Glamping and camping options near Fairplay, Maryland range from basic tent sites to full-amenity RV parks across elevations of 400-700 feet. The area sits within the Appalachian foothills where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet, creating diverse terrain for outdoor activities. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures between 50-75°F.
What to do
Hiking on historic trails: The Appalachian Trail runs through the region, with Annapolis Rock Campground providing direct access. "About a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private. No camp fires allowed. Short walk to cold natural spring for water. Short walk to Annapolis rock. Rock climbing available," notes camper Christopher B.
River activities: Harpers Ferry Campground offers immediate river access for swimming, fishing, and water sports. "This campground has an abundance of things to do. The campground offers adventures like rafting, biking, tubing and zip lining to name a few," explains Maggie A. The riverside setting creates opportunities for water-based recreation without traveling far from your site.
Historical exploration: Multiple campgrounds provide access to Civil War battlefields and historic sites. "Location, Location, Location! Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door," explains Matt S. from Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Brunswick Family Campground provides direct river views and access. "Situated next to the river so half of the sites have river views. Nice boat loading ramp and dock for fishing," explains Susan K. The proximity to water allows for spontaneous swimming and fishing throughout your stay.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses at Cunningham Falls State Park. "Our site was level and well separated from others, though it was small. Friends joined us and set up a tent next to our RV trailer. Bath house was a standard state park building," notes Laure D. The park maintains cleanliness despite heavy visitor traffic.
On-site food options: Several campgrounds offer food service beyond typical camping fare. At Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA, campers enjoy convenient dining: "Diner with a great breakfast selection and subs and pizza for dinner. Very clean facilities. Great staff. Delivery of wood or ice to your site," shares Misty C.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines. "A friend and I chose this campground because of its right-on-the-river sites... The river views were amazing, but face the other way and you're looking at a 15 or so foot CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains," reports Sherri C.
Seasonal operation: Most glamping options close to Fairplay, Maryland operate only from spring through fall. The Manor Area at Cunningham Falls remains open April through October: "We stayed in a travel trailer with no hookups at our site. Some sites offer electric. There are two water spigots on opposite sides of the loops, but this area has no dump station," notes Aaron C.
Busy weekends: Sites fill quickly, especially during summer months. "We were there in the days leading up to 4th of July, and there was not a single empty site," shares Jen V. about her experience, adding that "roads were very narrow and winding. We did fine with the pup, but can't imagine trying to navigate a large motorhome through there."
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Look for campgrounds with swimming options for children. At Cunningham Falls State Park - William Houck Area, "The 43 acre Hunting Creek Lake offers great (and busy weekend) fishing. Trolling motors are permitted, but ideal for paddling," according to Dave V. This provides easy entertainment for children of various ages.
Organized activities: Choose campgrounds offering structured programs. "We enjoyed many different activities during our stay. It was great that they provided a nice pancake breakfast free of charge," mentions Joy P. about her Mother's Day weekend at Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA.
Animal attractions: Some campgrounds feature farm animals that entertain children. "A petite campground in a lovely setting. My kids were obsessed with the goats and the little mining table. The staff felt like family," notes Mike N. about Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds in the area have limited space for larger rigs. "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," warns Matt S., adding that sites are "quite small and tightly packed together."
Utility connections: Check hookup availability carefully before booking. At Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA, "The septic system is the quest I've seen at any campground, basically just a hole flush to the ground with a loose cap on it," reports Thomas B., suggesting potential challenges with sewer connections.
Road conditions: Interior roads at many campgrounds present challenges. "The road into the campground was badly in need of repair. Site was not level and infested with black flies," notes Robin about Brunswick Family Campground, indicating the importance of careful site selection for RV stability.
