Camping options near Hagerstown, Maryland range from riverside retreats along the Potomac to farm-based experiences with livestock interactions. The area sits at the intersection of three states—Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia—creating diverse camping environments from mountain views to river access points. Most campgrounds in the region operate at elevations between 400-800 feet, experiencing hot summers and mild spring and fall camping conditions.
What to do
Tube down the Shenandoah River: Brunswick Family Campground offers direct river access where you can cool off during summer months. "The Shanandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical Campground showers perfect for the campground life," notes one camper who made multiple visits to Brunswick Family Campground.
Explore historical sites: With Gettysburg just 25-35 miles from many Hagerstown area campgrounds, history buffs can easily visit the battlefields. "Visiting the outlets or Gettysburg battlefield is close by. I would stay here again," mentions a reviewer about Drummer Boy Camping Resort, which is about a mile from downtown Gettysburg.
Interact with farm animals: Families can feed and visit with livestock at certain campgrounds. "Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn. Prefect campground for the family," shares a camper who stayed at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm.
Hike above Harpers Ferry: The trail system near Harpers Ferry offers elevation and views. "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don't let this deter you from completing it," advises a visitor to Harpers Ferry.
What campers like
Riverfront camping sites: Many campers appreciate having direct water access. "All spots are along the water. We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus," says a visitor to Harpers Ferry Campground, where sites offer Potomac River views.
Water recreation amenities: The water features at some campgrounds are popular with families. "Great campground, close to Gettysburg but far enough to escape. 2 pools which is a bonus," mentions a summer visitor to Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Well-maintained pools: Clean swimming facilities make hot summer days more enjoyable. "The pool with the slide was very clean. We would definitely go back to this place again despite the couple of cons," notes a camper who stayed at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Convenient C&O Canal access: Cyclists appreciate campgrounds that connect to regional trails. "Also situated on the C&O canal, so you could walk or bike for miles in either direction for hours! Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail," explains a Brunswick Family Campground visitor.
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Several campgrounds in the region sit near active train lines. "The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night," warns a camper about their experience at Harpers Ferry Campground.
Seasonal closures for amenities: Water features typically close outside summer months. "The splash park...closed early, maybe 3, and 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," shares a disappointed visitor to Jellystone Park in Williamsport.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds have tighter arrangements than others. "Trees lined the sides of our site which was nice for privacy and shade but the site was really narrow which didn't leave much room for a patio to sit outside with our friends," notes a visitor to Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Walking distances within larger campgrounds: Some properties require internal transportation. "For some places within the campground, it's hard to find regular car/truck parking," mentions a visitor who noted that golf carts are common transportation at some larger rv sites near Hagerstown, Maryland.
Tips for camping with families
Check water park schedules: Call ahead to confirm operating hours for water amenities. "My daughter was excited about the little water park. Because it was early June, I emailed prior to booking to make sure that the water park would be open during the week and was assured that it would be. When we got there, it was not open," cautions a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Look for organized activities: Some campgrounds offer regular scheduled events for children. "They have themed weekend events, live music, bingo, golf cart parades, and potluck," shares a camper who visited Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Consider bathroom proximity for tent campers: Bathroom locations matter when choosing tent sites. "Only downside is the walk to the bathrooms if you tent camp. A long walk if you really got to go," advises a tent camper at Western Village RV Park.
Book early for holiday weekends: Summer and fall holidays fill quickly at popular campgrounds. "We camped here in May for Memorial Day weekend. We usually avoid holidays but gave this campground a try. It was pretty full and everyone seemed to have a golf cart," reports a visitor to Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Check site size and configuration: RV sites near Hagerstown, Maryland vary greatly in size. "Our site was on a significant hill and had NO view of anything but other seasonal campers. While the site was shaded, it was also on a significant hill," shares a camper about Round Top Campground.
Verify sewer hookup placement: Awkward sewer connections can cause drainage issues. "The biggest complaint about our site was that the sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly," notes an RVer who stayed at Drummer Boy.
Request pull-through sites when available: Pull-through sites simplify arrival and departure. "A perk for us for our first trip with a camper was the pull thru sites," mentions a first-time RVer staying at Jellystone Park in Williamsport.
Consider seasonal options for regular visitors: Some campers opt for seasonal arrangements. "We have possibly considered becoming 'seasonals' ourselves at this place. Everyone here pretty much has golf carts & drives them everywhere," shares a visitor considering a longer-term arrangement at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
