150 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping areas around Sharpsburg, Maryland concentrate along the Potomac River and nearby historical sites, with options ranging from primitive tent camping to full-service RV parks. The Antietam Creek Campground within the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park provides walk-in tent sites with basic amenities, while commercial facilities like Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA and Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport offer more developed accommodations including cabins and glamping options. Most campgrounds in this region maintain proximity to significant Civil War battlefields and historical landmarks.
Several campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from April through October, though some like the Harpers Ferry KOA remain open year-round. The C&O Canal towpath provides multiple access points to riverside camping, with sites requiring varying degrees of gear portage from parking areas. Primitive camping at Antietam Creek Campground requires visitors to park on nearby roads and carry equipment across pedestrian bridges. Limited facilities at national park sites contrast with the extensive amenities found at private campgrounds. A visitor commented on this distinction: "You have to park on the road and haul all of your stuff across the field and over the fence so it's not exactly easy to get all of your equipment at the campsite."
Riverside locations characterize many camping options in the area, with the Potomac River providing both scenic views and recreational opportunities. Many campers mention appreciating the waterfront locations despite occasional drawbacks. According to user feedback, "It's 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." Family-oriented campgrounds like Jellystone Park feature water parks, pools, and organized activities, while more primitive sites along the C&O Canal appeal to hikers and cyclists seeking simpler accommodations. Tent and RV sites throughout the region vary significantly in privacy levels, with national park campgrounds offering more natural settings but fewer amenities than their commercial counterparts.
"This park just is near enough to Baltimore and DC to allow for a quick getaway and offers a lot to do."
"Maryland has some great state parks and this is one of them. Decent sized sites, clean bath houses. Swimming lake is excellent. Only basic amenities, but dump station."
from $23 - $29 / night
Check Availability"We set up camp at Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday as our launchpad to visit the historic sites in and around Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Frederick, Maryland. "
"It’s very close to Harper’s Ferry (almost worth the hike into town rather than the difficulty finding parking in a town with one parking lot)."
from $40 - $80 / night
Check Availability"Also historic and very haunted Sharpsburg and Gettysburg are very close as well."
"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."
from $99 - $471 / night
Check Availability"If you would like to do some exploring, then you can walk the trail right next to the campground into the historical town of Harper's Ferry (If you’re facing the river then the trail is to the right of"
"Harper's Ferry is a little town in WV nestled right next to the Potomac River. It's also a convenient halfwayish point on the Appalachian Trail."
"Set right next to the river and you fish if you want to. DO NOT follow your GPS. Follow the directions on the KOA Website."
"Beautiful campgrounds situated near a creek. The campgrounds have a homey feel and were decorated nicely for fall & Halloween. The staff & hosts were incredibly nice & helpful."
"All the sites are very open and run along the multi-use trail. People are constantly walking, running, and biking by."
"Pretty standard campground—the perks are it’s location to nearby attractions and the river/creek. It depends on what you’re looking for—easy camping and proximity to Antietam and Harper’s? Golden."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"The site was very level, nicely shaded, and positioned a short distance from the bath house. There was also a water spigot located right at the entrance of the site."
"There was a walking path to the bathhouse between 13 and 14. Sites 8-11 were on a nice open field, with some smaller trees."
from $18 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Picked this location because it is close to our home in Silver Spring, MD but far enough to make us feel like we were leaving town."
"Great location right next the river. Easy to walk into the river or tube down it. Lots of different activities for kids and plenty of space at each site to make your home away from home."
from $10 - $90 / night
Check Availability"Camp next to the president."
"There are a few vineyards and breweries nearby. Gettysburg, PA is close as is Frederick, MD. Our site was level and had a good view of the woods. Family was staying in site next to us, site 12."
from $21 - $65 / night
Check Availability"Our campsite was quiet with the creek right behind us and had lots of privacy. This place is a great campground to go during summer as it's tucked in the mountains with lots of tree coverage."
"My only complaint is that the fire ring is a little too close to the main road. This is true for most of the sites. However the tent pad was set back in the woods and it was very peaceful."
from $30 / night
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TravelerFrom a family of tent campers, it was perfect. We rented the river sites. The location was great and the kids had a blast playing in the river and fishing. We brought our own kayaks and enjoyed the easy paddling. The bathrooms were very nice and clean.
TravelerWe rented a tent pad site and a glamping site side by side here and absolutely loved the place. This place is perfect for retreats or group camping experiences since there's only 6-8 tent pads and two glamping tents. Theres a his and hers lavatory cabins that are new and have a large industrial sink to wash your dishes in...big plus. Only a 20 minute drive to downtown berkley springs. Will be coming back this fall when the leaves start changing!
TravelerHas all sorts of amenities, sites along a creek, was very quiet &peaceful. Kids will never get bored. Pets are allowed. The fireflies at night along the creek were so relaxing
LegendWe spent 4 nights at Gettysburg Campground to attend the AIM Club Rally(Lincoln’s Legacy- Gettysburg 250), and it served as base camp for the event.
WHAT I LIKED:
Location, Location, Location: This park is an absolute winner for convenience—just 5 minutes from the Gettysburg battlefields, museums, and the heart of town.
The Atmosphere: The staff gave us a warm reception at check-in, and the site itself was clean, well-maintained, and spacious enough to back up to a running creek. Lots of mature trees offer lots of shade and character.
Big-Rig Friendly: Navigating a 45-foot motorhome with a toad can sometimes be stressful, but this park was easy to maneuver.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:
Late-Night Power Struggles: On our final night, the campground experienced grid strain. Our Hughes Watchdog Power Center saved the day—but it had to shut off our power 7 different times due to low voltage. Aside from losing a few hours of sleep to the chorus of appliances cycling off and on, no harm was done. I recommend using a surge protector/voltage regulator if you stay here.
WOULD WE COME BACK?
ScoutGenuinely the nicest owner and host! We stayed in tent site A and loved it! Mr.Sullivan even greeted us and told us about the Paw Paw trees. My husbands been camping but it was mine and our baby’s first time camping and I was surprising my husband for Father’s Day. I reached out to the owners for help and questions and was met with nothing but kindness. Never once made me feel stupid for asking a question and genuinely wanted to help. We will for sure be back
GuideGorgeous area and well worth it to go. $10 a night and go to the HQ to book. (address at the bottom of the green sign in pic). It’s first come first serve but if Hq is closed you can sign up on a clipboard outside. This is about 30 minutes from the forest itself depending on which site you get. Some sites are better than others so try to get in early. Leave no trace
GuideFive stars because this place was very clean and I felt at ease. The river is gorgeous and so are the trails bring a bike if you have one. There’s a bar within walking distance that’s cash only. Outhouse is clean enough but it does smell a little so check map and try to book a site that isn’t right next to it.
ScoutFlat grounds, level campsites, nice pool, kids have tons of fun!
ScoutExcellent campsite; stayed here 6 days. Clean sites, well cared for flush toilets and hot showers that I was comfortable using. Good camp host as of June 2026. Varied and nice camping, locations well spaced. Creek near by on some. Good hiking trails. Potable water no electricity or hook up water but do have grey water dump site. No reliable mobile connection or wifi. With America beautiful pass $10. Best yet and inexpensive.
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.
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."
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."
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."
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."
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best RV campgrounds in Sharpsburg with full hookups?
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport is the premier family-friendly RV park near Sharpsburg with full hookups. It features exceptional amenities including an impressive pool area that's particularly popular with children. For RVers seeking a more history-focused stay, Greenbrier State Park Campground provides a convenient base with adequate amenities including a dump station. While not directly in Sharpsburg, these nearby options offer the full hookups RV campers need while providing easy access to Antietam National Battlefield and other historical sites in the region.
Where are the best camping spots near Sharpsburg, Maryland?
The Sharpsburg area offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Owens Creek Campground in Catoctin Mountain Park is highly rated for its peaceful atmosphere, shaded sites, and the creek running through the grounds. It's notably less crowded than nearby parks. For history buffs, Brunswick Family Campground provides a riverside camping experience close to historic sites. Located between railroad tracks and the river, it offers mesmerizing water views and welcoming staff. Other noteworthy options include Cunningham Falls State Park, Gambrill State Park, and Button Farm for a more private farm camping experience.
What's the best time of year to camp near Sharpsburg, Maryland?
Late spring through early fall offers the best camping conditions near Sharpsburg. Summer provides full access to water activities, with Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area offering family-friendly facilities and water recreation. However, for those who prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, September-October is ideal as you'll experience comfortable days, cool nights, and spectacular fall foliage throughout the region. Gambrill State Park Campground is particularly beautiful during autumn with its elevated mountain views. The historical significance of Antietam makes fall an especially meaningful time to visit, as the Battle of Antietam occurred in September 1862, with many commemorative events happening during this season.
Can you camp at Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg?
There is no camping directly on Antietam National Battlefield grounds. However, several excellent options are available nearby. The Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA is specifically designed for visitors exploring the historic battlefield and provides convenient accommodations. For a unique historical experience, Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA serves as an excellent launchpad for visiting multiple Civil War sites including Antietam. Located just across the state line, it offers good access to both Harpers Ferry and the Antietam battlefield area with full amenities, though it runs on the pricier side.
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