Tent camping near Williamsport, Maryland centers around the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal corridor at approximately 400 feet elevation along the Potomac River. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently reaching 90°F, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range. Campsites in this area typically require 1-2 mile hikes from parking areas, with several offering direct river access.
What to do
Paddle the Potomac River: At Antietam Creek Campground, campers have direct access to the Potomac River for swimming, tubing, and paddling. "The Potomac is mostly flat with some 'swirlies' for experienced paddlers. I also saw some people tubing," notes Michelle N.
Rock climbing: The Annapolis Rock Campground offers climbing opportunities at 1,700 feet elevation. "Rock climbing available. Short walk to Annapolis rock," shares Christopher B. The site requires a 2+ mile moderate difficulty hike from Route 40.
Historical exploration: Walk sections of the C&O Canal towpath to discover 19th-century locks, aqueducts, and canal structures. "It's great being on the water. Each site has a fire ring and a picnics table and grill," according to Nick C. at Antietam Creek Campground.
Hiking: Connect to the Appalachian Trail from several campgrounds in the area. "Backpacking campground just off the AT. Moderate difficulty 2+ mile hike from Route 40. Spring and compost outhouse," explains Bob S.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Proximity to water ranks high among camper reviews. "Small campground with a pit toilet right on the Potomac river picnic table and fire ring with a few nice trees throughout the camp area. Easy to get to and not far from the towns," writes Kevin D. about Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite.
Shower access: Some sites offer rare shower facilities along the trail system. "I only stopped here for a night while I was hiking the AT, but it was a welcome relief to get to a spot where I could wash off and have indoor plumbing for a night," says Sam M. about Dahlgren Backpacker Campground.
Social atmosphere: The campgrounds along the canal create opportunities for interaction. "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," shares Casey L.
Basic amenities: "Good site, has the necessities. Water, Porta p, fire pit. What else do you really need? Want to rinse off? Jump into the Potomac for a swim," reports Ant S. about Jordan Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite.
What you should know
Walk-in requirements: Most campsites require some hiking from parking areas. "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," explains Nick C.
Limited privacy: Sites along the C&O Canal have minimal separation between campers. "The campground itself is just one big field along the canal towpath, so you have no privacy from other campers," notes Andrew M.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely in cleanliness and type. "When we got there, they were okay, but by the 3rd night they were really gross. We were at the site next to them and could smell them," warns Casey L.
Pack-in, pack-out: "There is nowhere to leave trash, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack everything out with you," advises Michelle N.
Cell service: Limited connectivity exists at most sites. "I have Verizon and had better service by my car on the road than at the actual campsite. At the site I could make calls but couldn't check the internet," notes one reviewer at Gathland State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites close to bridges: When camping with children, select sites near canal bridges to minimize gear carrying distance. "If you got one close to the bridge over the canal then you're 100ft from the car, but if not then it could be a little bit of a walk," advises Andrew M.
River access considerations: Some river access points have steep trails. "It had its own path down to the Potomac River. It was quite steep for my bum knees and ankles, but I saw kids easily run up and down it," shares Michelle N.
Restaurant access: Mulehalla offers family-friendly tent camping with extra amenities. "Tons of open spaces for tents, and sites are spaced far apart. This property also offers glamping experiences and sometimes live music. Bring the family (and the dog) to enjoy this gorgeous property," notes Ashley F.
Water safety: The Potomac River has variable conditions for swimming. "Want to rinse off? Jump into the Potomac for a swim," suggests one camper, but parents should note that river currents can change seasonally.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The best tent camping near Williamsport doesn't accommodate RVs at most sites. These campgrounds primarily serve tent campers, hikers, and cyclists traversing the C&O Canal.
Parking restrictions: RVs can't access drive-in camping at most locations. "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," explains Michelle N.
Consider nearby alternatives: For RV camping, look beyond the immediate C&O Canal corridor to nearby state parks with developed campgrounds that can accommodate larger vehicles.
