Dispersed camping near McHenry, Maryland offers wilderness experiences in the Monongahela National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 4,200 feet. These primitive sites experience dramatic seasonal variations with late spring bringing heavy rainfall and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing with significant snowfall. Most dispersed areas require self-sufficiency as facilities are minimal to nonexistent across the region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several dispersed camping areas offer access to quality fishing. At Lower Glady Dispersed Campground, campers report "good fishing" with "a few friendly fishermen each day, sharing local knowledge."
Winter adventure: The mountains provide challenging winter camping for prepared adventurers. At Canaan Loop Road Dispersed, one camper recalled, "We camped here on a winter road trip fully prepared for the worst weather and this mountain top dispersed site delivered. It was muddy and snowy but our Subaru made it fine about half way into Canaan loop road."
Trail connections: Many primitive sites near McHenry connect to established hiking networks. One camper at Canaan Loop Road noted, "there are a lot of spots visible from the road but there are also some hidden a few steps away from the road that are tricker to see while driving... there are some that are about 4 mile hike to blackwater falls state park."
What campers like
Varied ecosystems: The terrain changes dramatically throughout the region. At Dolly Sods Backcountry, campers appreciate how "With the incredibly varied landscapes and diverse vegetation, Dolly Sods truly feels like you are somewhere far north from WV. The ferns and evergreens reminded me of being in Maine, the vast meadows felt like I was in Wyoming or Montana."
Easy car camping: Despite remote locations, many sites accommodate basic vehicles. At Canaan Loop Road, one reviewer mentioned "road is easy to drive on- some bumps but we were in a small kia sedan and it was fine, there are a lot of spots visible from the road."
Seasonal solitude: Off-peak camping provides unique experiences. One Dolly Sods camper noted, "During the off season you can hike for days and not see another person. There are some opportunities to camp closer to the trailhead for those only looking to dip a toe into wilderness travel, but you could hike for miles to a remote site as well."
What you should know
Site availability challenges: Popular primitive camping areas fill quickly during peak times. At Gladwin Dispersed Camping, campers should "Go a little further" as "if you go down the dirt road a little to the low water bridge you will find a wonderful site on the right with several fire pits. Or another 100 yards after bridge was another nice site on the left."
Seasonal weather variations: Weather conditions vary drastically by season. At Lower Glady, one winter camper reported "I drove in during a small snow storm, it was in the single digits for temp, and I woke up with about 8 inches on the ground."
Navigation requirements: Primitive camping requires map skills and preparation. For Dolly Sods, a camper advises "Be advised, a good physical map and compass, the skills needed to use them, are vital here. There are no trail marks and the path can be confusing."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible sites: Some dispersed areas offer more family-friendly access. At Lower Glady Dispersed Campground, "The campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky."
Multiple vehicle sites: Groups need adequate space. At Brushy Ridge Road Dispersed, one camper noted it's a "primitive group of three large unmarked campsites with stone fire rings... I camped in the middle of these three large campsites that are each about 100 feet away from each other."
Weekend planning: Arrive early to secure sites during peak times. At Lower Glady, a camper warned that "Every single spot was taken" when they "arrived around 430pm on Friday," suggesting weekday arrival or early Friday arrival for weekend camping.
Tips from RVers
Clearance considerations: Road conditions affect accessibility for larger vehicles. At Canaan Loop Road, one RVer advised "If you come in from the east, it's a very well maintained road for any vehicle (RVs may have trouble turning around), but the last mile or two you need a 4x4."
Campsite size limitations: Some sites accommodate modest-sized RVs but have limitations. At Lower Glady, a camper mentioned "We pulled our 28 foot travel trailer in past I'd say ten other campsites that were taken. The last big turnaround featured four rv accessible campfires for us to pick."
Level site availability: Finding level ground is important for RVs. Lower Glady campers noted "Sites are level and have good back-in driveways. Fire rings are large," making them suitable for smaller recreational vehicles.
