Family-friendly camping options near Greencastle, Pennsylvania encompass over 10 established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains with elevations ranging from 600-1,700 feet, creating distinct camping microclimates across the area. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March, while summer camping conditions often reach into the 80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Cunningham Falls State Park offers multiple trail options leading to Maryland's largest cascading waterfall. "The trail to the lake is accessible but far enough that you avoid the high day use traffic. The campsites have trees and some privacy," notes one camper at Houck Area, who appreciated the balance between accessibility and seclusion.
Creek activities: Twin Bridge Campground features creek access for fishing and water play. According to a reviewer: "Our favorite campground. The most relaxing setting. Our kids love the creek and playing in and around it." The creek is shallow enough for younger children to splash around safely during summer months.
Historical exploration: Artillery Ridge Campground connects directly to Gettysburg National Park trails. "We had a site right next to the trail going to Stangler Farm. The campground is approximately a 3 minute drive from everything in the town of Gettysburg," shares one visitor, highlighting the seamless access to historical sites.
Rock climbing: For adventurous glampers near Greencastle, Pennsylvania, Annapolis Rock Campground provides sport climbing opportunities. "Rock climbing available. Short walk to Annapolis rock," mentions a reviewer who enjoyed both the camping and climbing aspects of this primitive site located along the Appalachian Trail.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cunningham Falls State Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms were very clean. However, the closest bathroom didn't have showers. It also only had cold water. The bathhouse with showers was located at the other end of the loop; a little bit of a walk," explains a camper who appreciated the cleanliness despite noting the distance to showers.
Fall foliage: Cowans Gap State Park transforms in autumn. "Absolutely amazing fall color on the lake and great drives surrounding. Bathrooms are clean and hot showers," shares one visitor who specifically planned a fall camping trip to experience the colorful landscape.
Lake recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature lakes with swimming areas. "Nice small lake within walking distance along with a beach. There is also a few hiking trails near the campground," notes an Amber from Cowans Gap State Park, highlighting how lake access enhances the camping experience.
Wildlife viewing: Hagerstown Antietam Battlefield KOA offers animal encounters beyond typical camping experiences. "A petite campground in a lovely setting. My kids were obsessed with the goats and the little mining table. The staff felt like family," shares a reviewer named Mike N., describing unique animal attractions that kept children engaged.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds near Greencastle operate from April through October or November, with Granite Hill Camping Resort being one of the few year-round options. Cunningham Falls State Park specifies a season of "April 1 to October 31."
Site privacy varies: Gettysburg Campground receives mixed reviews about site spacing. "The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning. One of the drawbacks of this campground is that a lot of the trees are black walnut trees and the squirrels do not shy away from dropping the walnuts like bombs," warns a reviewer, noting both positives and potential annoyances.
Water features: Several campgrounds feature water access, with varying conditions. "The lake was beautiful. There's a beach and swimming area. There's a little viewing area/dock with information on the bald eagles and osprey that live there," describes a Cowans Gap visitor.
Firewood availability: Most established campgrounds sell firewood onsite, but prices vary. One Cunningham Falls camper mentions, "Firewood available at the park ($5 for 6 pieces self-serve)," providing specific pricing information helpful for planning.
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity schedules: Jellystone Park Williamsport plans daily programming for children. "We went to Cowans gap last full for a Halloween weekend and the children loved it. We even won the campsite decorating contest," shares a camper about seasonal special events that engage the whole family.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. "It was a pretty tight fit and at a perpendicular. Not sure why campsites do that. They have SO many activities going on for kids and families including crafts and a magic show," notes a Hagerstown KOA visitor, acknowledging the trade-off between activities and noise.
Bathroom proximity: When camping with small children, bathroom location matters. "The bathhouse is in need of some repairs but don't let that scare you- these showers are hot and the shower wands are a really nice convenience after using cold push button showers," advises a reviewer at Cunningham Falls, highlighting practical bathroom considerations.
Lake swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas appropriate for different age groups. "One of our favorites! Campground sits right on a gorgeous lake. Lots of fishing options including boats you can rent. A walking trail wraps around the whole lake," notes a Cowans Gap camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Twin Bridge Campground offers spacious sites but preparation is needed. "Staff was polite, amenities are great and clean, and everyone was friendly and polite. Big spacious sites, and a honeywagon to make things easier (there weren't any full hookup sites the I saw besides the long term spaces)," shares an RVer who appreciated the service options.
Hook-up placement: Artillery Ridge Campground requires planning for utilities. "The hookups are oddly spaced and you need to ensure you have extensions handy. My electric hookup didn't work on 30A," warns one RVer, suggesting bringing extension cords and adapters.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide dump stations. A Chelsea B. notes about Cunningham Falls: "This campsite doesn't have a dump station so we went to the Cunningham falls site to dump after leaving and they let us dump no problem." This practical advice helps RVers plan for waste management.
Road navigation: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "Set right next to the river and you fish if you want to. DO NOT follow your GPS. Follow the directions on the KOA Website," warns a Hagerstown KOA visitor, offering specific guidance about arrival navigation that's particularly important for larger rigs.
