Camping opportunities around Mchenry, Maryland sit within the Allegheny Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. The region experiences distinct seasons with vibrant fall foliage and moderate snowfall that typically begins in November. Western Maryland's campgrounds maintain natural forest buffers between most sites, offering campers more privacy than typical eastern campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking to Muddy Creek Falls: 53-foot waterfall at Swallow Falls State Park provides accessible adventure along well-marked trails. The main trail is only 2 miles but showcases Maryland's tallest waterfall and several smaller cascades. "Muddy Creek Falls - the main attraction of the state park and the highest waterfall in Maryland - is the main reason to do the hike, and a great place to take an amazing photo," notes Danielle V.
Fishing in trout-filled streams: The streams running through Savage River State Forest offer productive fishing spots. The area contains numerous small pools deep enough for wading. "There are multiple boat ramps, and from one end of the reservoir to the other on a kayak is about 2 hours. Hiking options are endless although some are hard to spot," explains one camper who appreciated the fishing access.
Winter recreation opportunities: The region transforms into a cross-country skiing destination during winter months. New Germany State Park maintains groomed trails and offers a warming hut. "Apparently, the park is very popular amongst cross-country skiers in the winter, especially since they have full-service cabins and a warming hut by the lake," notes a winter visitor.
What campers like
Level, spacious tent sites: Many campers appreciate the carefully maintained tent pads at Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground. "Each site also had a fire ring, lantern hook (but you would need to be much taller than me to reach it!), and very generous sized picnic table," reports Lee D., who stayed in the Delphia Loop.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest campgrounds offer excellent wildlife watching. "We were told there were regular bear sightings and there were bear boxes at each site; we saw many deer but not a single bear, keeping our zero bear sightings record intact," notes a camper at Deep Creek Lake State Park. Fireflies create natural light shows during summer evenings.
Secluded creek-side camping: Sites along running water remain popular. "I went camping the last week of August and it was beautiful. If you're from the area you know how hot it can be at this time of year but it's at least 10 degrees cooler out here. I stayed at a primitive campsite with my dog and we found a site right on a beautiful stream," reports Sophia T. about her experience at Savage River.
What you should know
Bear activity requires proper storage: All campgrounds in the region provide bear-proof food storage containers at each site. "The sites were level, spacious, beautifully shaded, and convenient to the bath house," reports Jen V. at Swallow Falls State Park, who appreciated the bear safety measures.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds have minimal or no cellular coverage. "Note that there is very little to no cell phone reception in the park, so combined with the lack of hookups, this is definitely an unplugged, 'connect with nature' type of camping experience," explains one camper about New Germany State Park.
Campground differences: Some campgrounds maintain primitive facilities while others offer modern amenities. "There are no amenities here besides a picnic table and a fire ring, but the sites are so spread out that it's basically like dispersed camping but on a paved road," notes Veronica S. about Savage River State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: New Germany State Park Campground maintains child-friendly facilities. "For kids they have a small jungle gym and critter center. Overall a very nice family camping area," reports Jillian K., who visited with children.
Stream exploration opportunities: Creek-side sites provide natural play areas. "The campsites are great and the people who come here are always really friendly, you're bound to make some friends. Hiking here is gorgeous, and a good workout too," shares Jillian K. about Swallow Falls State Park.
Family-friendly hiking trails: Trails designed for all ages make outings enjoyable. "The trails to the namesake falls are beautiful and very family-friendly, with lots of helpful signage," notes Jen V., who visited Swallow Falls with family. The Rock Maze trail near Swallow Falls receives particular mention as excellent for children.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup sites: Kentuck Campground at Ohiopyle State Park offers electric hookups but water access points are limited. "The sites were varied. The website has the camp pad measurements, but I believe they are over stated," notes Bill G., who camped with an RV. Many campgrounds offer electric sites but limited water hookups at individual sites.
Bathhouse access matters: When selecting sites without onboard facilities, proximity to bathhouses becomes important. "The campground had modern shower houses, although we did not use them. The park attendees were above standard, if not just down right great!" reports Gary P. about Swallow Falls.
Pet-friendly camping sections: RVers with pets should verify which loops allow animals. "There are two loops, one pet friendly, one not. The larger (not pet friendly) loop is nearer the lake," explains Bill G. about New Germany State Park. Most campgrounds maintain separate pet-friendly and pet-free camping areas.
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