The Monocacy River valley in western Maryland encompasses Point of Rocks, where the Potomac River bends toward Harpers Ferry. The area sits at approximately 300 feet elevation and receives moderate rainfall year-round, creating lush forested camping areas. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer brings high humidity and temperatures regularly reaching the 90s from June through August.
What to do
Hiking the Catoctin Mountain trails: Little Bennett Campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the region's extensive trail network. "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly," notes Ray & Terri F. about Little Bennett Campground, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with pets.
Fishing along the Potomac: Brunswick Family Campground offers excellent riverside fishing access. "The Shenandoah river parallels the campground. The river is beautifully clean clear and cool," reports Brian S. about Brunswick Family Campground, providing anglers with productive fishing spots just steps from their campsite.
Historical exploration: The Civil War battlefields around Harpers Ferry Campground create opportunities for combining camping with history. "Harpers Ferry is a beautiful place to hike, camp and visit," explains Annie S., highlighting how Harpers Ferry Campground serves as a gateway to significant historical sites.
What campers like
Direct river access: Riverside camping stands out as a top feature. "There is a small creek to play in and a nice little hiking trail within the campground," notes Beth C. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, giving campers multiple water access points without leaving the campground property.
Trail connectivity: The C&O Canal Towpath provides car-free travel options. "It's situated on the C&O canal, so you could walk or bike for miles in either direction for hours! Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail," shares Susan K. from Brunswick Family Campground, allowing campers to reach destinations without driving.
Cleanliness of facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "Showerhouse/Restrooms are placed in the middle of each loop and are modern facilities. Fairly clean and maintained. Electric outlets are a plus," reports Dave V. about Cunningham Falls State Park, highlighting practical amenities that enhance the camping experience.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines. "The CNO railroad runs pretty close it's not super loud just wanted to make you aware," warns Brian S. about Brunswick Family Campground, while another camper notes, "Between the train and the crummy, smelly, understocked facilities, I will never be back here."
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others pack campers together. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," reports Ray & Terri F. about Little Bennett Campground.
Seasonal water attractions: Lake swimming availability depends on timing. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed," notes Casey L. about Cunningham Falls State Park, though some water attractions close early in the season.
Tips for camping with families
Look for integrated activities: Family-friendly campgrounds offer organized programming. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Kid-friendly amenities reduce boredom. "Great amenities for kids were incredible, with arts/crafts, a movie theatre, an arcade, nice playground, and jumping pillow," one camper mentions about Harpers Ferry KOA.
Consider yurt camping for convenience: Yurt accommodations at Point of Rocks area campgrounds provide comfort without setup hassle. "Our site was level and well separated from others," notes Laure D. about Cunningham Falls State Park, where various accommodation types including yurts make family camping more manageable.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before setup: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," reports a camper at Little Bennett Campground, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling blocks.
Reserve pull-through sites when possible: Easier navigation for larger rigs makes a difference. "A perk for us for our first trip with a camper was the pull thru sites," notes Amy about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, which accommodates larger vehicles with less maneuvering required.
Verify hookup availability: Water and electric access varies by loop. "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone," shares Roberta K. about Bull Run Regional Park, where full hookup sites create a more comfortable camping experience.
