Camping options around Hancock, Maryland include a mix of RV campgrounds and tent sites distributed along the Potomac River corridor at approximately 400 feet elevation. The area's humid continental climate brings hot summers and moderately cold winters with camping season typically running April through October, though several year-round facilities operate in the region. Most campgrounds offer water and electric hookups with gravel pads.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several camping areas offer direct river access for anglers. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing" notes camper Darcy S., while another visitor mentions "There is great fishing right from your campsite as well."
Historic exploration: The area provides excellent access to Civil War history and heritage sites. One visitor to Gettysburg Campground commented, "It's in the heart of the battlefield access points and trails," making it convenient for history enthusiasts.
Walking trails: Many campgrounds feature walking paths for casual exercise. A reviewer at Gary's Family Campground shared, "Plenty to do including hiking, mountain biking, a game room, library and Wi-Fi at the lodge. More of a nature experience for those who want to enjoy the beauty of West Virginia."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Waterfront sites are highly sought after in the region. According to one camper at Harpers Ferry Campground, "Our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water). We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus."
Swimming pools: During hot summer months, on-site pools provide relief from the heat. At Friendship Village Campground, visitors appreciate the "two swimming pools at each end of the campground and they are very well-maintained and have lifeguard supervision."
Recreation amenities: Families appreciate built-in entertainment options. One visitor noted that Friendship Village offers "mini golf, fishing, and special events on weekends," while another mentions "three playgrounds all different and all well kept."
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds near railways experience periodic noise disruption. A Harpers Ferry Campground visitor warned, "The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night."
Site spacing varies: Campground density differs significantly throughout the region. At Rvino - Ridge Rider Campground, a camper observed, "Sites are very close together with a couple trees in between, overall lots of trees."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. According to one visitor, "Fall brings increased traffic to these RV sites as travelers visit for foliage viewing, making advance reservations essential during peak seasons."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. At Friendship Village Campground, one visitor recommends, "The best sites to stay at if you have kids are sites 145–171 as those are right beside the jumping pillow, playground and gaga ball pit."
Weekend activities: Many RV parks Hancock, Maryland offer scheduled events. A visitor to Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA shared, "We stayed during Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate."
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. One camper at Rvino - Ridge Rider noted, "Bathhouses are in fair shape," while another mentioned, "The bathroom trailer near the campsites was extremely smelly, with many of the 4 toilets clogged."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several RV campsites require significant leveling. A visitor to Rvino - Ridge Rider reported, "Our site P1 is a full hook up pull through but it's really unlevel. We ran out of blocks trying to level on this site and were still off a bit."
Seasonal options: Year-round camping is available at select locations near Hancock. One RVer noted, "We stayed during the middle of the week, about half the campground was occupied," suggesting less crowded conditions during off-peak times.
Supply availability: Many campgrounds offer on-site stores for essentials. One visitor to Friendship Village Campground mentioned the camp store has "everything you need is here," while Harpers Ferry Campground offers "an Ale House above the office that delivers for free to your site (2.5 miles away), just tip the driver."
