Rocky Gap State Park Campground offers diverse camping experiences in western Maryland, with seasonal considerations affecting site availability and crowd levels. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,400 feet, the park experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, particularly in spring and fall when overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s. The campground's 278 sites are spread across multiple loops, each with distinct features and privacy levels.
What to Do
Explore hiking trails: Rocky Gap State Park features multiple hiking trails beyond the popular lakeside path. "The 5 mile hike around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park. Across the lake from the campground is a casino and resort," notes Jeff H. from Rocky Gap State Park Campground.
Visit nearby historical sites: The region offers significant historical landmarks within driving distance. "The nearby town of Little Orleans offers a few places to eat and grab some minimal supplies. Bill's Place is a popular eatery just off the trail," reports Shari G. from Fifteen Mile Campground.
Try off-road recreation: For those seeking adventure, some nearby campgrounds offer specialized recreational opportunities. "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," says Ben M. about The Cove Campground's diverse activities.
What Campers Like
Private beach access: The dedicated swimming areas are consistently rated as highlights. "We really like that the campground has their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public," shares Katie H. from Rocky Gap State Park Campground.
Spacious wooded sites: The region's campgrounds often feature well-separated sites in forested settings. "The sites are actually in a wooded area not just a big field. Each site has full hookups. We will definitely return," notes Aaron J. about Middle Ridge Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers appreciate the quality of campground infrastructure. "Bathhouse is in the center of the loop... Clean, well run camp store. Nice beach area with volley ball nets. Lots of paddle boards and canoes for rent," mentions Jeff H. when describing Rocky Gap's amenities.
What You Should Know
Seasonal crowd patterns: The popularity of camping areas fluctuates throughout the year. "Rocky Gap is best earlier and later in the year. It's less crowded," advises Marcandpatti B., highlighting how timing affects the camping experience.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roadways. "It was very noisy at night due to traffic on I-68 and even the campground road, which despite a 15 mph posting has no speed bumps," shares Sue J. about her experience at Rocky Gap.
Wildlife awareness: The region has active wildlife, including bears. "We were told there were regular bear sightings and there were bear boxes at each site," reports Lee D. from Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground, noting that proper food storage is essential.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for dedicated family areas: Many campgrounds offer specialized facilities for families with children. "Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch. I really like that there are trails from the camp loops to the beach," Katie H. mentions about Rocky Gap's family-friendly design.
Consider yurt camping near Oldtown: Yurt accommodations provide comfort for families new to camping. "Select loops allow pets but not all do," notes Lee D. about Shawnee State Park Campground, which offers yurts as alternative accommodations approximately 30 miles from Oldtown.
Check for organized activities: Family-oriented campgrounds often schedule regular events. "Lots of weekend events and bingo at the camp store, friendly helpful staff!" shares Melissa C. about Friendship Village Campground, highlighting structured entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV campers emphasize the importance of choosing appropriate sites. "My wife and I stayed for two nights at this campground and enjoyed it greatly. We happened to be assigned what I believe was the best of the RV sites, a pull through that had full hook up," explains Gerard from Shawnee State Park, noting that "many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches."
Check connectivity options: Mobile service varies widely throughout the region. "Cell service in the area for both AT&T and Verizon was poor. I do not know if this was due to the terrain or lack of towers," reports Stephen H. from Middle Ridge Campground, adding that "Starlink was sketchy at best, Verizon had one bar and slightly usable, ATT was best with a couple of bars."
Consider elevation and access: The mountainous terrain can present challenges for larger RVs. "The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight gettin in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides. Made it in and out no issue taking it slow, but not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer," advises Stephen H. about the access roads at Middle Ridge.
