Best Dispersed Camping near Keedysville, MD

Dispersed camping options near Keedysville, Maryland include two notable locations within driving distance. Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area in West Virginia offers primitive camping with basic amenities. The area features roadside sites that are level and grassy, with additional hike-in spots available further from the road. According to Frank G., "There are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em." Basic toilet facilities are available, but no drinking water, hookups, or showers.

Buchanan State Forest in Pennsylvania provides rustic camping approximately 45 miles northwest of Keedysville. Despite some listings indicating free camping, permits are required and cost approximately $10 per night. The forest contains interesting trails and the unique feature of an abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike section running through the property. A camper noted it's "extremely quiet, with not a whole lot to do, but very peaceful. A terrific place to see the stars."

Both locations permit campfires where designated, though visitors should check current fire restrictions before arrival. Neither site offers drinking water, so campers must pack in all necessary water supplies. The remote nature of these areas means limited cell service and minimal ranger presence. Pets are allowed at both locations, but standard leash rules apply. Weather in this region varies significantly by season; spring and fall typically provide the most comfortable camping conditions. Summer humidity can be substantial, while winter camping requires proper cold-weather gear and experience.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Keedysville, Maryland (1)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Keedysville, MD

2 Reviews of 1 Keedysville Campgrounds


  • Frank G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 6, 2022

    Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    Hike in

    I spent a night here. There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em. Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired.

  • Jim M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 19, 2024

    Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area

    Road side site is not too bad

    As I pulled in there was a kiosk with a sign that said $10 camping fee but no info on how or where to pay. I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either, However no one came by. Other than that the site was level and grassy. Nice camp site.


Guide to Keedysville

Dispersed camping near Keedysville, Maryland extends beyond the immediate vicinity to several wildlife management areas and state forests in the surrounding tri-state region. The area sits within the ridge and valley section of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach the upper 80s with high humidity, while winter nights regularly drop below freezing from December through February.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: At Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area, visitors can access multiple fishing spots along the stream. Jim M. notes, "Nice camp site" with convenient "level and grassy" areas that provide easy access to fishing locations.

Wildlife photography: The management areas surrounding Keedysville offer significant wildlife viewing opportunities during spring and fall migration seasons. Mornings provide the best lighting conditions for photography, particularly along waterways and field edges.

Hiking exploration: Several primitive trails traverse through the public lands within driving distance of Keedysville. Many sites require some walking to reach more secluded camping spots, as one camper at Edwards Run explains, "There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in."

What campers like

Budget-friendly options: Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area provides affordable camping, though payment systems can be confusing. Jim M. mentions, "As I pulled in there was a kiosk with a sign that said $10 camping fee but no info on how or where to pay. I tried to look at the WVDNR website but couldn't find it there either."

Teaching opportunities: The streams and ponds in these areas serve as excellent locations for introducing children to outdoor skills. A camper states Edwards Run is a "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing, but the campground area leaves a little to be desired."

Seclusion factor: Most dispersed camping sites near Keedysville require some effort to reach, resulting in greater privacy. The roadside sites tend to be more accessible but less private than those requiring a short hike.

What you should know

Campsite selection: The best sites at many public lands near Keedysville often require walking beyond the obvious roadside locations. At Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area, roadside spots are convenient but offer less privacy.

Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas provide only basic amenities. Even when toilets exist, they may be primitive vault or pit designs. Campers must plan to be completely self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and other essentials.

Wildlife management area regulations: Hunting seasons significantly impact camping in these areas. During peak hunting times (typically October through December and April-May for spring turkey), camping may be restricted or require special consideration for safety.

Tips for camping with families

First-time fishing: Edwards Run offers beginner-friendly fishing spots where children can learn basic techniques. One visitor mentioned it's specifically a "Fun place to teach the kids the basics of fishing."

Noise considerations: When camping with children in dispersed areas near Keedysville, be aware that sound travels far in these less-developed spaces. Choose sites further from roads when possible for both safety and to minimize disturbing other campers.

Emergency preparedness: Cell service is unreliable throughout most dispersed camping areas within driving distance of Keedysville. Families should bring a detailed paper map, first aid supplies, and establish clear emergency plans before arrival.

Tips from RVers

Access challenges: Most dispersed camping options near Keedysville have limited access for larger vehicles. Small to medium trailers and camper vans can typically reach roadside sites, but turning around may be difficult on narrow forest roads.

Levelness varies: At Edwards Run, Jim M. found "the site was level and grassy," which works well for smaller RVs, but many sites in the region require significant leveling equipment.

Self-contained requirements: All dispersed camping areas near Keedysville require RVers to be fully self-contained. No hookups or dump stations exist within these areas, so plan trips according to your holding tank capacities and water needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Keedysville, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Keedysville, MD is Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area with a 3-star rating from 2 reviews.