Little Bennett Regional Park serves as the main established campground in Clarksburg, Maryland, with spacious campsites set within a 3,700-acre woodland. Located at 23701 Frederick Road, this Montgomery County park offers both primitive tent sites and full RV hookups at elevations ranging from 500-600 feet, creating moderately challenging hiking terrain. Most sites remain heavily wooded, providing natural cooling during Maryland's humid summer months when temperatures often exceed 85°F.
What to do
Hike multiple trail networks: Little Bennett features over 25 miles of trails through diverse terrain. "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly," notes a camper from Little Bennett Campground.
Visit historic Harper's Ferry: Located 35 miles from Clarksburg, this National Historical Park offers both natural beauty and Civil War history. "Harper's Ferry is a cute little historic town and the hiking is amazing, being right on the Appalachian Trail," reports a visitor to Harpers Ferry KOA.
Kayak or tube the Potomac: Multiple area campgrounds provide river access for water activities. At Brunswick Family Campground, "The Shenandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical campground showers perfect for the campground life."
Explore the C&O Canal: This historic 184.5-mile towpath runs near several campgrounds. "The C&O railroad runs pretty close, it's not super loud just wanted to make you aware," mentions a Brunswick Family Campground visitor.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural setting at campgrounds near Clarksburg. At Cunningham Falls State Park, "The sites were a nice size, the amenities are limited by amount and by time."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses rank high on camper priorities. At Bull Run Regional Park, one visitor enthusiastically noted, "I'll go again just for the showers. They're worth staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had."
Quick access to trails: Many campers value the ability to hike directly from their sites. "Lots of nature trails," reports a camper at Little Bennett, while another adds that the campground has "quiet, spacious and heavily wooded sites."
River proximity: Waterfront sites remain popular for both activities and scenery. A Brunswick Family Campground visitor shared: "Our spot was on the river with a short walk to the boat ramp and access. It was very quiet, serene, & clean."
What you should know
Reserve well in advance: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Only came through for a weekend but the sites were well maintained, and felt separated enough to have some privacy," notes a camper at Little Bennett.
Weather impacts: Spring rains can create muddy conditions at some campgrounds. At Camping by the Creek, "Site was not prepared, we left and came back, looks like someone did a little cleanup, only after our arrival."
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Clarksburg sit close to active rail lines. A Brunswick Family Campground visitor warned, "Brunswick train station and depot is just a few hundred feet away and you can hear trains at all times of the night."
Limited cell service: Reception varies widely between campgrounds. At Cunningham Falls State Park, connectivity remains minimal as one camper reports, "Cell service doesn't work, electric hook ups only. This state park is beautiful and off the grid!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kid activities: Some campgrounds offer programmed events for children. At Cunningham Falls State Park, "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."
Consider cabin options for glamping close to Clarksburg, Maryland: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with nature access. A Harpers Ferry Campground visitor shared, "The cabin was TINY. Essentially four beds (two bunks) and some space between them to move around. Essentially a shed with bunkbeds in it."
Check swimming options: Lakes and pools keep kids entertained during hot summer days. At Cunningham Falls State Park, "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it, plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed."
Pack for varied terrain: Trails near Clarksburg range from easy to challenging. "The trail to the falls is an easy six mile loop to and from the falls," reports a Cunningham Falls visitor, while another adds "The trail is well maintained, marked, and exciting."
Tips from RVers
Request level sites: Many campgrounds near Clarksburg have varied terrain. A visitor to Harpers Ferry KOA warned: "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air."
Measure site lengths when booking: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. At Little Bennett Campground, "D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C & E are tents only" with "very spacious, level sites with 50A service, water and sewer hookup."
Check hookup locations: Knowing utility placement helps with parking strategy. One RVer at Brunswick Family Campground noted, "Many sites share a power pole and water faucet, but they are well situated."
Consider seasonal availability: For those seeking luxury glamping near Clarksburg, some campgrounds close during winter. At Little Bennett, remember the campground operates "primarily from April through October."
