Best Dispersed Camping near Sharpsburg, MD

Dispersed camping near Sharpsburg, Maryland can be found at a small number of wildlife management areas and national park backcountry zones in neighboring West Virginia and Virginia. Edwards Run Wildlife Management Area in West Virginia provides primitive camping sites approximately 30 miles west of Sharpsburg. Compton Gap in Shenandoah National Park offers backcountry camping options about 45 miles southwest of Sharpsburg, though this requires hiking in and obtaining proper permits. Both areas feature minimal development and no services, maintaining the natural character of the landscape.

Several access points require planning and preparation. Edwards Run features roadside camping options with level, grassy sites accessible by standard vehicles. No drinking water is available, and while fires are permitted, campers must bring their own firewood. Portable toilets and trash collection are provided. Compton Gap is accessible only by hiking trails, prohibits fires completely, and requires backcountry permits for overnight stays. Neither location offers amenities like hookups, showers, or picnic tables. A $10 camping fee may apply at Edwards Run, though information about payment methods appears limited.

These public lands attract campers seeking basic, low-impact camping experiences away from developed facilities. Edwards Run provides more accessible options with roadside parking. A camper noted, "There's a lot by the road that looks like it's where they want you to camp but there are better sites on in. Just gotta hike to em." For those willing to backpack, Compton Gap offers more remote options within Shenandoah National Park. According to one reviewer, it's "not our favorite campground" but "if you're a through hiker, it'll get the job done." Seasonal conditions affect both areas, with higher insect activity during warmer months at Compton Gap in particular.