The Cumberland area offers camping options across western Maryland's Appalachian landscape, where elevations range from 600 to 3,000 feet creating varied camping environments. Weather patterns shift quickly in this mountainous region, with temperature differences of 10-15 degrees between valley campgrounds and those at higher elevations. Cell coverage varies dramatically across rv parks near Cumberland, Maryland, with stronger signals closer to Interstate 68.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rocky Gap State Park Campground provides catch-and-release fishing in Lake Habeeb. "Lots of lake to paddle. Easy to get to from I-70," notes one visitor, with another adding there's "a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake."
Mini golf: Friendship Village Campground & RV Park offers on-site mini golf for campers. "The lower pool is right beside the main office which also includes an arcade and a very nice miniature golf course," reports a camper who gave the facility high marks.
Duck watching: The pond at Rvino - Ridge Rider Campground attracts various waterfowl. "The pond has a bunch of ducks that are VERY well fed. One in particular might have been too well fed and maybe sick? Not sure," shares one tent camper who enjoyed the wildlife viewing.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the size of sites at certain campgrounds. One Rocky Gap visitor noted, "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have your own sections of woods."
On-site recreation: Pioneer Lakes RV Park offers fishing ponds for guests. A regular visitor mentioned, "Been going to pioneer park since I was like 3. Extremely family friendly, lots to do for kiddos on weekend, stocked ponds, bathhouses very close to all sites."
Convenient locations: Most Cumberland area campgrounds provide access to multiple outdoor recreation areas. "The location is great, very close to the lake and the ski resort. If you want to camp while at the lake this is a great choice," writes a camper about Double G Campground.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the region require significant leveling equipment. "The spot was so unlevel there were 19 inches between my bottom step and the ground. This site was the same price as level ones closer to activities," reported one camper at Pioneer Lakes.
Road noise: Highway sounds can impact some campgrounds. A Friendship Village visitor noted, "The only thing we didn't like was all of the road noise. This campground is located by 2 major highways and truck traffic and Jake brake are constant all night long."
Seasonal population: Many RV parks around Cumberland maintain a large seasonal resident population. At Nature's Getaway RV Park, a visitor observed the campground "was packed with everyone from seasonal full timers to overnighters."
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity centers: Campgrounds with multiple play areas keep children engaged. "There are many playgrounds spread out across the property as well as a jumping pillow and a very well-built gaga ball pit," explains a family who stayed at Friendship Village.
Dog-friendly facilities: Several campgrounds offer designated dog areas. Pioneer Lakes has "a Dog Park [that] is awesome. It's the size of a real, normal dog park," according to a reviewer who appreciated the pet amenities.
Beach access: Water activities provide reliable entertainment for children. A Rocky Gap visitor shared, "We love that the campground has their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public. Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch."
Tips from RVers
Camp store supplies: RV parks around Cumberland typically stock necessary camping items. "Really a nice campground with great hosts. Only complaint is the closeness of other sites, luckily no one else was around," noted an RVer who appreciated the "fully stocked camp store with campground merch, blankets, snacks, toiletries, a lot of rv parts."
Site spacing considerations: Many rv parks in Cumberland area position sites close together. Regarding Riverside Cabins and RV Park, one visitor reported, "Nice family campground with cabins, tent sights and RV slots. We tent camped and Steve (owner) took us down to the bank of the south branch of the Potomac. Perfect!"
RV site accessibility: Check campground roads before booking large rigs. "The spot wasn't so level, but we made it work," explained a Nature's Getaway RV Park visitor who selected "the pull through at the end of one loop so we could face the woods."