23 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Rocky Gap State Park Campground and Shawnee State Park Campground offer distinctive glamping accommodations in the Ellerslie area, with yurts featuring comfortable beds, electricity, and climate control options not found in traditional camping. These glamping campsites sit among tall shade trees with privacy and access to modern amenities. One guest shared, "The best feature of Rocky Gap is the versatility of the campgrounds. There are options for RV camping with electric, tent spots, small cabins, and the resort if you would rather have a more comfortable resort experience." Both locations provide picnic tables and fire rings at each glamping site, with Rocky Gap offering additional lakeside locations for premium views and direct water access.
Hiking trails connect directly to the glamping areas at both parks, with Rocky Gap featuring a 5-mile loop trail around the lake and Shawnee providing multiple trail options for various skill levels. Water activities are central to the experience, with Rocky Gap's lake offering swimming, fishing, and boat rentals including kayaks and paddle boards for $5-10 per hour. A recent visitor mentioned, "The lake with a small beach area off the lake with playgrounds and a camp store" adds to the overall appeal. Both parks maintain clean, modern bathhouses with hot showers near the glamping units. Winter visitors will find Shawnee State Park's yurts available year-round, while Rocky Gap's glamping options have seasonal availability. Reservations are recommended, particularly during peak fall foliage season when the parks' luxury camping accommodations fill quickly.
"There are options for RV camping with electric, tent spots, small cabins, and the resort if you would rather have a more comfortable resort experience. Pets are allowed in a select few loops."
"Beautiful lake and from our lakeside sites we could put our kayaks in right from the campsite, maybe 20 yards away into a sheltered cove."
from $23 - $29 / night
Check Availability"From check in, wood delivery, and parking."
"We had a very positive experience at Hidden Springs. We stayed 4 nights, the first two were very quiet at the campground."
from $58 - $70 / night
Check Availability"Shawnee State Park is a very large campground (319 campsites with mixed electric and non-electric, some pet friendly, some not) about 10 minutes off highway 76 and 20 minutes from the Flight 93 National"
"It is a nice park with good campsites, clean bathrooms, good hiking trails and a nice lake view."
from $24 - $122 / night
Check Availability"Electricity. Air conditioning. Running water. The property owner manager is very accommodating and pleasant to talk with.
Highly recommended.~Robert
art505.com""Everyone loves it - there is something for everyone from hiking, swimming, outdoor games, fishing, watching the donkeys or just enjoying the fire pit in the evenings. The views are spectacular!"
"Sites and roads are gravel, nice newer fire pit and picnic table at each."
"It’s a small, quiet campground that is very welcoming. There’s not too much to do for little ones, but there is a little, homemade playground, pond for fishing, ducks/geese to feed, and a pool."
from $25 - $74 / night
Check Availability"We had room for ten tents, fire pit, tons of camp chairs. Right next to hiking trail. Flush toilets, running water, easy to find. Parking spot. Well maintained."
"Nice fire pits and picnic tables."
from $24 - $80 / night
Check Availability"For this portion, at least, the campground is good and the tow path along the canal is great for a run and quite scenic."
"This is a more traditional NPS campground along the Potomac River and C&O Towpath Trail where you can actually drive in, instead of just hiking or cycling."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Extremely family friendly, lots to do for kiddos on weekend, stocked ponds, bathhouses very close to all sites. Laurel hill cricks/lake are 2 miles up the mountain!"
"Wonderful staff and facilities. The roads around the camp ground could use some maintenance, especially on the hill side by the pool! All in all, a wonderful place to take your family camping!"
"Stayed 3 nights because I wanted to be centrally located to the he Flight 93 Memorial and Falling Water (about 30 miles to each). The non pet section is heavily wooded and very shady."
"Bathrooms could be cleaner. The camp hosts are awesome people. The area is quiet and peaceful. Lots of bike trails. Lake nice with swimming. Not crowded. Very family oriented."
from $24 - $64 / night
Check Availability"The campground is nestled on the outskirts of Bedford Pennsylvania and is a very easy location to travel to regardless of your rig size."
"Tucked into the mountains of PA, in a the town of Bedford, is this hopping campground. Lots of fun for kids, live music on the weekend, this campground was full of activity."
ScoutThis was a great place to camp. Lovely. The price was affordable. We stayed in the cabin. Electricity. Air conditioning. Running water. The property owner manager is very accommodating and pleasant to talk with.
Highly recommended.
~Robert
art505.com
ScoutI grew up camping with my family at Rocky Gap every summer. The best feature of Rocky Gap is the versatility of the campgrounds. There are options for RV camping with electric, tent spots, small cabins, and the resort if you would rather have a more comfortable resort experience. Pets are allowed in a select few loops.
They have a range of activities available including a large lake to swim, fish or paddle. There are a few trails for hiking, at least 2 small “beach” areas off the lake with play grounds and a camp store. You can also go over to the casino resort for entertainment and food.
Alcohol is not permitted outside of the resort which is partly why I say this camping experience is better for families. Rangers routinely monitor the site loops and there is a quiet hours period, I believe starting at 10pm and you will have a ranger pull up on you if you do not adhere.
CAMPSITES BREAKDOWN:
Type: Gravel Vehicle Accessible: Yes Size: ~ 1 large tent or 2 compact tents. Most are the same size, fairly small spots. Bathroom: Communal bathhouses in the middle of each loop with toilets, sinks and showers. Fire pit: Yes, with grill grate. Firewood: Must buy firewood at camp store. Water access: Some, depending which part of the loop your site is located on. Electric: No unless RV camping. Alcohol Policy: Not permitted unless drinking in the Resort or a motor home. Other Features: Picnic table, small wood post counter / hook to hang a lantern on and place a camp stove on.
LegendThis state park is at the top of the mountain and has a smaller lake perfect for a short kayak trip or fishing. Lovely views from the lake and very nice secluded sites. Our site was up a hill a little but we were good. We were right aside of flushing bathrooms and the dump station. We didn't like you had to go all the way out and around to dump and then out and around again to leave. Other than that very nice park with hiking trails, lots of beautiful pavilions, picnic areas, building that had food for sale, peddle boat and kayak rentals, fishing, beach area for swimming, multiple boat launches. Definitely need a bicycle to get to day use area as the loop is very long. Also, watch for no pets allowed signs as it is just the first part of the sites in Area A.
GuideStayed 3 nights because I wanted to be centrally located to the he Flight 93 Memorial and Falling Water (about 30 miles to each). The non pet section is heavily wooded and very shady. The pet section is more of a loop set up with some trees. The no pet section had no, zero, zilch cell service so my stay was super quiet. Site 173 was easy to back into and had a large picnic area with a fire ring next to the brook. There is a lake with a small beach and a boat launch and numerous hiking trails. The park will s very nice pretty and during the week fairly empty. I would recommend
ScoutVery nice campground. Beautiful lake and from our lakeside sites we could put our kayaks in right from the campsite, maybe 20 yards away into a sheltered cove. The weather was horrid while we were there but woke up Sunday morning to pack up and the sun was out, the true beauty of this campground was awesome. Paved roads and compacted gravel tent pads. Sites are both spacious and a good distance apart. Bath house was reasonably clean and had two showers each with a lockable door and small changing room attached. Each loop has one bathhouse and it is situated in the center of the loop. You are supposed to walk or bike to it as the only road into it has a do not enter sign and is for employee vehicles only. Maryland has a “can't bring your own firewood” policy that they say is because they don’t want pests brought in from outside but seems to be more of a money grab to me. Firewood is $5 per bundle at the camp store and we easily went through three or four bundles per night. There is a Walmart about 10 miles away in Lavale MD for anything you might need. There is also a no pets policy, at least in the loop we were in, which we loved because nothing spoils a good camping trip like a dog that barks the entire time you are camping. Policy says alcohol is prohibited but we are well behaved and drank beers at the campsite without hassle. Despite the rain, we had a great time and were very happy with our first trip to Rocky Gap. We will definitely be back before the season is over, hopefully with better weather.
GuideTub Run Road is a rough (but pretty) ride to the campground. Once you hit the property, everything is well-maintained. Roads are easy to navigate and equipment all works well. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Bathhouses are kept clean. Ice and firewood are available on site. Lots of seasonal campers fill their space to the brim with tent garages, so the Creekside loop, at least, feels a little like a suburban street, but still quiet. Creekside sites felt smaller and more crowded than lakeside sites, which open onto the beach and lake. Guests were very friendly and considerate of quiet hours. A number of families were joining across generations and campsites, which was nice. Easy access to local attractions.
GuideWe chose this campground for its proximity to home with the chance to swim in the lake.
The camping did not disappoint. We always try to book “outside” loop sites so we don’t have “back neighbors” but none near the lake were available, so we took our chances on an “inside” site in E loop. It was great, smallish, but plenty of vegetation to make it feel private. (Some poison ivy around the edges, though.) The pull-in sites in general seem a bit small (space for our two 4-person tents and that’s it), but are well shaded and separated from neighbors by small patches of woods or bushes. The pull-through sites in our loop were more exposed to the road, but had a bit more space.
There was some noise from the interstate. There were surprisingly few mosquitoes. The bathhouse was clean, but showers were not very warm.
The swimming was unfortunately disappointing. The roped-off swimming area was 3 feet deep at the most. Warm water in August, nice for kids to splash around, but not really good for actual swimming. Bonus for dog people: pets allowed on the beach and in the lake.
During COVID-19, the bathrooms/bathhouses at the beach area are closed; porta-johns only.
We rented paddle boards and a canoe one afternoon and paddled around to one of the lake inlets, which was actually deep and had a good swim. But this is technically not allowed.
If you feel okay about rule-breaking and have water-safe family members (and no pets), I would absolutely choose a site in I loop close to the lake. The sites in E loop closest to the lake are actually up a fairly steep hill from the lake path.
Hiking trails were nice. My kids especially liked the rock scramble-ish up and down the stream gorge on Evitt’s Mountain trail.
GuideThe campground is easily accessible- there are 9 loops and a group site. The best loops for families with pets are Dogwood and Elm. No pets? Go to Ironwood loop and get a site close to the water. Water is readily available. The bathrooms are clean and the showers warm. After October, most of the loops close, the exception being Ash loop, which offers electric hookup for RV. The camp store is stocked well, but dinner may have to come from a local market if you’re planning a cookout at your site. The beach is also pet friendly. There is boat rental and several opportunities for Ranger led activities for all. Recently, the park has been taking part in American Chestnut revitalization. If there is any detractors at all, it’s the casino on the other side of the park. It’s bright and loud ( though and outdoor events are quiet by 10 ish) There is a strict no alcohol policy unless your in an RV or a cabin. Meaning the alcohol must stay inside at all times. Firewood is readily available. The sites can be a bit close, but as a family camper with a load of six people plus two dogs, we never have felt claustrophobic in our site choice. The web site offers limited photos of the sites. This park is our go to place for a weekend with kids and as it’s cheap and nearby, it’s well worth it. As a side note, the food at the casino isn’t bad. Just not a good place for kids. The trails are well maintained. Keep a careful watch for snakes and bears.
TravelerWe had a great stay. Well manicured grounds. Lots of fallen trees from recent weather. Bathrooms could be cleaner. The camp hosts are awesome people. The area is quiet and peaceful. Lots of bike trails. Lake nice with swimming. Not crowded. Very family oriented. Playgrounds scattered around the campground in really good shape.
We stayed at site 173. I loved it. Private. Had a little stream that ran behind it which would have been great for kids to play in. I loved the sound of running water. The fire pit and picnic table were in a little area above the stream surrounded by trees. It was so pretty and felt protected. They sell wood and awesome fire starters on site. Well priced. $5 for big bundle of split wood and $1 for each large fire starter. The Fire starters were so good, I bought extras to take with me. Definitely good quality. Not like the small ones you buy at the store.
All in all, I loved it and will go back. I’ll take the grandkids next time. The lake, stream, biking, playground will keep them busy.
I have TMobile and had no cellphone service at my site. But could get service in other areas.
Site 225 looked like a great site. Up on a hill with a view, full hook up, playground close, and cell service.
Nestled in western Maryland near the Pennsylvania border, Ellerslie sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in the Appalachian foothills. The area experiences four distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and moderate summers, making April through October the primary camping season. The region's mixed hardwood forests create dense shade at many campsites, particularly beneficial during summer camping months.
Hiking diverse trails: Shawnee State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks with varying difficulty levels. "The trail around the lake was incredible for biking - highly recommend! Everything in this park and campground are extremely well marked and maintained," notes one visitor. The park maintains miles of wooded paths accessible directly from camping areas.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds and lake access points provide varied fishing experiences. "We stayed at site 258 (Non-electric). The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk," reports a Shawnee State Park camper. Most locations don't require fishing licenses for pond fishing within campground boundaries.
Historic exploration: The C&O Canal offers unique historical context combined with outdoor recreation. A visitor to Fifteen Mile Campground shares: "This is a more traditional NPS campground along the Potomac River and C&O Towpath Trail where you can actually drive in, instead of just hiking or cycling. It would make a great shuttle point." The towpath provides 10+ miles of flat terrain suitable for bikes and strollers.
Spacious, wooded sites: Campers consistently praise the ample space between sites at several parks. At Rocky Gap State Park Campground, one camper noted, "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." The park's Ironwood loop features non-electric sites suitable for tents and small RVs.
Water activities: Beyond swimming, many parks offer affordable watercraft rentals. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," mentions a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park Campground. The wide, flat trails surrounding most lakes accommodate beginners and young paddlers.
Fall foliage viewing: The region transforms with color from late September through October. "We had a wonderful, big electric and water site. A lot to do here!" notes a visitor at Kentuck Campground. Most yurt camping options in Ellerslie, Maryland require advance booking during peak leaf season, sometimes 6-9 months ahead.
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds feature significant terrain variation. A visitor to Hidden Springs Campground advises, "I called before booking and talked to the owner which helped us pick out the perfect spot!" Sites on slopes may require extensive leveling, particularly for larger RVs.
Seasonal availability: Year-round yurt camping near Ellerslie, Maryland is limited. "We stayed at Shawnee for 2 nights Memorial Day weekend just after Covid19 restrictions had been partially lifted. Site 258 on loop D is quiet, but may have been noisy if the yurt and 2 cabins had been rented out," explains one camper. Many parks restrict water services from November through March.
Road access considerations: Several campgrounds feature challenging approach roads. "The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides. Made it in and out no issue taking it slow, but not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer," warns a visitor to Middle Ridge Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many parks offer educational wildlife encounters. "We absolutely loved this place and will definitely be back. Seeing the equine daily was a huge plus; they were super sweet and funny," shares a Middle Ridge Campground visitor. Several locations maintain small animal areas with feeding opportunities during morning hours.
Multiple playground options: Family-oriented campgrounds often feature multiple play areas. "There are 3 playgrounds all different and all well kept," notes a camper at Friendship Village Campground. Most playgrounds cater to different age ranges, from toddlers to older children.
Water safety considerations: Swimming areas vary significantly in supervision levels. "The lifeguards came out on boat and kindly told us we could not swim," explains a Rocky Gap visitor, highlighting that designated swim areas are strictly enforced. Most parks restrict swimming to beach areas with established hours, typically 10am-6pm during summer.
Hookup placement challenges: Electrical connections aren't always ideally positioned. "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 a Laurel Hill camper. Extension cords of 25-50 feet are recommended for most sites.
Variable leveling requirements: Many mountain campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "The spot was so unlevel there were 19 inches between my bottom step and the ground. This site was the same price as level ones closer to activities," warns a Pioneer Lakes RV Park visitor. First-time yurt campers in Ellerslie, Maryland should bring additional sleeping pads for comfort on wooden platforms.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically across the region. "Starlink was sketchy at best, Verizon had one bar and slightly usable, ATT was best with a couple of bars and ok speeds," reports a Middle Ridge visitor. Most campgrounds do not offer reliable WiFi, requiring campers to prepare for limited communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Ellerslie, MD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Ellerslie, MD is Rocky Gap State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 55 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Ellerslie, MD?
TheDyrt.com has all 23 glamping camping locations near Ellerslie, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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