Knoxville, Maryland sits along the Potomac River at an elevation of 360 feet, with camping options that range from riverfront sites to battlefield-adjacent locations. The area experiences distinct seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Proximity to the C&O Canal offers direct access to over 184 miles of historic towpath for hiking and cycling opportunities from most nearby camping areas.
What to do
Historic exploration on foot: From Harpers Ferry Campground, visitors can walk directly into town. "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don't let this deter you from completing it," notes Anthony S.
River activities: Located directly on the water, many campgrounds offer immediate river access. "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 Darcy S. about Harpers Ferry Campground.
Civil War history: The area contains numerous battlefield sites within short driving distance. Visitors to Drummer Boy Camping Resort appreciate its proximity to historic sites. "It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," explains David G.
What campers like
Riverfront camping: Sites along the Potomac provide direct water access. "The river views were amazing," says Sherri C. about Harpers Ferry Campground, while Robin W. adds, "It is right on the river so you can go swimming right from your campsite!"
Trail access: The C&O Canal towpath runs adjacent to Brunswick Family Campground, allowing for extensive hiking and biking. "Situated on the C&O canal, so you could walk or bike for miles in either direction for hours! Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail," explains Susan K.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds feature recreational facilities beyond basic camping. "The amenities for kids were incredible, with arts/crafts, a movie theatre, an arcade, nice playground, and jumping pillow," writes Erin S. about Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds are located near active rail lines. "There is a train going through day and night. For me it's a minor inconvenience and my daughter, who even as a baby, slept through it. Do bring ear plugs if you're a light sleeper," advises Maggie A. about Harpers Ferry Campground.
Varying site conditions: RV campgrounds in Knoxville, Maryland and surrounding areas have inconsistent leveling. "Our site was on a significant hill and had NO view of anything but other seasonal campers," reports Jeremy K. from his stay at Round Top Campground.
Seasonal differences: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "We paid $675 for 8 days. It was to include W,E,S, and cable. Electric went out 3 times, once for over 24 hrs. It was in the high 90°," reports Charles S. about his summer stay at Round Top Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Consider campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "They had activities for kids. Everyone seemed to be polite and helpful as far as the staff was concerned," notes Jeremy K. about Round Top Campground.
Swimming options: River access provides natural swimming opportunities. At Gettysburg Campground, "There is a nice creek with ducks," mentions Jenny P., while multiple reviewers praise the clean pools at other area campgrounds.
Educational opportunities: The region offers numerous historic learning experiences within short distances. "Lots of history nearby so check out the old battle fields and buildings that housed troops during civil war," suggests Daniel S. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request sites away from train tracks when possible. "We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. not far to go anywhere walking," advises Kelly J. from Gettysburg Campground.
Utility placement: Some RV campgrounds near Knoxville, Maryland have awkward hookup locations. "Septic dump was about 20 feet away and we had to use a extension to get to it," mentions Jeremy K. about Round Top Campground.
Leveling equipment: Bring additional leveling blocks for most area campgrounds. "The site was pretty level and an okay side. Our site was separated from our neighbors site with nice foliage," reports Laure D. about Bull Run Regional Park, but many other reviewers note leveling challenges at various sites.
