Yurt camping options around Westminster, Maryland provide easy access to the Maryland-Pennsylvania border region at an elevation between 700-800 feet. The area experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing. Campgrounds in this region feature varied terrain from wooded hillsides to lakefront settings within a 45-minute drive radius.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 45-acre Hunting Creek Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park offers accessible fishing with varied catch. "The sites were level and well separated from others, though it was small. Friends joined us and set up a tent next to our RV trailer. We hiked to the falls but with little rain, there was no falls. A very crowded hike with people everywhere," notes one visitor to Cunningham Falls State Park.
Historic immersion: Gettysburg battlefields provide educational value within a 35-minute drive from Westminster. "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," explains a camper at Artillery Ridge Campground.
Winter camping options: Several sites remain operational during colder months. "We were in spots 86, 85, 89 for a month long stay... which they do during the winter!! The only complain we had was people walking through our sites due us being close to the playground and the noise level on the playground," reports a winter camper at Artillery Ridge Campground.
Seasonal swimming: Most area lakes and pools operate May through September. "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," mentions a visitor to Codorus State Park Campground.
What campers like
Shaded camping areas: Many sites feature mature tree cover. "The sites are spacious with all the amenities. And the customer service is impeccable. We stayed in one of the cabins, which had 2 beds and a bunk bed, sink and toilet, refrigerator, microwave, dining table and sofa," reports a visitor at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.
Family-friendly facilities: Parks prioritize amenities for children. "Ramblin' Pines has a pool, jump pillow, mini golf, fishing pond, barnyard with goats, and multiple playgrounds. I really like all the trees. Space between sites seems to be standard," notes a recent visitor to Ramblin' Pines.
Lakeside views: Sites positioned near water features command premium rates but offer direct access. "We had site 114. It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced," shares a camper at Gifford Pinchot State Park.
Yurt accommodations: Several parks feature fully-equipped yurts with electricity. "We loved the peace and quiet, the restrooms were clean and tidy, the usable sites all looked nice. There are occasional whiffs of McCormick spices in the air that is very soothing," notes a recent visitor to Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, which features yurt camping near Westminster, Maryland.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds require bookings 3-6 months in advance for premium sites. "We stayed 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 launch at the end of the primitive lane, but some of the sites are secluded/set back enough to be private," explains a visitor to Codorus State Park.
Site privacy varies significantly: Research your specific campsite before booking. "We were in tent sites which felt bigger than most and were right by river. Not far to go anywhere walking. Porta potties were cleanest I have ever seen even with a ton of recent rain," notes a visitor to Gettysburg Campground.
Cash policy awareness: Some campgrounds maintain cash-only policies. "One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I knows it's not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us," advises a Merry Meadows camper.
Seasonal facilities: Amenities vary throughout the year. "Activities — such as putt-putt, jump zone and the playground ended up being kinda boring for them without others to share it with. Obviously that would change with crowds," notes a shoulder-season visitor to Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity consideration: Select sites near play areas for supervision. "We stayed in the 'C' row site. Great shade and access to the playground. You can let the kids play all day while sitting at your campsite cooking and just hanging. It's only 15 yards for the play set," recommends a visitor to Granite Hill Camping Resort.
Yurt camping for Westminster, Maryland visitors with young children: Provides weather protection during unpredictable seasons. "The RV sites are comfortable with all the amenities. There were tons of things to do there for adults and kids alike. The activities — such as putt-putt, jump zone and the playground ended up being kinda boring for them without others to share it with," notes a Merry Meadows camper.
Holiday weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule special events. "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," reports a Merry Meadows visitor.
Nature programs: Check schedules for ranger-led activities. "During peak season, there are nature programs going on," notes a Cunningham Falls visitor, making it ideal for educational camping opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Prepare for varied hookup placements. "The hookups are oddly spaced and you need to ensure you have extensions handy. My electric hookup didn't work on 30A," warns a visitor to Granite Hill Camping Resort.
Leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling equipment. "It took 2 hours to get our camper set up because of the very uneven stone lot, thankfully we had enough wood to get the jack up without having to over extend it," shares another Granite Hill camper.
Dump station access: Note locations and operating hours. "Not a garbage can to be found park wide! Dumpster at either end that's it. Camp sink says to not leave food in sink, where exactly are you supposed to throw it away?!?!" reports a visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Site selection for larger rigs: Research specific loop requirements. "The sites we originally picked was advertised as 'partially shaded' but when we got there we found one small tree per site in a grass field. But on the way in we noticed there are lots of wooded sites, and asked to move," shares a Codorus State Park camper.
