Artillery Ridge Campground sits in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, about 22 miles northeast of Cavetown, Maryland. The campground is positioned at approximately 520 feet elevation in the rolling countryside of Adams County. Winter camping options are available during the off-season, with monthly rates for those wanting extended stays during colder months.
What to do
Horseback battlefield tours: Access guided horseback tours of the Gettysburg battlefield through the National Riding Stables at Artillery Ridge Campground. The stables use rescue horses for their tours. "The staff was great. We had a site right on next to the trail going to Stangler Farm. AT&T cell reception at our site was hit or miss, but good in the rest of the campground," notes Dave B.
Fishing opportunities: Try catch-and-release fishing at the on-site pond. "My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site. The staff was super friendly and welcoming," reports Justine I. The pond is accessible directly from the campground.
Winter exploration: For cold-weather enthusiasts, Michaux State Forest offers year-round primitive camping options. "Every January for the last few years some friends and I have gone and camped along the Appalachian Trail. You can park at Pine Grove State Park and then hike your way into locations or park at other trail heads," shares John S.
What campers like
Direct battlefield access: Equestrian campers appreciate the immediate access to historical trails. "Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts. So close to history," says MJ B. from Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage area for the Union during the battle.
Clean facilities: Gettysburg Campground maintains well-kept grounds and amenities. "Really nice place. Recommend a site by the creek. Cool laid back staff and clean bathrooms nice playground for kids," writes Brandon W. The campground is located just minutes from historic Gettysburg.
Historical significance: Campers value staying on grounds with Civil War connections. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded," explains MJ B.
What you should know
Booking details: When planning equestrian camping near Cavetown, Maryland, reservations are recommended during peak season. "We've been here a few times and only choose this campground. Everyone from the campers to the staff are inviting and friendly. Artillery Ridge is close to the battlefields and has all the fun of larger campgrounds," states Cathy D.
Site conditions: At Colonel Denning State Park Campground, tent areas provide level surfaces. "Walk in sites have picnic table and fire ring. Tent pads are level and smooth. Showers and restrooms are close to sites," reports Rick W. This park is about 60 miles from Cavetown.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds undergo renovations during off-seasons. "Amazing location surrounded by the national park. The grounds are nice and shaded, and you don't feel crowded. The only issue is there is a lot of construction at the moment," notes Sean M. about Artillery Ridge Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Recreation options keep children entertained. "Pool, mini golf and live music were great. Also amazing location to the battlefield and all the tourist attractions. My family and I will be coming back again for another stay," says Brett D. about Artillery Ridge Campground.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate history lessons into your stay. "We did Park Ranger tours to learn about the 1st shot and how the war started to stand in the footsteps of General Buford at Senitary Ridge in the cupola overseeing the battlefield," shares MJ B., describing their educational experience at Artillery Ridge.
Spacious sites for groups: Teaberry Parking Area Campsites in Michaux State Forest offers large areas for families. "It was a very large gravel lot with 5 sites along one side, pretty well spaced. The campsites were pretty," notes j A., though they caution about seasonal lanternflies.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Pay attention to how RV sites are configured. "If you're looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn't it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you," advises Jim G. about Gettysburg Campground. He adds, "Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32' coach and a toad."
Horse trailer accommodation: Horse owners camping near Cavetown will find specialized facilities at Artillery Ridge. "The RV sites are gravel and pretty level. Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback," reports Zack.
Full hookup availability: "The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected," notes Jim G., though he mentions drawbacks: "The two drawbacks are that the sites are quite packed together and the noise of traffic – at least in the frontmost sites – can get rather loud at night."
