Best Campgrounds near Ellerslie, MD
Ellerslie, Maryland provides convenient access to a variety of camping experiences throughout the Appalachian region of western Maryland and nearby Pennsylvania. Rocky Gap State Park Campground, approximately 10 miles northeast of Ellerslie, offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts set alongside Lake Habeeb with shaded woodland campsites. Green Ridge State Forest, located about 15 miles east, provides more primitive camping options with fewer amenities but greater solitude. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several also offering cabin rentals and glamping options.
Camping season varies by location, with some properties like Green Ridge State Forest and Savage River State Forest remaining open year-round while others operate seasonally from spring through fall. Many sites require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends when lakefront areas reach capacity quickly. The Cumberland area experiences distinct seasonal changes, with warm summers ideal for swimming and cool falls perfect for hiking. Winter camping is available at select locations, though with limited amenities. Road access throughout the region is generally good, with most campgrounds accessible via paved roads. One visitor noted, "The bathhouses are always clean and well stocked. The camp sites are tucked into the woods with plenty of room for camping."
Campers frequently mention the region's scenic beauty and water recreation opportunities as highlights. Rocky Gap State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its beach access, clean facilities, and well-maintained sites, making it popular for family camping. As one reviewer shared, "We love that the campground has their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public." Meanwhile, sites in Green Ridge State Forest appeal to those seeking more rustic experiences with fewer amenities but greater privacy. The proximity to Cumberland provides opportunities for day trips to explore local attractions, including the C&O Canal towpath and several breweries and wineries. Campgrounds closer to town offer more amenities and activities, while those further out provide increased seclusion and wildlife viewing opportunities.
