Timberdoodle Camping Area

Are you a Pennsylvania local yearning for a refreshing escape into nature without traveling far from home? The Timberdoodle Camping Area, nestled within the expansive and beautiful Codorus State Park in Hanover, PA, offers an ideal solution. This vibrant campground serves as your perfect base for exploring the rich recreational opportunities of southern York County, providing a welcoming environment for both seasoned campers and those new to the great outdoors. It’s a place where the tranquility of a wooded setting meets the excitement of a vast lake and a plethora of activities, all designed for a memorable Pennsylvania adventure.

Codorus State Park, and by extension its Timberdoodle Camping Area, is renowned for its diverse landscape centered around the impressive 1,275-acre Lake Marburg. This man-made lake with 26 miles of shoreline is a focal point for water-based activities and a critical rest stop for migrating waterfowl, offering fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and scenic enjoyment. The Timberdoodle Camping Area, specifically, provides a range of camping options to suit different preferences, whether you prefer the comfort of an RV with full hookups, the simplicity of a tent site, or the unique experience of a camping cottage or yurt. The campground's design, with its various loops, offers both wooded and more open sites, allowing you to choose the ambiance that best suits your group.

What truly sets Timberdoodle Camping Area apart for Pennsylvania locals is its comprehensive offering within a state park setting. You’re not just getting a campsite; you’re gaining access to a wide array of amenities and recreational activities right at your doorstep. From modern bathhouses with hot showers to convenient access to boat launches, the park aims to make your stay comfortable and engaging. While some campers note that sites can feel a bit close during peak times, the general consensus highlights the cleanliness of the facilities, the peaceful atmosphere, and the sheer volume of things to do within Codorus State Park. This combination of natural beauty, extensive recreation, and convenient access makes Timberdoodle Camping Area a top choice for a local Pennsylvania camping getaway.

Timberdoodle Camping Area is located within Codorus State Park, with its primary address listed as Codorus State Park, Hanover, PA 17331, USA. This places it firmly in the rolling hills of southern York County, providing a beautiful and accessible natural retreat for residents across Pennsylvania.

The park itself is well-connected by Pennsylvania's road network, making it an easy drive for most locals. From Interstate 83, a major north-south artery in central Pennsylvania, visitors can take Exit 8 to reach the park. The main park office and visitor center are located at 2600 Smith Station Rd, Hanover, PA 17331, providing a central point for information and check-in. The campground, including Timberdoodle Camping Area, is within the larger park boundaries, and clear signage typically guides campers to their designated loops. While some roads within the park might be hilly, the access to the campground itself is generally straightforward.

A key advantage of this location is its integration within Codorus State Park. This means campers have immediate access to Lake Marburg and its extensive shoreline, without needing to travel off-site. The campground is designed with amenities like boat launches and shoreline mooring directly accessible from within the camping area. For Pennsylvanians, this means less time navigating and more time enjoying the outdoors. While the park offers a tranquil natural setting, it's also conveniently located near the town of Hanover, providing access to essential services, grocery stores, and local dining options if needed. This balance of natural beauty and practical accessibility makes the Timberdoodle Camping Area a highly convenient and desirable destination for a local Pennsylvania camping trip.

The Timberdoodle Camping Area within Codorus State Park offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers. As a Pennsylvania State Park campground, it adheres to certain standards of quality and accessibility.

• Diverse Campsite Options:

  • RV Sites: The campground features approximately 111 sites with electric hookups (30 & 50 amp available), and some also offer water and sewer connections for full hook-up convenience. Many sites are designed to accommodate larger camping units up to 50 feet in length, including pull-through options.

  • Tent-Only Sites: There are 15 dedicated tent-only sites, providing a more traditional camping experience in a wooded setting (Loop A) or more open areas (Loop D).

  • Camping Cottages: Three camping cottages are available, sleeping five people in single and double/single bunks, equipped with electric heat, lights, outlets, a porch, fire ring, and picnic table.

  • Yurts: Two round, canvas and wood-walled tents with wooden decks are available, sleeping four or five people in bunk beds. Yurts come with a cooking stove, countertop, electric heat and outlets, refrigerator, table and chairs, fire ring, and picnic table.

  • Pet-Friendly Sites: Designated pet-friendly campsites are available for a small fee, allowing four-legged family members to join the adventure.

• Essential Campground Amenities:

  • Modern Bathhouses: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers are conveniently located throughout the campground loops.

  • Sanitary Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available for RVs, with a fee for non-campers.

  • Camp Store/Firewood & Ice Sales: A camp store is available, often selling essential camping supplies, firewood, and ice. Firewood can also be purchased from the Friends of Codorus State Park near the campground entrance.

  • Drinking Water: Access to potable drinking water is available.

  • Camp Host: A camp host is often present to provide assistance and information to campers.

  • Recycling Station: Designated areas for recycling are provided, aligning with state park environmental initiatives.

• Waterfront Access & Boating:

  • Boat Launch/Ramp: Direct access to Lake Marburg via multiple boat launches within or very near the campground.

  • Boat Mooring: Shoreline mooring may be available within the campground area.

  • Boat Rentals: The marina within Codorus State Park offers various boat rentals, including kayaks, canoes, fishing boats, and pontoon boats.

• Accessibility: ADA accessible campsites and lodging (cottages, yurts) are available for people with disabilities.

The Timberdoodle Camping Area, by virtue of its location within Codorus State Park, boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that cater to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts and families.

• Lake Marburg Access: The most prominent feature is the direct access to the vast 1,275-acre Lake Marburg. This man-made lake is a haven for water activities, including:

  • Boating: Popular for sailboaters, motorboaters (up to 10 horsepower), kayakers, and canoeists. Multiple boat launches and a marina with rentals are available.

  • Fishing: Lake Marburg is excellent for warm water fishing, with species like largemouth bass, walleye, tiger muskellunge, crappie, and catfish. Codorus Creek also offers trout fishing.

  • Swimming: A large, well-maintained swimming pool is available within the park, typically open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

• Extensive Trail System: The park offers 26 miles of shoreline, as well as numerous hiking and biking trails. There's also a designated mountain bike trail area, providing diverse options for exploring the park's natural beauty.

• Disc Golf Courses: Codorus State Park is a premier destination for disc golf, featuring multiple courses and having hosted state championships. This is a significant draw for disc golf enthusiasts.

• Wildlife Viewing: Lake Marburg is a known rest stop for migrating waterfowl and shorebirds. The park is also famous for being the location of a popular bald eagle nest, which can often be viewed from various park locations, including the Marina Overlook, offering incredible birdwatching opportunities.

• Amphitheater: An on-site amphitheater often hosts educational programs, interpretive talks, and possibly evening entertainment during peak season.

• Picnicking: Numerous picnic areas with tables and charcoal grills are available throughout the park, ideal for day-use visitors or campers wanting a change of scenery for a meal.

• Winter Activities: During the colder months, the park transforms to offer winter sports like sledding, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and ice fishing on the lake (conditions permitting).

• Pet-Friendly Options: With designated pet-friendly campsites, the Timberdoodle Camping Area allows the entire family, including furry members, to enjoy the outdoors together. There's even a pet walking area.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Consistent feedback from campers highlights the cleanliness of the bathhouses and overall park maintenance, ensuring a pleasant stay.

• Seasonal Events: The park often hosts special events, such as the popular Halloween-themed activities in late October where camping loops are decorated, offering unique seasonal experiences.

As a Pennsylvania State Park campground, Timberdoodle Camping Area within Codorus State Park primarily operates under the state's standardized pricing and reservation system, rather than offering individual "promotions" in the commercial sense. However, there are inherent value propositions and general discounts applicable across the Pennsylvania State Parks system that are beneficial for locals:

• Pennsylvania Resident Rates: State parks typically offer slightly lower rates for Pennsylvania residents compared to non-residents, providing an inherent discount for locals. For instance, a base campsite might be $16.00 per night for residents versus $21.00 for non-residents.

• Weekly Discounts: For longer stays, a weekly discount is often applied. For example, a weekly discount of $15.00 for residents might be available for every 7 days camped.

• Senior and Disability Discounts: Pennsylvania residents aged 62 and over, as well as individuals with disabilities, are often eligible for specific nightly discounts (e.g., $4.50 off per night).

• Camping Cottages & Yurts: While not a discount, these unique lodging options offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional camping for those without equipment or seeking more comfort, often with minimum stay requirements (e.g., two nights).

• Off-Peak Season Camping: Camping outside of the Memorial Day to Labor Day summer season often means fewer crowds and potentially greater site availability, even if the nightly rate is similar. While not a direct monetary discount, the experience can be more serene.

• Loyalty Programs (Indirect): While not a direct park program, organizations like the Pennsylvania Campground Owners Association (PCOA) or national camping clubs (like Good Sam Club for private parks) might offer discounts that could be relevant if the park participates, though state parks typically have their own fixed pricing.

• Volunteer Opportunities: For those looking for an extended stay, Codorus State Park offers Campground Host positions. Hosts typically receive free camping in exchange for assisting with park duties, which is a significant "promotion" for those willing to contribute.

It's important for prospective campers to visit the official Pennsylvania DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) website for Codorus State Park or use the state park reservation system (pennsylvaniastateparks.reserveamerica.com) to view the most current pricing, availability, and specific rate breakdowns for residents and various site types. Prices for amenities like electricity, water, and pet fees are typically added to a base campsite price.

For reservations, detailed information about Timberdoodle Camping Area, or inquiries about Codorus State Park, you can use the following contact points:

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

• Park Office Phone: (717) 637-2816 (This is the general park office number for Codorus State Park, which handles campground inquiries).

• Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Center: 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757) - This is the primary number for making reservations for state park campsites.

• Website: Reservations can typically be made online through the official Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system (pennsylvaniastateparks.reserveamerica.com). The Codorus State Park page on the PA DCNR website also provides detailed information.

It is always recommended to check the official state park website for the most up-to-date information on operating seasons, hours, and specific campground rules before your visit.

For residents across Pennsylvania, the Timberdoodle Camping Area within Codorus State Park in Hanover offers an exceptional and highly suitable option for a local camping adventure. Its location in southern York County provides convenient accessibility, meaning less travel time and more precious hours spent enjoying the outdoors, making it perfect for weekend getaways or even spontaneous mid-week escapes.

What truly makes Timberdoodle ideal for Pennsylvanians is the comprehensive range of recreational opportunities available right within the park. Lake Marburg is a massive draw, offering endless possibilities for boating, fishing, and cooling off in the swimming pool. For active families, the extensive trail system for hiking and biking, coupled with the popular disc golf courses, ensures that there's always an activity to suit every interest and energy level. The chance to spot bald eagles or other migrating waterfowl adds a unique natural highlight that connects campers with Pennsylvania's rich biodiversity.

Furthermore, as a Pennsylvania State Park, the Timberdoodle Camping Area benefits from the state's commitment to maintaining clean, safe, and well-equipped facilities. Modern bathhouses, diverse campsite options from rustic tents to comfortable yurts, and the presence of a camp host contribute to a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. The inherent value of state park pricing, including resident and senior discounts, makes it an economical choice for families looking for quality outdoor recreation without breaking the bank. For those seeking a blend of serene natural beauty, abundant recreational activities, and convenient access, the Timberdoodle Camping Area at Codorus State Park is truly a local gem, offering a perfect opportunity to create lasting outdoor memories right here in Pennsylvania.