Best Campgrounds near Manchester, MD

Northern Maryland's Manchester area provides a strategic base for exploring diverse camping options in both Maryland and southern Pennsylvania. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access established campgrounds like Codorus State Park in Hanover, PA and Merry Meadows Recreation Farm in nearby Freeland, MD. The region spans rolling countryside with wooded state parks and private campgrounds that accommodate various camping styles. RV enthusiasts will find full hookup sites at several locations, while tent campers have access to both primitive and developed sites with amenities. The proximity to Gettysburg's historic areas adds cultural significance to the camping landscape, with multiple campgrounds situated near battlefield sites.

Camping seasons generally run from April through October or early November at most established campgrounds in the region. Maryland state parks enforce alcohol prohibitions, unlike many private campgrounds which permit responsible consumption. Summer humidity can be significant, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. As one camper noted about nearby Patapsco Valley State Park, "It has 8 recreation areas and beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking/multi-use trails. There are parks on both sides of the river to explore." Most campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and fall foliage season when sites fill quickly. Cell coverage is generally reliable throughout the area, though some valley locations may have limited service.

Shaded campsites receive consistently positive reviews from visitors to the region, particularly during hot summer months. According to a camper at Owens Creek: "It was a very hot weekend but the campground is mostly in full shade. We never felt uncomfortable at our site." Many campgrounds feature water access, with Gifford Pinchot State Park offering what one visitor described as "great sites on the lake side where you can get amazing sunset views." Site privacy varies considerably between campgrounds, with state parks typically offering more spacious and secluded options than private facilities. Weekday camping typically provides a quieter experience than weekends, when family groups are more common. Proximity to Baltimore and Washington DC makes this region popular for weekend getaways, with many campgrounds serving as convenient bases for day trips.

Best Camping Sites Near Manchester, Maryland (134)

    1. Codorus State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Porters Sideling, PA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 637-2816

    $24 - $247 / night

    "This campground isn't too far from our home in Maryland, so if they have room and we want to go spur of the moment, this one is a good choice.  "

    "The trails from

    Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail.  The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some.  "

    2. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm

    19 Reviews
    Freeland, MD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 329-6636

    "It was a VERY dark walk to get to the bathhouse for showers. And the fire pit had no grill, so we ended up having to use the stoves of some RV camping friends for meals."

    "Large campground with some good trails

    Will definitely return!"

    3. Artillery Ridge Campground

    24 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 334-1288

    "This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"

    "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."

    4. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 292-4112

    $24 - $89 / night

    "We have a small camper and there are some great sites on the lake side to park it where you can get AMAZING sunset views.  "

    "Songle car parking spot on the road then a short walk down a hill onto the site. two tent areas and plenty of prime hammock trees. there’s a small deer trail that runs between all of the sites on the water"

    5. Gettysburg Campground

    26 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 642-5713

    "I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."

    "If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."

    6. Ramblin' Pines

    17 Reviews
    Woodbine, MD
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 795-5161

    $30 - $70 / night

    "We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick."

    "We love this home away from home ❤️"

    7. Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA

    26 Reviews
    Fairfield, PA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 642-5713

    "Our site was very spacious, beautifully landscaped and wooded, but right next to the road. There was a buffer of trees, but unfortunately that didn’t make much of a difference with regard to noise."

    "Located about 4 miles from town it is far enough for that country feel but close enough to be convenient.  The camp store was well stocked with basic needs as was the gift shop. "

    8. Gettysburg

    11 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 337-3363

    $66 - $127 / night

    "This campground worked out perfectly..so close to the battlefields. It was only for the weekend but we really enjoyed our stay."

    "It also has a lake and cabins available."

    9. Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm

    9 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The bathroom near the pool left a little something to be desired. It wasn’t filthy but also wasn’t sparking clean. It was great being close to the battlefield."

    "We were there around Halloween and they had decorated the park so nicely. The sounds of the farm animals all around was fun and amusing for us."

    10. Drummer Boy Camping Resort

    8 Reviews
    Gettysburg, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "They were constantly driving past our site. This is the first time I’ve stayed where there were so many golf carts. It was a bit noisy. The site was pretty level and an okay side."

    "Great campground, close to Gettysburg but far enough to escape. 2 pools which is a bonus. Many folks have golf carts, as the campground is huge—and you can get turned around easily."

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Recent Reviews near Manchester, MD

1137 Reviews of 134 Manchester Campgrounds


  • Marcandpatti B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Gettysburg Campground

    Good spot for Gettysburg, a bit spendy.

    We stayed here mid-week in September so it was very quiet. There was a bit of road noise as our site was close to the entrance. Host was super friendly. They have a bunch of things going on with groups that stay here; next group is quilters with vintage trailers, sorry to miss that. All of the utilities worked just fine. Sites re a bit close to each other, not a lot of foliage between sites.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Great location and friendly staff

    We have a motorhome with no additional vehicle and two dogs, and this site couldn’t have been more perfect for us. A dog park, walking distance to most everything we wanted to see. The national park is mostly dog friendly. My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site. The staff was super friendly and welcoming.

  • p
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Rv stay

    Site and bathrooms clean. Activities provided free each day. Food trucks in park. Close to museum and battleground sites.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    Better than OK

    Stayed for 2 days while passing through from FL to NH. Off-season so not crowded. Pool was clean and quite good sized, had it to ourselves due to season. Did laundry while here, ample laundry room. On-site extras include food-truck restaurant and small country goods vendor during our stay. Office staff did ok. Sites have reasonable spacing with gravel pads, mostly level. Trees between sites with sloping hills , not just a big open field. It’s a corporate site so automated web-based reservation system was finicky so we had to verify reservation went through. Tried to book 2 nights but system only set us up for 1. Phone call to help line easily resolved the issue. Quiet and no spotlights on all night.

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Hersheypark Camping Resort

    Very clean campground friendly staff

    We stay here once a year in September. Stone surface. Not to bad for leveling. Our site was spacious.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    Peace and quiet !

    Great spot! We had site 114 . It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    I camped and worked here.

    I’m a shamanic energy healer and health enthusiast exploring a new life and hunting for healthy. While this campground has some nice features. This certainly is not a health conscious facility. Lots of smoking, drinking and unhealthy food. There was also evidence of mice in the main store and definitely issues with the water.


Guide to Manchester

Camping sites near Manchester, Maryland offer diverse options across Maryland's northern edge and neighboring southern Pennsylvania. The area sits at approximately 700-800 feet in elevation within the Piedmont region, creating mild temperature variations between day and night during camping seasons. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with several state parks closing water access and certain amenities after late October due to frost concerns.

What to do

Battlefield exploration: 5-10 minutes from Artillery Ridge Campground: The campground connects directly to historic sites. "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts," notes reviewer MJ B.

Fishing options: Available at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground: The 340-acre Pinchot Lake offers shoreline fishing across multiple areas. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," shares reviewer Danielle V., who recommends bringing your license as "the rangers in this park check."

Horseback riding: Special access at Artillery Ridge: One of the few campgrounds offering equestrian activities. "There is horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback," writes Zack, highlighting this unique way to experience the historic landscape.

Farm activities: Daily animal feedings at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm: Perfect for close animal encounters. "We loved all the animals. We fed them at the allotted time every morning and went to visit at other times," explains melissa, whose kids particularly enjoyed this aspect of camping.

What campers like

Lakeside camping: Multiple waterfront options at Gifford Pinchot: Campers appreciate the variety of waterside sites. "We had site 108 which is an electric site along the shore and close to the beach, and it was perfect for our needs," mentions Danielle V., who valued proximity to water.

Pool facilities: Summer refreshment at Drummer Boy Camping Resort: Multiple pools provide summer relief. "The camp has 2 pools which is a bonus," notes a reviewer named camper F., appreciating the additional water options during hot weather.

Wooded privacy: Common at several campgrounds: Natural settings create separation between sites. "We were in a lovely cabin here while I was in town for work. The cabins are at the top of the hill but that made for a beautiful view and we felt like we were away from everyone else," shares Traci F. about Gettysburg Battlefield KOA.

Recreational amenities: Available at most campgrounds: Many facilities offer extras beyond standard camping. "The park has a lot to offer, especially in the two main day use areas," notes Danielle V., highlighting that Gifford Pinchot offers "an 18 hole disc golf course" along with extensive trails and beach access.

What you should know

Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds operate April to October: Seasonal weather affects availability and experience. "It was a very hot weekend but the campground is mostly in full shade. We never felt uncomfortable at our site," shares one camper about the importance of site selection during summer months.

Site selection matters: Privacy varies widely at Gettysburg Battlefield KOA: Not all sites offer equal quality. "Sites look to be semi private in a lot of pictures but that isn't the case. We had a full hook up with our 15ft travel trailer. Pretty tight even with my Tacoma," reports reviewer mike G.

Weekend crowds: Expect more visitors Friday-Sunday: Proximity to cities means weekend business. "Quiet during the week, weekends quite busy," notes camper F. about Drummer Boy Camping Resort, a pattern consistent across most campgrounds in the region.

Cash considerations: Required at some facilities: Traditional payment methods persist. "One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I know it's not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us," advises Sharon L. about Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Central feature at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm: Kid-friendly facilities enhance family stays. "The pool area seemed like the place to be. They have upgraded any of the activities such as miniature golf and the pool area looks great," mentions Brian S., highlighting family amenities.

Themed weekends: Common at several campgrounds: Special activities enhance family visits. "We were there around Halloween and they had decorated the park so nicely," shares Mary H. about seasonal events at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm.

Educational opportunities: History throughout the area: Learning experiences abound for kids. "We have been to Gettysburg before, but going with the kids again being older, we all had a greater appreciation of the sacrifice of this 3-day battle," explains MJ B. about combining camping with historical education.

Swimming options: Vary by facility: Water access differs between campgrounds. "There is a small beach area within the campground loop that we camped in, but the main beach is on the other side of the large Pinchot Lake," notes Danielle V. about Gifford Pinchot State Park's swimming areas.

Tips from RVers

Hookup locations: Check before arrival at Ramblin' Pines: Utility placement can be challenging. "The biggest complaint about our site was that the sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly," warns Nancy W., emphasizing the importance of site research.

Road conditions: Varying quality throughout campgrounds: Interior roads affect access. "Roads through the park are fairly narrow with potholes. Some roads are one-way but people don't pay much attention to that," reports Nancy W., offering practical navigation advice.

Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain: Many sites require adjustments. "Make sure to bring your leveling blocks, some sites do have a slope to them of 3-4"," advises Gregory L. about site conditions at Gettysburg Battlefield Resort.

Golf cart culture: Common at larger facilities: Many seasonal campers use carts. "Everyone here pretty much has golf carts & drives them everywhere. For some places within the campground, it's hard to find regular car/truck parking," observes Sabrina H., noting this aspect of camping culture at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Manchester, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Manchester, MD is Codorus State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 40 reviews.

What parks are near Manchester, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Manchester, MD that allow camping, notably Greenbelt Park and Rock Creek Park.