Deep Creek Lake area offers popular glamping experiences, especially from April through December. Located in Maryland's western mountains at around 2,400 feet elevation, the region experiences distinct seasonal changes with average summer temperatures in the 70s°F and considerably cooler nights. Many campgrounds near Bloomington, Maryland provide tent, RV and glamping options with varying levels of amenities depending on location.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Swallow Falls State Park Campground, you can find multiple fishing spots along trails. "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!" according to a visitor.
Winter activities: Winter glamping in Bloomington, Maryland provides access to Rocky Gap State Park Campground where visitors can explore a different season. "There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle. Easy to get to from I-70," notes a camper, making it accessible even in colder months.
Water activities: Beyond swimming, many campers enjoy paddling. "We brought paddle boards and the lake was perfect for paddle boarding. Note that you cannot swim anywhere outside of the roped swim areas," explains a Rocky Gap visitor, highlighting important water safety rules.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Many glampers appreciate the generous site size at Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park, where "the sites are plentiful, and though there are many...there is enough foliage that separate campsites that it feels somewhat private." This spacing creates a more secluded glamping experience.
Wildlife viewing: Animal encounters enhance glamping in Bloomington and surrounding areas. At Middle Ridge Campground, one reviewer noted, "We have three children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys!" while another mentioned the "spacious level sites in the woods."
Fall season camping: Many visitors specifically recommend autumn glamping. "Swallow falls is awesome year round. In the winter the snow and ice is beautiful, fall is lovely and summer is fun," wrote one camper, highlighting the seasonal diversity available in the region.
What you should know
Reservation systems: Make reservations well in advance for popular seasons. A visitor to Blackwater Falls State Park Campground advised, "Keep in mind, anytime after mid September can be quite cold overnight. But the foliage is totally worth it!"
Varying shower quality: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The showers were very nice and rivaled any hotel shower I've had," mentioned a Swallow Falls visitor, while others noted older facilities at different locations.
Pet policies: Not all glamping sites welcome pets. "There are also very limited sites that you can have a pet with you. So a nice place but if those two things are important to you just be aware," warns a visitor to Kentuck Campground.
Road conditions: Some access roads require caution. A Middle Ridge camper noted: "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 getting in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Five River Campground offers excellent river access for families. "The location is amazingly located right on the Shavers Fork river on a section that was shallow and calm enough for our small children to enjoy it," reports a visitor, providing safe water play options.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. A Rocky Gap visitor shared, "Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch. I really like that there are trails from the camp loops to the beach."
Campsite selection for kids: Choose sites carefully when glamping with children. At Swallow Falls, a camper advised, "The tent sites were completely level with no need to worry about rolling down a hill in my sleep, I slept great." This detail makes family camping more comfortable.
Swimming areas: Most parks have designated swim zones. "The campground beach is fun. There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake," notes a Rocky Gap visitor, indicating safe swimming options for families.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At many campgrounds, electrical connections may be inconveniently placed. At Laurel Hill State Park, an RVer noted, "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 leveling challenges: Several RVers mentioned difficulty finding level sites. "The sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," warned a Laurel Hill visitor, suggesting careful site selection.
Water availability: Not all sites have convenient water access. A Blackwater Falls camper mentioned, "There's water at the bathhouse which is inconvenient. You can't drive close to the bathhouse, There's pedestrian paths," suggesting bringing extra containers when glamping in a vehicle.
Road clearance: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. Middle Ridge campers noted the campground is accessible but recommended "not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer."
