Camping areas near Fairplay, Maryland sit at elevations between 350-500 feet, where the Potomac River valley creates a moderate climate with typical summer highs of 85-90°F and winter lows reaching 20-25°F. The region receives approximately 43 inches of annual precipitation, creating seasonal water level fluctuations that impact camping accessibility at riverside sites. Most campgrounds maintain operating seasons from April through October with limited off-season facilities.
What to do
Hiking on Catoctin Mountain trails: At Owens Creek Campground, visitors can access numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. "The trail we used is marked multi-use, and by plentiful hoofprints, appeared to be used mostly by equestrians," notes one camper. The campground connects to over 26 miles of trails in this area.
Paddling the Potomac: McCoys Ferry Campground offers direct river access with boat ramp facilities. "McCoys Ferry: River Sites. O & C Canal close. Cumberland is a must city to visit - museum and NP Visitor Center," reports a visitor. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting paddling conditions.
Historical exploration: The region's Civil War heritage provides numerous exploration opportunities within 30 minutes of local campgrounds. "Harpers Ferry is a cute little historic town and the hiking is amazing, being right on the Appalachian Trail," states one camper who stayed at Harpers Ferry Campground.
Rail trail cycling: Several campgrounds connect directly to rail-trail systems. "The Western Maryland Rail Trail runs rite along the campground so if you like bike riding, take advantage," explains a McCoys Ferry visitor. These flat, gravel trails provide family-friendly cycling options connecting historic canal structures.
What campers like
Direct water access: Sites along the Potomac River offer immediate water proximity. At Antietam Creek Campground, "I stayed at Site 11 which had its own path down to the Potomac River. It was quite steep for my bum knees and ankles, but I saw kids easily run up and down it." Many riverside campgrounds provide fishing, swimming, and paddling opportunities directly from campsites.
Diverse accommodation options: The region supports various camping styles. "We have stayed in the camping cabins here multiple times. We love the animals and activities for the kids. Fall is the best at this campground with the trick or treating and haunted house," shares a visitor about Hagerstown Antietam Battlefield KOA.
Scenic camping environments: Natural settings distinguish many area campgrounds. At Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park, "We quickly found our spot and set up camp. After setting up camp, we went for a walk along the creek and played in the water. We had a great trip. The campsites were spread out enough to give each site its privacy yet not separated too far."
Moderate weather conditions: The region typically experiences pleasant camping temperatures from May through September. "Highs in the mid 60s. Lows in the low 30s during our stay. Sunny," reports a camper about fall conditions at McCoys Ferry.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Campgrounds near rail lines experience regular train disturbances. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night."
Weekend crowding: Many campgrounds reach capacity during summer weekends. "The staff really make sure the traffic is circulating and organized during the weekend when it's crazy busy!! The only negative that stinks is that campers have to drive down and park their cars in the parking lot by the lake EARLY or you won't get a spot," observes a Greenbrier State Park camper.
Variable bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The bathroom trailer near the campsites was extremely smelly, with many of the 4 toilets clogged. The water from the sink sprayed everywhere, and for the first day and a half of our trip, there was NO SOAP," reports a Harpers Ferry camper. Primitive sites often provide only vault toilets or portable facilities.
Seasonal closures: Operating dates affect facility availability. "Great campground, clean bathrooms, friendly hosts. Beautiful Park!" notes an Owens Creek visitor, though most facilities are seasonal, typically closing between October and April.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Swimming areas provide popular family activities. At Jellystone Park Williamsport, "What an amazing campground for adults and kids. The kids were never bored and had so much fun. Us, as adults, were also never bored. We are definitely going back. Camping ground was clean, staff was nice and tons of fun activities."
Nature program participation: Many parks offer ranger-led activities. "During peak season, there are nature programs going on," notes a Cunningham Falls visitor, with programs typically scheduled on weekend evenings during summer months.
Site selection for privacy: Consider location within campground loops. "The campsites have trees and some privacy. We got lucky and got an end site despite arriving without a reservation," explains a Harper's Ferry KOA visitor. End sites typically provide better separation from neighboring campers.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specialized facilities. "This campground is a wonderful place to stay. Everyone is very friendly and they have a lot to keep the kids busy," reports a visitor to Hagerstown Antietam Battlefield KOA, where organized activities often include crafts and games.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at many campgrounds. At Manor - Cunningham Falls State Park, "This site is at the very top of the loop so it has a great cozy vibe and is spaced well away from other sites. The site is level and was raked by the hosts before we got there." Not all sites offer equal leveling conditions.
Limited hookup availability: Electric sites require advance booking. "The electric "A loop" is paved so it's great for bike riding. The bathhouse is just a short walk away," explains a Cunningham Falls camper. Full-hookup sites remain limited throughout the region.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. "This campsite doesn't have a dump station so we went to the Cunningham falls site to dump after leaving and they let us dump no problem," notes a camper, highlighting the importance of identifying available facilities.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. "Small rigs only," advises a McCoys Ferry visitor, with many campgrounds limiting RV length to under 30 feet due to narrow access roads and small parking pads.
