RV camping near Jarrettsville, Maryland provides access to the rolling hills and dense woodlands of the Piedmont Plateau region, where elevations range from 300 to 800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 85-90°F and moderately cold winters that can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region are situated along waterways like the Bush River and Susquehanna, offering water activities alongside traditional camping amenities.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, campers can enjoy fishing on the property. "Great place to go fishing!" notes Anna H. The campground combines outdoor recreation with a working farm environment.
Visit historic sites: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring nearby historic attractions. When staying at Drummer Boy Camping Resort, you can easily access Gettysburg battlefield just 10 minutes away. David G. confirms it's "literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do."
Farm animal interactions: Unique to the region, some campgrounds incorporate agricultural experiences. At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, families can participate in scheduled animal feeding. One visitor shared: "We enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires."
What Campers Like
Waterfront camping spots: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers sites directly on the water. Janet P. notes, "Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the water's edge."
Well-maintained pools: Thousand Trails Circle M receives high marks for its aquatic amenities. "They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground. We were down by the river and had a lot of room on our site," says Leanne B., highlighting the dual swimming options available regardless of weather.
Themed events: Seasonal programming enhances the camping experience at many regional campgrounds. Laura D. from Drummer Boy Camping Resort mentions, "A yard sale, vendor sale, golf cart parade, as well as other activities going on. The campground offers free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area."
What You Should Know
Site levelness varies significantly: Many campgrounds in the region have challenging terrain. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, Sammii D. warns, "Campground loses a star because the sites are pretty uneven. Not just the one we're on but others as well. The campground is pretty hilly and they don't seem to want to level out the sites."
Seasonal availability: While some campgrounds operate year-round, many have limited seasons. Spring Gulch Resort Campground operates from "Mar 21 - Dec 1," while Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm runs from "April 11 to October 26."
Water system inconsistencies: Some campers report challenges with water connections. Justin B. notes at PA Dutch Country, "Water was rusty in our row came out brown at first then was tan after running through our filter for the entire stay."
Tips for Camping with Families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's programming: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers specialized family activities. "Great pools and classes (water aerobics was fun for everyone)," says Meag F., highlighting options beyond typical playground equipment.
Consider unique accommodation options: Beyond traditional RV sites, some campgrounds offer novelty lodging. Jen R. notes that Lake-In-Wood Campground has "a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others."
Look for campgrounds with animal interactions: Children often enjoy wildlife encounters. A visitor to Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm shared, "The kids LOVED the animals and we fed them at the allotted time every morning and went to visit at other times."
Tips from RVers
Check site access carefully: RV campers should research approach routes. Laure D. from Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina advises, "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution."
Consider pull-through availability: At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, pull-through sites simplify the camping experience. Phinon W. notes, "Most of the campsite options are fairly level, but are very rocky, so this is something to keep in mind if you are tent camping."
Research seasonal sites vs. transient areas: Many campgrounds have distinct sections. Nancy W. points out that at Drummer Boy, "There are lots of seasonals in the campground with 'stuff' spread out everywhere around their campsites. We were in a transient section in the back of the park with long pull-thrus (about 100-feet long) that comfortably fit our RV and car."