RV camping near Sykesville, Maryland places visitors in the piedmont region where Maryland's coastal plain rises into the Appalachian foothills. Elevation ranges from 400-700 feet in this area, with mild springs and falls ideal for camping. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing from December through February, making seasonal closures common at many regional campgrounds.
What to do
Explore historic Gettysburg: Located about an hour from Sykesville, Drummer Boy Camping Resort provides easy access to Gettysburg National Military Park. "It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," notes camper David G.
Kayak the Bush River: Waterfront sites at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina provide direct water access. "Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the waters edge," writes Janet P.
Mini-golf and more: Family activities abound at many campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, campers enjoy "mini-golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area," according to Laure D., while also interacting with farm animals as "the campground offers free mini golf" and various seasonal activities.
What campers like
Waterfront access: The Bush River setting at Bar Harbor RV Park offers fishing opportunities directly from campsites. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks," explains Casey L.
Farm animal interactions: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm provides unique agricultural experiences. "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here! We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares Kasey M.
Pool facilities: Many campgrounds offer swimming options during summer months. At Cherry Hill Park, "There is a swimming pool, ball courts, fishing pond, mini golf (which was in pretty sad shape), and more," according to Nancy W., while others mentioned "a pool with the slide was very clean."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: At Harpers Ferry Campground, trains pass regularly. "There is 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. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will," cautions Sherri C.
Site privacy varies: Campground layouts differ significantly. At Round Top Campground, "While the site was shaded, it was also on a significant hill and had NO view of anything but other seasonal campers," reports Jeremy K., adding that sites can be "tight" with limited separation.
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds close during winter months. Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm operates from "April 11 to October 26," while Harpers Ferry Campground runs from "April 1 to October 31," requiring advance planning for off-season visits.
Tips for camping with families
Animal interactions: Farm-based camping provides unique experiences for children. "The kids LOVED the animals and we fed them at the allotted time every morning and went to visit at other times," shares melissa at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, though she noted "not too much for kids to do but hang out with the animals."
Playground access: Consider campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. Round Top Campground received mixed reviews with one camper noting "there was only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down."
Riverfront safety: When camping with children near water, select appropriate sites. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "Our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water). We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus," writes Mikala S., though proximity to water requires supervision.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Be prepared with leveling equipment. At Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, "Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable," according to Mike H., while Thomas adds "our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."
Site selection strategy: Look for end 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," recommends Scott C.
Utility placement challenges: RVers report unusual utility configurations at some parks. At Round Top Campground, "Water and electric are in award spot on our site," notes Alice G., while others mentioned difficult sewer connections requiring extensions at multiple campgrounds.
