Cabin accommodations near Hampstead, Maryland range from rustic to full-amenity options across several state parks and private campgrounds. Nestled in the rolling hills of central Maryland at around 850 feet elevation, the region experiences moderate seasonal weather with cooler nights even during summer camping season. Campsites with cabins typically require reservations 6-12 months in advance due to limited availability.
What to do
Hiking trails: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area offers multiple trail options for all skill levels. "A popular spot for afternoon walks and morning workouts, the trails are active with local residents and far away visitors. You can also gain access to the Patapsco River by traveling down into the river valley along the Forest Glen Trail," notes a camper.
Historical exploration: Artillery Ridge Campground in Gettysburg provides direct battlefield access. "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts," according to one reviewer who appreciates the historical significance.
Fishing opportunities: Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground features excellent fishing along the lakeshore. "The sites are of ample size and well spaced. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground," mentions a visitor about the waterfront cabins.
What campers like
Private cabins: Ramblin' Pines offers year-round cabin options. A review states, "Clean, nice people, and nice sites." This campground remains open throughout winter, providing a reliable cabin option when many other parks close seasonally.
Affordable cabins: Gettysburg Campground features cabins near a peaceful creek. "Great spot. Nice creek with ducks. Close to battlefield," notes a visitor. Their cabins provide budget-friendly alternatives to hotels in the historic area.
Mini-cabins: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area offers small cabin accommodations with modern amenities. "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it,'" explains a reviewer who appreciated this middle-ground option.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites book months in advance, particularly during peak season from May through September. "This is a wonderful spot! We have visited 5x this year," mentions a repeat visitor at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, highlighting the popularity that drives reservation needs.
Amenity variations: Cunningham Falls State Park cabins provide basic accommodations with limited conveniences. "Cell service doesn't work, electric hook ups only. This state park is beautiful and off the grid!" explains a camper. Many cabin rentals require guests to bring their own bedding and cooking equipment.
Accessibility considerations: Bathhouse proximity varies significantly between sites. "The only downside is that the bathhouse is a walk downhill and then a walk back uphill. Surprised there's no place for someone to park next to the bathhouse - only trails to it- so if you have accessibility needs, consider choosing a site that's lower in the loop," advises a visitor regarding cabin locations.
Noise levels: Some cabin locations experience road noise. "Since you're near the highway, there is constant road noise and it's even worse on the trails but it's quiet otherwise," notes a camper at Manor - Cunningham Falls State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA offers dedicated children's programming. "They have plenty of activities for the kids from swimming, mini golf, and a scavenger hunt! They also had live music one night!" reports a family visitor. Many cabins accommodate families with bunk bed configurations.
Playgrounds proximity: When selecting a cabin site with children, check proximity to play areas. "Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," says a grandparent who visited with children.
Seasonal planning: Family cabin trips work best during scheduled activity weekends. "During the summer may have different themed weekends and fun activities for the whole family. In the fall they have Halloween weekends," mentions a long-time member at Gettysburg Battlefield Resorts about their cabin rental season.
Family-sized options: Look for cabin options with multiple sleeping areas. "Nice to rest around the camp fire. Staff was friendly. A nice park to go to if you just want to rest around the camp fire," comments a camper about the relaxed atmosphere at Codorus State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose cabin locations carefully based on vehicle needs. "The sites are secluded, you can keep a car with you," notes a camper about the practical parking situation at cabins in the area. Many cabin sites include dedicated parking spaces, often on gravel pads.
Off-season advantages: Gettysburg Battlefield Resorts offers winter cabin stays at reduced rates. "They got us a great deal for are winter site we were in spots 86,85,89 for a month long stay... which they do during the winter!!" mentions a long-term cabin guest. Winter cabin rentals often include heating systems not available in summer tent camping.
Water access considerations: During non-summer months, cabin water systems may be limited. "No water but the bath house was close and very clean," reports a camper at Codorus about early or late season cabin stays when water systems might be winterized.
