About us

A family, an island, and a lot of brush

We’re Ryan and Jess Thomas. We want every guest to feel like they’ve stepped into our home.

The Thomas family standing together on the gravel by the string-lit pergola

Our story

“The most beautiful dump”

Aerial view of the island and its bridge over Conewago Creek in autumn

In late 2021 we discovered what one guest lovingly called “the most beautiful dump”: a forgotten, overgrown piece of land that had once been a thriving campground. We saw something else in it: potential, beauty, and a chance to build something lasting for our family and our community.

With the help of Ryan’s parents, who were instrumental in getting us started, we rolled up our sleeves and began restoring the property.

We’ve spent every season since pouring our time, sweat and heart into restoring this land: clearing brush, updating utilities, filling the rec room with books and games, and welcoming campers who feel more like guests in our home. We’re a Christian family, and hospitality is how we live that out.

We’re always improving the island. Follow along on Facebook to see what’s new.

— Ryan & Jess Thomas

Ryan and Jess with Ryan’s parents and the kids, three generations of the Thomas family, by the creek — Three generations on the island

Watch the video on Facebook

History

York County’s first campground

1966
Flo-De-On
Floyd Shoemaker builds York County’s first campground on the island, known for its two metal-grated bridges, two dams, and the bunnies he brought for his guests.
1970s
The floods
Hurricane Agnes, and a few years later Frederic, overrun the young campground. Floyd goes on to build Pine Hill RV Park and Cedar Lake Campground, and sells the island to John Lupse.
Decades
Conewago Isle Campground
Under its new name, the island becomes another local family’s adventure for decades.
2021
Campground Island
The Thomas family takes on the overgrown island and begins restoring it season by season.