Camping options near Hancock, Maryland span across the Maryland-Pennsylvania border along the Potomac River at elevations ranging from 400-1,000 feet. The region's dense Appalachian woodlands create primarily shaded campsites with typical summer highs in the 80s and winter lows that can drop below freezing. Most dispersed camping areas in this region don't have designated water sources, requiring campers to bring adequate supplies.
What to do
**Trail exploration: Access to local hiking networks across several camping areas makes this area popular for outdoor recreation. At Michaux State Forest, one camper noted, "These trips are what gave me the experience, and confidence, to go from tent camping to tarp camping." Trails range from beginner-friendly loops to challenging backcountry routes.
**Wildlife watching: Early mornings offer the best viewing opportunities for local wildlife. "The lake and the trails around it are beautiful. Great swimming and kayaking/small boating," reported a visitor at Shawnee State Park Campground.
**Historical sites: Within 30-45 minutes of most local campgrounds are significant historical landmarks. "If you stay here, make sure to travel down the road to see the Flight 93 Memorial," suggested one Shawnee State Park camper.
What campers like
**Accessibility to waterways: Many campsites provide direct water access. At The Cove Campground, campers appreciate "a large lake for the kids, and miles of off road trails for atvs, jeeps, and dirtbikes."
**Diverse terrain: The varied landscape creates different camping experiences throughout the region. "Appalachian mountain range, not bad with 4wheel drive. Stayed first at camp, moved to atv parking. Very remote and atvs in and out," reported a visitor to Michaux State Forest.
**Equestrian-friendly trails: While dedicated horse amenities are limited, trail access makes this region suitable for day rides. According to a local rider, "Michaux sits on the northern terminus of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and though they are scarcely more than foothills here compared to their majesty in more well-known areas like TN, NC, and VA, it is a place of peace and beauty all the same."
What you should know
**Permit requirements: Most primitive campsites in state forests require permits. "Camping is free in several areas throughout Michaux State Forest (as well as other PA State Forests), BUT you usually need to have a camping permit (also free) and you can only stay in designated campsites," explains one regular visitor.
**Site selection challenges: Many campgrounds have variable site quality. At Gettysburg Campground, "The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs on your head, car, or table."
**Horse camping considerations: For equestrians, specific sites have minimal accommodations. "Designated motorized parking lot sites also serve as equestrian sites, and horse camping is allowed here. Teaberry has a few hitching posts and a two step mounting block available," notes a reviewer familiar with horse campgrounds near Hancock, Maryland.
Tips for camping with families
**Age-appropriate activities: Several campgrounds offer family-focused amenities. "It is a wonderful place to have Kids. tons of things for them to do. we were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river," shared a Gettysburg Campground visitor.
**Site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. "The sites are spacious with a ton of tree coverage. Easy access to the dump station as you exit. It's not directly on the lake but there is a ton of parking and easy access points," noted a camper at Teaberry Parking Area Campsites.
**Seasonal planning: Summer weekends typically require reservations 2-3 months in advance. The Cove Campground visitors mentioned, "We camped in October and we had pretty much the entire place to ourselves. Beautiful lake and overall picturesque setting. Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun."
Tips from RVers
**Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. A Monday in mid-October had many open sites. Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level," explained a Shawnee State Park visitor.
**Road conditions: Access roads to horse campgrounds near Hancock require careful navigation. "The road is gravel and could use some work, I'd recommend 4x4 drive," advised a camper at Peggy's Hill Parking Area Campsites.
**Hook-up availability: Electric and water connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected. Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32' coach and a toad."
