Camping options near Middletown, Maryland range from basic to full-service facilities within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at the junction of the Catoctin Mountain range and Middletown Valley, with elevations between 500-1,000 feet creating varied camping microclimates. Fall temperatures average 45-65°F with significant temperature drops after sunset, requiring campers to pack accordingly.
What to do
Explore historic Gettysburg: Located about 25 miles from Middletown, Gettysburg Campground serves as an excellent base. "There was also zero traffic (it was late October). A list of things we did while staying at RoundTop: Battlefield audio tour, Nighttime walking ghost tour, Battlefield Brew Works, Visited shops around the square," notes one visitor.
Visit working farms: Farm-based camping provides unique experiences for travelers. Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm offers direct interaction with animals. "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here! We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares a camper.
Riverside recreation: Water activities are popular along the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing," writes a visitor about riverside options.
What campers like
Natural settings with conveniences: Many campgrounds balance nature access with practical amenities. Brunswick Family Campground earns praise for its location. "Picked this location because it is close to our home in Silver Spring, MD but far enough to make us feel like we were leaving town. Campgrounds are tucked between railroad tracks and the river at the end of a road. Once on the campground land, the river is mesmerizing," explains one reviewer.
Family-oriented activities: Seasonal events and amenities keep younger campers engaged. "We camped here in May for Memorial Day weekend. The campground offers free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area. A yard sale, vendor sale, golf cart parade, as well as other activities going on," notes a visitor to Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Natural habitats support diverse wildlife across the region. "Trees and mountain area is pleasant. Lots of activities for kids. Basketball court recently updated. Golf course setup for spooky time of year," reports a camper about seasonal theming.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds along rivers also border active rail lines. "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," warns a visitor to Harpers Ferry Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months. "We defaulted to RoundTop Campground since a majority of campgrounds in the area were booked at the time of our planning. I would guess the main reason for that being - it's the campground furthest out from town but not by much," notes a camper explaining off-season availability.
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility cleanliness differs significantly between properties. "The bathhouse near the pool left a little something to be desired. It wasn't filthy but also wasn't sparking clean," reports one camper, while another notes: "The bathroom trailer near the campsites was extremely smelly, with many of the 4 toilets clogged."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Check playground proximity before booking with children. "In my opinion as a mom of small kids maybe the worst part was that there was only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down. In a campground that size I would expect at least 2 playgrounds," advises a parent at Drummer Boy.
Animal encounters: Farm-based camping offers educational opportunities. Bull Run Regional Park provides structured activities: "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my grandkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish."
Temperature preparation: Valley locations experience significant day-night temperature swings. "The weather is perfect right now highs reaching low 80s, so the evenings are super lovely!" shares a summer visitor, but fall and spring require layering as temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees after sunset.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV sites vary widely in layout and accessibility. "Sites are small and tight and some are at strange angles. They do have FHU and 30/50 amp. There are many amenities and a large swimming pool which is great for families," notes an RVer about their experience.
Power compatibility: Some parks only provide certain electrical configurations. "All sites are 50amp too so if you have a 30amp rig, you'll need a converter," advises an RVer at Evergreen Point Village.
Seasonal site availability: Weekends book quickly during peak seasons, especially at campgrounds near attractions. "Overall I would definitely recommend this campground to someone and I would also go back myself. It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," reports a satisfied visitor explaining the popularity challenge.
