Dispersed camping near Frostburg, Maryland offers free primitive options throughout the rugged Appalachian foothills with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 feet. These areas experience temperature swings that can exceed 30°F between day and night, especially at higher elevations. The region's forest service roads typically close from late November through April due to snow and ice conditions.
What to do
Fishing in mountain streams: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area has accessible fishing spots suitable for teaching beginners. "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired," notes Frank G. about the Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area.
Hiking on varied terrain: The region features multiple trail systems with different difficulty levels. "We hiked in in warm weather and once we reached the top of a long entrance road (where one trailhead was) we found snow," explains Lucille W. about Dolly Sods Backcountry. Some trails connect directly to campsites: "Paths to walk right from the site," reports Justine I. about Canaan Loop Road.
Winter camping: The area offers challenging but rewarding cold-weather opportunities. "It snowed but we didn't die 🤣. We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered," shares Rhea B. about camping on Canaan Loop Road. Clayton S. adds, "I really enjoyed the Caanan Loop Road. It's all dispersed camping and if you have a 4x4 you can complete the loop."
What campers like
Unique ecosystems: The higher elevation areas feature distinctive plant communities. "Dolly Sods is absolutely gorgeous and is a completely different and unique ecosystem than the surrounding area," writes Lucille W. Sean M. elaborates: "The sods are a truly wild and remote place in an increasingly crowded East coast."
Secluded, ready-made sites: Many primitive camping areas have established sites. "We found a very pleasant back-in spot about a mile or so in," Scott R. writes about Canaan Loop Road Dispersed. At Squirrel Gap Road, "Decent sized area, stone fire ring, plenty of firewood," according to Dexter V.
Proximity to parks: Some dispersed camping areas serve as gateways to state parks. "There are some that are about 4 mile hike to blackwater falls state park," notes Lillian R. Kelly G. mentions that Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed provides "Great location near Dolly Sods Wilderness" and is "a 2.5 mile, 2000' climb to get to the trailhead for Bear Rocks Trail in Bear Rocks Preserve."
What you should know
Unmarked sites: Most dispersed camping areas lack official markers. "There are no trail marks and the path can be confusing. Come prepared and have a great physical map and compass," advises Sean M.
Variable road conditions: Access roads deteriorate quickly in bad weather. "If you come in from the east, it's a very well maintained road for any vehicle, but the last mile or two you need a 4x4," explains Clayton S. about Canaan Loop Road.
Bear precautions required: Bears are active throughout the region. Megan B. warns, "Bear country so bring a cannister or hang your food" in Squirrel Hollow Road Camping.
Muddy terrain: Wet ground is common year-round. "Still snow on the ground and very wet in early April," notes Jacob about Canaan Loop Road. Another camper describes certain trails as having "shoe sucking mud" and "countless bogs."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access sites: For families with younger children, seek car-accessible locations. "Sites are located less than a mile from the paved highway. We found 5 spots just off the road. All were easily accessible by car or with a small teardrop trailer," reports Kevin C. about Squirrel Hollow Road.
Pine forest sites: Areas with pine needle ground cover provide more comfortable tent locations. "We found a nice site in the pine trees! Perfect for 2 vehicles and 5 people hammock camping," shares Michael H. Justine adds about Canaan Loop Road: "The moss was like walking on carpet."
Teach navigation skills: Use dispersed camping as an opportunity for kids to learn map reading. "No trail markers, no toilets, and no running water. It's the real deal," explains Sean M. about Squirrel Gap Rd Dispersed, making it ideal for teaching older children outdoor skills.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Some forest roads accommodate modest trailers. Kevin C. mentions Squirrel Hollow Road has sites "easily accessible by car or with a small teardrop trailer." These sites are "quiet at night" with "some traffic related to logging activity."
Road width limitations: Most forest roads are narrow with limited turning space. Clayton notes about Canaan Loop Road: "RVs may have trouble turning around." Large motorhomes and trailers should avoid these areas entirely.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping with RVs is extremely difficult. "We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered. It was muddy and snowy but our Subaru made it fine about half way into Canaan loop road," reports Rhea B., suggesting RVs avoid winter visits.
