The Catoctin Mountains region near Clear Spring, Maryland sits at elevations between 800-1,800 feet, creating a cooler microclimate than surrounding lowlands. Summer temperatures typically range 5-10°F cooler than nearby valleys, with daytime highs averaging 70-85°F from June through August. The area's camping options include both full-service facilities and more primitive sites along waterways.
What to do
River access activities: At McCoys Ferry Campground, visitors can enjoy water recreation along the Potomac River. "Nice little primitive campground, good patrol is state park police. Good distance to a bunch of activities for family's. Bike rentals, good ice cream shop etc," notes Dan M. The campground features a boat ramp for easy water access.
Historic exploration: Fort Frederick State Park Campground offers opportunities to explore colonial history. "The fort is very cool, and exhibits are great," explains Sean M. The park includes both camping facilities and educational exhibits about the 18th-century stone fort, with marked trails featuring historical information.
Mountain biking: Trails throughout the region provide options for cyclists of various skill levels. "The trail we used is marked multi-use, and by plentiful hoofprints, appeared to be used mostly by equestrians," shares one visitor about Owens Creek trails. Many trails connect to larger networks, allowing for rides ranging from 1-20+ miles.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Sites along the Potomac River provide direct water access. "All sites are basically waterfront, nice quiet campground with water access and a boat ramp," explains Adeline M. about McCoys Ferry Campground. The Western Maryland Rail Trail runs right along this campground, making it convenient for cyclists.
Wooded seclusion: Many campers appreciate the forested settings. "Sites are nice and level. It's very wooded and sites are spread out so you get plenty of privacy. Can't wait to come back," says Cassia M. about Greenbrier State Park. The shade provides natural cooling during summer months.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive positive mentions. At Cowans Gap State Park Campground, visitors note the care taken with amenities: "Bathrooms and showers very clean. Firewood always available. Easy access to dump station," reports Tom R. The park's shower facilities include hot water and heating during cooler months.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more separation between sites than others. At Owens Creek Campground, "Lots are on the small side and some are less private than others. Not much enforcement of camp etiquette or rules, which could be a positive or negative depending on you," notes Shari F.
Seasonal closures affect availability: Many area campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Sites 1-30 allow pets. This loop was full. I would recommend booking in advance if you plan on bringing your dogs," advises Sarah N. about Cowans Gap State Park, which operates from April through deer season in December.
Water access varies by location: While many campgrounds advertise water access, conditions differ. "All sites are basically waterfront, nice quiet campground with water access and a boat ramp, saying that be cautious of the water level because the week before we came the entire campground was under water making the sites smell of swamp and very muddy," warns Adeline M. about McCoys Ferry.
Tips for camping with families
Water parks for kids: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water features popular with families. "Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had a ice-cream / quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly," shares David S. Activities include organized games and character events.
Beach swimming areas: Several parks feature designated swimming beaches. "There's a beach and swimming area. There's a little viewing area/dock with information on the bald eagles and osprey that live there. They have a little concession stand that sold drinks, French fries and some other snacks," describes Sarah N. about Cowans Gap State Park.
Budget considerations: Family campgrounds can range widely in price. "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," notes Mark G. about Jellystone Park. County and state parks typically offer lower rates but fewer amenities.
Tips from RVers
RV site accessibility: Access roads vary in quality and width. At Falling Waters Campsite, "Abbey was very friendly and helpful. Check in was easy. Nice store on premises. Was led to my site and easy hookup. Five star if had sewer hookup," mentions Cindy C. This campground provides a convenient stop with good access from I-81.
Limited big rig options: Many historical campgrounds have size restrictions. "Good history river access check for site size if you have large RV," advises Brenda R. about Fort Frederick State Park. Sites in older campgrounds often accommodate rigs under 30 feet more comfortably than larger vehicles.
Hook-up availability: Full hookups aren't universal in the area. At Camp Cacapon, "The RV spot is perfect, so leveled all you have to do is shock your wheels. We brought our kayaks and got them on the river for some time," reports Saskia H. Campgrounds with limited RV sites often require advance booking, especially during summer weekends.
