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.
