The Susquehanna River watershed shapes the camping landscape around Jarrettsville, Maryland, with elevations ranging from 250 to 600 feet across the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with humidity levels exceeding 70% during July and August. Campsites near Jarrettsville provide varying degrees of shade coverage, with most state parks offering 70-80% tree canopy on established sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Muddy Run Rec Park, the 144-acre lake offers excellent fishing access with boat rentals available at the dock store. "The large lake is great for a day of kayaking and fishing with supplies readily available for rent at the boat dock store," notes Alanna M., who particularly recommends exploring the hiking trails that circle the park perimeter.
Creek exploration: Families enjoy wading and floating in Pequea Creek at Pequea Creek Campground, located 28 miles northwest of Jarrettsville. "We welcomed grandkids' visit for splashing and floating in Pequea Creek. (Nearby site 24 had steps down the 'levee'; affording easier access to the creek)," reports J W., who appreciated the easy water access.
Hiking options: The Mason Dixon Trail connects with multiple campgrounds in the region, with Otter Creek Campground offering direct trail access. "Its close proximity to the Susquehanna River, Otter Creek, and the Mason Dixon Trail is absolutely ideal!" says Gerald B., highlighting the campground's strategic location for hikers.
What campers like
Quiet, wooded sites: Campers consistently praise the shaded sites at Susquehanna State Park Campground, which offers superior privacy compared to many other regional options. "Site was very shaded, and probably the most secluded feel of anywhere we've camped. Camping pad was nice and level, although the driveway was slightly sloped," reports Jen V.
Waterfront access: Many sites at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina sit directly on the water's edge. "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 waters edge," says Janet P., highlighting the convenience for water enthusiasts.
Family-friendly activities: Seasonal events make camping more engaging for families, particularly at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm. "We stayed here this past Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol. Wonderful experience for the whole family," explains Melissa E.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the region fill quickly during peak seasons, with Elk Neck State Park Campground requiring bookings 6-9 months in advance for summer weekends. "There's a ton of camping at Elk Neck, including a loop with full hook ups. In the full hook up loop pay close attention to the lengths specified," advises David G., noting that site selection matters for larger rigs.
Water hookup challenges: At several campgrounds, water connections may be inconveniently placed. "Bring 50 ft of hose for water hook up and an extension cord with a converter. The water hook ups are randomly placed, ours was 2 sites away," warns Chris G. about Muddy Run Rec Park.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and cleanliness of bathhouses vary significantly between campgrounds in the area. "Bath house is located at top of steep hill and bathrooms were not very clean. So if you don't have a camper to use, you might not like the bath house situation," notes Pamela S. about Pequea Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking at Susquehanna State Park Campground, select sites near the central playground for convenience with children. "For kids, the playground was fantastic, though, it was not shaded. It is also in the middle of the Acorn and Beechnut loop," reports Jennifer S., adding that "The camp road was minimally hilly and would be safe and easy for little kids to ride their bikes."
Kid-friendly swimming: Codorus State Park Campground offers a pool that's included with camping fees. "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains Catherine H., who appreciates this family-friendly feature.
Seasonal activities: Holiday weekends feature special programming at many campgrounds near Jarrettsville. "The campground throughout the year has activities and events that are fun for the whole family, my favorites being the Halloween fest in October and an Native American Pow wow," shares Alanna M. about the events at Muddy Run Rec Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking at Elk Neck State Park, understand that site angles matter. "The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped. Long rigs will have issues in a few of the sites," warns David G., recommending careful site selection for larger vehicles.
Utility access: Several campgrounds have unusual utility placement requiring extra preparation. "We got there and the site was wooded and not enough room for our big tent, but they left us change sites and were very nice," reports Terri S. about Muddy Run, highlighting the importance of confirming site dimensions before arrival.
Access road considerations: The roads leading to some campgrounds can be challenging for larger rigs. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," advises Craig Z., noting the importance of planning your route carefully when traveling with larger vehicles.
