Campgrounds near Myersville, Maryland offer diverse experiences in the rolling Catoctin Mountain terrain at elevations ranging from 500-1,800 feet. This region's microclimate delivers cooler temperatures than surrounding areas, often 5-10 degrees lower during summer months. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with mid-week reservations typically easier to secure than weekend slots.
What to do
Creek exploration: Swimming and tubing opportunities at Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA where campers can get direct water access. "You can get a site along the creek where you can tube or kayak (they rent them out here)!" notes Misty C.
Civil War history tours: Visit Antietam Battlefield just a short drive from several campgrounds. "Close to good hiking and visiting Misty Meadow farm and creamery, and relaxing!" shares Regina C. about nearby Cunningham Falls State Park.
Mushroom hunting: Unexpected foraging opportunities in the wooded areas. One camper at Greenbrier State Park reports, "After setting up we ventured out to the camp store that is located at the concessions near the packed beach of the lake. We didn't find anything that resembled camping items. So we decided to go mushroom 🍄 hunting. Wow we hit the jackpot."
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Accessible connection points from multiple campgrounds including Owens Creek Campground. "Nearby Camp David (not listed on any maps for security reasons) until it dead ends then turn right and the campground is just a bit further down on the right," explains Sarah C., highlighting the unique location.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Pockets of privacy even in busier campgrounds. At Gambrill State Park Campground, "Site 16 will get you furthest away from other campers and give you some privacy. It's a nice getaway into the mildly wooded area of Gambrills," recommends Danny W.
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and hot showers at most established campgrounds. "Bathroom facilities were close enough and had hot and cold water, showers, flush toilets, and showers. All were spotless," notes Elinor about Greenbrier State Park.
Easy access from urban areas: Quick weekend getaways are possible for city dwellers. "Just over an hour from Baltimore or DC. Great for a last minute trip for me," shares Michael W. about Gambrill State Park.
Off-peak camping: Quieter experience on weekdays when day-use areas are less crowded. "The lake area can be crowded on weekends, I tend to avoid. Hike from visitor center to AT is steep and rocky," advises Butch B. about Greenbrier State Park Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Be prepared for passing trains at certain campgrounds. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "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."
Alcohol restrictions: State parks prohibit alcohol unlike private campgrounds. "Be aware: no alcohol in Maryland parks," warns Aaron C. about Greenbrier State Park.
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers for the best experience. "Sites 8-11 were on a nice open field, with some smaller trees," notes M J. about their stay at Gambrill State Park.
Varying cell service: Coverage depends on location in the mountainous terrain. "Cell service doesn't work, electric hook ups only. This state park is beautiful and off the grid!" explains Regina C. about Cunningham Falls State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Plan for crowded beaches during summer months. "My partner and our two dogs loved this campground! We were in the dogwood loop. The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers - we avoided it since we are careful due to COVID," shares Sarah K. about Manor - Cunningham Falls State Park.
Pet restrictions: Check dog-friendly areas before arrival. "The only downsides are how crowded it can get peak season, and they don't allow dogs in the lake at all. That's annoying when you camp in summer heat with your dog," warns Beth C. about Greenbrier State Park.
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Some sites specialize in family activities. "This campground has tons of nice cabins and tent sites, all in wooded surroundings. There is a small creek to play in and a nice little hiking trail within the campground. Has a great water park, playground and bounce pad feature," recommends Beth C. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Proximity to attractions: Consider day trips to maximize your experience. "We love this campground. The staff really make sure the traffic is circulating and organized during the weekend when it's crazy busy!" reports Katie H. about Greenbrier.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have sloped sites requiring additional equipment. "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," warns Matt S. about Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday.
Loop selection: Electric hookup availability varies by section in state parks. "We took advantage of our electric site and used a small space heater to take the edge off of that night!" shares M J. about Gambrill State Park Campground.
Maneuverability considerations: Narrow roads challenge larger rigs at some campgrounds. "The roads are very windy and narrow, and I can't imagine trying to maneuver a large RV in there," cautions Jen V. about Hagerstown Antietam Battlefield KOA.
