Cabin accommodations near Westminster, Maryland range from rustic woodland retreats to more equipped family options at several state parks and private campgrounds. The area sits within the rolling Piedmont region with elevations averaging 500-800 feet, creating moderate temperatures ideal for year-round camping. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F while summer averages 70-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Gifford Pinchot State Park offers two 18-hole disc golf courses, one at the Conewago day use area and another at Quaker Race. "I would say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge all over the prime walking areas through the course," notes one visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Horseback battlefield tours: Located at Artillery Ridge Campground, you can take guided horseback tours through the historic Gettysburg battlefield. "You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground," according to a reviewer at Artillery Ridge Campground.
Lake swimming and recreation: Many parks feature lake swimming areas with designated beaches. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed," writes a visitor to Cunningham Falls State Park. Hunting Creek Lake at Cunningham Falls spans 43 acres and permits trolling motors and paddling.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many campgrounds offer sites with good tree coverage and adequate separation. "Nice pull through site for out 21ft popup. Site was pretty level. Pool, mini golf and live music were great. Also amazing location to the battlefield and all the tourist attractions," shares a camper at Artillery Ridge Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region generally maintain good standards for bathhouses and common areas. "The sites were very clean, no trash, and pretty level. The staff, Glenda, were very helpful. Clean restrooms. Nice little fishing pond," notes one visitor at Artillery Ridge Campground.
Family-focused activities: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm schedules regular events for families throughout the camping season. "We stayed here this past Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol. Wonderful experience for the whole family," writes a reviewer.
What you should know
Reservation demands: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer and holiday weekends. "We've been members at the Gettysburg battlefield resort campground for over 10 years. They have tons to do as the family. During the summer may have different themed weekends and fun activities for the whole family," explains a camper at Gettysburg Battlefield Resorts.
Camp store limitations: Gettysburg Campground and other facilities offer basic supplies, but selection varies. "Centrally located with kid friendly activities. Would definitely go back," notes a first-time travel trailer camper, though others recommend bringing most supplies with you.
Site spacing concerns: Site dimensions and privacy levels vary significantly between campgrounds and specific loops. "The most crowded uncomfortable campsites I have ever seen," writes one dissatisfied visitor to Ramblin' Pines, while others mention adequate spacing at the same location, showing the importance of researching specific sites.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Ramblin' Pines offers multiple water-based recreation options for families with young children. "My brother lives about ten minutes from this campground. The camground offers a lot for the money. There's a pond for fishing, a pool for swimming and a little general store for all your needs, the kids loved the bounce pillow," writes a visitor.
Educational opportunities: The Westminster region offers multiple historical sites ideal for school-age children. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded."
Playground access: Several cabins near Westminster are positioned close to playground facilities. "We were in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake. It can get a little busy on the weekends since there is a boat lauch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private," notes a visitor to Codorus State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limited spaces for bigger RVs. "We stayed in site 55. Big site but hard to get into. There are a couple of pull thru sites that are much easier. Friendly staff. Lots of trees. Mini golf and pool. We will stay again," advises an RVer at Gettysburg Battlefield KOA.
Seasonal availability: Most cabin rentals and RV sites operate seasonally with limited winter availability. "We stayed in the electric 'A loop' is paved so it's great for bike riding. The bathhouse is just a short walk away. The sites are wooden but you can still see your neighbors," explains a regular visitor to Cunningham Falls State Park.
Utility hookup considerations: Electric amperage varies between campgrounds, with some offering only 30-amp service at certain sites. "All sites have water and electric, but not all are 50 amp sites. About half the sites have sewer, but there are two dump stations that are centrally located and easy to get to. Make sure to bring your leveling blocks, some sites do have a slope to them of 3-4"."
