Cabin camping near Dickerson, Maryland provides access to the Potomac River watershed at elevations between 250-400 feet. The area experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F from June through August and mild winters. Spring and fall camping seasons offer comfortable temperatures in the 60-70°F range with lower humidity levels, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Hiking on the C&O Canal Towpath: At Brunswick Family Campground, you can access miles of hiking along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. "The C&O canal towpath cuts right through to allow for some great walks," notes one visitor who stayed in the cabins at Brunswick.
Water activities on the Potomac: Take advantage of the river access for kayaking, tubing, or fishing. "The Shanandoah River is beautifully clean clear and cool," according to a camper who visited Brunswick Family Campground, making it ideal for summer water recreation.
Visit historic Harpers Ferry: Only 6 miles from Harpers Ferry Campground, you can explore this significant historic site. "Harpers Ferry Lower Town and Bolivar Heights are a few minutes by car (or shuttle from the Visitor Center)," mentions a reviewer who used the camp as a base for exploration.
Mountain biking trails: Frederick Watershed near Gambrill State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks. "Right outside the park is the Frederick watershed where many locals take advantage of the trails for mountain biking," explains a reviewer who appreciated the park's proximity to these trails.
What campers like
Riverside cabin views: The cabins along the Potomac offer scenic vantages. "Great Potomac river views" and "Weather-proof cabin with comfy bunks" were highlights for one camper at Brunswick Family Campground.
Privacy between sites: At Little Bennett Campground, campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. "Lots of vegetation between sites providing privacy from neighbors," notes a reviewer who stayed in 2022.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers make stays more comfortable. "Wonderful bath house. Lots of stuff to do," mentioned a camper who gave Little Bennett Campground five stars.
Trail networks: The variety of hiking options receives consistent praise. "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly," according to a Little Bennett visitor who appreciated being able to bring their dog along on hikes.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin facilities have limited operating seasons. "Spotty Wi-Fi" and "No satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy" were noted by a Little Bennett Campground visitor, suggesting you should plan accordingly for connectivity issues.
Campground access: Some locations have specific entry requirements. At Cherry Hill Park, "Entrance gate required entry code" and campers are "instructed by staff via gate phone to proceed to campsite."
Noise factors: Be prepared for occasional train noise at certain campgrounds. "The CNO railroad runs pretty close. It's not super loud, just wanted to make you aware," warns a Brunswick Family Campground visitor.
Weather considerations: Spring camping may encounter wet conditions. "The site was level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back" noted a camper at Little Bennett during a rainy period.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At Bull Run Regional Park, "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation for children. "There is a small camp store, but the campground is convenient to ample grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants as well as many local historic attractions," mentions a Brunswick Family Campground visitor.
Special programming: Weekend activities can enhance family stays. "Great 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," reported a visitor to Little Bennett.
Safety considerations: Plan for varying terrain with children. "It's a small family owned campground. The store is very small and it's in a travel trailer so there's not much selection there is ice and firewood for sale," noted a Brunswick Family Campground visitor, emphasizing the need to come prepared.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "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 a visitor to Harpers Ferry KOA, recommending careful site selection for larger rigs.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment. "Site #D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," noted an RVer at Little Bennett Campground.
Hookup availability: Verify utility connections before booking. "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)," advises a Little Bennett camper about connectivity and loop selection.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points. "The road into the campground was badly in need of repair," reported a Brunswick visitor, suggesting caution when arriving with larger vehicles.
