Emmitsburg sits at the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains in northern Maryland, with elevations ranging from 300-800 feet throughout the camping areas. The region experiences moderate temperatures from April through October, averaging 75-85°F in summer months with evening temperatures dropping to 55-65°F. Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Emmitsburg maintain accessible trails during spring and fall when temperatures are most comfortable for dogs.
What to do
Hike to Cunningham Falls: The 78-foot cascading waterfall at Cunningham Falls State Park offers multiple trail options ranging from 0.5-6 miles. "The park itself is very scenic with nice hiking trails and a lake to enjoy. I was there in the fall so didn't go out on the water but can imagine it would be popular during the warmer months," notes Conni B.
Explore the Appalachian Trail: Access the historic AT directly from Caledonia State Park Campground just 15 miles north of Emmitsburg. "Great sites with many options from car camping to short wilderness sites. Great access to trails. Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock were my favorite," shares Cory D.
Visit historical Gettysburg sites: Located less than 10 miles from Emmitsburg, Gettysburg National Military Park provides educational opportunities. "The battlefields are very close. Chubby's Pizza is about 5 minutes down the road and provides fast service as well as great food," notes Dave B. from Artillery Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Forested campsites: Catoctin Mountain Park's Owens Creek Campground offers secluded tent and RV sites. "Nice small campground WAY back in woods. Been here many times over the last 25 years," explains Roxy V. Sites are terraced and spaced for privacy within dense forest.
Water recreation: The 43-acre lake at Hunting Creek provides swimming and fishing opportunities. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it with plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed. Most of the time we did not spend at the campsite so we ended up having a fantastic weekend," shares Casey L.
Family activities: Many campgrounds organize regular events, especially on weekends. "They have a ton of things to do as the family. During summer they have different themed weekends and fun activities for the whole family. In the fall they have Halloween weekends," says Danielle W. about Gettysburg Battlefield Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most pet-friendly campgrounds in the Emmitsburg area operate from April through October. "Cell service doesn't work, electric hookups only. This state park is beautiful and off the grid!" notes Regina C. about Cunningham Falls State Park.
Crowded summer weekends: The area draws significant visitors during peak season. "When we pulled the rangers were blocking traffic to the park. They said that the park was full. OMG they were right," explains Jim L. about Greenbrier State Park. Weekday visits provide more solitude.
Trail closures: With Camp David nearby, some trails may close unexpectedly. "With Camp David occupying part of this NPS, your hiking plans could be immediately and entirely foiled with a 'visit' from the President or any dignitary. Parts of the park road and trails are closed down tight!" cautions Dave V. about Catoctin Mountain Park.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Hunting Creek Lake offers supervised swimming from Memorial Day to Labor Day. "Great campground with a lake, beach, and swimming area. Fishing is allowed. There are lots of hiking trails," says Beth C., though she notes it "gets really crowded" during peak season.
Kid-friendly facilities: Granite Hill Camping Resort provides designated play areas with 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 Larry N.
Educational opportunities: Campgrounds often host nature programs for children. "During peak season, there are nature programs going on," notes Regina C. Rangers lead interpretive programs covering local wildlife and history, typically lasting 30-45 minutes.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose level sites when booking, as some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The sites were all a very good size with nice fire-pits. Very well maintained. The bathroom/showers were very clean as well, and individual units for privacy," shares Dave B. about Gettysburg Battlefield KOA.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited and book quickly. "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"," advises Gregory L.
Off-season camping: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced facilities. "We visited this park in December so it was pretty closed down. The park was poorly lit and nearly impossible to navigate," cautions Sarah C. about winter camping at Caledonia State Park, highlighting the need for proper planning during off-peak visits.
