Camping spots near Westernport, Maryland are situated at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet in the Allegheny Mountain range. The higher elevation creates a microclimate with summer temperatures typically 10-15°F cooler than nearby urban areas like Baltimore or Washington DC. Primitive campgrounds in this region often have sites situated along waterways with limited or non-existent cell service, requiring campers to prepare for a fully disconnected experience.
What to do
Fishing access points: Near Savage River State Forest, multiple stream-fed pools provide fishing opportunities. "There are multiple boat ramps, and from one end of the reservoir to the other on a kayak is about 2 hours. Hiking options are endless although some are hard to spot. There are some shallow swimming holes that are nice when it's hot," notes Jillian K.
Trail exploration: The 5-mile loop at Rocky Gap State Park circles Lake Habeeb and connects multiple camping areas. "Lots of paddle boards and canoes for rent. The 5 mile hike around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park," reports Jeff H., who appreciated the diverse views from different points along the trail.
Winter recreation: Many campgrounds in the region offer seasonal activities. At New Germany State Park, cross-country skiing is popular during winter months when the trails are snow-covered. "The park is very popular amongst cross-country skiers in the winter, especially since they have full-service cabins and a warming hut by the lake," according to one visitor who noted the year-round recreational opportunities.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many visitors to Middle Ridge Campground highlight the peaceful setting and private sites. "Private - Quiet - Great Hosts. We really enjoyed our stay. Quiet camping on top of a mountain. Beautiful wooded views. Hosts were amazing and plenty of space between campers. All the spots are shaded," describes Lyle & Stephanie H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forests around Barnum Whitewater Area provide ample wildlife watching. "Gorgeous landscape and it's my peace," shares Ashley A., who spent her honeymoon at the site and appreciated its natural tranquility away from crowds.
Stream-side camping: At Big Run State Park, sites adjacent to moving water are consistently rated highest. "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. The kids loved playing in the water. Very quiet and relaxing!" explains Andy C., highlighting both the practical and recreational benefits of waterfront sites.
What you should know
Limited services: Many campgrounds in this region have minimal amenities. "This is a no frill camp area that actually feels like a campground instead of a resort. Not great swim areas, but one can jump in the river to cool off. Lots of bugs...but thats the Mid Atlantic," reports MeLinda W. about Savage River State Forest.
Elevation affects weather: The mountain location means temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. "This place is beautiful. The weather was crazy the one night I stayed! Thunderstorms turned to ice turned to snow which made the area even more beautiful!" explains Michele F. from New Germany State Park Campground, highlighting how quickly conditions can change.
Site inconsistency: Within the same campground, site quality can vary significantly. "The sites are very spread out, and not very consistent in size/quality. We were able to nab site 112 and it was fantastic: lots of space, and privacy too. However, we drove past some sites that looked sad and offering no seclusion," notes Chris F., emphasizing the importance of site selection.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Swallow Falls State Park Campground offers family-friendly waterfront access. "Very nice place to camp. Our kids had a great time! The trail head is right in the campground so that made it extremely easy," shares Don L., highlighting the convenient access for families with children.
Safety protocols: Bear activity is common throughout the region. "Deer are dense in these parts, and bears frequent the area. We were told there were regular bear sightings and there were bear boxes at each site," explains one camper, noting that proper food storage is essential when camping with families.
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature recreational facilities specifically for children. "For kids they have a small jungle gym and critter center. Overall a very nice family camping area," notes Jillian K. about one of the state parks, pointing out the kid-friendly amenities that complement natural play areas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Savage River State Forest, RVers should carefully research site options. "We got sites 112 & 113 because we had a few people join us. Those sites are right next to each other so it worked out really nicely. 113 was a big open field, and 112 was in a sort of pine forest," explains Grace D.
Access challenges: Many roads in the region have restrictions that affect larger vehicles. "We approached the campground from the southeast through the town of Keyser. DO NOT do this if you have a large RV. There are multiple signs saying that the road was not safe for large trucks; the road was narrow, hilly, and winding," warns a visitor about Robert W. Craig - Jennings Randolph Lake.
Limited hookups: Most camping areas near Westernport have minimal services for RVs. "It would have been fine if it had been just me and my husband, but I think it was just too cold for our small kids, especially with the wind and rain we encountered," notes one camper about the challenges of no-hookup camping in colder weather with children.
