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Tent Camping near Artemas, PA

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers several tent-only camping options within 30 miles of Artemas, Pennsylvania. Paw Paw Tunnel Campground provides basic tent camping on grass surfaces surrounded by deciduous forest, with sites situated approximately one mile from the historic Paw Paw Tunnel. Nearby, Stoney Creek Campground in West Virginia offers tent campsites with more amenities including drinking water, showers, and toilets. These established campgrounds primarily serve hikers and cyclists traveling along the C&O Canal towpath.

    Most primitive tent camping areas near Artemas feature minimal facilities designed for self-sufficient campers. Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and basic toilet facilities ranging from pit toilets to portable restrooms. Walk-in tent sites are common, requiring campers to park on nearby roads and carry equipment short distances to their campsites. Water availability varies significantly between locations, with some campgrounds offering hand pumps while others have no potable water source. According to reviews, several hiker-biker campsites along the C&O Canal have been found with missing pump handles, making water access unreliable. Campers should prepare for variable conditions and pack essential supplies.

    The tent camping experience along the Potomac River corridor provides direct access to water recreation and trail systems. One camper at Antietam Creek noted that "sites are fully or mostly shaded" with "each site having a grill, fire pit, and picnic table." Train noise affects several backcountry tent camping areas, particularly those closest to rail lines. A visitor to Big Run State Park Campground described it as "one of my favorite Western Maryland hideaways" with the best spots located "in the woods adjacent to the stream." Many tent campsites lack privacy between neighboring sites, though those farther from main access points generally offer more seclusion. Cell service is typically limited at most primitive tent camping locations, making these areas suitable for disconnecting from technology.

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    Best Tent Campgrounds near Artemas (34)

      1. green ridge state forest

      5.0(2)4mi from ArtemasTents

      "It’s first come first serve but if Hq is closed you can sign up on a clipboard outside. This is about 30 minutes from the forest itself depending on which site you get."

      "Went for a walk in the morning, lots of birdsong. A bit of road noise from the nearby highways but didn’t hear anything at night."

      from $10 / night

      2. Paw Paw Tunnel Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

      3.8(4)14mi from Artemas10 sitesTents

      "Basic tent camping sites. Portable bathroom facilities only. Only a mile from the historic paw paw tunnel. Tunnel is very fun to travel through. Kids and adults alike enjoy the tunnel."

      "Close to the Paw Paw Tunnel towpath. The Portapotties were in bad shape, but it was winter so hopefully they get serviced more often in season."

      from $20 / night

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      3. Cacapon Junction Hiker-biker Overnight (hbo) Campsite

      3.0(1)12mi from ArtemasTents

      4. Purslane Run Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

      3.0(1)15mi from ArtemasTents

      5. Stoney Creek Campground

      5.0(1)18mi from Artemas2 sitesTents

      "Two sides are separated by a dense forest, piles of drift wood and noise from the river running through boulders. Both sites are very private--bordered by river/mountain and forests."

      from $99 - $175 / night

      Check Availability

      6. Maple Festival Park (near GAP Trail)

      4.0(2)31mi from ArtemasTents

      "Set your tent up on the lawn, up on the stage, or under the long lean-to, if you want to get out of the weather. It’s all up for grabs for the night."

      from $20 / night

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      7. Vagabond Isle

      Be the first to review22mi from Artemas1 siteTents

      from $100 - $150 / night

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      8. Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

      3.8(11)43mi from Artemas20 sitesTents

      "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."

      "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."

      from $20 / night

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      9. Big Run State Park Campground

      4.5(6)40mi from ArtemasTents

      "The best spots are in the woods adjacent to the stream. You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds."

      "Unfortunately, someone moved our picnic table to the next site. Too lazy to move it. Pit toilets were pretty clean. Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish."

      from $10 - $55 / night

      Check Availability

      10. Jordan Junction Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

      5.0(1)33mi from ArtemasTents

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    Tent Camping Reviews near Artemas, PA

    843 Reviews of 34 Artemas Campgrounds


    • Lee D.The Dyrt Pro User
      Oct. 31, 2019

      Greenbrier State Park Campground

      Nice hiking opportunities!

      Ranger Review: Firebiner and Fiber Light Fire Starter at Greenbrier State Park

      **Campground Review: **

      We were here one week before this campground closed for the season (open April through October) and it was so quiet that it was hard to imagine what it is like in the summer when the beach is open and the campground is likely full. There are four loops; two with no hookups and no pets allowed, one with no hookups that allow pets and one with electric sites that allow pets. Each site is clearly defined, and the sites all appeared level with gravel pads. The bathrooms were reasonable. There are several trails in the campground plus it is close to several AT day hikes.

      There is a large day-use area and beach with lots of picnic tables. While the beach was closed for swimming, we saw a kayaker and two people fishing from a boat. Many hiking trails and this is an excellent place to camp if you’d like to do AT day hikes.

      ------------------------- 

      Product Review: 

      As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I have the opportunity to test products. At this campground, we tested the Firebiner and Fiber Light Fire Starter by Outdoor Elements. I’m reviewing both products since they can be used together, and we had much more luck with one than the other. 

      Upon unpacking my box from Outdoor Elements, my first experience was that it took a sharp knife to free the Firebiner from its cardboard backing, which was not an auspicious start. Once at our campground, we were able to use the safety blade to easily open the plastic packaging on our firewood. Unfortunately, it took several tries by two men trying the Firebiner to get a spark; they had to really crank on it, and it was not enough to light a fire. I’m guessing that with more patience and practice, it would have worked. Admittedly, we are car campers and not backpackers (and have the luxury of being able to carry/use a butane lighter), but I was looking forward to trying a new method. 

      We did use the Fiber Light Fire Starter and using our tried and true fire-starting methods, we got a roaring fire started very quickly. So, we had a 50% success! Packed in a small tin, you only need a pinch to easily get a fire started so we will use this in the future. 

      We also used the cutting tool on the Firebiner a few days later to remove the wristband from an activity we participated in and also used it to hang our lantern on a hook; this little tool is very strong (did not test but appreciate the 100-pound weight limit). I appreciate that it can also be used as a screwdriver, so the Firebiner is truly a multi-use tool!

    • Michelle N.
      Aug. 13, 2020

      Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

      Great Site Along the Potomac River

      Stayed one night on 8/9.

      This is such a nice little spot right along the Potomac River. 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. When my dog and I arrived, someone was still there, but after letting them know I had this spot reserved, they promptly packed out. There were no camp hosts on-site and nowhere to check in. 

      There isn't much privacy between you and your neighbors (or the C&O towpath so be prepared to see bikers, walkers, and runners). Each site has a grill, fire pit, and picnic table. I stayed at Site 11 which 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. The Potomac is mostly flat with some "swirlies" for experienced paddlers. I also saw some people tubing. 

      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 and pack everything out with you. The sites are fully or mostly shaded. Be prepared to make friends with bugs, but they shouldn't bother you. Also great news- no mosquitoes! 

      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. Other than a few check-in calls to family, I was looking to unplug for the night. 

      I ended up not sleeping overnight due to a personal health issue, but I am looking forward to coming back when it's a little cooler.

    • Britt B.
      Oct. 27, 2020

      Kooser State Park Campground

      Small Shaded Park

      Kooser State Park is a small campground nestled in the Laurel Highlands, close to Hidden Valley and Seven Springs ski resorts. The park has great amenities just a short walk from all sites. All sites have fire rings, with grills, however note they are double walled so do not expel a lot of heat outward. Great for cooking however. 

      Most sites are not level, but very grassy. Firewood is available at the entrance for$5 bundle supporting a local club. A beautiful walk through the park leads you to the Kooser Lake, great for fishing. It is also close to the Laurel Hill State Park which is great for hiking and water activities. The park is close to the road so you will experience some road noise. 

      The park is 15min from Somerset. No phone reception at this one! They welcome all furry friends!

    • Evan C.The Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 18, 2025

      Robert W. Craig - Jennings Randolph Lake

      Great Tenting, Little Busy

      8/14/2025

      USACE-managed campground with hosts who are on-site all season. Nice sites (easy staking) with picnic tables and fire pits, plus a camp store for firewood and other supplies (got there too late to check it out though). A little crowded with what seemed like folks who stay there for a hefty chunk of the season, and the sites are pretty close together, but there weren't any issues with rowdy folks - it seems like the hosts keep things in order/enforce quiet hours if necessary. 

      Drinking water right next to the site (37) as well as a trail to a restroom - I think there's a shower on the other loop/section. 

      $22 for a basic (non-electric) tent site.

    • Napunani
      Jun. 25, 2022

      Pioneer Park Campground

      Close to Flight 93 Memorial

      PROS 

      Able to reserve 129 days prior to arriving 

      Melissa at check-in was very friendly and helpful 

      Good overnight stop to visit Flight 93 Memorial 22 miles from campground 

      Site #391 level 

      Gravel site surrounded by grass 

      Moveable wooden picnic table 

      Large concrete fire ring 

      Clean toilet-shower building that are heavily used 

      Mostly quiet except for road noise 

      Firewood for sale in Park

      CONS 

      No discount 

      Site #391 no shade 

      Park cable connection failed 

      Sewer connection“up hill” 

      Never found trash dumpster and wasn’t marked on campground map 

      Very loud radio station blaring in the toilet/shower building that could be heard outside the building 

      2 bars Verizon 

      No WIFI

    • Suzy W.
      May. 23, 2018

      Hawk Recreation Area Campground

      A nice spot to get a little off the grid a couple hours outside DC.

      I only stayed one night, but plan to return for a longer stay as it was peaceful and scenic. The campground is free, open from late April through December, and campers may stay up to 21 days. However, there are no online reservations or staff in the area; I would want to have a back-up plan in case all sites are already taken.

      Check-in and check-out are accomplished by filling out a 3 x 5 card at the entrance and placing it in the slot for your campsite. At the end of October, only 4 of the 15 campsites were occupied so I was able to select one spaced out from other campers for privacy.

      The campsites are arranged on the outer perimeter of the loop drive, with a vaulted toilet outhouse and a pump water spigot located within the center island. (I did not use the water, but have read elsewhere that it may come out looking rusty, presumably from the mineral content). Campsites had enough space between them to feel private but close enough to feel that local bears would (hopefully) pass us by. Each campsite has a long parking area (not pull through), a cleared area for tents, a picnic table, and a fire ring and lantern pole. There is no electricity at the campground.

      The road approaching the campground is not comfortably wide enough to pass oncoming cars (though I did not encounter any) so I would take it slow, especially around the many bends. My cellular reception cut out along one of the forest roads well before reaching the campground; I will have a compass and written directions in and out handy when I return.

    • Simon S.
      Dec. 30, 2021

      Jellystone Park™ Williamsport

      Great place for kids

      Camp site (Tent camping)

      Camp site was pretty spacious. We set up our tent on gravel. No hookups to electricity or water. Rangers deliver firewood for your convenience.

      Facilities / Amenities

      Huge pool divided into two sections, one for mainly kids and the other for swimming and water slides. There is a food court in the swimming pool and a camp store right next to it.

      They play movies every night at the outdoor theater near the pool.

      There is a basketball court, playgrounds, and jumping pads.

      During the day, we did tie dying t-shirts at the pavilion.

      There is a 18-hole mini golf course as well.

    • Brian C.
      Sep. 17, 2025

      Cowans Gap State Park Campground

      Solid State Park Camping

      Stayed in a walk-in tent site. Much better spacing than typical sites, though sites 2 & 3 were basically connected. The non-walk in sites in Loop B are typical to smaller than average and mostly suited for campers/RVs.

      Pros : Site spacing/privacy was good Bathrooms and showers were clean. Firewood available at the park ($5 for 6 pieces self-serve). Location near the dam and lake trail is nice. Cell service was limited, but had reliable (but low) signal with T-Mobile at my site. Easy access (on foot) to all of the hiking trails.

      Cons: The tent pads could use some leveling and there was some trash around the site. The major negative was generator noise coming from the facility just beyond the dam. Droning generator noise was on/off at all hours of the day and went on until 10pm in the evening. Not sure how far up in Loop B this was heard, but it was pretty loud in the walk-in site area.

    • PThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 22, 2026

      Laurel Hill State Park Campground

      Nice weekend getaway.

      We had a great stay. Well manicured grounds. Lots of fallen trees from recent weather. Bathrooms could be cleaner. The camp hosts are awesome people. The area is quiet and peaceful. Lots of bike trails. Lake nice with swimming. Not crowded. Very family oriented. Playgrounds scattered around the campground in really good shape. We stayed at site 173. I loved it. Private. Had a little stream that ran behind it which would have been great for kids to play in. I loved the sound of running water. The fire pit and picnic table were in a little area above the stream surrounded by trees. It was so pretty and felt protected. They sell wood and awesome fire starters on site. Well priced. $5 for big bundle of split wood and $1 for each large fire starter. The Fire starters were so good, I bought extras to take with me. Definitely good quality. Not like the small ones you buy at the store. All in all, I loved it and will go back. I’ll take the grandkids next time. The lake, stream, biking, playground will keep them busy.
      I have TMobile and had no cellphone service at my site. But could get service in other areas.
      Site 225 looked like a great site. Up on a hill with a view, full hook up, playground close, and cell service.


    Guide to Artemas

    Tent camping near Artemas, Pennsylvania offers primitive accommodations along multiple waterways including the Potomac River and Cacapon River. The area sits at the intersection of Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia, with campsites typically at elevations between 500-800 feet. Most campgrounds open seasonally from April through October, with varying water access depending on weather conditions and maintenance schedules.

    What to do

    Creek exploration: Big Run State Park Campground features a stream that runs adjacent to many campsites and remains "lively with trout and crayfish," according to camper Nathan S. Walking trails along water features allow wildlife viewing opportunities.

    Boat access: Water recreation options abound at many sites. At Antietam Creek Campground, camper Nick C. notes that "it's great being on the water" with sites positioned along the Potomac River. Most river access points require carrying watercraft short distances from parking areas.

    Historical trails: The C&O Canal towpath connects multiple camping areas, creating a corridor for hiking and cycling. Jordan Junction offers "the necessities. Water, Porta p, fire pit," as reviewer ant S. explains, making it a functional basecamp for trail exploration.

    What campers like

    Stream sounds: The running water at many sites creates natural background noise for sleeping. At Big Run State Park Campground, camper Zoe H. appreciated the "beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!"

    Site spacing: Many campers value the separation between sites. Nathan S. noted that Big Run has "tons of space between sites," while Stoney Creek Campground offers group sites "separated by a dense forest, piles of drift wood and noise from the river running through boulders."

    Riverside positioning: Direct access to water features ranks highly among camper preferences. At Opequon Junction, Emerson K. described it as a "gorgeous spot just off the trail and 50 meters from the Potomac."

    What you should know

    Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly from site to site. At Antietam Creek Campground, Casey L. warned that "by the 3rd night they were really gross. We were at the site next to them and could smell them."

    Site access limitations: Many sites require carrying equipment from parking areas. Casey L. also noted at Antietam Creek that "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."

    Variable water availability: Water sources can be unreliable during certain seasons. At Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, Robin notes that "Portapotties were in bad shape, but it was winter so hopefully they get serviced more often in season."

    Noise factors: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Maple Festival Park, Mark G. mentioned "there are quite a few trains thru town" though he still found it a "very peaceful place."

    Tips for camping with families

    Water play options: Children often enjoy the stream access at several sites. At Big Run State Park Campground, Andy C. reported that "the kids loved playing in the water" at their creekside site.

    Tunnel exploration: The historic Paw Paw Tunnel offers an interesting activity for children. Jordan B. notes the "tunnel is very fun to travel through. Kids and adults alike enjoy the tunnel," though warns to "bring some flashlights for inside the tunnel as it is a mile long and gets very dark!"

    Site selection strategy: For families wanting more privacy, seek out specific site numbers. Katie H. recommends Big Run, noting "The best spots are in the woods adjacent to the stream. You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds."

    Tips from RVers

    Limited RV options: Most sites near Artemas accommodate only small trailers. Andy C. reports using "lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper" at Big Run State Park Campground, noting it "fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."

    Water and waste facilities: Full-hookup RV sites are scarce in the immediate area. Nathan S. notes that at Big Run "water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park."

    Limited electricity: Most campgrounds near Artemas lack electrical hookups. Roger W. rated Paw Paw Tunnel Campground with "Electric Hookup: No, Sewer Hookup: No, Dump Station: No," making battery or solar power essential for RVers needing electrical amenities.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular tent campsite near Artemas, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Artemas, PA is green ridge state forest with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

    What is the best site to find tent camping near Artemas, PA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 34 tent camping locations near Artemas, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.