McHenry's RV campgrounds provide varied accommodation options throughout the Garrett County region of western Maryland. Situated at approximately 2,400 feet elevation near Deep Creek Lake, the area experiences significant seasonal temperature fluctuations with winter lows regularly reaching below freezing. Most campgrounds close for winter operations between late October and early May due to harsh mountain conditions.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: Smoke Hole Caverns and Log Cabin/RV Resort offers prime fishing locations along the water. "Location is prime!! Loved the RV sites right on the water. Perfect if you are a trout fisherman or hiker. Trail head to Chimney Rock is 2 minutes from camp site and Seneca Rock is about 20 minutes away," notes Casey L.
Star gazing opportunities: Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground includes a dedicated star gazing platform for nighttime sky viewing. The campground sits in an area with minimal light pollution, though one camper mentions "The star gazing platform leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair."
GAP Trail cycling: Riders on the Great Allegheny Passage can access The Blue Canoe RV Resort directly from the trail. "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground. The seasonal RVers and weekend warriors have long claimed their sites, but for through riders on the trail there is a special place to camp, close to the west-bound entrance."
What campers like
Quiet camping environments: Double G Campground receives positive feedback for its peaceful atmosphere. According to Sean M., "Quiet and Friendly Campground... Decent size RV park with mostly seasonal and full time residents. They are still happy to have short term campers. Nice full hook up sites and cable TV."
Natural riverfront settings: Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground offers a more primitive experience with river access. One reviewer described it as "Primitive plus... It has the primitive feel, campsites are in the natural woods as opposed to a pristine tent pad. I love how open and natural it feels."
Good firewood availability: Several campgrounds in the area provide reasonably priced firewood on-site. At Double G Campground, "Firewood is abundant, good quality, and cheap," while Brooklyn Heights provides "wood to buy" among its amenities despite being primarily primitive.
What you should know
Uneven site terrain: Many campgrounds in the region feature sloped sites requiring leveling equipment. At Benner's Meadow Run, a camper reported, "We stayed in site 435. The site was sloped pretty bad side to side and there is a drop off on the one side of the fire ring so we could not sit completely around the fire."
Mountain road navigation: Several RV parks require driving on winding roads with elevation changes. The Blue Canoe RV Resort (formerly Uniontown KOA) requires careful navigation, especially for larger rigs approaching from the east on Route 40.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most campgrounds operate between May and October. Bumble Bee RV Park & Campground runs seasonally "May 1 to Oct 31" and offers 29 sites with both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service near McHenry.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Benner's Meadow Run provides a pool specifically designed for family use. "So much to do for the kids. Clean and well kept," mentions Kaylee L., while another reviewer adds, "Kids had a great time and lots of activities for them to do!"
Kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events and recreation areas keep children entertained at several campgrounds. "Great place for kids! Family friendly atmosphere, cordial staff, well run campground. Lots of activities. Tree shaded sites!" shares Rob B. about Benner's Meadow Run.
Riverfront beach areas: Riverside Cabins and RV Park offers designated beach access along the Potomac. "We tent camped and Steve (owner) took us down to the bank of the south branch of the Potomac. Perfect!" explains Mark B., highlighting the appeal for families wanting water access.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness challenges: Many campgrounds require extra blocking materials for leveling. The Blue Canoe RV Resort has site challenges with one camper noting, "Some river sites were small and very un level but was doable."
Limited large rig accommodation: Not all campgrounds in the area can handle larger motorhomes. While several parks advertise as big-rig friendly, practical limitations exist at many locations, with Riverside Cabins and RV Park specifically recommending "RVs 30 foot or less."
Off-season availability: Most RV campgrounds near McHenry close by late October. Riverside Cabins and RV Park remains open "All year" according to their listing, providing one of the few winter camping options for cold-weather enthusiasts.
Traveler
