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Northern Maryland's camping landscape around Hampstead features a mix of state parks, private campgrounds, and recreational areas within an hour's drive. Codorus State Park Campground, just across the Pennsylvania border, provides lakeside camping with full hookups for RVs and tent sites from April through November. Closer to Hampstead, Merry Meadows Recreation Farm in Freeland offers family-friendly camping with amenities for both RV and tent campers. The region spans from the historic Gettysburg area with multiple campgrounds to the west, to Patapsco Valley State Park's various camping areas to the south. Most campgrounds accommodate multiple camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.
Seasonal availability significantly shapes the camping experience, with most state parks operating from April through October. Many campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when facilities reach capacity. As one camper noted about Patapsco Valley State Park, "It has 8 recreation areas and beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking/multi-use trails." Elevation and terrain vary throughout the region, with some campgrounds featuring relatively flat sites while others have more challenging topography. Cell coverage is generally reliable near Hampstead, though signal strength may diminish in more remote areas. Maryland state parks prohibit alcohol consumption, an important regulation for visitors to note before arrival.
Shaded campsites receive consistently positive reviews, particularly during hot summer months. A visitor to Owens Creek Campground remarked, "It was a very hot weekend but the campground is mostly in full shade. We never felt uncomfortable at our site." Water features enhance many camping experiences in the region, with several campgrounds offering lake or river access. Proximity to historical attractions like Gettysburg and natural features such as waterfalls adds recreational value to the camping options. Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with some visitors noting highway noise at certain locations while others praise the peaceful settings of more secluded sites. Bathhouse quality and maintenance standards differ across facilities, with state parks generally maintaining clean, well-kept facilities according to visitor reports.
"This campground isn't too far from our home in Maryland, so if they have room and we want to go spur of the moment, this one is a good choice. "
"The trails from Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail. The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some. "
from $20 - $249 / night
Check Availability"It was a VERY dark walk to get to the bathhouse for showers. And the fire pit had no grill, so we ended up having to use the stoves of some RV camping friends for meals."
"Large campground with some good trails. Will definitely return!"
"We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick."
"We love this home away from home ❤️"
from $30 - $70 / night
Check Availability"This park is a perfect location if you want to explore Gettysburg National Historical Site as you can literally walk across the street and be in the park or venture½ mile up the road and you come to the"
"Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."
"We have a small camper and there are some great sites on the lake side to park it where you can get AMAZING sunset views. "
"Songle car parking spot on the road then a short walk down a hill onto the site. two tent areas and plenty of prime hammock trees. there’s a small deer trail that runs between all of the sites on the water"
from $20 - $89 / night
Check Availability"It has 8 recreation areas and we stayed at the Hollofield Area in April- one of our first experiences in a Maryland State Park. Beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking /multi use trails."
"This campground is pleasant, but the sites are situated quite close to one another."
from $19 - $27 / night
Check Availability"Camp site(Tent camping)
The camp site is what it is, just a camp site :) It's one of the bigger state parks surrounded by forest in MD.""Another negative was after the storm for the next few days we heard trees falling nearby."
from $20 - $51 / night
Check Availability"I always appreciate the near solitude experience of this campground as 90% of the sites are RV sites, that are kept away from the tenting area."
"If you’re looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn’t it."
"Our site was very spacious, beautifully landscaped and wooded, but right next to the road. There was a buffer of trees, but unfortunately that didn’t make much of a difference with regard to noise."
"Located about 4 miles from town it is far enough for that country feel but close enough to be convenient. The camp store was well stocked with basic needs as was the gift shop. "
"This campground worked out perfectly..so close to the battlefields. It was only for the weekend but we really enjoyed our stay."
"It also has a lake and cabins available."
from $66 - $127 / night
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LegendPros- Pool is sparkling clear and new. Mini golf is awesome. Nice people, nice store.
Cons- further from Hershey Park than ideal, lots of seasonal campers leaving for work before dawn in loud trucks, not much privacy, some road noise.
GuideBASE ACCESS REQUIRED!
Electric/Water/Sewer hookup sites for $56 a night! (2 night minimum) Which is a great full hookup price, even though it's gone up $6 since last year. Weekly and monthly pricing available as well.
The sites are neat, well maintained, level, and sunny with concrete pads and paved campground roads. Centrally located laundry facilities and airconditioned bath house. Playground, boat launch, beach volleyball court, disk golf, basketball court, and outdoor pool all within walking distance. Other base amenities include: commissary, gas station, bowling, BBQ, Dunkin', and Greek restaurants, and golf. (I'm sure I'm forgetting something.)
Note: in July it is very buggy - the biting flies are the worst. So bring bug spray or a screened in tent to eat in.
The downside: the reservation system is a major PITA. You have to download a PDF packet, fill it out, and EMAIL it in. When you get your confirmation, it doesn't include a specific site number. You get assigned one when they call you the week of your scheduled check-in for payment completion.
Don't miss out on: the water! My advice would be to reserve one of their boats at the same time you reserve your campsite. The water in this area is great - no jellyfish, low waves. You can SUP, kayak, pontoon boat. Whatever your preference. There are large flats of grasses - which you'd want to avoid with a motor but are so much fun to paddle over. Also check out the Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge island. You can't go inland, but you can anchor off shore, jump in and wade around the shallows.
Also very driveable to an off-base movie theater, Baltimore, and Havre de Grace.
ScoutWe stayed only one night in primitive tent site which was massive with a turnaround. It was great. There are fire pits and picnic tables and level ground. Very serene. We walked down to the river, breathtaking. Not sure of other amenities as we didn’t use them.
ScoutFrome the moment you drive up the women at the gate is about as welcoming ( as my Pops would say ) "A fart in church.," Great way to start your vacation. Didn't get much better in the office. The one guy that worked there did at least smile at us....
TravelerNice campground, maintained very well and clean. Laundry room and Propane fill on site so that was nice. RV Site was fairly level and easy to get into. Some sites are a bit close together and not long enough to keep your tow vehicle hooked up. A bit inconvenient if you’re only there for 1 night.
ScoutWell maintained campgrounds with thoughtful touches. Staff very friendly and responsive.
ScoutIts such a beautiful campground and very quite and clean showers and bathrooms
ScoutGreat campsite, plenty of space. It rained a lot and our campsite was a little muddy (not bad) but nearby campsites had large puddles
LegendWe spent 4 nights at Gettysburg Campground to attend the AIM Club Rally(Lincoln’s Legacy- Gettysburg 250), and it served as base camp for the event.
WHAT I LIKED:
Location, Location, Location: This park is an absolute winner for convenience—just 5 minutes from the Gettysburg battlefields, museums, and the heart of town.
The Atmosphere: The staff gave us a warm reception at check-in, and the site itself was clean, well-maintained, and spacious enough to back up to a running creek. Lots of mature trees offer lots of shade and character.
Big-Rig Friendly: Navigating a 45-foot motorhome with a toad can sometimes be stressful, but this park was easy to maneuver.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:
Late-Night Power Struggles: On our final night, the campground experienced grid strain. Our Hughes Watchdog Power Center saved the day—but it had to shut off our power 7 different times due to low voltage. Aside from losing a few hours of sleep to the chorus of appliances cycling off and on, no harm was done. I recommend using a surge protector/voltage regulator if you stay here.
WOULD WE COME BACK?
Camping sites near Hampstead, Maryland range from wooded RV parks to historic battlegrounds, with elevations between 300-800 feet throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions with daytime highs in the 60-70°F range. Most campgrounds in the area operate on a seasonal schedule, with limited winter availability outside of Ramblin' Pines which remains open year-round.
Hiking trail exploration: The Patapsco Valley area offers extensive trail networks for hiking enthusiasts. At Patapsco Valley State Park, visitors can access over 70 miles of multi-use trails. "A popular spot for afternoon walks and morning workouts, the trails are active with local residents and far away visitors. You can also gain access to the Patapsco River by traveling down into the river valley along the Forest Glen Trail," notes Rachel S.
Disc golf courses: Several parks in the region feature disc golf courses, including Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground which offers two distinct 18-hole courses. "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! The course in the Conewago area is relatively flat, whereas the Quaker Race course is built into the side of the hill leading into the QR day use area, so it is a lot more wooded and hillier," writes Danielle V.
Historical tours: The Gettysburg area provides numerous historical experiences within a 45-minute drive of Hampstead. Visitors staying at Gettysburg Campground can easily access battlefield sites. "If you're looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn't it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you," shares Jim G.
Water recreation: Many campgrounds in the area feature swimming pools, fishing ponds, or lake access. Codorus State Park offers boating opportunities on its large lake. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains Catherine H.
Shaded camping areas: Mature forests provide relief during hot summer months at many campgrounds. At Ramblin' Pines, campers appreciate the wooded setting. "I really like all the trees. Space between sites seems to be standard. The keycard entry system is pretty inconvenient though ($40 cash only deposit!) and the hours are inconvenient as well. You can only check in between 2 and 4!" notes Sean M.
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer recreational facilities designed for children. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm provides multiple activity options. "We have visited 5x this year. Wooded sites, open sites, tent sites. All great!" reports Amy R. Another camper mentions, "Wonderful Easter. We stayed here this past Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol. Wonderful experience for the whole family."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise from campers. At Artillery Ridge Campground, visitors note the cleanliness of amenities. "The bathroom/showers were very clean, and individual units for privacy. The wifi was spotty, but that is to be expected. The cable was great on the HD channels and crystal clear," says Dave B.
Waterfront sites: Campers frequently mention the appeal of sites located near water features. At Codorus State Park, lakeside camping enhances the experience. "Nice campground. Very clean facilities. We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake. It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat launch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private," explains Catherine H.
Seasonal schedules: Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October. Hollofield Area Campground is typical of the region's seasonal options, running April 1 to October 30. One frustrated camper noted: "We arrived at 1am, hadn't made a reservation, and it was closed and the gates locked. No where on the website does it say it's closed. Very frustrating, especially as a weary traveler."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, particularly on weekends and holidays. Sites with special features like waterfront access or full hookups book fastest. During peak season at Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, availability becomes limited. "Sites look to be semi private in a lot of pictures but that isn't the case. We had a full hook up with our 15ft travel trailer. Pretty tight even with my Tacoma," explains Mike G.
Pet policies: Most campgrounds allow pets but may have specific rules or designated pet-friendly areas. Gifford Pinchot State Park separates pet and non-pet camping areas. "It was nice that the pet area is separate from those of us who don't have pets or want quiet from dogs barking. Some of the groups can get rather loud especially when there are a bunch of teens," notes Melissa F.
Noise considerations: Despite natural settings, some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or airports. Hollofield Area Campground can have air traffic noise. "The inner loop was completely full, and the sites were just too closely spaced for my preferences. There were a few sites with a little extra room and privacy, but for the most part they were packed in pretty tightly," warns Jen V.
Nature play areas: Several parks feature specialized playgrounds that incorporate natural elements. The Hilton Area of Patapsco Valley State Park offers unique play experiences. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park. The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground," shares Angel G.
Activities for different ages: Look for campgrounds with programming tailored to various age groups. At Artillery Ridge Campground, families find multiple options. "Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground. You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground," reports Zack.
Cabin options: For families new to camping or seeking more comfort, several campgrounds offer cabin rentals. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm provides comfortable alternatives to tent camping. "We stayed in one of the cabins, which had 2 beds and a bunk bed, sink and toilet, refrigerator, microwave, dining table and sofa. There was also a front porch with picnic table and fire pit," describes Wendy W.
Educational opportunities: The region's historical significance creates learning experiences for children. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts," explains MJ B.
Hookup availability: Electric services vary across campgrounds, with some offering only 30-amp connections while others provide 50-amp options. At Codorus State Park, RVers have multiple hookup choices. "I stay here for my first camp out with my new camper. No water but the bath house was close and very clean," notes Kevin M.
Site size considerations: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs and tow vehicles. Gettysburg Battlefield KOA requires careful navigation. "We stayed in site 55. Big site but hard to get into. There are a couple of pull thru sites that are much easier. Friendly staff. Lots of trees. Mini golf and pool. We will stay again," advises Bill B.
Year-round options: Ramblin' Pines remains open throughout winter, making it valuable for off-season travelers. "Open all year," states Jeff B. succinctly, while another camper mentioned, "The lady in the office are AMAZING (JENN AND SUE), and they answered all questions we had...they got us a great deal for our winter site we were in spots 86,85,89 for a month long stay... which they do during the winter!!"
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping options are available in and around Hampstead?
The Hampstead area offers diverse camping experiences for all preferences. Pequea Creek Campground provides picturesque settings with large, tree-shaded sites and is conveniently located near Lancaster for shopping and river tubing. For a more urban camping experience, Cherry Hill Park offers numerous amenities, cleanliness, and even provides orientation to Washington DC attractions and public transportation. Other options include state parks, private RV parks, and hiker-biker campsites, giving you choices ranging from rustic to resort-style accommodations.
Where are the best places to camp near Hampstead?
The best camping near Hampstead includes Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park, a peaceful location with creekside sites and plenty of shade—perfect for hot summer days. The campground offers privacy and quiet surroundings. Another excellent option is Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area, which features a nice playground for families with children. Both campgrounds are within reasonable driving distance from Hampstead and provide access to hiking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Are there any developed campsites or campgrounds in Hampstead?
While Hampstead itself doesn't have campgrounds within town limits, several developed camping options are located in the surrounding area. Hollofield Area Campground is part of Patapsco Valley State Park with 70 miles of multi-use trails along the river. Another option is Brunswick Family Campground, which offers sites between the railroad tracks and river with helpful staff. Both provide developed facilities including water and restrooms, making them convenient alternatives to primitive camping while still being accessible from Hampstead.
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