Tent camping near Arendtsville, Pennsylvania offers access to the Appalachian Trail corridor and surrounding wilderness areas. Campsites in this region sit at elevations ranging from 400 to 1700 feet, providing variable terrain for different camping experiences. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with July and August temperatures averaging 75-85°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Hike to scenic overlooks: At Annapolis Rock Campground, campers can access a 1700-foot elevation overlook with expansive views. "The overlook at Annapolis Rock is glorious. The elevation is 1700 feet so its quite a trek up to the site," notes Teresa K. The moderate 2+ mile hike from Route 40 rewards tent campers with panoramic vistas.
Kayak or tube local waterways: Tent sites at Lower Allen Community Park provide direct river access for water activities. "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. The sites sit right along the Yellow Breeches creak so you can put in a few miles up and float down to your site," explains Joann&WellsThePup I. Watercraft entry points are available upstream.
Rock climbing opportunities: Several camping areas feature natural rock formations suitable for climbing. At Annapolis Rock, "There are beautiful views and all kinds of single pitch rock climbing!" reports Cory D. Most climbing areas require basic to intermediate experience and personal equipment as no rental facilities exist on-site.
What campers like
Direct water access: Many campers appreciate sites positioned along waterways. At Antietam Creek Campground, Kevin D. mentions, "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." The riverside location allows for swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Basic but functional amenities: While primitive, many sites provide essential facilities. "Backpacker campground with bathrooms and showers. Close to the South Mountain Inn, a hiker friendly restaurant. Big field," notes Bob S. about Dahlgren Backpacker Campground. The combination of natural setting with basic comforts appeals to many tent campers.
Proximity to trail networks: Sites located along established trails offer hiking convenience. "Solid camping area... felt safe and had a great time," reports Emerson K. about Gathland State Park Campground. Trail-adjacent camping eliminates driving between hiking destinations and overnight stays.
What you should know
Seasonal wildlife awareness: Certain animals are active in warmer months. At Annapolis Rock, one camper cautions, "The view is great but you can't have campfires due to restorations. Also, be careful for the copperheads that come warm up on the rocky overlook."
Variable parking situations: Many tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Antietam Creek, Nick C. explains, "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."
Limited privacy at some locations: Certain campgrounds feature open layouts without site separation. Andrew M. notes about Antietam Creek, "The main problem here is that the campground itself is just one big field along the canal towpath, so you have no privacy from other campers."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From primitive to improved facilities, bathroom options differ significantly between sites. At Mulehalla, improved restrooms and shower facilities are available, while other locations may only offer pit toilets or no facilities at all.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with shorter access walks: Families with young children benefit from tent sites with minimal distance from parking. At Antietam Creek, Casey L. advises, "You have to park on the road and carry all your stuff across a bridge and down the path to your site. Could be a very far walk."
Consider water safety factors: Campsites near water require appropriate supervision. At sites along the Potomac River, water conditions can change rapidly, requiring constant vigilance with children near shorelines.
Choose locations with maintained facilities: For family comfort, select sites with reliable bathrooms. Michelle N. notes about Antietam Creek, "There's one bathroom area- 2 pit toilets and 2 portapotties. There is nowhere to leave trash, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles."
Target sites with recreation options: Locations offering multiple activities keep children engaged. At Warm Springs Camp, the combination of hiking trails, water access, and open space provides varied recreation without requiring travel to other destinations.
Tips from RVers
RV limitations at tent-focused sites: Most campgrounds near Arendtsville primarily accommodate tent camping with limited or no RV facilities. Sites typically lack hookups, designated RV pads, or turn-around space for larger vehicles.
Consider alternative parking arrangements: For RV travelers wanting to tent camp, some locations offer separate parking areas away from tent sites. At Antietam Creek, RVs must park in designated areas while occupants tent camp in the walk-in sites.
Plan for no-hookup camping: RVers accustomed to electrical and water connections should prepare for dry camping. Self-contained water, alternative cooking methods, and battery power become essential at these primitive tent sites.
