Campsites along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park range in elevation from 250 to 600 feet above sea level, with temperature variations between river valleys and higher ridges. The 184.5-mile historic canal corridor connects multiple camping areas across Maryland and West Virginia with varying levels of development. Springtime brings significant flooding potential near river-adjacent sites, particularly at McCoys Ferry where high water can temporarily close camping areas.
What to do
River activities: Potomac River access at McCoys Ferry Campground provides opportunities for paddling and fishing. "Boat ramp and easy access to the CO canal trail for easy hiking and biking," notes Jeremy C. The campground sits directly on the water with "many sites 1-7 are on the water and are the best sites in my opinion," according to Roger W.
History exploration: Civil War sites within short driving distance of Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA allow for battlefield tours and historic town visits. "Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit," writes one camper. The campground itself is "close to Antietiem battlefield, vineyards, antiques or even DC (1 hour)," according to Misty C.
Trail access: Bike the Western Maryland Rail Trail that runs alongside many campgrounds in the region. "The Western Maryland Rail Trail runs rite along the campground so if you like bike riding, take advantage," shares Adeline M. about McCoys Ferry. Multiple campgrounds connect directly to sections of the Appalachian Trail, offering day hiking opportunities.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Water views and access rank highly among campers at Harpers Ferry Campground. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS," writes Darcy S. Another camper notes that "our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water)."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses at Greenbrier State Park Campground receive consistent praise. "The bath houses & sites are always clean, camp hosts are friendly and park rangers are present and helpful," mentions Katie H. Another camper noted, "Bathroom facilities were close enough and had hot and cold water, showers, flush toilets, and showers. All were spotless."
Budget-friendly options: Lower cost primitive camping appeals to those looking for basic accommodations. "Camping is $10 a night. Campsites have a fire ring, a lantern hanger, and each area has a basic toilet," notes Jim N. about Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area. For those wanting a riverside experience without high costs, Harpers Ferry Campground offers discounts: "We got a discount for staying 2 nights so it was only $29 a night."
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks near several campgrounds create noise concerns. "The train does go by twice overnight and it is loud but still got a decent night of sleep," explains Dalton S. about McCoys Ferry. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "there is a 15 or so foot CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains."
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Expect basic amenities at wildlife management areas and some state parks. "No showers and just a vault toilet and a few porta-johns," reports Jeremy C. about McCoys Ferry. Sites at Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area are more rustic: "Sites are marks with a post but many are missing the hooks that you hang lanterns from."
Road conditions: Remote access routes can be challenging for larger vehicles. "Potholed dirt road coming up, a sedan can make it through but will have to take it slow," warns Vicky M. about Sleepy Creek. Some campgrounds like McCoys Ferry have specific navigation challenges: "As you travel towards the end of McCoys Ferry Road, make sure to stay right, as to pass through the tunnel."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Swimming areas at Jellystone Park Williamsport provide structured water play. "Multiple pools and a great little water park," reports David S. Another family noted, "We recent went camping for the first time at Jellystone in Maryland... The kids were never bored and had so much fun."
Playground access: Dedicated play areas keep children entertained during downtime. "Great amenities for kids were incredible, with arts/crafts, a movie theatre, an arcade, nice playground, and jumping pillow," shares a reviewer about Jellystone Park. Similarly, Lazy A Campground offers "horseshoes, playground, large outdoor picnic area" according to Erica M.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. "The fort is very cool, and exhibits are great," reports Sean M. about Fort Frederick State Park. The proximity to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park gives families access to interpretive programs and exhibits about canal history, civil war events, and natural science.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Level pads at Camp Cacapon accommodate medium-sized RVs with minimal setup. "The RV spot is perfect, so leveled all you have to do is shock your wheels," notes Saskia H. The campground offers "full hook-ups" though space is limited with "one RV spot" available.
Accessibility considerations: Narrow access roads at several campgrounds can challenge larger rigs. "Road access is good for all but large rigs," warns Paul O. about Camp Cacapon. Brian P. notes about Harpers Ferry KOA: "Only thing I didn't care for is the sites are pretty close together and some of the back-in sites are not very level."
Hookup availability: Variable electrical service across the region requires planning. "The campground has an abundance of things to do. The campground offers adventures like rafting, biking, tubing and zip lining to name a few," writes Maggie A. about Harpers Ferry Campground, though RVers should note limited electrical options at some sites.
