Little Orleans Campground provides rustic tent and RV camping options just 11 miles from Hancock, Maryland along the Potomac River. The campground features separate areas for tent campers and RVs with different amenities in each section. Tent camping sites occupy an open field with basic facilities including picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby porta-potties, while the RV section contains more developed infrastructure including a camp store, pavilion, basketball courts, and playground.
What to do
Water activities on the Potomac River: The Fifteen Mile Campground offers direct water access with a small boat ramp where "a number of kayakers, canoes, and paddle boarders made use. A lot of people fishing" according to Jeremy C. The campground sits alongside the C&O Canal towpath, making it ideal for combining paddling with hiking or cycling adventures.
Hiking the park trails: At Rocky Gap State Park Campground, campers can enjoy the 5-mile trail that completely encircles Lake Habeeb. "The 5 mile hike around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park," notes Jeff H. The park offers numerous additional hiking options through the forested landscape.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Little Orleans Campground maintains a pond stocked with fish for catch-and-release fishing. "The pond has a bunch of ducks that are VERY well fed," according to Sammii D., who noted the wildlife adds to the experience. The fishing area includes a gazebo where visitors can relax between casts.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: The campsites at Cowans Gap State Park offer generous spacing between neighbors. "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have your own sections of woods," explains Jeff H. This privacy creates a more secluded glamping experience near Hancock, Maryland.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness at Shawnee State Park Campground. "Bathroom and showers were clean, bright, and there is a dish washing sink outside. Showers were push button but pressure was great and the water was hot," reports Danielle S. The campground offers both electric and non-electric sites with varying levels of levelness.
Family entertainment: Jellystone Park Williamsport provides extensive activities for families. One visitor explained, "We had a blast and will be returning next season. Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had an ice-cream/quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly." The campground offers premium glamping accommodations near Hancock with organized family events.
What you should know
Site conditions vary by season: At Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday, wet weather can impact the experience. One camper reported, "The rains came and everything turned into mud. We had a rug laid down, but the mud and water worked its way through that. We couldn't enter the RV without tracking mode through it." Plan accordingly with extra mats or opt for one of their luxury glamping options during rainy periods.
Limited cell service: Fifteen Mile Campground offers a digital detox with minimal connectivity. The primitive campground provides basic amenities including pit toilets but no shower facilities. "Quiet during the week. Water access and biking/hiking trail. Beautiful place in the early morning hours," notes Jeremy S. about this serene location.
Reservation timing matters: For glamping in Hancock, Maryland area, weekend stays at popular sites fill quickly. At Rocky Gap, weekday camping provides more space and tranquility. "Mid week the campground was less than a third full, and the folks who were there were spread out so it felt more spacious than it was," explains Sue J.
Tips for camping with families
Water parks for hot days: When temperatures rise, Friendship Village Campground offers cooling options. "There are two pools at each end of the campground and they are very well-maintained and have lifeguard supervision," explains Christopher R. The pools open at 11 am on weekdays and noon on Sundays, providing structured water recreation.
Multiple playgrounds: Family-focused campgrounds offer diverse play options. Christopher R. notes that Friendship Village has "many playgrounds spread out across the property as well as a jumping pillow and a very well-built gaga ball pit." These amenities provide entertainment without leaving the campground.
Evening entertainment: Many campgrounds schedule family activities after dark. "The property had a movie showing in their barn on Saturday night (Despicable Me) and they also seem to schedule a lot of live entertainment, mostly Bluegrass," according to one Friendship Village reviewer, offering structured entertainment options for families enjoying glamping near Hancock.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before booking: At Rocky Gap State Park, site selection requires attention to leveling. "Many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches that did not provide sufficient area to maneuver a large rig into them," warns Gerard. This can be particularly challenging for larger rigs over 30 feet.
Location convenience varies: RVers appreciate Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA for its central location to attractions. "Set right next to the river and you fish if you want to. DO NOT follow your GPS. Follow the directions on the KOA Website," advises Kirk S. The campground provides easy access to historic sites once you're set up.
Narrow campground roads: At several area campgrounds, road navigation presents challenges. "The roads are very windy and narrow, and I can't imagine trying to maneuver a large RV in there," reports one camper about the Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA. Arriving during daylight hours makes navigation easier.
