Dispersed camping areas around Cumberland, Maryland offer primitive sites on public lands with varying degrees of accessibility. Most free camping options lie within a 35-50 mile radius of Cumberland, primarily in West Virginia's national forest lands. Winter camping is possible at most sites, though unpaved forest roads may become impassable after heavy precipitation or during spring thaw periods when mud can make travel difficult even for 4WD vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area provides easy access fishing spots ideal for beginners. "I spent a night here. There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing," notes camper Frank G.
Mountain biking: Access nearby trail networks from Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed campsites. "It is a 2.5 mile, 2000' climb to get to the trailhead for Bear Rocks Trail in Bear Rocks Preserve which is about a half mile past the entrance to this unmarked group site," reports Kelly G. The elevation gain provides challenging terrain for experienced riders.
Firewood gathering: Most dispersed sites permit collecting deadfall wood. At Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed, Dexter V. found "plenty of firewood" around the established stone fire ring. Pack a folding saw for easier processing.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Squirrel Hollow Road Camping offers well-spaced camping areas. "Large campsites and relatively quite. We took two vehicles and found several suitable sites. Traffic was light with one pickup overnight and a small convoy of motorcycles the next morning," according to Jon D.
Weekday solitude: Free camping near Cumberland, Maryland is notably quieter midweek. Kevin C. reports about Squirrel Hollow Road: "Sites were quiet at night. Some traffic related to logging activity. Looks like a popular weekend camp spot for locals. We camped during the week and had nobody else camping on weekdays."
Convenient road access: Cedar Creek Trail provides relatively accessible dispersed camping. Spencer W. notes, "After the intersection, the road will turn into a trail (marked by a metal gate) and there is a campsite right there. Was very peaceful and clean. Had an established fire ring."
What you should know
Payment confusion: At Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area, fee collection methods can be unclear. Jim M. reports, "As I pulled in there was a kiosk with a sign that said $10 camping fee but no info on how or where to pay. I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either, However no one came by."
Variable site conditions: Some dispersed sites require careful selection. "Quite a few miles down Squirrel Gap Rd. There is another sunnier sight a little before this one. But this one is right off the road, entrance is steep," warns Dexter V.
Honor system practices: Some areas near free camping Cumberland Maryland use trust-based systems for supplies. Kelly G. mentions at Brushy Ridge Road: "Firewood was available on a self serve honor system (put $5 cash in the box for each bundle you take) at the farmhouse across from the turn on to Brushy Creek."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible fishing instruction: Cedar Creek Trail dispersed campsite provides good introduction to outdoor skills. "Was very peaceful and clean. Had an established fire ring," reports Spencer W., making it suitable for families new to primitive camping.
Established sites for beginners: Look for sites with pre-existing infrastructure. Kevin C. describes Squirrel Hollow Road sites: "Sites are located less than a mile from the paved highway. All were easily accessible by car or with a small teardrop trailer. True boondocking, haul it in, pack it out."
Teaching opportunities: Edwards Run offers educational value for children learning camping skills. Frank G. states it's a "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Small trailers only on forest service roads. Kevin C. found Squirrel Hollow Road sites "easily accessible by car or with a small teardrop trailer," but larger RVs would find access difficult or impossible.
Leveling considerations: Look for naturally flat spots. Kelly G. at Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed camped "in the middle of these three large campsites that are each about 100 feet away from each other," suggesting adequate space for smaller rigs to find level ground.
Weather impact on access: Forest roads deteriorate quickly in wet conditions. Consider site proximity to main roads, as Kelly G. notes the "2.5 mile, 2000' climb" required to reach trailheads from Brushy Ridge Road campsites may be challenging for vehicles towing trailers.
