Camping in the Burkittsville, Maryland area sits at elevations ranging from 400-1700 feet with moderate seasonal weather patterns. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 60-65°F at night. Fall camping season extends through late October with daytime highs of 55-65°F, while spring camping begins in April when overnight temperatures typically remain above 45°F.
What to do
Creek exploration: 75-acre Hunting Creek Lake at Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park offers summer swimming at the sandy beach area. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed," notes one camper, though pets aren't permitted directly on the beach.
Tubing and water activities: The Potomac River at Brunswick Family Campground provides easy water access. A visitor explains, "The Shanandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical Campground showers perfect for the campground life." The river features clean, clear water with both shallow and deeper sections.
Civil War historical sites: Within 35 miles of Little Bennett Campground, visitors can explore Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. A camper noted, "Harper's Ferry National Historical park 35 miles from Park," making it an ideal day trip from the campgrounds near Burkittsville.
What campers like
River proximity: Brunswick Family Campground visitors appreciate waterfront access. "The river is beautifully clean clear and cool," reports one camper. Another mentioned, "Great location right next the river. Easy to walk into the river or tube down it."
Hiking trails: The AT access at Annapolis Rock Campground provides challenging terrain with rewarding views. "About a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private. No camp fires allowed. Short walk to cold natural spring for water. Short walk to Annapolis rock," notes a visitor. The trail climbs to 1700 feet elevation.
Scenic overlooks: Visitors to primitive camping spots enjoy natural vistas. "The view is great but you can't have a campfire due to restorations. Also, be careful for the copperheads that come warm up on the rocky overlook," warns one Annapolis Rock camper, highlighting both the benefits and potential wildlife encounters.
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds near Burkittsville sit close to active rail lines. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night."
Campsite privacy varies: Some locations offer more seclusion than others. Little Bennett Campground provides "very spacious, level, and heavily wooded" sites with "lots of vegetation between sites providing privacy from neighbors." Conversely, Harpers Ferry KOA sites are "quite small and tightly packed together."
Water quality considerations: Lake swimming differs from river experiences. At Cunningham Falls lake, a camper noted, "There was all sorts of algae and growth in the water. We would hit pockets of cold and warm water, which felt like you were walking through someone's urine — there wasn't much circulation or movement of the water."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly attractions: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport MD offers extensive recreational options. A visitor shared, "This campground has tons of nice cabins and tent sites, all in wooded surroundings. 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."
Budget considerations: Tent camping costs vary significantly across the area. "It was a nice place to stay for kids, lots to do for them. But very expensive for tent camping. I still paid nearly 100 a night," reported one Jellystone visitor. Basic tent sites at Cunningham Falls State Park typically cost 25-40% less.
Off-peak advantages: For glamping in Burkittsville, Maryland area during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October), visitors find smaller crowds. "We love going to Cunningham falls annually, however, it books up quickly during peak season! There's a lake, boating, playgrounds, hike to the falls. So much scenery and nature," explains a regular visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA, experienced RVers warn about leveling issues. "Heads up, big rig owners! 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," cautions one visitor. Request site-specific information when booking.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service and internet quality vary significantly. At Little Bennett Campground, expect "1 bar Verizon" and "No WIFI." One camper reports, "AT&T 5 MB/s w/o booster(1 bar), 8 MB/s with it(2 bars). There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy."
Loop-specific amenities: Different camping loops offer varied experiences even within the same park. At Cunningham Falls State Park, "The electric 'A loop' is paved so it's great for bike riding. The bathhouse is just a short walk away." At Little Bennett, "D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C & E are tents only," helping campers find the right fit for their equipment.
