Camping in the New Market, Maryland area positions visitors in the western edge of Maryland's Piedmont region, approximately 800 feet above sea level. This location experiences distinct seasonal changes with autumn temperatures averaging 55-65°F, ideal for tent campers who want to avoid summer humidity. The rural landscape features a mix of forest and agricultural land that's relatively flat compared to nearby mountain parks.
What to Do
Hiking to Cunningham Falls: Manor - Cunningham Falls State Park offers trails ranging from easy to moderate. "Cunningham Falls has a nice set of trails that range from easy to moderate. The park is kid and dog friendly. Campsites are a little small and signage could be better, but restrooms are clean and the Rangers are very helpful," notes Lexie H.
Fishing at stocked ponds: Ramblin' Pines provides fishing opportunities for campers. "My brother lives about ten minutes from this campground. He failed to make a reservation so we ended up on a primitive site w no electric or water. The camground offers a lot for the money. There's a pond for fishing, a pool for swimming and a little general store for all your needs," says Michelle L.
Historical sightseeing: Visit Civil War battlefields and historic towns nearby. The area provides "Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door. Harpers Ferry Lower Town and Bolivar Heights are a few minutes by car. Frederick and Antietam are each barely 30-minutes by car," according to Matt S.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites with privacy: At Little Bennett Campground, campers appreciate the site layout. "We stayed at site D72 for 4 days. The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup. D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C& E are tents only," notes Ray & Terri F.
Clean facilities: Greenbrier State Park Campground receives praise for its upkeep. "We paid for Site# 94. A bit pricey considering a lack of elbow room, but it's a great location and everything is well-kept," says Matt S., while another camper notes "The bath houses & sites are always clean, camp hosts are friendly and park rangers are present and helpful."
Proximity to attractions: Many campsites serve as convenient basebases. "About an hour northwest of Washington, DC, Greenbrier State Park is a great choice for car camping. The campground features four camp loops (1 with electric hookups for RVs, and one that accepts dogs)," says Jonathan B., highlighting the location's convenience for pet friendly camping near New Market, Maryland.
What You Should Know
Seasonal popularity affects experience: Summer months bring crowds to many campgrounds. "The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers - we avoided it since we are careful due to COVID," writes Sarah K. about Greenbrier State Park. This reflects a common pattern across the area where swimming areas get congested during peak season.
Reservation requirements vary: Owens Creek Campground requires planning ahead. "You have to reserve online. You can do it once you find a spot or before you arrive. Campsites are well maintained. Really great for tents and small rvs," notes PattyD T. Most campgrounds in the area fill quickly during weekends.
Alcohol regulations differ by park: Maryland state parks prohibit alcohol, unlike private campgrounds. "Be aware: no alcohol in Maryland parks," warns Aaron C. about Greenbrier State Park, while private campgrounds like The Garden and Camp Winery allow alcohol according to their amenities listings.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Facilities specifically designed for children make certain campgrounds stand out. At Ramblin' Pines, "This is our local campground and our second time here and we really like it. It has a pool, jump pillow, mini golf, fishing pond, barnyard with goats, and multiple playgrounds," says Sean M.
Lake swimming options: Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park offers family-friendly water activities. "There's a lake, boating, playgrounds, hike to the falls. So much scenery and nature. The electric 'A loop' is paved so it's great for bike riding," notes Regina C., making it a solid choice for pet friendly camping around New Market.
Evening programs: Some campgrounds offer additional entertainment. "My family loves this camp ground. It's conveniently located, it's quite, it's beautiful and there is plenty to do to keep the kids busy," Ryan D. says about Little Bennett, while another reviewer mentions "This is a good regional campground with activities for kids on special days."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Little Bennett, RV campers should be prepared for leveling issues. "The sites were well maintained, and felt separated enough to have some privacy. Staff were amazing about maintaining safe conditions for campers," says Michael A., though the amenities listing warns of leveling challenges in some areas.
Hookup variations: Full hookups aren't available at all campgrounds. "PROS: Very nice small Montgomery County Park, No reservation fee to make on-line reservations, Reserved 137 days prior to arriving," notes a reviewer at Little Bennett, while pointing out "No WIFI" as one of the cons, reflecting the variable utility options across the region.
Campground layout concerns: For larger rigs, some campgrounds present navigation challenges. "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," warns a camper about a nearby campground, highlighting the importance of researching site specifics for RVs seeking pet friendly camping near New Market.
