Cabin camping options near Sharpsburg, Maryland stand within a historic region at approximately 400 feet elevation where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge. The area experiences all four seasons, with summer highs averaging 87°F and mild spring and fall temperatures ideal for outdoor exploration. Winter cabin campers should prepare for occasional snow and temperatures that can dip into the 20s between December and February.
What to do
River activities: Access the Potomac directly from Brunswick City Campground, where guests can wade into the water right from their sites. "You can walk down into the river or go up river some to go tubing," notes Nicholas S., who appreciated the riverside location.
Hiking to waterfalls: Trek various trails at Cunningham Falls State Park, which offers routes ranging from easy to moderate. A camper explains, "The Cliff Trail to the falls is short but semi-challenging and beautiful," making it accessible for most skill levels while still providing scenic rewards.
Civil War history exploration: Visit battlefields within a short drive of multiple cabin accommodations. One camper at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA highlighted this aspect: "Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door. Harpers Ferry Lower Town and Bolivar Heights are a few minutes by car."
Bike the C&O Canal: Pedal along the historic towpath that runs through the region. "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," writes Susan K. about the convenient access from the campsites.
What campers like
River views: Waterfront cabin sites at Harpers Ferry Campground provide direct Potomac River access. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Amazing sites right on the Potomac," shares Eric J., highlighting the premium waterfront locations that many visitors seek.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise at Gambrill State Park Campground. "Bathhouse was simple, but effective with steamy, hot water!" reports one camper, noting that even during busy periods the facilities remained functional.
Family-oriented activities: Water features and entertainment options keep children engaged at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. "Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had an ice-cream / quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly. Lots to do for kids of all ages, gaga pit tournaments at night, movies, hay rides, character events tons of stuff," explains David S.
Convenient location: Proximity to major cities makes weekend trips practical. Little Bennett Campground campers appreciate being relatively close to urban areas while still enjoying nature. "Great campground. A bit pricey, but has a full hookup loop. Other loops are tent only. Wonderful bath house. Lots of stuff to do," notes PattyD T.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near some campgrounds in the area, particularly Brunswick Family Campground. "The CNO railroad runs pretty close it's not super loud just wanted to make you aware," mentions Brian S., giving potential campers advance notice of occasional train sounds.
Reservation timing: Peak season books quickly for cabin accommodations. At Cunningham Falls State Park, Regina C. advises, "We love going to Cunningham falls annually, however, it books up quickly during peak season!"
Variable site privacy: Spacing between cabins and campsites differs significantly between facilities. At Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA, Shelby B. notes, "My biggest complaint about this campground is how close the sites were together. They packed a lot of sites into a small area and it shows."
Seasonal facility availability: Some amenities close early in the season. A visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park learned this the hard way: "I called their customer service number and asked if the water park would be open. I was told yes. We arrive on our first day of 4, put on our swimsuits, and play in the splash park for several hours... It closed early, maybe 3, and I overheard something about it being shut down for the year."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra clothing: Weather can change rapidly in the region, particularly during spring and fall. While staying at Cunningham Falls, campers reported enjoying the multiple trails despite unexpected rain. "Our experience was rainy, but it was fun regardless. Nice park with hike to the waterfalls, swimming in the lake and playground."
Choose cabin locations strategically: Request spots away from main paths when possible. At Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA, Jen V. observed that site selection matters: "Our site was extremely close to our neighbor's site, but still surprisingly roomy and decently shaded. We were right next to the pancake hut and playground, and very close to other activities."
Plan for swimming options: Lake access varies by location and some have better swimming areas than others. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed," reports a visitor to Cunningham Falls State Park, highlighting one of the better swimming spots in the region.
Budget accordingly: Cabin camping costs more than tent camping but offers weather protection. "It was a nice place to stay for kids, lots to do for them. But very expensive for tent camping. I still paid nearly 100 a night," notes Mark G. about Jellystone Park accommodations. Cabin rates typically run higher, often $130-180 per night during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some RV sites require significant adjustment to achieve level positioning. Matt S. from Harpers Ferry KOA warns, "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air."
Utility access: Electric and water hookup locations sometimes require extra hose or cord length. At Little Bennett Campground, an RVer noted: "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back."
Satellite coverage limitations: Dense tree canopy affects reception at several campgrounds. "There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy. OTA TV was descent using an external omni antenna," explains Ray & Terri F. about Little Bennett Campground, suggesting alternative entertainment planning for rainy days.
Access road conditions: Entrance roads vary in quality and some present challenges for larger units. "The road into the campground was badly in need of repair," reports one camper about Brunswick Family Campground, indicating that drivers of larger rigs should proceed with caution.
