The Clear Spring area offers excellent camping options along the western Maryland mountains where elevations range between 400-800 feet. The region experiences moderate temperatures with summer highs around 85°F and cooler evenings that drop to 60°F. Campgrounds here often feature shaded woodland settings with access to water features including the Potomac River and several smaller lakes.
What to do
Hiking to Annapolis Rock: Located about 30 minutes from Clear Spring, the Annapolis Rock Campground offers primitive camping with remarkable 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. Rock climbing available," notes one camper.
Fishing at local waterways: Multiple area campgrounds offer fishing opportunities. The Rocky Gap State Park Campground features a lake perfect for angling. "There are a few spots to get away and do some fishing. The beach was too crowded for my liking," mentions one visitor. The park also allows paddleboarding and canoeing on Lake Habeeb.
Historical exploration: With several Civil War battlefields nearby, history buffs can explore significant sites. A camper at Harpers Ferry Campground reports, "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don't let this deter you from completing it."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campers praise the generous site spacing at certain campgrounds. At Rocky Gap State Park, "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have you own sections of woods," writes one reviewer.
Lake and water activities: The Cunningham Falls State Park offers a 43-acre lake for swimming and fishing. "I stayed at Cuningham Falls State Park a few weeks ago and the campground was very good with lots to do hikes, swimming etc. But last night I stayed at same state forest but 4 miles away the Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area. I haven't seen this much space between campsites in a long time," notes one camper.
Yurt accommodations: For those interested in yurt camping near Clear Spring, Maryland, several campgrounds offer these unique structures. Harpers Ferry Campground features yurts as comfortable alternatives to tent camping. "Nice river front sites, and pool in the campground. Close to historic Harpers Ferry and lots of great hiking," shares a reviewer.
What you should know
Seasonal water features: Water attractions often operate on limited schedules. One camper at Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA shares, "This is a small but quaint KOA. Set right next to the river and you fish if you want to. DO NOT follow your GPS. Follow the directions on the KOA Website."
Train noise: Some campgrounds have nearby train tracks. A visitor notes, "A fair amount of gnats and other bugs but no mosquitoes to speak of." Expect occasional noise from passing trains at certain sites, particularly those near Harpers Ferry.
Primitive camping limitations: When choosing more rustic options like yurt camping in Clear Spring, Maryland area, be aware of restrictions. "Great primitive campsite that has undergone major restorations and preventative measures to reverse the damage from huge camping crowds of the past. No fires, but there are two privies and a really nice spring near the campsites," explains a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Lake beaches for children: Many families appreciate dedicated swimming areas. At Cowans Gap State Park Campground, "Nice campground. There is showers on site and depending on the time you get to the showerhouse it may be a cold one. Nice small lake within walking distance along with a beach. There is also a few hiking trails near the campground."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The actual manager was asked for but never responded to any calls. The sites were also very close together and tight," notes one reviewer, highlighting the importance of checking amenities before booking.
Child-friendly hiking trails: When camping with kids, select appropriate trails. "We had a blast and will be returning next season. Multiple pools and a great little water park." The five-mile loop trail around Lake Habeeb at Rocky Gap offers a manageable family hike with regular rest spots.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant leveling. A camper notes, "We have a 34' travel trailer and although the site was narrow, it was easily long enough to fit our needs. If we hadn't had an end spot, I would have felt a little crowded with my next door neighbor."
Dump station access: Check availability and placement of dump stations. "Easy access to dump station. Coming back in July to a site we scout out. Looking forward to our next visit," shares one RVer about their experience.
Site selection strategy: For the best RV experience, research specific sites. "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," explains one camper, emphasizing the importance of requesting level sites for larger rigs.
