Campers visiting Woodsboro, Maryland access diverse camping destinations within a 25-mile radius. The area sits in the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains with elevations ranging from 300 to 800 feet, creating varied terrain for both tent and RV camping. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F while fall brings cooler 45-65°F days, extending the camping season from March through November in most locations.
What to do
Battlefield exploration: 10 minutes from Gettysburg campgrounds. The historical sites provide educational opportunities beyond standard tourism. "We were looking for a semi-local final fall get-a-way near us. What better location for that than Gettysburg," notes a visitor at Round Top Campground. Battlefield tours range from self-guided audio experiences to ranger-led walks discussing specific battle events.
Farm animal interactions: Perfect for children under 10. At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, campers can participate in structured animal feeding times. "We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares one family. The working farm environment provides daily opportunities to observe farm operations up close.
River activities: Easy access from riverside sites. Multiple campgrounds offer direct river access for fishing, tubing, and swimming. "The Shenandoah is just as beautiful. The campground is so quaint and carefree you almost forget the outside world," writes a repeat visitor to Brunswick Family Campground. River activities require minimal equipment rentals, with tubing packages starting around $20 per person.
What campers like
Historic town proximity: Walking distance to attractions. The convenience of reaching historic sites without driving appeals to many campers. "A yard sale, vendor sale, golf cart parade, as well as other activities going on. The campground offers free mini golf, a pool and a splash pad pool area," explains a visitor at Drummer Boy Camping Resort, noting its location "literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg."
Waterfront camping: Direct river views and access. Several campgrounds feature sites immediately adjacent to rivers. "Great river front sites, and pool in the campground. Close to historic Harpers Ferry and lots of great hiking," reports a camper at Harpers Ferry Campground. These waterfront sites typically cost $5-10 more per night but provide immediate water access.
Seasonal activities: Themed weekend events. Many campgrounds organize special activities during peak seasons. "The battlefields are very close as well. Chubbys Pizza is about 5 minutes down the road and provides fast service as well as great food," mentions a reviewer at Artillery Ridge Campground, highlighting both on-site and nearby attractions.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad proximity affects some locations. Several campgrounds sit near active rail lines. "The train wreck behind our camper was VERY vocal about how we were entering their site to hook up," warns a reviewer at Western Village RV Park. Noise levels vary by campground, with some experiencing hourly train traffic throughout the night.
Site spacing: Varies significantly between locations. Some campgrounds feature densely packed sites while others provide more space. "Trees between sites with sloping hills, not just a big open field," notes a camper describing Harpers Ferry Campground. Site dimensions range from tight 20x40 foot spaces to more generous 30x60 foot sites at premium locations.
Seasonal water issues: Quality varies by location. Water service can be inconsistent at some campgrounds. "There was also evidence of mice in the main store and definitely issues with the water," reports one camper about Round Top Campground. During peak summer months, water pressure may decrease at some locations, particularly during high-use morning and evening hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Choose sites accordingly. Campgrounds with play areas offer varying proximity to campsites. "There is only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down," notes a parent about one location. Request sites within 200 feet of playgrounds when traveling with small children.
Animal experiences: Schedule around feeding times. Farm-themed campgrounds offer structured animal interaction opportunities. "We came amidst COVID-19, so the many activities and events this location usually holds are down, BUT there is still fun to be had here! We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares a visitor at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm.
Pool facilities: Operating seasons vary. Swimming pools typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day with limited fall hours. "The pool with the slide was very clean," reports a camper at Drummer Boy Camping Resort, though another camper at a different location mentioned "The pool was shut down do to the pump breaking." Call ahead to confirm pool operation status.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Check locations before setup. RV sites often have utilities positioned in non-standard locations. "Electric went out 3 times, once for over 24 hrs. It was in the high 90°. The sewer consisted of a storage tank less than 10 ft from our picnic table," reports one RVer about their experience at Round Top Campground. Carrying extension cords and extra sewer hose can mitigate placement issues.
Access road conditions: Approach routes may challenge larger rigs. Some campgrounds have narrow or poorly maintained entrance roads. "The road into the campground was badly in need of repair. Site was not level and infested with black flies," warns an RV owner at Brunswick Family Campground. Call ahead to confirm access routes for RVs over 35 feet in length.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain. Many campgrounds in the region feature sloped sites requiring additional equipment. "Our site was pretty level and an okay side. Our site was separated from our neighbors site with nice foliage," mentions one RVer about Drummer Boy Camping Resort, while others note significant leveling challenges at other locations.
