Fort Valley Ranch offers equestrian campers access to the countryside near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park in Maryland. The area's elevation varies between 240-600 feet with moderate humidity during summer months. Several horse campgrounds near Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park maintain facilities year-round, though spring and fall provide more comfortable temperatures for riders and horses alike.
What to do
Trail riding access: Visitors at Fort Valley Ranch can enjoy guided horseback riding on nearby trails. According to Jason G., "Within a 10-minute drive, there are opportunities for hiking and river activities. We found a river access point perfect for swimming and wading."
Off-road exploration: The Cove Campground offers extensive trail systems for various vehicles. Andy S. notes, "Next time we come back we will be staying on the same site if possible and definitely bringing some 4 wheelers to check out the miles and miles of trails!"
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and waterways provide fishing options for campers. As Jason G. describes at Fort Valley Ranch, "The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill."
Shooting sports: Some campgrounds maintain dedicated shooting facilities. Ben M. reports about The Cove Campground: "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites."
What campers like
Historical immersion: Artillery Ridge Campground provides direct access to Civil War sites. MJ B. explains, "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."
Lake activities: Water features add recreational options at several locations. Karl S. notes at The Cove Campground, "There are several different camping areas, and depending on where you end up, you might have a short walk to reach the best fishing spots."
Privacy in primitive sites: Michaux State Forest offers secluded camping options. John S. reports, "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. You can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads."
Varied terrain: The region's landscape provides diverse camping settings. Bridget D. explains, "Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some areas require advance planning. Jen S. notes about Michaux State Forest, "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest, BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites."
Seasonal considerations: Campground facilities change throughout the year. Bridget D. explains, "Michaux State Forest sites fall into 4 categories: Designated motorized sites, which require a free online permit and are open April 2 until the 3rd Sunday after Thanksgiving."
Site limitations: Be prepared for varying levels of amenities. At Gettysburg Campground, Kelly J. mentions, "We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. Not far to go anywhere walking. Porta potties were cleanest I have ever seen even with a ton of recent rain."
Wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds have unique animal residents. Nancy L. noted at The Cove Campground: "Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Teaberry Parking Area Campground offers open spaces for children to play. Though j A. cautions about temporary issues: "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. The campsites were pretty."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds maintain play areas. At Artillery Ridge Campground, lakota M. notes, "The only complain we had was people walking through our sites due us being close to the playground and the noise level on the playground but other than that it was quiet place."
Beach options: Some locations offer swimming areas. Shanna B. describes The Cove Campground: "They have a small beach, picnic tabels everywhere, a volleyball ball sand court, a dock, you can fish in the lake, rent non motorboats."
Historical education: Gettysburg area campgrounds provide learning opportunities. Dave B. explains about Artillery Ridge Campground, "The battefields are very close as well. Chubbys Pizza is about 5 minutes down the road and provides fast service as well as great food."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on your specific needs. Jim G. advises about Gettysburg Campground: "If you're looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn't it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you."
Level sites: Artillery Ridge offers comfortable parking for rigs. Jason G. reports, "Our site (site 3) was an easy level pull-through site, making the setup/breakdown very quick and painless. All the RV sites were impressively level, with only minimal leveling needed."
Road conditions: Consider access challenges when bringing large rigs. Regarding Fort Valley Ranch, Jason G. notes, "I was initially concerned about the road leading into the campground, as my rig is over 50 feet in total length. However, we were surprised that the winding roads presented no issues for us."
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. Karl S. mentions at The Cove Campground: "Cell service is minimal to nonexistent — not a big deal for most campers, but something to keep in mind."
