Camping areas near Kitzmiller, Maryland sit within the Allegheny Mountains at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding regions. The area receives approximately 45 inches of precipitation annually, with notable temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. Most primitive sites lack cell service, requiring campers to plan communications accordingly.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: At Swallow Falls State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple waterfall views including Muddy Creek Falls, which at 53 feet stands as Maryland's tallest waterfall. "Hiking here is gorgeous, and a good workout too," notes Jillian K. The trails maintain historical significance as "Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs camped on the site in 1918, and 1921," according to Marcandpatti B.
Fishing options: Primitive camping areas offer various fishing environments for different skill levels. "The stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish," reports Nathan S. about Big Run State Park. Kalbaugh Pond at Robert W. Craig - Jennings Randolph Lake provides ADA-accessible catch-and-release fishing opportunities, while the larger lake accommodates boat fishing.
Swimming spots: The small lake at New Germany State Park offers a cooler alternative to larger bodies of water. "The lake is crystal clear," notes Christina C. about Deep Creek Lake. For families seeking shallow water access, most campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas, though water temperatures remain cool even during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Blackwater Falls State Park Campground receives consistent praise for site layout and natural separation. "The sites are reasonably sized, and well spaced. Each has a fire ring and picnic table," according to Kellie A. This park maintains a quieter atmosphere compared to others in the region, with "not too many RVs and screaming children."
Clean facilities: The bath facilities at several campgrounds exceed expectations. "Bathrooms were clean, a bit outdated," notes Katie M. about Blackwater Falls. At New Germany State Park Campground, one camper found "quite possibly the cleanest camp bathrooms I've ever come across," while another mentioned the bathrooms were "fine, clean enough but could have used a bit of an update."
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report regular wildlife encounters as a highlight. "Deer are dense in these parts, and bears frequent the area," mentions Bill G. about New Germany. Nighttime firefly displays provide natural entertainment during summer months, with one camper describing "a spectacular light show put up by thousands of fireflies at night" at Deep Creek Lake.
What you should know
Weather patterns: Western Maryland experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in spring and fall. "The weather was crazy the one night I stayed! Thunderstorms turned to ice turned to snow," reported Michele F. at New Germany. Temperatures typically stay cooler than surrounding regions, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F.
Water access considerations: Savage River State Forest sites along streams provide natural water features, but distance to potable water varies significantly. "To get potable water we had to drive ~20 minutes," reports Chris F. Some campgrounds require similar drives to access dump stations and other amenities.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited or no cellular coverage. "There is NO cell coverage, so bring your conversation starters or a book," advises Bill G. This isolation makes these locations ideal for disconnecting but requires advance planning for emergency communications.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Middle Ridge Campground offers unique animal interactions for children. "We have three children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys!" reports Kayla M. For water activities, parents recommend bringing water shoes as several swimming areas have rocky bottoms.
Site selection strategy: When camping with children, prioritize proximity to bathrooms while maintaining privacy. "Some sites are close together, some are not as large as they are made out to be on the reservation site," notes Bill G. about New Germany. Sites near bathhouses provide convenience without sacrificing the camping experience.
Temperature preparation: Even in summer, nighttime temperatures can drop significantly in this mountain region. "It would have been fine if it had been just me and my husband, but I think it was just too cold for our small kids, especially with the wind and rain we encountered," shares Jen V. Bring additional layers and appropriate sleeping gear regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Road access cautions: When approaching Robert W. Craig - Jennings Randolph Lake, avoid southeastern routes through Keyser with larger rigs. "DO NOT do this if you have a large RV. There are multiple signs saying that the road was not safe for large trucks; although our 18-foot camper van had no problems, the road was narrow, hilly, and winding," warns Lee D.
Campsite size awareness: Many campgrounds in the region have limited spaces for larger units. "The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides. Made it in and out no issue taking it slow, but not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer," notes Stephen H. about Middle Ridge Campground.
Hookup positioning: Some sites have unusual hookup placements requiring additional equipment. "Many of the pull thru sites are situated in the wrong direction with the electric hookup on the wrong side," mentions Kevin E. about Blackwater Falls. Bringing extension cords and additional water hoses helps address these configuration challenges.
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