Camping near Emmitsburg, Maryland sits at elevations between 400-800 feet in the Catoctin Mountain region, where summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F while winter drops to 20-40°F. The area offers access to both Maryland and Pennsylvania camping options within a 15-mile radius, with most sites positioned near historical landmarks or within forested mountain terrain that provides natural shade during summer months.
What to do
Historical battlefield tours: Gettysburg Campground makes an ideal base for exploring Civil War sites just 10 miles from Emmitsburg. "It's nice and out of the way of the busy parts of town. It's a few minute drive to historic Gettysburg," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: The small lakes and ponds near many campgrounds provide fishing options, especially at Granite Hill Camping Resort. A visitor mentioned, "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site."
Mountain hiking: The Catoctin Mountains offer extensive trail systems accessible directly from several campgrounds. At Owens Creek Campground, "There are over 26 miles of trails in this NPS," allowing access to multiple difficulty levels from easy creek walks to challenging rocky ascents.
Appalachian Trail access: Connect to this famous long-distance trail from multiple area campgrounds. "Great access to trails. Wolf rock and chimney rock were my favorite," reported one camper staying at Owens Creek, while other campgrounds advertise easy connections to AT sections.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campgrounds include creeks or lakes that enhance the experience. At Gettysburg Campground, campers appreciate "nice creek with ducks" that runs alongside the tent camping area, providing natural white noise for sleeping.
Historical immersion: The region's Civil War history creates unique camping experiences. One visitor to Artillery Ridge Campground noted, "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."
Wildlife viewing: The forested mountain settings provide opportunities for nature observation. "Birds were abundant, active and singing. Woodpeckers rose early to begin their tree tapping," noted a visitor to Owens Creek Campground.
Swimming options: Several parks offer lake swimming during summer months. "There's a lake, boating, playgrounds, hike to the falls. So much scenery and nature," commented a visitor to Cunningham Falls State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require advance booking, especially during peak season. "It books up quickly during peak season," warns a camper about Cunningham Falls.
Variable campsite privacy: Site spacing and privacy differs significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility. At Cunningham Falls State Park, "The sites are very cool and wooded with a lot of privacy," while at other locations, "sites are a little close together and some are less private than others."
Weather considerations: The mountain location creates its own microclimate. "Keep in mind the weather...water tends to travel downhill," advises one camper at Owens Creek, noting that sites on hillsides can experience runoff during rain.
Presidential security: Catoctin Mountain Park houses Camp David, which can affect camping plans. "With Camp David occupying part of this NPS, your hiking plans could be immediately and entirely foiled with a 'visit' from the President or any dignitary. Parts of the park road and trails are closed down tight!"
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Campgrounds vary widely in their family programming. At Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, "They have plenty of activities for the kids from swimming, mini golf, and a scavenger hunt! They also had live music one night!"
Playground proximity: Some campgrounds offer sites strategically located near play areas. At Granite Hill, one camper noted, "We stayed in the 'C' row site. Great shade and access to the playground. You can let the kids play all day while sitting at your campsite cooking and just hanging. It's only 15 yards for the play set."
Swimming options: Lakeside facilities provide summer recreation but can get crowded. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed," reports a visitor to Cunningham Falls State Park.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer special weekend events. At Gettysburg Battlefield Resort, "We stayed in October so there was plenty of activities for kids from crafts, games, dancing, to trick or treating. The resort ensured safety for the kids during trick or treating and closed all vehicle traffic for 2 hours."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain require preparation for uneven sites. At Artillery Ridge, campers note, "Site and bathrooms clean," but others mention "it took 2 hours to get our camper set up because of the very uneven stone lot, thankfully we had enough wood to get the jack up without having to over extend it."
Electrical service options: Power varies between campgrounds and specific loops. At Caledonia State Park Campground, "We were in the Hosack run loop... Site was in good condition," while at others specific loops are designated for electric hookups.
Water and sewer access: Full hookups are limited in the region. "All sites have water and electric, but not all are 50 amp sites. About half the sites have sewer, but there are two dump stations that are centrally located and easy to get to," explains one RVer about Gettysburg Battlefield Resort.
Seasonal availability: While most campgrounds operate April through October, some remain open year-round. Granite Hill Camping Resort and Caledonia State Park Campground maintain winter operations, though with reduced services and fewer occupied sites.
