RV camping near West Friendship, Maryland provides convenient access to both urban attractions and rural landscapes at elevations ranging from 300-500 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with hot, humid summers reaching the mid-90s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing between December and February. Most campgrounds in the area sit within a 30-mile radius of major highways, making them accessible year-round despite occasional winter weather closures.
What to do
Explore historical sites: Gettysburg National Military Park sits approximately 45 minutes from several West Friendship area campgrounds. "It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," notes a visitor at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Water activities: Fish directly from waterfront sites at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina where the Bush River provides ample opportunities. "Some sites you are right on the waters edge. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away," according to one camper who visited in late summer.
Mini golf and recreation: Many parks offer on-site entertainment options beyond swimming. At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, guests can enjoy "mini-golf, feeding the animals, hiking through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires" according to a visitor who stayed during COVID restrictions.
What campers like
Farm animal interactions: Unique to some campgrounds in the region is the opportunity to interact with livestock. "We chose a non-sewage site, the loop is quiet and large... We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares one family who stayed at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm.
Waterfront views: Sites with water access rank highly among reviewers. "The daily waterfront sites are pricy but right on the water with great views. Some of the trailer sites are a tough back in but worth the trouble," notes a visitor at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina.
Secure camping environments: Military campgrounds provide additional security for campers. "This campground is abord Fort Belvoir, an US Army base in Northern, VA. It is very clean and there are many amenities close by," writes a reviewer about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, noting the outdoor recreation center offers kayak and canoe rentals to explore the Potomac River.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Noise from nearby roadways affects some campgrounds more than others. "Roads through the park are fairly narrow with potholes. Some roads are one-way but people don't pay much attention to that and went whichever way they wanted, especially those in golf carts," reports a camper at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Rail line proximity: Train tracks run close to several campgrounds. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night," according to one visitor.
Variable site quality: Site leveling can be an issue at some parks. "Sites are pretty level and an okay side. Our site was separated from our neighbors site with nice foliage," notes one reviewer, while another mentions, "The biggest complaint about our site was that the sewer hookup was inconveniently placed about six inches above the ground which meant that it would not drain properly."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Pools provide relief during hot summer months. "Swimming pool, splash pad, game room, camp store, pavilions, everything!" explains a visitor at Cherry Hill Park, where they offer "mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area."
Playground access: Consider campground playground quality when traveling with children. Round Top Campground received mixed reviews regarding children's facilities: "In my opinion as a mom of small kids maybe the worst part was that there was only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down."
Transportation to attractions: Some campgrounds offer shuttle services to nearby attractions. "Plan and reserve your DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!" writes a Cherry Hill Park visitor, noting it's convenient for exploring Washington DC.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: Water and electric placement varies widely between campgrounds. "The site was pretty level and an okay side," notes one RVer, while another mentions "water and electric are in award spot on our site" at Round Top Campground.
Dump station access: Honey wagon services can supplement sites without sewer hookups. "We chose a non-sewage site, the loop is quiet and large and they have the honey wagon 3x a week (free sewage dump service)," shares a visitor who appreciated this convenient alternative.
Site sizing: Big rig access varies significantly between parks. "You really need a toad since supplies are not very close to the camping area," mentions a Fort Belvoir camper, while another noted about a different location: "The roads and sites are gravel and very dusty when we were there as there were lots of golf cars whipping around and trucks exceeding the 5-mph speed limit."
