Best Campgrounds near Brunswick, MD
Brunswick, Maryland provides several campground options along the Potomac River, with most facilities offering a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. Brunswick Family Campground serves as a central destination located directly on the river, operating seasonally from late March through early November. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park runs through the area with multiple primitive hiker-biker campsites including Calico Rocks and Bald Eagle Island. Camping areas near Brunswick typically include a blend of established facilities and basic sites catering to through-hikers and paddlers.
Road access varies throughout the region, with most developed campgrounds accessible by regular vehicles. The C&O Canal towpath provides non-motorized access to primitive camping locations scattered along the riverside. Seasonal operations are common, with many campgrounds closing during winter months from November through March. Flooding can occasionally affect riverside camping areas, particularly in spring. While the terrain is generally mild, train noise is frequently mentioned in reviews due to active railroad operations nearby. A camper noted, "The campground is adjacent to a very large, very busy train yard. It's not bothered me but you should be aware."
The Potomac River represents a defining feature of the camping experience in Brunswick, providing opportunities for fishing, paddling, and swimming. Campsites with river views tend to receive higher ratings but often fill quickly during summer weekends. The C&O Canal towpath offers additional recreational value, allowing campers to access miles of biking and hiking trails directly from most camping areas. One reviewer highlighted, "Great location right next the river. Easy to walk into the river or tube down it." Several campgrounds in the area feature campfire rings, picnic tables, and basic amenities, though quality varies considerably between primitive sites and more developed facilities. The mixed-use nature of these campgrounds makes them suitable for various camping styles from tent camping to RV trips with full hookups.
