Camping options near Rohrersville, Maryland sit at elevations ranging from 300-600 feet in the foothills of South Mountain. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds in this area close between November and March due to cold weather conditions and potential ice or snow on access roads.
What to do
Hiking the Catoctin Trail: Within Gambrill State Park, campers can access multiple trails with varying difficulty levels. A camper noted, "There are plenty of trails in the area, though we didn't explore too many on this trip. Bathhouse was simple, but effective with steamy, hot water!" This state park provides an accessible getaway just over an hour from Baltimore or DC.
Swimming at Greenbrier Lake: Greenbrier State Park Campground offers a popular swimming beach during summer months. One visitor mentioned, "My partner and our two dogs loved this campground! We were in the dogwood loop... Almost all sites were nice and shaded." The lake can get crowded on weekends with day visitors.
Historical exploration: The C&O Canal towpath provides access to multiple historical sites. At Antietam Creek Campground, campers can base themselves near significant Civil War landmarks. As one reviewer shared, "This is such a nice little spot right along the Potomac River. 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."
Tubing and rafting: Water activities on the Potomac River are popular from late spring through early fall. Harpers Ferry Campground connects directly to river access points for tubing and kayaking. One visitor reported, "A friend and I chose this campground because of it's right-on-the-river sites and it's close proximity to the tubing we'd be doing on the Shenandoah River."
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: At Brunswick Family Campground, the waterfront setting gets high marks. One camper observed, "I wanted to add to my original review I absolutely love this campground. I live in Baltimore so it's only an hour and 10 minutes for me... This video shows the Shenandoah River and the campground." Many sites offer direct river views.
Proximity to trail systems: Campers appreciate being able to access the C&O Canal towpath directly from several campgrounds. One visitor at Antietam Creek Campground wrote, "Stayed at this campsite while Bikepacking the C&O... was a bit crowded and buggy but every site had its own picnic table and fire pit/grill. Bathrooms were clean and was quiet at night."
Well-maintained facilities: Cunningham Falls State Park receives praise for its upkeep. A recent visitor commented, "I stayed at Cuningham Falls State Park a few weeks ago and the campground was very good with lots to do hikes, swimming etc... The place was clean, paved roads, great price and very quiet." The Manor Area specifically gets mentioned for spacious, quiet sites.
Kid-friendly amenities: Family campers highlight the activities available for children. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, a visitor shared, "We recent went camping for the first time at Jellystone in Maryland. 5 of our 6 kids came with us, so we knew we needed to find a camping ground more geared kids. Jellystone was amazing in every way possible."
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Several riverside campgrounds sit near active rail lines. At Brunswick Family Campground, a camper noted, "The campground is adjacent to a very large, very busy train yard. It's not bothered me but you should be aware." Similarly, Harper's Ferry Campground experiences frequent train traffic throughout the night.
Seasonal crowds: Many campgrounds in the region become extremely busy during summer weekends. A Greenbrier State Park visitor explained, "The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers - we avoided it since we are careful due to COVID." Weekday visits typically offer a quieter experience.
Variable site privacy: Site separation differs significantly between campgrounds. At Owens Creek Campground, a camper remarked, "Nice campground. Stayed at campsite #33. Liked the lot as the tent pad was set back a good way from the road, but the fire ring was awkwardly close to the neighboring campsite. Lots are on the small side and some are less private than others."
Restroom conditions: Bathroom quality varies widely across campgrounds. A camper at Antietam Creek Campground reported, "The one thing we had to complain about were the bathrooms. When we got there, they were okay, but by the 3rd night they were really gross. We were at the site next to them and could smell them."
Tips for camping with families
Waterpark access: Jellystone Park offers extensive water features that appeal to children. One parent shared, "The kids were never bored and had so much fun. Us, as adults, were also never bored. We are definitely going back. Camping ground was clean, staff was nice and tons of fun activities."
Nature programs: Cunningham Falls State Park runs organized activities for kids during peak season. A regular visitor mentioned, "We love going to Cunningham falls annually, however, it books up quickly during peak season! There's a lake, boating, playgrounds, hike to the falls. So much scenery and nature."
Short hiking options: For families with young children, Catoctin Mountain trails provide manageable routes. A visitor to Owens Creek noted, "We quickly found our spot and set up camp. After setting up camp, we went for a walk along the creek and played in the water. We had a great trip."
Secure site reservations early: The most popular family campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. A camper advised, "The staff really make sure the traffic is circulating and organized during the weekend when it's crazy busy!! The only negative that stinks is that campers have to drive down and park their cars in the parking lot by the lake EARLY or you won't get a spot."
Tips from RVers
Site slope challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. At Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA, an RV camper warned, "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air."
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds in the region have restrictions on larger vehicles. Brunswick Family Campground can accommodate bigger rigs but with some navigation challenges. A visitor mentioned, "This was our first trip with our RV and it was a great experience. The staff is extremely nice and helpful with everything."
Hookup availability: Electric hookups are limited at some state parks. At Greenbrier State Park Campground, a camper pointed out, "The campground features four camp loops (1 with electric hookups for RVs, and one that accepts dogs). Each loop winds its way up a hillside, in a woodsy setting, so even though the sites are close to one another, you get a feeling of separation."
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds require navigating narrow, winding mountain roads. RVers should check route conditions before arrival, particularly after heavy rain events when some access roads may experience washouts or flooding.
