Tent camping near Barnesville, Maryland offers access to several primitive sites along the Potomac River at elevations between 250-350 feet. The region's camping season typically runs April through October with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Campers will find both established campgrounds and backcountry options within 20 miles of Barnesville with varying levels of facilities.
What to do
Trail exploration: Appalachian Trail sections are accessible from several campgrounds including Annapolis Rock Campground, which sits 1,700 feet above sea level. A camper noted, "About a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private. No camp fires allowed. Short walk to cold natural spring for water." The nearby overlook provides views across the Maryland countryside.
Rock climbing: Vertical walls available at Annapolis Rock for single-pitch climbing. "The best part is the Annapolis Rock cliffs. they offer beautiful views and all kinds of single pitch rock climbing! There are also two bear poles," reports one visitor. Climbers should bring their own equipment as no rentals are available on site.
Water activities: Paddling and tubing opportunities exist along the Potomac River near Antietam Creek Campground. "Antietam creek is very close by and is perfect for tubing or just enjoy the river & nature from your campsite!" according to one camper. Water levels are typically best for recreation from June through September.
What campers like
River access: Direct water proximity at many sites provides cooling options during hot summer months. A camper at Antietam Creek Campground shared, "This is such a nice little spot right along the Potomac River. All sites are walk-in only, which means you park on the street, cross the bridge over the C&O and towpath, and then down a little hill to your site."
Private woodland areas: Natural buffers between some campsites create more secluded experiences. At Marsden Tract Group Campsite, visitors appreciate the isolation: "Beautiful secluded quiet wonderful if you're looking for that extreme outdoors a no civilization it's a good hike to get to the campsite."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities at several locations despite their primitive nature. A visitor to Dahlgren Backpacker Campground noted, "There is a basic, but clean, bathroom with showers. There is also a year-round water source (the bathroom closes in winter)."
What you should know
Access challenges: Site approach varies significantly between campgrounds. At Antietam Creek, "You have to park on the road and walk about 75 feet to your site. Not much traffic on that road and a trail with many cyclists and runners." Some locations require more substantial hikes.
Limited privacy: Open camping areas at certain locations mean neighbors are visible. One Antietam Creek camper explained, "This campground is not for those looking for silence and solitude. All the sites are very open and run along the multi-use trail. People are constantly walking, running, and biking by."
Weather considerations: Storm impacts can be significant in riverside locations. A camper at Patapsco Valley State Park shared, "One negative was that when it rains it really flushes through the grounds. We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kid-friendly structures available at select parks for energy burning. "Patapsco Valley offers 6 different entrances. Each one provides several different trail heads and experiences. For camping or just spending a day out on the trail with the kids we prefer the Hilton entrance. There are two huge playgrounds and a youth campground as well as a family campground."
Nature programs: Educational options at certain locations to engage younger campers. The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring offers "Very convenient for before or after your time in the largest aerial challenge course in North America. Groups only- no individual campsites."
Wildlife viewing: Small creature encounters along water edges fascinate children. A camper at Patapsco Valley State Park mentioned, "We found a small river and swimming hole at the bottom of the hill off to the side opposite the cabins/park." These areas provide opportunities to see fish, frogs and aquatic insects.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Primarily tent-focused campgrounds with few RV options. Most locations near Barnesville cater to tent campers with limited to no hookups. The terrain and access roads at many sites make RV camping challenging or impossible.
Alternative options: Cabin accommodations available at select locations. A visitor to Patapsco Valley State Park noted, "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it.'"
