Tent camping options near Buckeystown, Maryland extend beyond the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, with multiple backcountry and primitive sites available throughout the surrounding region. The area sits at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,700 feet and experiences moderate climate conditions, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Train noise affects many campsites in the region due to active rail lines that parallel both the Potomac River and segments of the Appalachian Trail.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access multiple tent camping locations from the AT near Buckeystown. At Annapolis Rock Campground, campers enjoy "beautiful views" with an "elevation of 1700 feet so it's quite a trek up to the site." The campground has "undergone major restorations and preventative measures to reverse the damage from huge camping crowds of the past."
River activities: Find swimming and paddling spots along the Potomac near several campgrounds. Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Campsite offers a "wonderful spot on the river" with basic amenities. One reviewer noted, "Small campsite but no one else was there, so it was perfect. There is a porta potty, water pump, and picnic table."
Historical exploration: Visit historic sites within walking distance of several tent camping areas. At Antietam Creek Campground, a camper mentioned it's "perfect for tubing or just enjoy the river & nature from your campsite! One can walk to Shepherdstown, WV for some fun. Antietam creek is very close by."
What campers like
Open riverside settings: Many campers appreciate the water access at tent sites. At Antietam Creek Campground, a camper noted, "This is such 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."
Bathroom facilities: At Dahlgren Backpacker Campground, backpackers appreciate the "bathroom with showers" and "year-round water source." One AT hiker mentioned, "it was a welcome relief to get to a spot where I could wash off and have indoor plumbing for a night."
Community atmosphere: Social campers enjoy the interactions at riverside campsites. One reviewer at Antietam Creek mentioned, "It is nice if you're a social camper, we got to talk to many people and also got to enjoy a nearby camper playing his violin as the sun was setting."
What you should know
Site accessibility varies: Many tent sites require significant walking. At Antietam Creek, "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."
Wildlife considerations: Be aware of local wildlife when camping in the area. At Annapolis Rock Campground, campers are warned to "be careful for the copperheads that come warm up on the rocky overlook."
Seasonal facilities: Water sources and toilets vary by location and season. At Dahlgren Backpacker Campground, "there is a year-round water source (the bathroom closes in winter)," which makes it a valuable stop for through-hikers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Patapsco Valley State Park offers extensive play areas for children. A reviewer noted, "The 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."
Choose sites near facilities: With children, prioritize campsites closer to bathrooms and water. At Patapsco Valley State Park, "The bathhouse was kept clean and the camp host was a great guy," though one camper warned, "The crushed stone at the sites isn't comfortable for tents, and they won't let you pitch it on the ground, so bring extra pads."
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, look for tent alternatives. One camper mentioned that Patapsco Valley offers "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.'"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Buckeystown offers few RV accommodations. At Mulehalla, tent sites are "spaced far apart" and the property offers alternative "glamping experiences and sometimes live music." While primarily tent-focused, some sites can accommodate small RVs.
Parking challenges: RV owners should research parking limitations before arrival. At several campgrounds like Antietam Creek, "you park on the street" rather than at individual sites, which isn't suitable for larger vehicles.
Consider alternatives: Most campgrounds in this region cater to tent campers and hikers rather than RVs. One reviewer noted Patapsco Valley State Park's sites are "on the smaller side" with limited hookups, making it better for tent camping than RVs.
