Glamping in Barton, Maryland features campgrounds situated in the Allegheny Mountains with elevations reaching over 2,000 feet across western Maryland. The region experiences distinct seasons with winter temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s. Fall camping is particularly popular as the deciduous forests create a vibrant color display from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Hiking mountain trails: Swallow Falls State Park Campground offers multiple waterfall viewing opportunities including Maryland's highest waterfall. "The trails to the namesake falls are beautiful and very family-friendly, with lots of helpful signage. However, the parking lots and trailheads were PACKED on the weekend, so if you're a day tripper, get there early!"
Kayaking and canoeing: Rocky Gap State Park Campground provides both boat rentals and launch access on Lake Habeeb. "Lots of paddle boards and canoes for rent. The 5 mile hike around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park."
Water sliding on natural rock formations: Near Ohiopyle State Park, visitors can enjoy a natural water feature. "Just outside town as you climb the hill, to the left is Sliding Rock. Get there early to get a parking spot...A natural water slide extends around 100 feet as it winds through the rock. Wear sturdy shorts and shirt."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Middle Ridge Campground offers secluded camping experiences with well-designed layouts. "The sites are actually in a wooded area not just a big field. Each site has full hookups. If you're looking for quiet and privacy, this is the place. They laid out the sites so that you're not side by side. They are all on an angle which moves you further away from anyone on both sides."
Wildlife interactions: Middle Ridge Campground provides unique animal encounters. "We have three children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys! We really enjoyed our stay. Seeing the equine daily was a huge plus; they were super sweet and funny."
Seasonal variation: Blackwater Falls State Park offers different experiences throughout the year. "Swallow falls is awesome year round. In the winter the snow and ice is beautiful, fall is lovely and summer is fun. The largest falls in Maryland, Muddy Creek Falls, 53 feet."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Yough Lake Campground water levels can vary significantly by season. "Unfortunately the lake was dried up- which the folx at the reservations site warned us about - so the campground was pretty meh without that."
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigating challenging mountain roads. "Road to access the campground was good with some tight turns up the hill the last couple of miles. The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides."
Noise considerations: Blackwater Falls State Park Campground can have varied noise levels depending on site selection. "It was pretty noisy at night due to traffic on I-68 and even the campground road, which despite a 15 mph posting has no speed bumps and seems to have a poplar straightaway for cars with loud mufflers who like to open it up."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kids' areas: Laurel Hill State Park Campground offers multiple family-friendly facilities. "The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk. We enjoyed the easy walking lake trail with the kids because it was wide and flat. Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake."
Choose secluded loops: Swallow Falls State Park Campground offers quieter camping areas. "I gave it a 5 star for many reasons. First the campground is clean and made us feel like we were in a forest not just a campground. The grounds had paths everywhere and were well kept. I didn't feel like I was walking in the dirt or through someone's campsite to get to the bathroom or the playground for the kids."
Reserve early for holiday weekends: Holiday periods fill quickly at most campgrounds in the region. "Even on Memorial Day weekend it was very peaceful. Can't say enough on how friendly and helpful the staff are. Other campers are exceptionally friendly. Very clean and well maintained campground. Wonderful lake access and swimming area."
Tips from RVers
Utility placement challenges: Some sites at Coopers Rock State Forest have awkward hookup locations. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side. The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable."
Site selection for larger rigs: Campgrounds in the area vary greatly in accessibility. "The views are fantastic as you drive into the campground. Made it in and out no issue taking it slow, but not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer."
Water pressure considerations: Mountain water systems can have pressure issues. "Water pressure was just a bit weak and used our water tank and pump during our stay. Best we could get for water pressure out of the hose was 25-20 psi. No issues with power or sewer."
