Muddy Run Park
A beautiful park offering free family fun with a splash pad, boating, fishing, camping, and hiking on a scenic lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Muddy Run Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful park offering free family fun with a splash pad, boating, fishing, camping, and hiking on a scenic lake.
"Great place for family fun with something for everyone, from sprinklers to fishing and camping."
Splash Pad Etiquette
Keep the free splash pad clean! Pick up trash and be mindful of noise levels so it stays open. :water_wave:
Arrive Early for Splash Pad
Get there right at opening to enjoy the splash pad before it gets busy with camps. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Free Splash Pad
Holtwood, PA
A fantastic, free water play area for kids, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
+1
Kayaking & Boating
Muddy Run Lake
Explore the beautiful lake by kayak, canoe, or boat. Rentals are available for a scenic adventure.
Disc Golf Course
Within the park
Enjoy a round of disc golf amidst the park's natural beauty. A popular activity for visitors.
Hiking Trails
Around Muddy Run Lake
Scenic trails offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying the park's natural landscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Splash Pad Seasonality
Campsite Stability
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Splash Pad Etiquette
Keep the free splash pad clean! Pick up trash and be mindful of noise levels so it stays open. :water_wave:
Arrive Early for Splash Pad
Get there right at opening to enjoy the splash pad before it gets busy with camps.
Campsite Leveling
Some RV sites may not be level. Be prepared to adjust or ask for a different spot. :camper:
Dog-Friendly Park
Leashed dogs are welcome in most areas of the park, making it great for pet owners.
Tips
from all over the internet
Splash Pad Etiquette
Keep the free splash pad clean! Pick up trash and be mindful of noise levels so it stays open. :water_wave:
Arrive Early for Splash Pad
Get there right at opening to enjoy the splash pad before it gets busy with camps.
Campsite Leveling
Some RV sites may not be level. Be prepared to adjust or ask for a different spot. :camper:
Dog-Friendly Park
Leashed dogs are welcome in most areas of the park, making it great for pet owners.
Pack Picnic Supplies
Plenty of shaded picnic tables are available, perfect for a family meal.
Kayak Safety
Be cautious when kayaking; some visitors have experienced tipping over. :kayak:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Muddy Run Park is widely praised as a beautiful and versatile destination offering something for everyone, from a free splash pad for kids to boating and fishing on the lake. Visitors appreciate the affordable camping and numerous picnic spots. Some campers note potential leveling issues with RV sites, and there's a strong emphasis from park users on maintaining the cleanliness of shared facilities like the splash pad.
"This is such a beautiful park. Great place to go for family fun. There is something for everyone. Sprinklers for children to get wet is free. Boats, kayaks and canoes available to rent. Great place for fishing. My husband only caught one little guy but we weren’t there early or very long. Some of the fellow fisherman went home with 5-6 fish large enough for meals. Dog friendly and plenty of grills and tables for picnic"
Daliana Gonzalez
"Campground was great but if you have a camper, beware that some spaces are far from level. We had to move sites as we could not get the thing stable, and then we witnessed our neighbors having the same issue so they were moved also. But.. the grounds and lake are beautiful, the snack bar is more like a restaurant and the people were super friendly."
Aleah Doll
"Memorial weekend camping with the extended family. A yearly event that has grown in popularity and size each year. Plots are very affordable and the comforts of hot showers with a blend of both RV and outdoor tents this place is great. A lot of activities from frisbee golf, boat fishing on this huge lake or just fun hiking on the many trails. Snack bar for both adults and kids alike. Reservations are a must and any additional campers can be easily added per site rented. Been coming here since I was knee high to a grass hopper and still love it."
Isaac VRivera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Muddy Run Park is located at 172 Bethesda Church Rd W, Holtwood, PA. It's accessible by car, and GPS navigation is recommended.
Yes, there is parking available, especially near the splash pad and picnic areas. Arriving early can help secure a good spot.
Public transportation options to Muddy Run Park are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the park.
Use your preferred GPS app and input 'Muddy Run Park, Holtwood, PA'. The park is well-marked once you are in the vicinity.
Yes, the park is generally easy to find with GPS. Look for signs directing you to the park entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Muddy Run Park itself has free admission. However, there are rental fees for boats, kayaks, and canoes.
The splash pad at Muddy Run Park is completely free to use for all visitors.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. The splash pad operates from 10 am to 7 pm or sunset, weather permitting, but closes for the season on September 1st.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for camping, as the park can get very popular, particularly during peak seasons and holidays.
Yes, Muddy Run Park hosts various events, including family fun days with activities like bounce houses, wagon rides, and petting zoos.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming (lake access), boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, disc golf, hiking, and a free splash pad for kids.
Absolutely! The free splash pad, playgrounds, and open spaces make it a fantastic destination for families.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity on Muddy Run Lake. Both casual anglers and more serious fishermen can find success.
Yes, there are several hiking trails, including a scenic loop around the lake that is approximately 4 miles long.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Muddy Run Park as long as they are kept on a leash.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a snack bar that is described as being more like a restaurant, offering food options for visitors.
Yes, the park has numerous picnic tables and grills available, making it ideal for a picnic outing.
While the park has a snack bar, nearby towns may offer more dining options if you're looking for variety.
The snack bar offers a range of options suitable for both adults and kids, functioning more like a casual eatery.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and beverages for picnics and personal consumption.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake offers beautiful scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The splash pad area is also great for capturing family fun.
Yes, with its lake, trails, and recreational facilities, Muddy Run Park provides many picturesque opportunities for photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a pleasant atmosphere.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check with park management or local authorities before flying a drone.
The lake itself, the trails winding through the trees, and the splash pad area are popular subjects for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
+1 This water play area is a huge hit on hot days and is complemented by nearby playgrounds, bathrooms, and picnic facilities. The park also hosts special events with activities like bounce houses and petting zoos, often with free admission. Remember that the splash pad closes for the season on September 1st, so plan your summer visits accordingly. Key advice: Arrive early to enjoy the splash pad before it gets crowded, especially with organized camps.
+1 Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as picnic areas are abundant. The park is also dog-friendly on a leash, so your furry family members can join the fun too! +1🎣 Anglers and Boaters
For those who enjoy being on the water, kayaking, canoeing, and boating are highly recommended activities.
🏕️ Campers and RVers
A word of caution for RV owners: some sites may present leveling challenges. It's advisable to be prepared for this possibility or to inquire about site suitability beforehand.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Family Fun at Muddy Run Park
+1 Adjacent to the splash pad, you'll find bathrooms, picnic tables, and a small playground, with another larger playground a short walk away. Beyond the splash pad, families can enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing on the lake. The park also hosts special events, like spring festivals featuring bounce houses, wagon rides, face painting, and petting zoos, often with free admission.
Remember to bring your own food and drinks, as there are plenty of picnic spots available. Key takeaway for families: Arrive early, especially on weekends, to maximize your time at the splash pad and secure good picnic spots.
Be mindful of the splash pad's closing date and hours. Outdoor Recreation: Kayaking, Fishing & Hiking
Fishing is another major draw, with anglers reporting success in catching fish large enough for meals.
Pro-tip for adventurers: Check rental availability for boats and kayaks in advance, especially during peak season.
Camping at Muddy Run Park
However, campers with RVs should be aware that some sites may not be perfectly level, potentially requiring adjustments or a move to a more stable spot.
Camping essentials: Book your site well in advance, and if you're in an RV, be prepared for potential leveling challenges.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit