Camping options near Ellerslie, Maryland include primitive sites, RV hookups, and specialized equestrian areas within state parks. Located in the Appalachian Mountains at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet, the region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 80°F and winter lows regularly below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area maintain year-round access, though amenities and trail conditions vary significantly by season.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: Big Run State Park offers excellent water recreation opportunities with its stream and proximity to Savage River Reservoir. "Beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!" notes Zoe H. about Big Run State Park Campground.
Shooting sports: Some campgrounds provide designated shooting areas for target practice. According to Shanna B., "On top of them having an outdoor gun range... they have a small beach, picnic tabels everywhere, a volleyball ball sand court, a dock, you can fish in the lake, rent non motorboats, ATVs welcome" at The Cove Campground.
Memorial visits: The region's proximity to historic sites makes it convenient for educational day trips. "If you stay here, make sure to travel down the road to see the Flight 93 Memorial," recommends Rachel L. about camping in the area.
What campers like
Lake recreation: Scenic lake views and water activities are consistently mentioned in reviews. Casey S. remarks, "The lake and the trails around it are beautiful. Great swimming and kayaking/small boating" at Shawnee State Park Campground.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between sites. Nathan S. appreciates Big Run's layout: "Nice wide open site... Tons of space between sites. Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park."
Trail systems: The extensive trail networks accommodate various activities from hiking to motorized recreation. "With great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," Victoriana P. shares about The Cove.
What you should know
Site selection: Many campgrounds have varying site quality and levelness. Lee D. advises, "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. A Monday in mid-October had many open sites."
Equestrian considerations: For equestrian camping near Ellerslie, Maryland, trailer parking requires careful site selection. Andy C. found success at one park: "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies greatly. Karl S. notes, "Cell service is minimal to nonexistent — not a big deal for most campers, but something to keep in mind."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Swimming areas provide entertainment for children. "The kids loved playing in the water. Very quiet and relaxing!" reports Andy C. about stream access at campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing: Natural surroundings offer opportunities to observe local fauna. Katie H. mentions: "The camp sites next to the reservoir have no privacy but offer extremely easy access for canoes/kayaks... The camp store nearby offers a good selection of basics along with boat rentals."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. "A somewhat dated playground was located in the A Loop. A lake and beach are a short distance from the campground," notes Lee D.
Tips from RVers
Size constraints: Check site specifications carefully when booking. Brittany V. advises: "We absolutely loved our stay at this park once we changed sites. We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional preparation. Gerard observes, "As we drove through the rest of the RV park area we noted that many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches that did not provide sufficient area to maneuver a large rig into them."
Hookup availability: Services vary significantly between campgrounds and specific loops. Christopher K. shares this practical insight: "We stayed in camp one which offered electrical hook ups. There are 4 water spigots in camp 1. However all the travel trailers hooked up, which means you either had to make friends or disconnect their water in order to have access."
