Traditional camping sites and glamping accommodations around Little Orleans, Maryland sit at elevations between 500-1500 feet in Maryland's western region. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, with fewer options available during winter months. Weather conditions vary considerably, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and potential for sudden thunderstorms throughout the camping season.
What to do
Hike the local trails: Rocky Gap State Park offers a 5-mile trail around Lake Habeeb with views from all sides of the park. "A 5 mile hike around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park. Across the lake from the campground is a casino and resort," notes Jeff H. from Rocky Gap State Park Campground.
Fish in stocked ponds: Middle Ridge Campground provides fishing options a short drive down the mountain. "Short drive down the mountain to get to the ponds but my husband and oldest son had a blast catching fish in their ponds," reports Kayla M., who appreciated the amenities beyond standard glamping offerings near Little Orleans.
Target practice: The Cove Campground features an outdoor shooting range alongside camping options. "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," says Ben M. at The Cove Campground. The range adds a unique recreational option not commonly found at camping destinations.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Campers consistently praise the generous spacing between sites at Rocky Gap. "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 you own sections of woods," explains Jeff H., highlighting a feature many glamping alternatives in Little Orleans don't offer.
Water activities: Fifteen Mile Campground provides direct river access for paddlers. "Water access and biking/hiking trail. Beautiful place in the early morning hours," notes Jeremy S. The campground's location makes it ideal for water sports enthusiasts looking for alternatives to glamping in Little Orleans.
Authentic mountain feel: Middle Ridge Campground offers a secluded mountain atmosphere with unique features. "We have three children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys!" shares Kayla M. from Middle Ridge Campground. The farm animals create a distinctive camping experience not available at standard glamping sites.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited connectivity. "We had no phone service which we were okay with but it's something we wish we had known before hand," reports Michaela M. at Little Orleans Campground, making advance planning essential.
Bathroom facilities vary: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "The bathhouse was kept very clean, even though the campground was full. We brought paddle boards and the lake was perfect for paddle boarding," notes Kimberly H. about Rocky Gap State Park.
Site selection matters: Level sites can be hard to find at some locations. "Our site P1 is a full hook up pull through but it's really unlevel. We ran out of blocks trying to level on this site and were still off a bit," warns Jennifer K. about Little Orleans Campground.
Off-season challenges: Some amenities close earlier than others. "We arrive on our first day of 4, put on our swimsuits, and play in the splash park for several hours. It closed early, maybe 3, and I overheard something about it being shut down for the year," reports David about a Jellystone Park experience.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water recreation. "We recent went camping for the first time at Jellystone in Maryland. 5 of our 6 kids came with us, so we knew we needed to find a camping ground more geared kids. Jellystone was amazing in every way possible," shares Mary, highlighting alternatives to traditional glamping near Little Orleans.
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds offer interactions with animals. "Our children who absolutely loved petting and feeding Mules and Donkeys!" mentions Kayla M. about Middle Ridge Campground, providing a unique experience beyond standard camping activities.
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds feature extensive play facilities. "Lots of things to do for younger ones. The adults can still relax in the lazy River and pool," notes Amy about Jellystone Park, making it a suitable glamping alternative for families near Little Orleans.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Shawnee State Park Campground requires advance planning for larger rigs. "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating!" advises Brittany V.
Water pressure considerations: Some campgrounds have inconsistent utilities. "Water pressure was just a bit weak and used our water tank and pump during our stay. Best we could get for water pressure out of the hose was 25-20 psi," reports Stephen H. at Middle Ridge Campground.
Road quality varies: Access roads can present challenges. "The road to access the campground was good with some tight turns up the hill the last couple of miles. The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides," notes Stephen H.
