Yurt camping near Artemas, Pennsylvania sits in the Appalachian Mountain region, with elevations ranging between 800-1,200 feet and moderate seasonal temperatures. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows reaching 20°F. Fall camping offers colorful foliage views while spring brings wildflower blooms across the mountain ridges and valleys.
What to do
Creek access for water play: Fifteen Mile Campground provides direct water access where campers can enjoy paddling, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. A camper noted, "Quiet during the week. Water access and biking/hiking trail. Beautiful place in the early morning hours."
Historical exploration: Located near significant Civil War sites, the area offers opportunities to explore American history. One visitor at Hagerstown KOA shared, "Close to Antietiem battlefield, vineyards, antiques or even DC (1 hour)."
Trail activities year-round: The C&O Canal towpath provides a flat, scenic route perfect for cycling or hiking through forested areas. A visitor at Fifteen Mile Campground reported, "This is a more traditional NPS campground along the Potomac River and C&O Towpath Trail where you can actually drive in, instead of just hiking or cycling. It would make a great shuttle point, or RV base camp for the weekend if you plan to ride the C&O Trail."
What campers like
Large, private sites: Rocky Gap State Park Campground offers unusually spacious camping areas. One camper praised, "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have your own sections of woods."
Swimming options: Many properties feature swimming areas that provide welcome relief during summer months. A visitor at Cowans Gap State Park Campground shared, "The lake and the trails around it are beautiful. Great swimming and kayaking/small boating. The campground was nice, quiet and clean."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe local animals and birds. At Middle Ridge Campground, one visitor enjoyed an unexpected animal encounter: "We absolutely loved this place and will definitely be back. Seeing the equine daily was a huge plus; they were super sweet and funny."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities operate limited hours outside peak season. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park shared, "We arrive on our first day of 4, put on our swimsuits, and play in the splash park for several hours. My 3 year old loved it. It closed early, maybe 3, and I overheard something about it being shut down for the year."
Site selection matters: Research specific sites before booking as some may present challenges. At Shawnee State Park, a camper advised, "We absolutely loved our stay at this park once we changed sites. We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked."
Road noise varies: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite their natural settings. One camper at Hidden Springs Campground mentioned, "Nice campground, clean and plenty of activities for the kids. The only thing we didn't like was all of the road noise. This campground is located by 2 major highways and truck traffic and Jake brake are constant all night long."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Friendship Village Campground offers numerous family-friendly amenities. A visitor reported, "The kids played mini golf, jumped on the pillow, played on multiple playgrounds, enjoyed ice cream and went fishing. Can't wait to come back in the summer."
Yurt camping options for beginners: Yurt camping near Artemas, Pennsylvania provides a comfortable introduction to outdoor experiences. One family who stayed in a yurt at Rocky Gap mentioned, "We stayed in cabin 170 in Fir loop and the site was incredibly spacious, heavily shaded, close to the bath house, path to the beach, and well distanced from other sites."
Off-peak advantages: Visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons can provide a more relaxed experience. A camper at Little Orleans Campground noted, "We closed out the season with a trip here. It was absolutely serene and beautiful as the leaves were changing, fall vastly approaching."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for proper RV setup. A visitor at Shawnee State Park warned, "We heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. A Monday in mid-October had many open sites. Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level."
Accessibility considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. At Middle Ridge Campground, an RVer advised, "Road to access the campground was good with some tight turns up the hill the last couple of miles. The campground itself is gravel roads that were pretty tight getting in and out of and fairly steep with trees on all sides. Made it in and out no issue taking it slow, but not sure I would try anything longer than about 36' fifth wheel or 34' travel trailer."
Full hookup availability: Many properties offer complete services. A visitor at Friendship Village commented, "Sites are very spacious and the gravel pad was level upon parking. Good connections and solid cable. Facilities are well maintained and there are a ton of activities to enjoy."
