Tent camping near Cavetown, Maryland offers access to portions of the Appalachian Trail and Potomac River within a 20-mile radius. The region sits along South Mountain, with elevations ranging from 400-1,700 feet and summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. Winter camping is limited, with most campgrounds closing between November and March due to freezing temperatures and seasonal maintenance.
What to do
Hiking on the Appalachian Trail: The Maryland section of the AT passes directly through several campgrounds in the area, including Annapolis Rock Campground, where one camper noted, "About a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private. No camp fires allowed. Short walk to cold natural spring for water. Short walk to Annapolis rock. Rock climbing available."
Water activities on the Potomac: The C&O Canal and Potomac River provide opportunities for paddling, tubing, and swimming at Antietam Creek Campground, where a visitor mentioned, "Small campground with a pit toilet right on the Potomac river picnic table and fire ring with a few nice trees throughout the camp area. Easy to get to and not far from the towns."
Historical exploration: Many campgrounds are situated near Civil War battlefields and historical sites. From the campgrounds, you can access hiking trails leading to preserved historical structures. A camper at Antietam Creek shared, "It's great being on the water. I would go back. Each site has a fire ring and a picnics table and grill."
What campers like
Access to water sources: Many campers appreciate the proximity to the Potomac River and natural springs. A visitor at Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Campsite shared, "Small campsite but no one else was there, so it was perfect. There is a porta potty, water pump, and picnic table. Wonderful spot on the river."
Trail connectivity: The region's campgrounds are well-connected via the Appalachian Trail and C&O Canal Towpath. A hiker at Dahlgren Backpacker Campground reported, "This is a stop on the AT open only to multi-day backpackers. I've heard it is sometimes enforced. It's a bit different than most AT stops, as there are no real sites, just a large grassy area to pitch tents."
Scenic landscape views: Many campsites provide access to rocky overlooks with views of the surrounding valleys. Dahlgren Backpacker Campground is "Close to the South Mountain Inn, a hiker friendly restaurant. Big field."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From flush toilets with showers to primitive pit toilets or no facilities. At Jordan Junction Hiker-biker Campsite, a camper described, "Good site, has the necessities. Water, Porta p, fire pit. What else do you really need? Want to rinse off? Jump into the Potomac for a swim."
Campfire regulations: Several campgrounds prohibit fires due to restoration efforts or forest management. At Annapolis Rock Campground, "great primitive campsite that has undergone major restorations and preventative measures to reverse the damage from huge camping crowds of the past. no fires, but there are two privies and a really nice spring near the campsites."
Site spacing and privacy: The level of privacy varies substantially between campgrounds. Antietam Creek Campground offers "Nice place to camp for a night or two next to the river. There aren't many sites and no 'park' or ranger station. You have to park on the road and walk about 75 feet to your site."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shorter hiking distances: For families with young children, select campgrounds requiring minimal hiking from parking areas. Antietam Creek is accessible via a short walk across a bridge, though a camper noted, "You have to park on the street, cross the bridge over the C&O and towpath, and then down a little hill to your site."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety protocols. A camper at Annapolis Rock mentioned wildlife considerations, with "bear poles. one near the beginning of the campsite trail and one closer to the spring."
Weather preparation: The mountain elevation can create temperature variations and rapid weather changes. Prepare with layers and rain gear, especially in spring and fall.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping sites near Cavetown don't accommodate RVs due to narrow access roads and hike-in requirements. Gathland State Park is primarily for tent camping with a visitor noting it's a "Solid camping area ... felt safe and had a great time."
Alternative RV options: Consider staying at larger state parks in the wider region that offer designated RV sites with hookups, then day-hiking to the tent-focused areas.
Parking constraints: Even campgrounds with road access often have limited parking. Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season.
