Map showing campground location near Bloomington, Maryland

Camper submitted image from Big Run State Park Campground

Big Run State Park Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

The sound of a rushing creek runs through most reviews of Big Run State Park Campground, and it turns out to be one of the defining features of the place. Set within Big Run State Park in Garrett County's Appalachian highlands, this campground operates year-round and accommodates drive-in, walk-in, hike-in, and boat-in arrivals, with RVs up to 29 feet welcome on sites that reviewers describe as flat and spacious.

Site layout is one of the campground's clearest strengths. Generous spacing between sites means neighbors are rarely intrusive, and the wooded, bare-primitive sites along the stream tend to draw the most consistent praise. Not every site has the same amenity set, so campers should check specifics when booking. The reservoir-adjacent sites give paddlers direct water access, making them a practical choice for kayakers and canoeists heading out on the Savage River reservoir. Mosquitoes are worth noting, particularly in warmer months, so pack accordingly.

Katie H. describes the streamside spots well: "you can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds." The pit toilets are a walk or short drive from some sites, and drinking water is available at New Germany State Park Campground about ten minutes up the road. Anglers will find the stream active with trout and crayfish. Campers who want more developed options nearby can also look at Savage River State Forest to the north. Reservations are available and worth securing ahead of summer weekends.

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Map & DirectionsBig Run State Park Campground is located in Maryland near Bloomington

Public Campground

Directions

From Interstate 68, take Exit 22. Follow Chestnut Ridge Road south 2 miles to the end, and turn left on New Germany Road. Follow New Germany Road south 5 miles, and make a left on Big Run Road. Follow Big Run Road east 5 miles to the end. The park is located at the intersection of Big Run Road and Savage River Road

Coordinates

39.54500064 N
79.14000036 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Group
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Picnic Table
Reservable
Drinking Water
Toilets
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Make reservation

Drive Time

1 hr 9 min from Morgantown, WV
1 hr 20 min from Johnstown, PA
1 hr 59 min from Pittsburgh, PA
2 hrs 2 min from Winchester, VA

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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Big Run State Park Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the spacious, wooded sites along a scenic creek that provides natural ambiance and water activities for kids. The peaceful setting offers excellent privacy, though facilities require short walks and mosquitoes can be bothersome.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Katie H.

Scout

Reviewed Jan. 8, 2023

Great primitive campsite

This is one of my favorite Western Maryland hideaways. The best spots are in the woods adjacent to the stream. You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds. The camp sites next to the reservoir have no privacy but offer extremely easy access for canoes/kayaks. Clean and well maintained. The camp store nearby offers a good selection of basics along with boat rentals

Site75

Month of VisitJuly

Aakansha J.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 30, 2021

Cute spot

Landed here after a road trip and it was great after sleeping in the car for a few nights. There was a lot of space between each site and it was very peaceful, but the mosquitos sucked. The pit toilets were a nice long walk or a short drive away and not the worst I’ve seen. Definitely Would come back for a short stay - probably not for a whole camping trip.

Month of VisitJuly

(5) View All

Nathan S.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 8, 2021

Peaceful Primitive Camping

This place is a gem! Nice wide open site. Unfortunately, someone moved our picnic table to the next site. Too lazy to move it. Pit toilets were pretty clean. Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish. So quiet and very little traffic. Tons of space between sites. Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park.

Site73

Month of VisitAugust

Mark K.

Traveler

Reviewed Jul. 9, 2021

Basic drive-in campground - facilities a drive away - but extremely nice

You have to know what you're getting here - there ARE campsites with amenities, near water and bathrooms, but not all of them have the amenities. Frankly, the bare campsites are nicer - they are more spread out, wooded, and some of them are located right along the stream. Mosquitos are something of an issue, but by no means awful; and it is a pleasure to sleep in nature with nothing but birdsong and the sound of the rushing creek. It is close to the Savage River reservoir, which is great for kayaking.

Month of VisitMay

Andy C.

Scout

Reviewed Sep. 8, 2020

Loved it!!

Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. The kids loved playing in the water. Very quiet and relaxing! Many other sites/options for 26ft ish size camper. Highly recommend!! Will be returning many times!

Zoe H.

Traveler

Reviewed May. 25, 2019

river side camp site

beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Big Run State Park worth visiting based on camper reviews?

Big Run State Park is absolutely worth visiting, particularly for campers seeking peace and natural beauty. The park earns high marks for its quiet, relaxing atmosphere and the soothing sound of the creek that runs through the camping area. The spacious sites offer privacy, especially those tucked into the woods. While mosquitos can be an issue at times, the natural setting more than compensates. Visitors particularly appreciate the creek with its lively trout and crayfish, making it a wonderful spot for nature lovers and those looking to escape crowded campgrounds.

What camping facilities are available at Big Run State Park?

Big Run State Park offers spacious campsites with varying levels of amenities. Some sites are located right along the stream, while others are set in wooded areas with more separation between campers. The park has pit toilets that are generally well-maintained, and water and dump stations are available. Some sites can accommodate larger RVs and campers (up to 26ft), with lot 73 specifically noted as being flat, large, and suitable for hybrid campers. Many sites offer direct creek access, which is perfect for those who enjoy the sound of running water while camping.

Where is Big Run State Park located in Maryland?

Big Run State Park is located in Western Maryland. It features a reservoir with easy canoe and kayak access, as well as a stream running through the camping area. The park is considered a hidden gem in this region, offering a secluded natural experience. For specific directions and GPS coordinates, contact the Maryland Park Service or check their official website.

How does Big Run State Park compare to other Maryland state park campgrounds?

Big Run State Park stands out among Maryland state parks for its exceptional privacy and spaciousness between campsites, offering a more secluded experience than many other state campgrounds. Unlike more developed parks, Big Run maintains a rustic charm with basic amenities like pit toilets rather than full facilities. The stream-side camping options provide a unique natural soundtrack not commonly found at other locations. While it may lack some conveniences of larger parks, Big Run compensates with its peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained grounds, and direct water access—making it ideal for campers who prioritize natural immersion over amenities.

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