Pet-friendly camping near Point of Rocks, Maryland offers diverse terrain options with elevations ranging from 240-480 feet along the Potomac River valley. The region typically sees four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak camping months and spring bringing occasional flooding along riverside sites. Train noise impacts multiple campgrounds in the area due to the active CSX rail corridor paralleling many camping locations.
What to do
Historical exploration: 1.5 miles to Harpers Ferry. From Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders, campers can access the historic town via a walking trail. "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," notes Maggie A. The route takes you through Harper's Ferry National Park with access to additional hiking trails.
Fishing from campsites: 0 equipment rental needed. Riverside sites at several campgrounds allow direct access to fishing. "There is a small camp store, but the campground is convenient to ample grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants as well as many local historic attractions," reports Dale Y. about Brunswick campground. Many campers bring their own gear for catching smallmouth bass and catfish in the Potomac.
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: 4-5 trail connections. Greenbrier State Park Campground provides direct trail connections. "Close to good hiking and could walk right out of the tent and meet up with the AT," writes Elinor. The park features trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty levels with clearly marked paths.
What campers like
Direct river access: most riverfront sites. Many campers appreciate the proximity to water at Brunswick Family Campground. "The Shenandoah River parallels the campground. The river is beautifully clean, clear and cool," shares Brian S. Campers can wade, swim, or launch personal watercraft from designated areas.
Spacious wooded sites: 30+ feet between sites. At Little Bennett Campground, privacy is a highlight. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," notes Ray & Terri F. This setting creates a more secluded camping experience despite being relatively close to urban areas.
Well-maintained facilities: daily cleaning. "Bathhouse was simple, but effective with steamy, hot water! People were good about keeping their space in this COVID era," reports M J. about Gambrill State Park. Many campgrounds in the region prioritize clean facilities despite high weekend usage rates in peak season.
What you should know
Train noise: 24-hour schedules. The CSX rail line affects multiple campgrounds. "The CSX rail line berm... trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night," warns Sherri C. about Harpers Ferry Campground.
Weekend crowding: lake facilities. Popular areas like Cunningham Falls State Park experience significant crowding. "The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers," notes Sarah K. Arriving early or midweek provides better access to swimming and picnic areas.
Limited cell service: spotty coverage. "AT&T 5 MB/s w/o booster (1 bar), 8 MB/s with it (2 bars). There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy," explains Ray & Terri F. about connectivity at Little Bennett. Most campgrounds have limited to no WiFi availability and varying carrier coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Lake swimming alternatives: river access points. When lakes are crowded, river access can be a better option. "The river is mesmerizing... situated next to the river so half of the sites have river views. Nice boat loading ramp and dock for fishing," reports Susan K. about Brunswick Family Campground. The gentle entry points allow for safe wading for children.
Playground availability: limited facilities. "The little store has just the necessities and there is an amazing playground for the kids," notes Brian S. about Brunswick. Most campgrounds in the region have basic playground equipment but limited organized activities.
Weather preparedness: temperature swings. "It was so very cold the first night we were there (25!). We took advantage of our electric site and used a small space heater to take the edge off of that night!" shares M J. about Gambrill State Park. Spring and fall camping requires extra layers and heating options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: end sites provide more room. At Antietam Creek Campground, careful site selection matters. "All sites are walk-in only, which means you park on the street, cross the bridge over the C&O and towpath, and then down a little hill to your site," explains Michelle N. End sites at most campgrounds offer more space for larger setups.
Leveling challenges: bring blocks. "Site #D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," reports Napunani about Little Bennett Campground. Many regional campgrounds feature sloped terrain requiring substantial leveling equipment.
Limited hookups: water availability. "D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C& E are tents only," explains Ray & Terri F. about Little Bennett. Most campgrounds separate RV and tent camping areas, with RV sections offering water and electric but often no sewer except at premium sites.
