Most campgrounds near Gaithersburg, Maryland sit between 250-450 feet in elevation, offering moderate temperatures that range from winter lows in the 20s to summer highs in the 90s. The region experiences distinct seasons with spring and fall providing the most comfortable camping conditions. Seasonal rainfall creates occasional drainage issues at some sites, particularly during the April-June period when the area receives an average of 3-4 inches of precipitation monthly.
What to do
Hiking on the C&O Canal: Brunswick Family Campground provides direct access to the historic C&O Canal towpath. "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," notes a visitor at Brunswick Family Campground.
Military history exploration: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp offers a strategic location for historical sightseeing. "National Marine Corp Museum just around corner. DC just up the road," explains one camper, adding that "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby."
Water recreation: Take advantage of river access at multiple campgrounds. A Brunswick camper explains, "The Shenandoah river parallels the campground. The river is beautifully clean clear and cool," while another mentions it's "Easy to walk into the river or tube down it."
What campers like
Direct river access: Waterfront sites are highly valued in the region. "Our site was on the river with a short walk to the boat ramp and access. It was very quiet, serene, & clean," reports a visitor at Brunswick Family Campground. Similarly, at Harpers Ferry, campers appreciate being "right on the Potomac."
Pool facilities: During hot summer months, swimming pools become essential amenities. At Cherry Hill Park, campers mention "two pools, splash pad, paved roads for scootering." Another camper adds that the "pool, playgrounds, game room, camp store, pavilions" make it an ideal base for exploring.
Spacious pull-through sites: Bull Run Regional Park earns praise for site design. "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone," explains one reviewer, while another notes, "sites are nicely spread out."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds have railroad tracks nearby. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "the train which was 12 feet up a hill across the road from the site" can be disruptive, though one camper notes "our 1 yr old slept perfectly through it so it isn't too bothersome." At Brunswick, trains from the nearby station "can be heard at all times of the night."
Seasonal operation: Many facilities close during winter months. Brunswick Family Campground operates from "March 25 to November 1," limiting options for winter camping. Similarly, Drummer Boy Camping Resort in nearby Gettysburg has a season from "April 1 to October 31."
Variable site quality: Site conditions vary significantly, even within the same campground. At Round Top Campground, a camper reported their "site was unlevel and poorly maintained," while another mentioned "sites have reasonable spacing with gravel pads, mostly level."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Evaluate playground location before booking. A camper at Bull Run Regional Park appreciated the "playgrounds" and "climbing wall" but noted the campground offers "many amenities." One family mentioned "the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish."
Kid-friendly activities: Look for scheduled events that appeal to children. "They have themed weekend events, live music, bingo, golf cart parades, and potluck," shares a visitor to Drummer Boy Camping Resort, while Bull Run offers "a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides."
Swimming options: Pools provide reliable water recreation regardless of river conditions. At Drummer Boy Camping Resort, "the pool with the slide was very clean" according to one family, while another mentioned "free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area."
Tips from RVers
Utility placement: Check hookup locations when selecting sites. At Round Top, one RVer noted "Water and electric are in award spot on our site," complicating their setup process. Similarly, Prince William Forest RV Campground reviews mention that "some sites do not have sewer connections."
Variable water pressure: Be prepared for inconsistent water supply at some locations. A Round Top visitor reported "water pressure is low," recommending campers bring water pressure regulators and extra hoses to reach distant connections.
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature sloped sites. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, a reviewer cautions "the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level," while another at Bull Run mentioned their "site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
