Campsites near Burkittsville, Maryland sit within the Catoctin Mountain range at elevations between 500-1,600 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than nearby urban areas. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with peak camping season running April through October when average temperatures range from 55°F to 85°F. Most campgrounds in this area require advance reservations, with weekend spots often filling 2-3 months ahead during summer.
What to do
Hiking through history: Access multiple sections of the Appalachian Trail from campgrounds in the Burkittsville area, with several trailheads within a 15-minute drive. "The trail is about 1.5 miles one way," notes a camper at Harpers Ferry Campground, describing the path from campground to historic Harper's Ferry.
Fishing spots: Cast your line directly from riverfront sites at several campgrounds along the Potomac. "There's a nice boat loading ramp and dock for fishing," reports a visitor to Brunswick Family Campground, where both bank and boat fishing are permitted.
Water recreation: Cool off at Hunting Creek Lake in Cunningham Falls State Park, which offers a designated swimming beach from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "The 43 acre Hunting Creek Lake offers great (and busy weekend) fishing. Trolling motors are permitted, but ideal for paddling," mentions a camper at Owens Creek Campground.
Family attractions: Visit the historic sawmill at Owens Creek, which demonstrates water-powered logging operations from the 1800s. "A historical log cutting mill powered by Owens Creek stands at the entrance and is handicap accessible via boardwalk," explains a camper, noting its educational value for children.
What campers like
River access: Direct waterfront camping along the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers provides cooling relief during summer months. "The river is beautifully clean clear and cool," notes a camper at Brunswick Family Campground who appreciated the water proximity, adding that "100 yards from here campsite may be a little more for further out but the Shenandoah river parallels the campground."
Shaded sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature mature forest cover that maintains cooler temperatures even in mid-summer. A visitor to Greenbrier State Park appreciated that "Almost all sites were nice and shaded" and highlighted the "Big, immaculately groomed tent pads."
Hiking variety: The region offers trails suitable for different skill levels, from flat canal paths to mountain climbs. "There are plenty of hiking trails," reports one camper, while another mentions the "Nice hiking. Connect to AT. Campground's are well kept" and notes the "hike from visitor center to AT is steep and rocky."
Historic exploration: Several campgrounds serve as ideal basepads for Civil War battlefield visits and historic town explorations. "Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door," explains a visitor to Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA.
What you should know
Weekend crowding: Many campgrounds and water recreation areas become extremely busy from Friday to Sunday during summer months. A Greenbrier State Park visitor warns, "The only downsides are how crowded it can get peak season," while another notes, "The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers - we avoided it since we are careful due to COVID."
Train noise: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines with trains running throughout day and night. A camper at Harpers Ferry Campground reports, "There is a train going through day and night. For me it's a minor inconvenience and my daughter, who even as a baby, slept through it. Do bring ear plugs if you're a light sleeper."
Bathroom quality varies: Facility conditions range widely between campgrounds in the region. A visitor to Antietam Creek Campground noted, "The one thing we had to complain about were the bathrooms. When we got there, they were okay, but by the 3rd night they were really gross."
Walk-in sites: Some campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas to campsites. "You have to park on the road and carry all your stuff across a bridge and down the path to your site. Could be a very far walk," explains a camper at Antietam Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Cunningham Falls State Park offers kid-friendly swimming beaches with lifeguards on duty during summer months. A visitor to Cunningham Falls State Park - William Houck Area shared, "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's play areas to keep younger campers entertained. "There is a small creek to play in and a nice little hiking trail within the campground. Has a great water park, playground and bounce pad feature," notes a camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Family-friendly hiking: Choose shorter trails with interesting features for kid-friendly outings. "The trail to the lake is accessible but far enough that you avoid the high day use traffic," mentions a Cunningham Falls camper, while another adds, "The falls and hiking we're beautiful and not too intense that my children could complete the hikes along with us."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites throughout the region offer learning experiences for children. "Great location right next the river... Lots of different activities for kids and plenty of space at each site to make your home away from home," shares a visitor to Brunswick Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs, with most accommodating units under 35 feet. "Our friends had a rather large trailer (30 ft) and it 'just fit' on site 13," reports a camper at Gambrill State Park, suggesting careful site selection for medium to large rigs.
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups are limited at state park campgrounds, with full hookups mostly available at private facilities. "We stayed in a FHU site without the patio and furniture," notes a visitor to Harpers Ferry KOA, where hookup sites are more readily available.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites throughout the mountainous terrain. One RVer at Harpers Ferry KOA warned, "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air."
Advance planning: Book RV sites well ahead during peak season, particularly for weekend stays. "This is a beautiful park with a lake, beach, and swimming area... The camping spots accommodate large tents if needed and the showers are hot," shares a camper at Greenbrier State Park.
