Camping near Keedysville, Maryland offers a distinct experience in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with most campgrounds accessible from March through November when temperatures average 55-85°F during camping season. Summer nights typically remain in the mid-60s, creating comfortable sleeping conditions in tents and RVs alike.
What to do
Hiking the C&O Canal path: The historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal towpath runs directly through Brunswick Family Campground, providing miles of flat terrain for walking or biking. "The C&O canal [allows] you to walk or bike for miles in either direction for hours! Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail," notes Susan K. at Brunswick Family Campground.
River activities: Many campsites provide direct access to the Potomac River. "The Shenandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical Campground showers perfect for the campground life," shares Brian S. about his experience at Brunswick Family Campground.
Historical exploration: Civil War history surrounds the area with multiple battlefields within short driving distance. "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia," explains Anthony S. from Harpers Ferry Campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many campgrounds offer sites with direct water views or access. "All spots are along the water. We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus," shares Mikala S. who stayed at Harpers Ferry Campground, paying "$29 a night" for riverside camping.
Water activities for children: Families appreciate dedicated water features at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. "A great water park, playground and bounce pad feature. Definitely recommend for families and/or anyone looking for easy convenience camping," writes Beth C. The campground now features a lazy river which campers look forward to each season.
Proximity to attractions: Location near major historic sites allows for flexible day trips. "Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door. Harpers Ferry Lower Town and Bolivar Heights are a few minutes by car (or shuttle from the Visitor Center)," notes Matt S. who stayed at Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Keedysville sit close to active rail lines. "Between the train and the crummy, smelly, understocked facilities, I will never be back here. Even if that was a really nice river view," cautions Sherri C. about her experience at Harpers Ferry Campground, noting that "trains that come through here almost hourly."
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds pack sites tightly together. "Sites have reasonable spacing with gravel pads, mostly level. Trees between sites with sloping hills, not just a big open field," reports John L. about Round Top Campground.
Weather impacts: Spring rainfall can create drainage issues at some campgrounds. "The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," shares Stuart O. about his experience camping during rainy weather.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access importance: Children enjoy dedicated swimming areas, particularly during hot summer months. "The pool was clean and roomy. We enjoyed hours hanging out there. They had activities for kids," comments Jeremy K., noting this was the highlight of an otherwise crowded campground experience.
Activity scheduling: Many rv campgrounds near Keedysville, Maryland offer organized events for children. "The campground offers free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area. The yard sale, vendor sale, golf cart parade, as well as other activities going on," observes Laure D. at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Playground access: Consider campground layout when booking with young children. "There's only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down. In a campground that size I would expect at least 2 playgrounds," warns Chelsea about Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Campsite leveling: Many RV sites in the Keedysville region require leveling equipment. "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site (#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," cautions Matt S. about Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA.
Golf cart popularity: Several larger campgrounds have heavy golf cart traffic. "Everyone here pretty much has golf carts & drives them everywhere. For some places within the campground, it's hard to find regular car/truck parking," observes Sabrina H. at Gettysburg Campground.
Off-season considerations: Many RV campgrounds near Keedysville operate seasonally with limited amenities in shoulder seasons. "We camped here in May for Memorial Day weekend... There is a large seasonal section and lots of activities. A yard sale, vendor sale, golf cart parade, as well as other activities going on," reports Laure D. who appreciated the variety at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
