water and sewer ($13.00/night in 2024, $14.00 in 2025), and designated pet sites ($2.00/night). Premium nights (Friday, Saturday, holidays, and events) may incur an additional fee of $4.00/night. Non-residents typically pay a slightly higher base rate.

Discounts are available for Pennsylvania residents who are seniors (62 years and older) or people with disabilities, often receiving a nightly reduction of $4.50. A weekly discount of $15.00 (for residents) is also applied for stays of seven days.

Camping cottages and yurts have their own pricing structure and typically require a two-night minimum stay for most of the year, extending to a one-week minimum during the peak summer season (second Friday in June to third Friday in August). Reservations for all facilities can be made up to 11 months in advance, and a non-refundable $6.50 transaction fee is charged per site on all reservations.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, availability, and specific guidelines on multi-unit sites or any temporary offerings, it is always recommended for prospective campers to visit the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or contact Codorus State Park directly.

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

Codorus State Park Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Pennsylvanians seeking a diverse and enriching outdoor experience without venturing too far from home. Its location in Hanover, PA, offers excellent accessibility from major population centers across the state, ensuring that a refreshing getaway is always within a reasonable drive. This convenience allows locals to enjoy more time recreating and less time traveling.

The campground’s wide array of lodging options, from traditional tent and RV sites (many with electric hookups) to the unique comfort of yurts and cottages, means there's a perfect fit for every type of camper and family size. The availability of ADA accessible sites underscores the park's commitment to inclusivity, welcoming all members of the community to enjoy its natural beauty. For pet owners, the designated dog-friendly sites, including those closer to the water, ensure that no family member is left behind.

Beyond the comfortable accommodations, the true appeal for locals lies in the sheer volume of recreational opportunities available right at their fingertips. Lake Marburg is a haven for water sports, offering boating, fishing, and even scuba diving. The extensive network of trails caters to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, providing endless opportunities for exploration. The park’s swimming pool, disc golf course, and planned interpretive programs offer additional layers of engagement and family fun.

The well-maintained facilities, friendly staff, and the overall peaceful yet activity-rich environment make Codorus State Park Campground a fantastic value. It provides a comprehensive state park experience, allowing Pennsylvanians to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature, all while fostering new memories. Whether it's for a weekend escape or a longer seasonal stay, Codorus State Park offers a quintessential Pennsylvania outdoor adventure that truly caters to local interests and needs.

Codorus State Park Campground Entrance/Contact Station

Codorus State Park, Hanover, PA 17331, USA