Frederick, Maryland sits at the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains with elevations ranging from 300 to 1,900 feet. The area experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 72-87°F and winter temperatures typically between 24-41°F. Campsites in the region offer varied terrain from riverside flatlands to mountain slopes with rocky outcroppings that create natural boundaries between sites.
What to do
Hiking at Catoctin Mountain: Access trails directly from Owens Creek Campground where marked paths offer varied difficulty levels. "My wife and I decided one Saturday morning and came across Owens Creek online... After setting up camp, we went for a walk along the creek and played in the water," shares Matthew K. The creek access provides natural water play areas during summer months.
Water activities on the Potomac: Riverside campsites at Brunswick Family Campground provide direct river access. "The Shanandoah River parallels the campground. The river is beautifully clean clear and cool," notes Brian S. The campground's boat ramp allows for easy kayak and canoe launching without hauling equipment long distances.
Historical exploration: Camp near Civil War battlefields and historic sites. As one visitor notes, "Harpers Ferry is a cute little historic town and the hiking is amazing, being right on the Appalachian Trail." The region offers numerous day trips to historic landmarks, many within 15-30 minutes of Frederick area campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious sites at Little Bennett: Little Bennett Campground offers generous camping spaces. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," according to Ray & Terri F. The campground maintains significant vegetation between sites creating natural privacy screens.
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate creek and river access. "We stayed in site number two. It was a perfect site, you can't see the facilities but it was a short walk across the creek. We were able to set up our tent maybe five feet from the creek so we could hear it babble when we went to sleep," shares Andrea S. about Gambrill State Park.
Mountain views and forest settings: The natural forest canopy creates cooling shade during summer months. "We camped in the Dogwood Loop... The site was well looked after with camp hosts that seemed very attentive and thoughtful. Good rangers who showed up to help when needed," shares Andrew M. about Cunningham Falls State Park.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds near rivers also border train tracks. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "The river views were amazing, but face the other way and you're looking at a 15 or so foot CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains," reports Sherri C.
Seasonal crowding: Summer weekends see heavy usage at popular spots. "This is a beautiful park with a lake, beach, and swimming area. Fishing is allowed. There are lots of hiking trails. The only downsides are how crowded it can get peak season," observes Beth C. Many campgrounds recommend reservations 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Variable facilities: Bathroom and shower quality varies considerably between parks. "Bathroom facilities were close enough and had hot and cold water, showers, flush toilets, and showers. All were spotless," notes Elinor about Greenbrier, while other campgrounds receive mixed reviews for cleanliness and maintenance.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly activities: Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area offers kid-appropriate features. "This was the first site we took kiddos to and it was a fun little trip. The aforementioned Falls were busy and viewing was a bit rough between crowds... The Lower Falls Trail is short but great for younger kids," reports Kate S.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Great campground. A bit pricey, but has a full hookup loop. Other loops are tent only. Wonderful bath house. Lots of stuff to do," notes PattyD T. about Little Bennett Campground, making it suitable for families needing structured activities.
Pet policies: Dog-friendly trails and sites exist throughout the region. "We were in the dogwood loop. Positives: Big, immaculately groomed tent pads... Our two dogs loved this campground!" shares Sarah K. Always check specific pet rules as they vary by location, with some parks restricting dogs from beach areas or requiring leashes of specific lengths.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Note slope details for larger rigs. "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," cautions Matt S. about Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA.
Site space variations: RV sites differ significantly in size and proximity. "The sites were well-maintained for mid-Spring. It appeared that chipped wood from downed trees was used to cover all the campsites, giving it a very clean appearance and eliminating any gravel or mud," notes M.J. at Gambrill State Park, though mentioning that larger rigs "just fit" in some sites.
Utility connections: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary by campground. Some offer full hookups while others provide only electric or no hookups. Cell service quality also varies greatly with mountainous terrain affecting signal strength.
