Tent camping near Greencastle, Pennsylvania centers on primitive backcountry sites along the Appalachian Trail and the C&O Canal corridor, with most accessible via moderate hikes ranging from 1-3 miles. Sites typically sit at elevations between 800-1,700 feet, creating cool evening temperatures even in summer months. Seasonal water access varies significantly between locations, with many campgrounds offering hand pumps or natural springs.
What to do
Hiking to overlooks: Annapolis Rock Campground provides a moderately difficult 2+ mile hike from Route 40 with significant elevation gain. "About a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private. No camp fires allowed. Short walk to cold natural spring for water. Short walk to Annapolis rock. Rock climbing available," notes a camper who gave the site 5 stars.
Water activities: Antietam Creek Campground offers direct Potomac River access for paddling and swimming. "The Potomac is mostly flat with some 'swirlies' for experienced paddlers. I also saw some people tubing," shares one visitor. Sites have individual paths to the water, though some are steep.
Historical exploration: Gathland State Park Campground provides tent sites within walking distance of Civil War monuments and historic structures. One camper notes it "felt safe and had a great time" while accessing the park's historical features.
What campers like
Trail proximity: Dahlgren Backpacker Campground caters exclusively to multi-day AT hikers. "This is a stop on the AT open only to multi-day backpackers. I've heard it is sometimes enforced. It's a bit different than most AT stops, as there are no real sites, just a large grassy area to pitch tents," explains one hiker.
Unique camping setup: Antietam Creek offers a different experience than typical campgrounds. "Pretty standard campground—the perks are it's location to nearby attractions and the river/creek. It depends on what you're looking for—easy camping and proximity to Antietam and Harper's? Golden," writes a camper who appreciated the location despite the unusual layout.
Shower access: Several backpacker campgrounds surprisingly offer shower facilities. A Dahlgren visitor noted, "It's a welcome relief to get to a spot where I could wash off and have indoor plumbing for a night... As far as campgrounds on the AT go, this is one of the nicer ones."
What you should know
Parking limitations: Most tent sites require parking away from actual camping spots. At Antietam Creek, "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," explains a visitor.
Wildlife concerns: Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite offers a "small campsite but no one else was there, so it was perfect. There is a porta potty, water pump, and picnic table. Wonderful spot on the river." Meanwhile, at Annapolis Rock, campers should "be careful for the copperheads that come warm up on the rocky overlook."
Privacy variations: Campgrounds offer varying levels of seclusion. Antietam Creek campers note "This campground is not for those looking for silence and solitude. All the sites are very open and run along the multi-use trail. People are constantly walking, running, and biking by."
Tips for camping with families
Water source reliability: At Jordan Junction Hiker-biker Campsite, facilities are minimal but functional. "Good site, has the necessities. Water, Porta p, fire pit. What else do you really need? Want to rinse off? Jump into the Potomac for a swim," notes a camper.
Social camping benefits: Mulehalla offers family-friendly tent sites with more amenities than most primitive areas. "Tons of open spaces for tents, and sites are spaced far apart. This property also offers glamping experiences and sometimes live music. Bring the family (and the dog) to enjoy this gorgeous property."
Bathroom considerations: Antietam Creek has limited facilities that can become problematic during busy periods. "The one thing we had to complain about were the bathrooms. When we got there, they were okay, but by the 3rd night they were really gross. We were at the site next to them and could smell them."
Tips from RVers
Alternative accommodations: For those seeking more comfort than tent camping offers, Mulehalla provides glamping options alongside traditional tent sites. These options include more comfortable sleeping arrangements while still maintaining a connection to the outdoor setting.
Walk-in equipment transport: Antietam Creek requires planning for equipment transport. "It's also a weird setup with respect to parking—as you have to park on the opposite side of the canal and walk to your campsite. If you got one close to the bridge over the canal then you're 100ft from the car, but if not then it could be a little bit of a walk."
