Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area offers primitive camping near Boonsboro, Maryland. Located approximately 25 miles from Boonsboro, this public land encompasses 370 acres with elevations ranging from 500-600 feet. The area features predominantly oak and hickory forest with intermittent open meadows, creating natural camping spots throughout the management zone.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The wildlife area includes beginner-friendly fishing areas accessible from the primitive campsites. As one visitor noted, it's a "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired" according to Frank G.
Hiking exploration: Visitors can access more secluded camping areas by exploring beyond the roadside sites. A camper shared, "There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em" in their review of Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area.
Wildlife observation: The management area supports diverse wildlife populations typical of the region. Campers commonly report sightings of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and various bird species during overnight stays.
What campers like
Level terrain: The roadside camping area provides convenient, flat spaces for immediate setup. One camper mentioned, "the site was level and grassy. Nice camp site" in their review of Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area.
Affordability: Despite signage indicating possible fees, enforcement appears minimal. A recent visitor observed, "As I pulled in there was a kiosk with a sign that said $10 camping fee but no info on how or where to pay...no one came by."
Accessibility: The area offers options for both drive-up convenience and walk-in seclusion, accommodating different camping preferences within the same management area.
What you should know
Minimal facilities: The area provides vault toilets and trash collection points but lacks drinking water sources. Campers must bring all water needed for their stay.
Fee confusion: Current signage indicates a $10 camping fee, but collection procedures are unclear. A camper reported, "I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either" when attempting to determine payment methods.
Limited privacy at roadside: The main camping area near the entrance offers convenience but minimal seclusion. Visitors seeking privacy should plan to hike further into the management area for more isolated sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner fishing location: The fishing areas provide good opportunities for introducing children to fishing basics in a low-pressure environment without crowds.
Explore beyond roadside: While the entrance area provides convenient camping, families willing to hike further in will find more natural settings. As noted in one review, there are "better sites on in" for those willing to walk.
Wildlife education: The management area serves as a practical outdoor classroom for wildlife identification. Families should bring field guides appropriate for the region's common species.
Tips from RVers
Roadside parking limitations: The entrance area accommodates smaller recreational vehicles but has size restrictions. The grassy roadside site is best suited for compact RVs, vans, or truck campers rather than larger rigs.
No hookups or services: The primitive nature of this camping area means RVers must be fully self-contained with all necessary water, power, and waste storage capacity for their intended stay.
Consider seasonal access: Unpaved access roads may become challenging after rain or during winter conditions. RVers should check recent weather patterns before attempting to reach this remote camping area.
