Tent camping near Rouzerville, Pennsylvania provides access to varied terrain along the Appalachian Mountain Ridge, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,700 feet throughout the camping areas. The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs averaging 85°F and spring nighttime temperatures often dropping below 45°F. Most primitive campsites in the area receive 40-45 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions for backcountry camping.
What to do
Climbing at Annapolis Rock: The rock formations at Annapolis Rock Campground offer various climbing opportunities for tent campers. A camper noted, "The best part is the Annapolis Rock cliffs. they offer beautiful views and all kinds of single pitch rock climbing! There are also two bear poles."
River swimming access: Camp beside the Potomac River at Antietam Creek Campground for water activities. "Want to rinse off? Jump into the Potomac for a swim," suggests one camper, while another mentions, "The Potomac is mostly flat with some 'swirlies' for experienced paddlers. I also saw some people tubing."
Historical exploration: Use tent sites as basecamps for visiting Civil War historical sites. Gathland State Park Campground provides tent camping along the Appalachian Trail with proximity to multiple historical markers. A reviewer mentioned feeling "safe" while camping at this historic location and "had a great time" exploring the surroundings.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Tent campers appreciate the proximity to water at Opequon Junction campsite, with one camper describing it as a "gorgeous spot just off the trail and 50 meters from the Potomac."
Trail access: The strategic positioning of Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Campsite receives praise for its secluded nature. As one camper shared, "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."
Shower facilities: Despite being a primitive site, Dahlgren Backpacker Campground offers unexpected amenities. A backpacker mentioned, "It was 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
Spring water sources: Several tent sites require obtaining water from natural springs. At Annapolis Rock, "There's also a large group site if youre with a crowd... There is a really nice spring near the campsites."
Copperhead snake territory: Be alert for venomous snakes at overlook areas, particularly in summer months. One camper at Mulehalla warned, "Be careful for the copperheads that come warm up on the rocky overlook."
Camping restrictions: Not all sites allow fires due to conservation efforts. A camper explained, "No fires, but there are two privies and a really nice spring near the campsites."
Parking logistics: Many tent campgrounds require walking from designated parking areas. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Spacious camping areas: For family tent camping, look for sites with sufficient space. "Tons of open spaces for tents, and sites are spaced far apart," notes a reviewer about Mulehalla.
Beginner-friendly AT hikes: Families can access easier sections of the Appalachian Trail from Washington Monument State Park Campground, offering shorter day hikes from a central camping location.
Group site availability: Some areas offer designated group camping areas. Annapolis Rock Campground features "a large group site if youre with a crowd," making it suitable for families traveling together.
Weekend crowds: Plan for busier conditions Friday through Sunday. "This is such a nice little spot right along the Potomac River. All sites are walk-in only... There isn't much privacy between you and your neighbors (or the C&O towpath so be prepared to see bikers, walkers, and runners)."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most camping near Rouzerville is tent-only with minimal RV accommodation. The primitive nature of these sites means RVs should seek established campgrounds further away with hookups.
Alternative nearby options: RVers who want to explore this region should consider using Camp Misty Mount as a base and making day trips to hiking trails, as this location offers limited electric hookups while maintaining access to natural areas.
