Campsites near Sharpsburg, Maryland stretch across the rolling hills of western Maryland with elevations ranging from 310 to 1,600 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during day and 65°F at night. Camping options include primitive sites along the Potomac River requiring gear portage and developed campgrounds with amenities like hot showers and electric hookups.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Cunningham Falls State Park offers trails leading to Maryland's highest cascading waterfall. A camper noted, "Great easy loop hikes around campsite with a decent waterfall depending on when it last rained. Great local get away only 1 hr away from DC."
Tubing on the Shenandoah: Launch directly from Brunswick Family Campground for water fun. "The Shanandoah is just as beautiful. The little store has just the necessities and there is an amazing playground for the kids," reports one visitor.
Explore historical sites: The Civil War battlefields near Antietam Creek Campground provide educational opportunities. "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. Not much traffic on that road and a trail with many cyclists and runners."
Mountain biking: Frederick watershed outside Gambrill State Park offers technical trails popular with locals. "The park is extremely convenient to get to. So considering that convenience, the downsides may be a worthy trade-off... it's still trees and trails and wonderful."
What campers like
River access: Many campers appreciate the waterfront sites at Harpers Ferry Campground. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing."
Wildlife viewing: Early risers at Greenbrier State Park report abundant bird activity. "Birds were abundant, active and singing. Woodpeckers rose early to begin their tree tapping."
Swimming areas: The lake at Cunningham Falls State Park offers summertime recreation. "Great campsite, with a small lake with beach the kids can swim at. Only thing is there is a steep hike back and forth from campsite to beach."
Seasonal activities: Fall camping brings special events to some campgrounds. A visitor to Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA shared, "We love the animals and activities for the kids. Fall is the best at this campground with the trick or treating and haunted house."
What you should know
Train noise: Sites near railroad tracks may experience disruptions. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will."
Crowding at water features: Popular swimming areas become congested during peak season. A visitor to Greenbrier State Park observed, "The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers - we avoided it since we are careful due to COVID."
Alcohol restrictions: Maryland state parks prohibit alcohol, unlike some private campgrounds. "Be aware: no alcohol in Maryland parks," warns a camper at Greenbrier State Park.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Basic amenities at national park campgrounds require preparation. A camper at Antietam Creek noted, "There is nowhere to leave trash, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack everything out with you."
Tips for camping with families
Water park options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water recreation. "Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had a ice-cream / quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly."
Day trip possibilities: Many families use campgrounds as a base for regional exploration. "This was our first trip with our RV and it was a great experience. The staff is extremely nice and helpful with everything! Our spot was on the river with a short walk to the boat ramp and access."
Dog restrictions: Pet policies vary significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Greenbrier State Park mentioned, "The only downsides are how crowded it can get peak season, and they dont allow dogs in the lake at all. That's annoying when you camp in summer heay with your dog."
Activity scheduling: Check operational calendars for amenities. "We had a blast and will be returning next season. Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had a ice-cream / quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. A visitor to Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA shared, "Heads up, big rig owners! 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."
Site size considerations: Many RV sites provide limited space. "Get cozy, the sites are quite small and tightly packed together," notes one KOA visitor.
Electrical hookups: Check amperage availability when booking. At Cunningham Falls State Park, "There are very few electric sites on the three lower loops, the fourth loop is all electric sites, but water is relegated to water spigots...3 to 4 spaced out in each loop."
Road access: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. "The road into the campground was badly in need of repair. Site was not level and infested with black flies."
