Camping in the Catoctin Mountain region near Myersville, Maryland offers a mix of private and public camping options at elevations between 800-1,900 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with colorful fall foliage from late September through October. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from April through November, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Hiking and battlefield exploration: Visit Harpers Ferry Campground where you can access the Appalachian Trail and C&O Canal towpath. "From there you can grab a bite, visit the history of Harper's Ferry or continue exploring more hiking trails," notes Maggie A. The location provides an excellent base for historical exploration, as "it's a 1.5 mile walk down into Harpers Ferry."
Water activities: Many campgrounds in the area offer river access for fishing and water recreation. "The river is beautifully clean clear and cool," writes Brian S. about Brunswick Family Campground. At Harpers Ferry Campground, one camper mentioned "Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing."
Farm experiences: For families with children, Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm offers unique farm-based activities. "We enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares Kasey M., making it ideal for educational family outings with younger campers.
What campers like
River proximity: Riverside camping spots rate highly among visitors. At Brunswick Family Campground, campers appreciate the water access. "Great location right next the river. Easy to walk into the river or tube down it," explains Nicholas S. Another reviewer adds that the "Shanandoah is just as beautiful" and mentions that the campground feels "quaint and carefree."
Historical locations: The proximity to Civil War sites draws many visitors. "The best thing about this Thousand Trails campground is it's proximity to Gettysburg and all attractions!" explains a reviewer at Round Top Campground. Gettysburg Campground receives praise for its location: "It's in the heart of the battlefield access points and trails."
Family amenities: Campgrounds with activities for children receive positive feedback. "The best part was that there is a pool, hopscotch, a swing set, and a playground open as well," writes a reviewer about Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm. Another camper at Drummer Boy notes, "There is a swimming pool, ball courts, fishing pond, mini golf."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Myersville sit close to active rail lines. At Harpers Ferry Campground, a camper warns, "There is no separate between the sites (kids ran through ours a few times ripping out our guy lines)...the proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the area have limited operational seasons. Drummer Boy Camping Resort runs "Apr 1 to Oct 31," while Harpers Ferry Campground operates from "April 1 to October 31."
Site spacing concerns: Many campgrounds feature tightly packed sites. One camper at Drummer Boy noted that "the site was really narrow which didn't leave much room for a patio to sit outside with our friends." At Western Village RV Park, a reviewer stated, "The sites are so small that my truck was either parked over the firering or blocking our door."
Tips for camping with families
Animal interaction opportunities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport offers numerous kid-friendly activities. "What an amazing campground for adults and kids," writes Mary. "The kids were never bored and had so much fun." Another camper adds, "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."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with pools for summer visits. "Two pools which is a bonus," mentions a camper about Drummer Boy Camping Resort. Another reviewer notes, "The pool with the slide was very clean."
Budget considerations: Prices vary significantly between basic and amenity-rich campgrounds. At Jellystone, one camper noted 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."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require leveling equipment. One camper at Round Top Campground reported, "Site was unlevel and poorly maintained." Another mentioned, "Our site was pretty level and an okay side. Our site was separated from our neighbors site with nice foliage."
Hookup logistics: Pay attention to the arrangement of utility connections. At Western Village RV Park, a camper noted, "We shared 1 water source with 2 other campers. In order to hook anything up, you had to be in your neighbor's space." Brunswick Family Campground offers "full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections," though site quality varies.
Reservation timing: For RV camping near Myersville, Maryland, advance planning is essential during peak seasons. A camper at Gettysburg Campground recommended, "The tent sites have numerous walnut trees, so there's a bit of a hazard there when walking around trying to dodge the falling nuts (cars are targets too!)."
