Glamping close to Boonsboro, Maryland positions visitors in the foothills of South Mountain, with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,400 feet creating varied camping experiences. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with average summer temperatures ranging 75-85°F during peak camping months and frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August. Local campgrounds often display Civil War history markers, reflecting the area's significant role in American military history.
What to do
Hike to mountain viewpoints: At Cunningham Falls State Park, visitors access multiple trail options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. One camper noted, "The Cliff Trail to the falls is short but semi-challenging and beautiful," while another mentioned, "Plenty of well-maintained hiking trails of varying difficulty." The park offers both forest and waterfall hikes suitable for different skill levels.
Riverside activities: Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders provides direct river access for water recreation. A visitor shared: "All spots are along the water. We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus." Another camper mentioned, "Right on the river so you can go swimming right from your campsite! The campground is part of river riders which offers lazy tubing, white water tubing, zip lining, and great kayaking down the river."
C&O Canal exploration: Brunswick Family Campground sits adjacent to the historic C&O Canal towpath. One visitor noted, "Situated on the C&O canal, so you could walk or bike for miles in either direction for hours! Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail." This 184.5-mile trail connects multiple historical sites and offers flat terrain suitable for family biking.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the swimming options near Boonsboro. At Cunningham Falls State Park, a reviewer commented, "There is a 43 acre Hunting Creek Lake offers great (and busy weekend) fishing. Trolling motors are permitted, but ideal for paddling." Another noted, "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill."
Historical proximity: Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA received praise for its location near significant historical sites. One camper shared, "Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door." Another mentioned, "The best part about this site is the location. We could walk or easily drive to Harper's Ferry NP visitor center."
Farm-based glamping: Camps at Evensong Farm offers a more intimate glamping experience not far from Boonsboro. Reviewers note that with only two glamping sites available, privacy and personal attention are guaranteed. The farm setting provides a different atmosphere from larger resort-style glamping options in the area.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Multiple riverside campgrounds near Boonsboro face railroad noise issues. At Harpers Ferry Campground, a camper warned: "Face the other way and you're looking at a 15 or so foot CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will."
Seasonal facility limitations: At Jellystone Park™ Williamsport, several reviewers noted inconsistent information about amenity availability. One mentioned, "We stayed at Jellystone in Hagerstown in June. My daughter was excited about the little water park. Because it was early June, I emailed prior to booking to make sure that the water park would be open during the week and was assured that it would be. When we got there, it was not open." Call directly to confirm specific amenity hours before booking.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities receive mixed reviews across campgrounds. At Brunswick Family Campground, a visitor observed, "Restrooms were beyond disgusting, dumpsters overflowing and dump station was muddy." Meanwhile at Cunningham Falls, another noted, "Showerhouse/Restrooms are placed in the middle of each loop and are modern facilities. Fairly clean and maintained. Electric outlets are a plus."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area offers dedicated play areas for children. One visitor noted, "Nice little spot near Thurmont Maryland. Good playground for the kids." Another mentioned, "The Lower Falls Trail is short but great for younger kids and we saw lots of dogs which was lovely."
Budget considerations: When glamping near Boonsboro with children, factor in activity costs. At Jellystone Park, one camper warned, "It was a nice place to stay for kids, lots to do for them. But very expensive for tent camping. I still paid nearly 100 a night." Another visitor confirmed higher rates, even for basic accommodations.
Scheduling activities: For optimal family experiences, time your visit strategically. A Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA visitor recommended, "Fall is the best at this campground with the trick or treating and haunted house." Another camper shared, "At Halloween they have a great haunted house," indicating special seasonal programming for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA, an RVer advised: "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air. The nice staff kindly moved us to a FHU site without the patio and furniture." Request specific information about site levelness when making reservations.
Hookup availability: Electric-only sites predominate in state parks near Boonsboro. At Cunningham Falls, a camper noted, "There are very few electric sites on the three lower loops, the fourth loop is all electric sites, but water is relegated to water spigots... 3 to 4 spaced out in each loop." Plan accordingly with filled water tanks and portable waste containers.
Traffic flow challenges: RVers should prepare for tight navigation at some private campgrounds. One camper at Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA observed, "The roads are very windy and narrow, and I can't imagine trying to maneuver a large motorhome through there." Arrive during daylight hours for easier setup.
