Glamping near Frederick, Maryland offers a range of climate-specific camping experiences through different seasons. The region sits at elevations between 300-1,700 feet in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, creating varied camping conditions. Temperatures can range from 20°F in winter to upper 80s in summer, with fall camping during leaf-peeping season requiring additional planning for crowds.
What to do
Hike to scenic overlooks: At Annapolis Rock Campground, campers access impressive viewpoints via the Appalachian Trail. "About a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private. No camp fires allowed. Short walk to cold natural spring for water. Short walk to Annapolis rock. Rock climbing available," notes Christopher B.
Enjoy water recreation: The river access at Brunswick Family Campground provides swimming and paddling opportunities. "The Shenandoah River and the campground enjoy. The river is beautifully clean clear and cool," shares Brian S. Many sites offer direct river views and easy water access.
Visit historical sites: Explore Civil War history at nearby battlefields. "Location, Location, Location! Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door. Harpers Ferry Lower Town and Bolivar Heights are a few minutes by car," explains Matt S. regarding the area's historical significance.
What campers like
Diverse campsite options: Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park offers various camping loops with different levels of amenities. "There are 149 sites to choose from, yes...149...in five different loops that continue to wind their way up the mountain. There are very few electric sites on the three lower loops, the fourth loop is all electric sites," says Dave V.
Family-friendly entertainment: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park provides extensive child-focused activities. "Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had a ice-cream/quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly. Lots to do for kids of all ages, gaga pit tournaments at night, movies, hay rides," reports David S.
Fall foliage experiences: The region transforms during autumn months. "The campsites have trees and some privacy. Near to the falls though I think walking from the campsite would have been tough with the kid," shares Andrew M. about enjoying seasonal colors at Cunningham Falls while maintaining realistic expectations for young hikers.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines. 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," warns Sherri C.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Manor Area at Cunningham Falls has limitations. "The only bathroom was not very centrally located so used my portable toilet," mentions Jakob D., while at Little Bennett Campground, "Toilet/shower facility very clean" according to Ray & Terri F.
Off-season considerations: Water features may close early. "I overheard something about it being shut down for the year. Wait, what!? How is that possible when I called to prevent this type of thing from happening," reports David about Jellystone Park's water attractions.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule around facility hours at Little Bennett Campground. "This is a good regional campground with activities for kids on special days. Took our grand daughter there for her first camping trip and she loved the bouncing strawberry and the hikes. She was 3 or 4 at the time," shares Georgia H.
Bring proper gear: Bug protection is essential in certain areas. "Even though this seems like it's in the trees there was actually no shade! Literally hundreds of gnats outside my tent and it was April! Can't imagine how bad it is in the summer," warns Jakob D. about the Manor Area.
Choose sites strategically: Family campgrounds can get crowded. "My family loves this camp ground. It's conveniently located, it's quite, it's beautiful and there is plenty to do to keep the kids busy," Ryan D. says about Little Bennett, emphasizing the importance of selecting sites that balance accessibility with privacy.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: At Ramblin' Pines, "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," cautions Matt S.
Hookup availability: Electric access varies between campgrounds. "D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C&E are tents only. AT&T 5 MB/s w/o booster(1 bar), 8 MB/s with it(2 bars). There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy," explains Ray & Terri F. about Little Bennett Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Many full-service RV parks have limited seasons. "Out-of-state campers pay higher camping fee than Maryland residents,$66/night. No senior or veteran discount," notes Napunani about fees at Little Bennett, which operates primarily from April through October.
