Best Tent Camping near Bloomington, MD

State parks and national forests surrounding Bloomington, Maryland provide numerous tent camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. Big Run State Park Campground, located in nearby Swanton, offers primitive tent campsites with streamside locations that provide natural sound barriers and scenic views. Lost Land Run in Potomac-Garrett State Forest presents a truly off-grid tent camping experience with minimal amenities but maximum seclusion. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park features multiple hiker-biker tent-only campsites along its extensive trail system, allowing for varied camping experiences within the region.

Most tent campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities suited for self-sufficient campers. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables, with surfaces ranging from grassy clearings to forest duff. Vault toilets or portable facilities are common, though many primitive tent sites lack running water. Campers should bring their own drinking water or purification methods, especially at Lost Land Run where no potable water is available. Access roads vary significantly in quality, with some backcountry tent camping areas requiring high-clearance vehicles during wet conditions. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, particularly during dry summer months when wildfire risk increases.

Tent campers frequently note the spaciousness and privacy between sites at Big Run State Park. According to reviews, "The best spots are in the woods adjacent to the stream where you can enjoy the creek sounds," while "sites next to the reservoir have no privacy but offer extremely easy access for canoes/kayaks." At Lost Land Run, visitors appreciate the complete disconnection from technology, with one camper noting there is "absolutely no cell service past the first couple campsites." The area features intermediate to difficult hiking trails following rivers and streams. Summer visitors should prepare for mosquitoes, particularly in the more wooded walk-in tent sites. Train noise affects some C&O Canal campsites, so earplugs are recommended for light sleepers using these tent-only camping areas.

Best Tent Sites Near Bloomington, Maryland (27)

    1. Big Run State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Bloomington, MD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 895-5453

    $10 - $55 / night

    "This is one of my favorite Western Maryland hideaways. The best spots are in the woods adjacent to the stream. You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds."

    "Unfortunately, someone moved our picnic table to the next site. Too lazy to move it. Pit toilets were pretty clean. Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish."

    2. Barnum Whitewater Area

    2 Reviews
    Jennings Randolph Lake, WV
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 788-5732

    $10 - $30 / night

    "Primitive campsites are $10 a night. Small cabins are $35 a night, with larger cabins going at $56 a night. There is electricity in the cabins."

    "Had my wedding 2022 at Jennings picnic area and then after that spent the whole weekend away from everyone and everything!"

    3. Abrams Creek Campground and Retreat Center

    2 Reviews
    Kitzmiller, WV
    14 miles
    Website

    $28 / night

    "Tented a cabin for two nights to hide from bad weather. Cabin had electric service, a microwave, electric heater, refrigerator and lights. The campground had no other guests during our stay."

    "Surrounded by a white water stream, this is the perfect place to relax and unwind. This really is a such a peaceful environment, and the ideal property to re-connect with nature."

    4. Lost Land Run

    1 Review
    Kitzmiller, MD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 334-2038

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Due to location in-between the tall mountains there is absolutely No CELLPHONE SRRVICE past the first couple campsites and only very spotty at those campsites as well."

    6. Maple Festival Park (near GAP Trail)

    2 Reviews
    Meyersdale, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 442-4284

    $20 / night

    "Set your tent up on the lawn, up on the stage, or under the long lean-to, if you want to get out of the weather. It’s all up for grabs for the night."

    7. Possum Tail Farm Camp

    1 Review
    Terra Alta, WV
    23 miles
    +1 (304) 857-2608

    $55 / night

    "We're happy to welcome this property to our platform. Camp in the heart of this farm close to a pond. Book your stay and come back here to leave them some love."

    8. Canaan Loop Road Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Davis, WV
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 478-2000

    "We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered."

    "road is easy to drive on- some bumps but we were in a small kia sedan and it was fine, there are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that"

    9. Apple Blossom Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Mchenry, MD
    18 miles

    $40 - $60 / night

    10. Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

    4 Reviews
    Little Orleans, MD
    33 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "Basic tent camping sites. Portable bathroom facilities only. Only a mile from the historic paw paw tunnel. Tunnel is very fun to travel through. Kids and adults alike enjoy the tunnel."

    "Close to the Paw Paw Tunnel towpath. The Portapotties were in bad shape, but it was winter so hopefully they get serviced more often in season."

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Showing results 1-10 of 27 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Bloomington, MD

931 Reviews of 27 Bloomington Campgrounds



Guide to Bloomington

Tent camping near Bloomington, Maryland offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of amenities and activities. With several well-reviewed campgrounds in the area, campers can find the perfect spot to set up their tents and unwind.

Tent campers should check out Big Run State Park Campground

  • The Big Run State Park Campground features spacious sites nestled in the woods, providing a peaceful atmosphere with the soothing sounds of a nearby stream.
  • This campground allows pets, making it a great choice for families who want to bring their furry friends along for the adventure.
  • Campers can enjoy the primitive experience with no electric hookups, allowing for a true escape into nature.

Some prices for tent camping range from $10 to $35

  • At the Barnum Whitewater Area, primitive campsites are available for just $10 a night, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious campers.
  • For those seeking a bit more comfort, small cabins at the same location can be rented for $35 a night, providing a cozy retreat after a day of outdoor activities.
  • The Abrams Creek Campground and Retreat Center offers tent sites with access to clean drinking water and showers, enhancing the camping experience.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The Lost Land Run campground is perfect for those looking for an off-the-grid experience, with no cell service and a serene environment surrounded by nature.
  • Campers at Possum Tail Farm Camp can enjoy the charm of a working farm, complete with a pond and plenty of space for outdoor activities.
  • Facilities at the Maple Festival Park (near GAP Trail) include clean restrooms and warm showers, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Bloomington, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Bloomington, MD is Big Run State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Bloomington, MD?

TheDyrt.com has all 27 tent camping locations near Bloomington, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.