Mountain terrain surrounding Bloomington, Maryland creates varied camping conditions from riverside settings to forested retreats. Recreational vehicle camping in this region requires navigating elevation changes that can impact access to certain parks, especially with larger motorhomes. Winter camping options remain available at select locations, with seasonal variations affecting site availability.
What to do
Stargazing platform access: At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, visitors can utilize a dedicated astronomy area for nighttime viewing. "We got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform," notes one camper, though another mentions "The star gazing platform leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair."
Riverside recreation: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground offers water activities directly from their beach area. A reviewer explains, "On the beach there are rafts, paddleboats, chairs, and across the river there is a ladder to climb up on the rocks." The primitive setting provides natural river access though "you do have to go down a bit of an incline to get there."
Trout fishing spots: Experienced anglers find productive fishing at Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort. "Great fishing. Very quiet. Full hookups for RVs including cable," shares one visitor, while another notes it's a "Great spot for fly fishing. Lots of hiking trails, fishing spots and caverns!"
What campers like
Private campsite spacing: Campers appreciate the secluded options at Brooklyn Heights. "Rustic, clean porta johns, private, primitive spots on river. Community fire rings on beach area," explains one reviewer. The natural setting maintains privacy between sites, creating a more wilderness-like experience.
Evening entertainment: The Blue Canoe RV Resort (formerly Uniontown KOA) offers scheduled activities. One camper notes it's "a pretty campground, clean and nice amenities," though opinions on management vary as "the management is rude and unfriendly."
Trail access: The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail runs directly through The Blue Canoe RV Resort. A reviewer reports, "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground... for through riders on the trail there is a special place to camp, close to the west-bound entrance."
What you should know
No-pet policies: Smoke Hole Caverns maintains restrictions on pets that sometimes surprise campers. "When we got here, we read signs about 'no pets', but they didn't ask when making the reservation, so we had no idea until a few days after being here," reports one guest who brought their dog anyway without issue.
Site leveling challenges: Expect uneven terrain at some campgrounds. At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, a camper found "The site was sloped pretty bad side to side and there is a drop off on the one side of the fire ring so we could not sit completely around the fire."
Limited big rig access: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground accommodates smaller RVs only. According to their listing, the campground can handle "5 short term RV sites near the river (RV's 30 foot or less recommended)," making it unsuitable for larger motorhomes.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground offers numerous amenities for younger campers. "Great place for kids! Family friendly atmosphere, cordial staff, well run campground. Lots of activities. Tree shaded sites!" writes one reviewer. Another adds, "They offer a game room, pool, mini golf, a full camp store, firewood, etc."
Road surface considerations: Gravel roads affect bicycle usage at some parks. One camper at Benner's Meadow Run notes, "Roads are all gravel so no bikes or scooters for kids," which may impact planning for families with children who enjoy cycling at campgrounds.
Space for exploration: The Blue Canoe RV Resort provides open areas for children. A reviewer mentions, "Located on the Youghiogheny River. Many full hookups, great play ground for the kids." The riverside location offers additional exploration opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Electric service variations: Riverside Cabins and RV Park provides water and electric hookups for RV camping near Bloomington, Maryland, with higher amperage available. "We tent camped and Steve (owner) took us down to the bank of the south branch of the Potomac. Perfect!" shares one satisfied guest, highlighting the personal service.
Dump station availability: Not all parks offer this service, requiring planning for longer stays. At Double G Campground, a reviewer mentions the "Nice full hook up sites and cable TV," noting it has "not a whole lot in the way of amenities, but it's a nice facility."
Site separation concerns: Fire ring placement can affect privacy between neighboring RVs. At The Blue Canoe RV Resort, a camper observed, "the fire rings are all in sight of each other. Like a row parallel to the sites all the way down the line; not much privacy while cooking or enjoying your fire."
