Campgrounds near Bloomington, Maryland offer horseback riding opportunities in mountainous terrain that rises over 1,000 feet in elevation. Located in the eastern side of the Appalachian Mountains, the region features dense forest areas with streams and lakes ideal for outdoor recreation. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with potential for snow, while summer daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: The Big Run State Park area contains multiple trails where riders can experience the natural landscape. "Beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise," notes one visitor to Big Run State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Clear waters in the region support active fish populations. At Trout Pond Recreation Area, visitors find "crystal clear water that was throbbing with freshwater jellyfish" and waters "stocked with trout during the regular season for those who want to fish."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds offer beach access for cooling off. Trout Pond Recreation Area provides "a beach area that wasn't too crowded" even on a summer Saturday, while Shawnee State Park features "a large, sandy beach" where families can enjoy water activities.
Off-road trails: For those interested in motorized recreation alongside equestrian options, The Cove Campground provides "miles of off-road trails for atvs, jeeps, and dirtbikes" plus "a shooting range" for added recreational options.
What campers like
Peaceful stream settings: Many campers appreciate waterside sites. At Big Run State Park, campers enjoy sites where "you can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds" and spots that are "flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
Abundant wildlife: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. The Cove Campground features "free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun" adding unique character to the camping experience.
Hiking trail variety: Visitors appreciate the range of trail difficulties available. Shawnee State Park Campground offers trails around a "beautiful lake" while at Trout Pond Recreation Area, hikers can take "the Lina Constable Overlook" trail which is "1 mile steep incline at times but worth every step."
Water recreation: Lakes and streams provide multiple activity options. The Cove Campground has "a small beach, picnic tables everywhere, a volleyball sand court, a dock," and allows visitors to "rent non-motorboats" for exploring the water.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have poor or no cellular connectivity. Trout Pond Recreation Area notes they installed "a pay phone, which is helpful because there is no cell service. In case of an emergency, you are a 20 minute drive to call for help."
Site selection matters: For horse camping near Bloomington, careful planning is essential. At Yokums Vacationland, "with no designated sites there always seems to be space," but selecting the right location matters as "the lower is quieter."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping conditions significantly. The Yokums area can be "crowded on weekends in the summer" while at Trout Pond, "the area closes completely (entrance gate is locked) from Dec 21 - May 1."
Flooding potential: Some riverside sites require weather awareness. At Yokums Vacationland, a camper reported, "the skies opened up, a large limb fell on my tent and the water level began rising...Later I learned this area is prone to flooding."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Multiple locations offer safe water play areas. At Big Run State Park, "the kids loved playing in the water" with easy stream access, and sites are available with "tons of space between sites."
Beach activities: Sandy beaches provide recreation options. Lost River State Park Campground offers water access, while Shawnee State Park features "a somewhat dated playground" located in A Loop near the lake and beach area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local animals. The Cove Campground's wandering goats are a unique feature that fascinates younger visitors, while the clear waters at Trout Pond Recreation Area allow easy viewing of fish and aquatic life.
Multiple accommodation options: Families can choose lodging that suits their needs. Shawnee State Park offers "a mix of FHU, 30 and 50-amp electric, and non-electric tent sites, yurts, and cabins" providing flexibility for different family preferences.
Tips from RVers
Level site challenges: Finding flat spots for larger rigs requires research. At Shawnee State Park, "most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level" with pads varying "in length from 20' to 115'."
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. At Trout Pond Recreation Area, "the drive to the campground (Thorny Bottom Rd. CR 16) was a bit windy but doable. Better to go to Wardensville, WV and down 16 rather than try to cross the mountain."
Hookup availability: Electric service varies significantly between campgrounds. Trout Pond Recreation Area has "only 15amp electric at 14 of their sites" while others found that "sites 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are FHU" though some may be designated as host spots.
Water access planning: Water hookups aren't universal. At The Cove Campground, campers noted "there are 4 water spigots in camp 1. However all the travel trailers hooked up, which means you either had to make friends or disconnect their water in order to have access."
