Friendsville, Maryland sits at the confluence of multiple watersheds at approximately 1,900 feet elevation in the Allegheny Mountains. The region experiences cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 40s even during summer months. Campsites throughout the area typically remain open from April through October, though several campgrounds offer year-round accommodations with varying levels of winterization.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 3-4 miles round-trip. Swallow Falls State Park Campground contains Muddy Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall in Maryland at 53 feet. "The trails to the namesake falls are beautiful and very family-friendly, with lots of helpful signage. However, the parking lots and trailheads were PACKED on the weekend, so if you're a day tripper, get there early!"
Mountain biking: Accessible from multiple campgrounds. The Great Allegheny Passage provides miles of trail access directly from Outflow Camping. "The campground is right along the Great Allegheny Passage, and the Yough river and lake. It is a great place if you like to bike, paddle, or fish." Many cyclists use this campground as a basecamp for longer rides.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or dusk. The forests around Friendsville contain abundant deer populations. At Savage River State Forest, campers report regular wildlife sightings. "We spotted a raccoon, a bunny, a chipmunk, and (along the nearby roads) lots of deer - don't drive too fast!" The area is also known for spectacular firefly displays during summer months.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many first-come options available. Savage River State Forest offers extremely separated campsites that provide solitude. "The sites are very spread out, and not very consistent in size/quality. We were able to nab site 112 and it was fantastic: lots of space, and privacy too." Sites are often positioned along small streams that provide ambient noise.
Clean facilities: Recently renovated in several campgrounds. Shower facilities receive consistent praise at most established campgrounds. "Bathhouse in our loop was old and small, but kept very clean. I never used the shower, as it was too cold, but it looked adequate." Many campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules throughout peak season.
Historical connections: Free exhibits available. Several campgrounds have interesting historical ties. At Swallow Falls State Park, "Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs camped on the site in 1918, and 1921." These historical connections often appear on interpretive signs throughout the parks.
What you should know
Bear activity: Proper food storage required. Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground provides bear boxes at each site. "Bears are common so they emplaced a big old bear box at every site. It's enough room to hold your food for a month of camping!" Never leave food in tents or vehicles with windows cracked.
Cell service limitations: Plan accordingly. Most campgrounds have limited or no cell reception. "Note that there is very little to no cell phone reception in the park, so combined with the lack of hookups, this is definitely an unplugged, 'connect with nature' type of camping experience." Download maps and information before arrival.
Reservation requirements: Book 6+ months ahead for summer. Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. "Book early for holidays." Many campgrounds open reservations 6-12 months in advance, with prime summer weekends booking within hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Available at multiple parks. Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground offers numerous child-friendly activities. "Great place for kids! Family friendly atmosphere, cordial staff, well run campground. Lots of activities. Tree shaded sites!" Activities often include scheduled events on weekends.
Swimming opportunities: Best in July-August. Lake areas provide supervised swimming during summer months. "The lake is crystal clear. The swim area is overcrowded but maintained well and clean." Most swimming beaches have designated hours with lifeguards during peak season.
Star-gazing platforms: Night-time family activity. Several campgrounds feature designated star-gazing areas. "They even have a star-gazing point/trail." Bring red-light flashlights to preserve night vision while navigating to these areas after dark.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Choose sites carefully. Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run offers variable site conditions for RVs. "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." Request specific sites when making reservations.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Friendsville: Limited designated loops. Many campgrounds around Friendsville allow pets but restrict them to specific camping loops. "There are two loops - one pet friendly, one not. The larger (not pet friendly) loop is nearer the lake." Most dog-friendly accommodations require leashes no longer than 6 feet.
Seasonal camper presence: Impacts available sites. Many campgrounds around Friendsville have a high percentage of seasonal occupants. "Lots of seasonal campers fill their space to the brim with tent garages, so the Creekside loop, at least, feels a little like a suburban street, but still quiet." This can create a neighborhood-like atmosphere during peak season.
Guide
