Reservations run $15 to $17 per night at this state park campground in Big Pool, Maryland, with sites open from May through November and a maximum RV length of 29 feet. Access to the camping area requires passing through a padlocked gate, and the showers and flush toilets sit on the far side of that gate near the fort, meaning campers rely on port-a-potties during the night. Water must be carried in from the fill station outside the gate as well. Those logistics are worth knowing before arrival.
Sites sit along the Potomac River, with fire rings, grill grates, and picnic tables at each one. The ground runs to dirt and small gravel. Reviewers consistently note that sites on the river side are tightly spaced, while those across the road give more room between neighbors. Adrian F. recommends "the site on the other side of the water as they are more spread apart." Generators are permitted until 10 p.m., though at least one reviewer notes that train noise can be a factor at night, with tracks running close to the campground.
The river draws swimmers, anglers, and paddlers. Kayaking and floating are both mentioned by multiple visitors. The fort itself is a short walk from camp, and the surrounding trail network includes interpretive markers covering the site's history. A nearby general store sells firewood and basic supplies. Campers interested in places to camp around Fort Frederick State Park will find the McCoys Ferry Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park a few miles east along the canal corridor.
Note that alcohol is not permitted at tent sites. Pets are welcome. The campground stays relatively low-key compared to busier state park facilities, with "clean sites and helpful staff," as Adrian F. puts it. This campground makes the most sense for campers who want river access, a dose of history, and low nightly rates, and who can manage the split-facility layout without frustration.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsFort Frederick State Park Campground is located in Maryland near Big Pool
Public CampgroundDirections
Located in the Cumberland Valley, 18 miles west of Hagerstown and one mile south of I-70 near Big Pool (Rt. 56, Exit 12). The park is 88 miles from Baltimore and 81 miles from Washington, D.C.
Address
11100 Fort Frederick Rd
Big Pool, MD 21711
Coordinates
39.60400076 N
78.00800027 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user
AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 13 min from Hagerstown, MD
- 31 min from Chambersburg, PA
- 45 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr from Gettysburg, PA
