Camping options around Oldtown, Maryland span across mountain terrain and river valleys in the Appalachian region. The area sits at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet with moderate humidity levels during summer months. Campgrounds typically remain open from April through October, with some offering year-round accommodations for campers seeking winter experiences.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Fort Valley Ranch near Luray offers an equestrian experience alongside camping. "The availability of horseback trail riding was an added bonus... Within a 10-minute drive, there are opportunities for hiking and river activities. We found a river access point perfect for swimming and wading," notes Jason G.
River activities: Harpers Ferry Campground offers water-based recreation on the Potomac River. "Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing," writes Darcy S. The campground is "right on the river so you can go swimming right from your campsite!"
Trail access: Camping areas provide convenient access to regional trails. "If you would like to do some exploring, then you can walk the trail right next to the campground into the historical town of Harper's Ferry. The trail is about 1.5 miles one way," explains Maggie A.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds. "The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill," according to a Fort Valley Ranch visitor.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Rocky Gap State Park Campground offers generously sized sites. "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have your own sections of woods," writes Jeff H. The park features "heavily shaded" sites that provide privacy.
Lakeside amenities: Rocky Gap provides lake access with recreational options. "We brought paddle boards and the lake was perfect for paddle boarding... Nice beach area with volley ball nets. Lots of paddle boards and canoes for rent," notes one reviewer.
Family-friendly activities: Friendship Village Campground offers structured entertainment. "Lots of fun for kids, live music on the weekend, this campground was full of activity," shares Daniel S. Another camper notes they "held a farmers market on Saturday and had a HUGE community yard sale which we thought was very cool!"
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. "The bathhouses are always clean and well stocked. The camp sites are tucked into the woods with plenty of room for camping," states Katie H. about Rocky Gap.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience significant railway disturbances. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "there is 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," warns Sherri C.
Road access challenges: Pioneer Lakes RV Park has infrastructure issues. "The roads around the camp ground could use some maintenance, especially on the hill side by the pool," notes Rachel D. This can affect arrival and departure, particularly for larger rigs.
Site leveling requirements: Many sites require significant leveling. "The spot was so unlevel there were 19 inches between my bottom step and the ground," reports one Pioneer Lakes visitor. Preparing leveling blocks is essential for comfortable setup.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. Many remote campgrounds have limited reception, necessitating planning for communications. Some facilities offer Wi-Fi near main buildings or for additional fees.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Family-oriented campgrounds provide various play areas. At Friendship Village Campground, "there is 3 play grounds all different and all well kept," according to steve K. The campground also features "a jumping pillow and a very well-built gaga ball pit."
Kid-friendly water features: Rocky Gap offers designated swimming areas with supervision. "The campground beach is fun. There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle," writes Marcandpatti B. Note that "you cannot swim anywhere outside of the roped swim areas."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds schedule regular events for children. "They have fun holiday events, like the Halloween trick or treat, and they provide a shuttle for Bedford's annual Fall Foliage festival, which is a bonus," shares Shelby B. about Friendship Village.
Pet accommodations: For families traveling with dogs, "the Dog Park is awesome. It's the size of a real, normal dog park," according to one Pioneer Lakes visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Little Orleans Campground (now Rvino - Ridge Rider Campground) provides full-service sites. "Really a nice campground with great hosts. Only complaint is the closeness of other sites, luckily no one else was around," reports Jennifer K. who appreciated the "nice newer fire pit and picnic table at each" site.
Access road navigation: RV drivers should prepare for mountain roads. "I was initially concerned about the road leading into the campground, as my rig is over 50 feet in total length. However, we were surprised that the winding roads presented no issues for us," shares Jason G. about Fort Valley Ranch.
Site selection importance: Each RV park offers varied site quality. "Our site P1 is a full hook up pull through but it's really unlevel. We ran out of blocks trying to level on this site and were still off a bit," warns Jennifer K. at Little Orleans, recommending potential site changes for longer stays.
Seasonal availability: Many RV campgrounds near Oldtown remain open through different seasons. "Sites and roads are gravel, nice newer fire pit and picnic table at each," notes one reviewer, mentioning the advantage of gravel pads for all-weather camping.
