The Catoctin Mountain area near Buckeystown, Maryland sits at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,900 feet, creating diverse microclimates across its wooded terrain. Campers often experience temperature differences of 5-10 degrees cooler at higher elevation campsites compared to the Frederick valley below. The region's extensive trail network connects many campgrounds directly to the Appalachian Trail system, providing convenient backcountry access.
What to do
Hike to the falls: The paths around Cunningham Falls State Park include trails for all skill levels. "We hiked to the falls but with little rain, there was no falls. A very crowded hike with people everywhere," notes one visitor about the variable water flow at Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park.
Tube the Potomac River: Sites at Antietam Creek Campground give direct access to the water. "The Potomac is mostly flat with some 'swirlies' for experienced paddlers. I also saw some people tubing," mentions a camper who enjoyed the riverside location.
Mountain biking: The Frederick watershed adjacent to Gambrill State Park is a local hotspot for technical rides. "There are lots of trails in the area, though we didn't explore too many on this trip," mentions a camper who stayed at Gambrill State Park Campground.
Visit Civil War sites: Camp near historical battlefields for easy day trips. "Harpers Ferry National Historical park is 35 miles from Park" mentions a reviewer about Little Bennett Campground, making it convenient for history exploration.
What campers like
River access: Waterfront campsites are highly valued in this region. "This campground is adjacent to a very large, very busy train yard. The campground is also right on the Potomac, easy to get to, reasonably priced, and the sites are spacious," notes a visitor at Brunswick Family Campground.
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. "Site #D69 shady, very quiet campground, lots of vegetation between sites providing privacy from neighbors," says one reviewer about Little Bennett Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise. "Bathroom and shower facilities were close enough and had hot and cold water, showers, flush toilets. All were spotless," observed a camper at Greenbrier State Park Campground.
Night sky viewing: Limited light pollution enhances stargazing opportunities. "Great night sky viewing as no lights what so ever in camping loops except for toilet/shower buildings," notes a camper about their experience at Little Bennett Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks affect several campgrounds in the region. "The CSX railroad runs pretty close, it's not super loud just wanted to make you aware," warns a visitor to Brunswick Family Campground about the consistent background noise.
Seasonal bathroom closures: Many facilities have limited availability outside summer. "Campground does not have a dump station" reports a visitor about Cunningham Falls State Park, highlighting the need to plan ahead.
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites book up quickly, especially during peak season. "It was a really beautiful park with a lake, beach, and swimming area. Fishing is allowed. The only downsides are how crowded it can get peak season," mentions a reviewer about Greenbrier State Park.
Terrain considerations: Sites vary significantly in levelness across the region. "We were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," reports a visitor about their site at Little Bennett, indicating the importance of bringing adequate leveling equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Bouncing activities: Little Bennett offers unique recreational options. "This is a good regional campground with activities for kids on special days. Took our grand daughter there for her first camping trip and she loved the bouncing strawberry and the hikes," shares a family who visited Little Bennett Campground.
Swimming access: Lake areas provide safe water play during summer months. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it, plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed," notes a family visiting Cunningham Falls State Park.
Kid-friendly trails: Many paths accommodate young hikers. "We were so excited to come to Cunningham Falls State Park. The falls and hiking were beautiful and not too intense that my children could complete the hikes along with us," reports a family who enjoyed Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park.
Campfire programs: Rangers often conduct educational activities. "During peak season, there are nature programs going on," mentions a frequent camper about Cunningham Falls State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant adjustment. "Site #D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," reports an RVer about their experience at Little Bennett Campground.
Limited big rig access: Larger vehicles face navigation challenges at several campgrounds. "We had a pull through campsite, but on the camp side it was all dirt and grass that look like it hadn't been mowed in over two weeks," notes an RVer at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA.
Full hookup availability: Electric-only sites are common in state parks. "Sites were a nice size, included picnic table, fire ring, and 2 poles for hanging lanterns, garbage, whatever," reports a camper about Greenbrier State Park, which offers electric hookups but not full service.
Proximity to supplies: Most campgrounds are near essential services. "Walmart and Wegman's 5 miles from Park," notes a reviewer about Little Bennett Campground, highlighting the convenient access to resupply options.
