Rocky Gap State Park Campground offers spacious, wooded campsites with sites spaced far enough apart to provide privacy while maintaining access to modern facilities. Located just 8 miles from Cumberland at an elevation of 1,375 feet, the park sits along Lake Habeeb, a 243-acre reservoir with crystal-clear water surrounded by a mountain forest landscape. Camping areas are organized into several loops with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations available from April through October, though some loops remain open year-round.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rocky Gap State Park provides excellent fishing in Lake Habeeb. "The 5 mile hike around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park," notes Jeff H. The lake is stocked with various fish species and offers multiple access points around its perimeter.
Hiking trails for all levels: The trails at Ohiopyle State Park connect directly to campsites and provide scenic routes. "The 5.3-mile Lakeside Loop trail connects directly to the glamping areas, offering convenient access to nature exploration," according to a reviewer. Many trails feature creek crossings and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Paddling and water activities: Rental options for kayaks and canoes are available at multiple locations. "Nice little campground for families. We went canoeing on the lake. And had fun just hiking around a bit," shares Kate D. about Laurel Hill State Park. Paddling equipment typically costs $5-15 per hour depending on the type.
Seasonal events: Check campground schedules for ranger programs, especially during summer months. "Lots of weekend events and bingo at the camp store, friendly helpful staff!" mentions Melissa C. about Ridge Rider Campground. Most activities are included with your camping fee.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Fifteen Mile Campground offers well-separated sites that provide privacy. "First time here but will be back. 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 your own sections of woods," describes one Rocky Gap camper.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain excellent bathhouses and amenities. "Bathrooms in the Delphia loop were modern and very clean. The showers were very nice and rivaled any hotel shower I've had," notes Lee D. about Deep Creek Lake State Park. Regular cleaning schedules are maintained even during busy seasons.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide opportunities to see deer, birds, and occasionally bears. "We had no phone service which we were okay with but it's something we wish we had known before hand," mentions Michaela M. about limited connectivity at Ridge Rider, which creates a more immersive nature experience.
Night sky observations: The minimal light pollution in the area makes for excellent stargazing. "We were lucky enough to witness a spectacular light show put up by thousands of fireflies at night," shares Simon S. about his glamping experience close to Cumberland, Maryland at Deep Creek Lake State Park.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Deep Creek Lake State Park and other parks in the region have bear populations. "We were told there were regular bear sightings and there were bear boxes at each site; we saw many deer but not a single bear," reports Lee D. All food must be secured in provided bear boxes or inside vehicles.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is spotty throughout the region. "Fantastic facilities but bad Verizon service," notes Jonathon M. about Hidden Springs Campground. Many campgrounds have no WiFi or very limited service available only near entrance buildings.
Seasonal variations: Campgrounds change dramatically between seasons. "Rocky Gap is best earlier and later in the year. It's less crowded," advises Marcandpatti B. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer brings warmer water temperatures but busier facilities.
Water access considerations: Not all sites have direct water access. "The campground is across the street from the lake and there are no lake view sites," explains a reviewer about Deep Creek Lake State Park. Check maps carefully when booking to understand proximity to water features.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Middle Ridge Campground offers unique attractions for children. "We have three children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys!" shares Kayla M. Most family-oriented campgrounds also include playgrounds, open fields, and shallow swimming areas.
Beach activities: Several parks feature designated swimming areas with lifeguard supervision during summer months. "The campground beach is fun," states Marcandpatti B. about Rocky Gap. Most beaches have roped-off areas for younger swimmers and nearby picnic facilities.
Camping loops with bathroom proximity: When booking with children, choose sites near facilities. "We stayed in cabin 170 in Fir loop and the site was incredibly spacious, heavily shaded, close to the bath house, path to the beach, and well distanced from other sites," recommends Kimberly H. about her glamping experience at Rocky Gap.
Noise considerations: Weekend camping brings more activity and noise. "We closed out the season with a trip here. It was absolutely serene and beautiful as the leaves were changing," notes Sabrina H. about late-season camping at Ridge Rider Campground when fewer families are present.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Shawnee State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time," explains Lee D. Bring extra leveling blocks, especially for the non-electric sites.
Hookup accessibility: Check hook-up locations when reserving. "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable," advises Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "Road to access the campground was good with some tight turns up the hill the last couple of miles. The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides," reports Stephen H. about Middle Ridge Campground. Larger rigs should research access limitations before booking.
Water pressure variations: Be prepared for inconsistent water supply. "Water pressure was just a bit weak and used our water tank and pump during our stay. Best we could get for water pressure out of the hose was 25-20 psi," notes an RVer at Middle Ridge. Having a full freshwater tank upon arrival is recommended regardless of water hookup availability.
