Camping options near Finksburg, Maryland span an area with elevations ranging from 400-800 feet and a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F while spring and fall offer milder 60-70°F conditions ideal for tent camping. The region features numerous state and private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive radius, most operating from April through October.
What to do
Hiking trails: 70+ miles available at Patapsco Valley State Park, offering everything from riverside paths to more challenging terrain. "Patapsco Valley offers 6 different entrances. Each one provides several different trail heads and experiences... The trails we have been on are all pretty moderate to hard but offer beautiful waterfalls and river views."
Fishing opportunities: Pinchot Lake access for anglers at nearby Pennsylvania parks. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore" at Gifford Pinchot State Park, making it worth the 45-minute drive north from Finksburg.
Historical exploration: Civil War sites within 45 minutes of Finksburg camping areas. At Artillery Ridge Campground, "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."
Natural swimming: Lake and pool options for summer visits when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F. "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground" at Codorus State Park, approximately 30 minutes from Finksburg.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Look for outer loops with more space. "For the most part we didn't notice any that really seem to be right on top of each other, but we think the site we got was the best one in the park. We were in 132, which was huge and had nice open flat areas for the tent" at Codorus State Park.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathhouses at most campgrounds within 30 miles of Finksburg. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers "clean and tidy" restrooms according to campers, with one noting: "Miss Lorraine at the front desk is friendly and helpful as are all the employees. I had trouble with my electric and Lenny the maintenance man was on the job within 15 minutes and had it fixed in the rain at that."
Natural playgrounds: Unique outdoor play spaces for kids. At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, one camper shared: "I've attached photos from the 'natural playground' aka, large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it."
Variety of accommodations: From primitive sites to cabins. "The RV sites are comfortable with all the amenities. And the customer service is impeccable" at Merry Meadows, which also offers "Wooded sites, open sites, tent sites. All great!"
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds near Finksburg open April-October. Little Bennett Campground operates "April 1 to October 30" similar to many in the region, with limitations in water access during shoulder seasons.
Weekend crowding: Book well in advance for summer visits. "The campground and park fill up on the weekends but are nearly empty during the week" at Hollofield Area Campground, making weekday visits preferable for those seeking quiet.
Varying pet policies: Designated pet-friendly areas and loops. "They have a dedicated pet park with agility equipment" at one campground, while another has "a dedicated pet loop for those traveling with dogs."
Firewood restrictions: Purchase on-site at most locations. "Remember: no alcohol or firewood can be brought into the park. Firewood can only be purchased on site due to harmful insects. But the money goes toward the parks volunteer program" at Patapsco Valley State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. Gettysburg Campground offers "two huge playgrounds and a youth campground as well as a family campground" with easy access from most sites.
Natural water features: Creeks provide entertainment for kids. "Great spot! We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground" at Gifford Pinchot State Park, located about 40 minutes north of Finksburg.
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences. "We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield" near Artillery Ridge Campground.
Activity scheduling: Check campground calendars for family events. "Whenever we go to Gettysburg which is usually once a year we always stay here. Really nice place. Recommend a site by the creek. Cool laid back staff and clean bathrooms nice playground for kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Request end-of-row sites when possible. At Cherry Hill Park, "Look at the park map and try to get a site at the end of a row. The sites are pretty close together but on the ends at least you only have a neighbor on one side."
Full hookup availability: Limited within 20 miles of Finksburg. "We stayed at site D72 for 4 days. The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup" at Little Bennett Campground, one of the few offering comprehensive RV services in the area.
Leveling challenges: Bring blocks for uneven terrain. "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back" at Little Bennett, highlighting the importance of preparation for the region's hilly terrain.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer on-site services. "There is a dump station" at Merry Meadows, but other locations may require driving to separate facilities, so plan accordingly for longer stays.
