Dispersed camping near Friendsville, Maryland offers outdoor recreation opportunities in the Monongahela National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 feet. The region features unique northern-like ecosystems with high annual rainfall, creating wet trail conditions year-round. Primitive campsites typically include established fire rings but require visitors to pack in water and pack out trash.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Canaan Loop Road Dispersed provides access to trails leading to Blackwater Falls State Park, approximately 4 miles from some campsites. "There are some that are about 4 mile hike to blackwater falls state park. and it's an easy drive to seneca rocks," notes camper Lillian R.
Stream fishing: The numerous creeks and waterways throughout the area offer fishing opportunities, particularly at Lower Glady Dispersed Campground. According to Wyatt S., the area offers "good fishing" with "nice camp sites." Wesley W. adds that "a few friendly fishermen each day" visit the area, "sharing local knowledge."
Trail exploration: The varied terrain provides diverse hiking experiences from meadows to forests. Michael H. at Canaan Loop Road mentions, "We found a nice site in the pine trees! Perfect for 2 vehicles and 5 people hammock camping!"
What campers like
Secluded sites: Rustic camping near Friendsville offers privacy and quiet even during busy seasons. Scott R. at Canaan Loop Road writes, "We arrived in the late afternoon and found a very pleasant back-in spot about a mile or so in. Hiked a few of the nearby trails. Very, very damp."
Varied ecosystems: Dolly Sods Backcountry features northern-like environments uncommon in the region. Ben notes, "With the incredibly varied landscapes and diverse vegetation, Dolly Sods truly feels like you are somewhere far north from WV. The ferns and evergreens reminded me of being in Maine, the vast meadows felt like I was in Wyoming or Montana."
Wildlife viewing: The forest setting provides opportunities to spot local fauna. Scott R. mentions, "Saw some bear scat, but past that the only animals we saw were a few frogs." Justine I. describes the natural environment at Canaan Loop Road: "The moss was like walking on carpet."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads vary greatly in quality and often deteriorate further into the forest. Clayton S. notes about Canaan Loop Road, "If you come in from the east, it's a very well maintained road for any vehicle (RVs may have trouble turning around), but the last mile or two you need a 4x4."
Weather preparation: The mountain climate brings unpredictable conditions and significant temperature variations. Rhea B. warns about Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed: "It's very secluded and you need to definitely be self sufficient."
Site availability: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends. Leonard M. cautions about Lower Glady: "We tried to get a spot this weekend and arrived around 430pm on Friday. Every single spot was taken with many people who look like they have been set up there all summer."
Tips for camping with families
Toilet facilities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, but some areas provide basic options. Kevin C. notes at Lower Glady: "The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky."
Fire preparation: Established fire rings exist at most sites, but firewood availability varies. Kelly G. at Brushy Ridge Road mentions, "Firewood was available on a self serve honor system (put $5 cash in the box for each bundle you take) at the farmhouse across from the turn on to Brushy Creek."
First-time dispersed camping: Gladwin Dispersed Camping offers accessible introduction sites for families new to primitive camping. Scott K. advises, "If you go down the dirt road a little to the low water bridge you will find a wonderful site on the right with several fire pits. Or another 100 yards after bridge was another nice site on the left."
Tips from RVers
Turnaround space: Limited maneuvering areas create challenges for larger vehicles. Joe W. at Lower Glady notes, "The last big turnaround featured four rv accessible campfires for us to pick," where he successfully parked his "28 foot travel trailer."
Leveling considerations: Many sites require work to create level parking. Kevin C. shares about Lower Glady: "Sites are level and have good back-in driveways. Fire rings are large. We removed lots of trash from our fire ring, mostly aluminum cans."
Winter access challenges: Snow and mud significantly impact RV accessibility during colder months. Jon N. warns about Lower Glady: "There is a very sharp turn if you come in from the south on Sully Road, which seems to be the primary way to get there. My Subaru Forester didn't have any issues, but if you're driving an RV or have a trailer, you may have a struggle."
