Best Campgrounds near Southampton, PA

Southampton, Pennsylvania features multiple campground options ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks with cabin rentals. The surrounding Maryland and Pennsylvania region includes established facilities like Rocky Gap State Park and Ohiopyle State Park, where campers can find tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin accommodations. Many state forests and parks in the area provide a mixture of primitive and developed sites, with some offering glamping and yurt rentals for those seeking more comfort in the outdoors.

Camping availability varies throughout the year, with most developed campgrounds operating from April through October. State parks like Laurel Hill have specific seasons, typically "mid-April to 3rd Sunday in October," while others such as Green Ridge State Forest remain open year-round. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for weekend stays during summer months when facilities often reach capacity. Weather conditions influence camping experiences significantly, with the region experiencing humid summers and cold winters with occasional snow. As one visitor noted, "We had a great overnight stay here. The host was very friendly and helpful, and the spots were very spacious. We had such a beautiful view!"

The mixed-use campgrounds near Southampton provide various amenity levels depending on location. Developed campgrounds generally offer drinking water, electric hookups, showers, and flush toilets, while state forest sites tend to have more primitive facilities. Several campers mentioned the appeal of Cumberland-area campgrounds for accessing nearby hiking trails and historical sites. "We found several of the hiker/biker camps missing well pump handles so always come prepared with water," shared one camper about C&O Canal sites. Train noise was mentioned in several reviews as something to consider when selecting campsites, particularly for those staying at campgrounds near rail lines. Family-friendly options include state parks with recreational amenities such as swimming pools, picnic areas, and fishing access.

Best Camping Sites Near Southampton, Pennsylvania (135)

    1. Rocky Gap State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Flintstone, MD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 722-1480

    $23 - $29 / night

    "We stayed in cabin 170 in Fir loop and the site was incredibly spacious, heavily shaded, close to the bath house, path to the beach, and well distanced from other sites."

    "Our friends were in the site next to us (17) which was also nice and there was a wide walking path between them. Family also stayed in one of the rental cabins (21)."

    2. CUMBERLAND MD. CAMPGROUNDS. 1 & 2

    19 Reviews
    Cumberland, MD
    11 miles
    +1 (301) 777-3472

    $35 / night

    "Me and a small group of friends stayed here for a weekend and we had a blast it was so peaceful we where right next to the river and had some great trails too hike on."

    "Great stay at a well located spot. Beautiful and quiet. Don was very helpful with any request that we had. Would return again. Thanks Don."

    3. Savage River State Forest

    18 Reviews
    Grantsville, MD
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 895-5759

    "This was a beautiful state forest, with two state parks sort of bordering it (Big Run & New Germany). The roads were all paved which was nice."

    "It was a good sized site with a nice fire circle. my favorite part was how private it was, each campsite was 50-100ft away from each other at least. Mine was probably 100yrds."

    4. New Germany State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Grantsville, MD
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 432-2267

    $18 - $117 / night

    "New Germany State Park is situated in Garrett County Maryland. The park has a small lake, a few trails, and two camping loops."

    "If you’re camping at sites 14-26, the walk may seem a bit long to use the john. The park has about 15 or so miles of trails."

    5. Green Ridge State Forest

    29 Reviews
    Little Orleans, MD
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 478-3124

    $10 / night

    "All are roadside, but plenty are tucked away so you feel alone in the woods. You can occupy a site as long as you register at the parks main office. $10/night."

    "Very few sites are within walking distance of each other. The exception is a group of sites near the Potomac Riverand the C&O Canal."

    6. Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

    82 Reviews
    Ohiopyle, PA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 329-8591

    $24 - $72 / night

    "Ohiopyle is located in a beautiful area of Pennsylvania we've camped there a couple of times and have been able to get last minute tent sites. Lots of outdoor activities nearby."

    "Very close to two Frank Lloyd Wright properties– Kentuck Knob and the more widely known Falling Waters."

    7. Hidden Springs Campground

    7 Reviews
    Flintstone, MD
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 767-9676

    $58 - $70 / night

    "We had a very positive experience at Hidden Springs. We stayed 4 nights, the first two were very quiet at the campground."

    8. Laurel Hill State Park Campground

    28 Reviews
    Rockwood, PA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 445-7725

    $24 - $64 / night

    "The lake is separate from the campground, but it is less than a mile away and a reasonable distance walk."

    "The site numbering is a bit wonky on the door loop so make sure you look at your map before you start driving the loops."

    9. Maple Festival Park (near GAP Trail)

    2 Reviews
    Meyersdale, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 442-4284

    $20 / night

    "The train line, and the trail, are a steep hike up the hill from the rest of town, so the noise is much less bothersome during the night."

    10. Shawnee State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Schellsburg, PA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 733-4218

    $24 - $122 / night

    "Was pleased by the quiet despite size of campground and proximity to highway. Sites not overly large or private. Has wood vending machine at entrance for firewood."

    "The morning drive started early, had several stops and starts, and I was once again glad that my big dog was along for the ride."

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Recent Reviews near Southampton, PA

783 Reviews of 135 Southampton Campgrounds


  • R
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Good place to stay for a night

    This is a good place to stay in an area along Hwy 50 where there aren’t many other options. The host was friendly and helpful. The campground is clean and safe. The bathrooms are fine with a good shower and hot water. There is a swimming pool although it was closed for the season when I was here.

  • E
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Camp Cacapon

    Great camping in a perfect spot

    We stayed at this campground Sep 26-28 and had a fantastic time. The campsite is in a perfect spot on the Cacapon river, and the facilities are excellent. Nice campsites, clean bathrooms and a charming little pavilion that you can rent and hang out with your group.

    Highly recommend

  • Dana M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

    Ok for a quick overnight

    Due to a water main break, only one bathroom and showers were available. Bathrooms were quite old and run down. There are over 100 sites. Pets are only allowed on specific loops and cannot be walked on “non pet” loops. We had an electric site which was pretty level for our van. Bike trails were more like hiking trails ( not single track Mtn biking trails). I found this park to be “just ok”.

  • G
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Private

    If you’re looking for quiet and privacy, this is the place.  they laid out the sites so that you’re not side by side. They are all on an angle which moves you further away from anyone on both sides.  The angled site also was great for driving just past you’re site and practically backing straight back into you’re site.  Decent bath house and friendly, low key staff.  Great rates per night.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Large wooded sites

    The owners are so friendly and personable. The sites are actually in a wooded area not just a big field. Each site has full hookups. We will definitely return.

  • Kathy L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Laurel Hill State Park Campground

    Okay campground

    Okay campground. We met nice people staying there. However, the sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites. Large open grassy area. The camp host saw me walking my pups, and as I walked toward the trash can(near the bathroom) to throw away a pooped that I had picked up, she yelled across the green area from her site“no dogs in the bathrooms!” Kinda rude, but later she was friendly. Some okay hiking trails off the campground in a meadow.

  • Ronnie B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Hidden Springs Campground

    Labor Day Weekend

    It was packed-all went smoothly. From check in, wood delivery, and parking.

  • M
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Perfect Site

    This was the perfect little site. Super friendly and accommodating, beautiful walking paths, great campsites. We really enjoyed our stay.

  • Lyle & Stephanie H.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Middle Ridge Campground

    Private - Quiet - Great Hosts

    We really enjoyed our stay.   Quiet camping on top of a mountain.   Beautiful wooded views.  Hosts were amazing and plenty of space between campers.  All the spots are shaded.


Guide to Southampton

Camping spots near Southampton, Pennsylvania range from secluded forest sites to lakeside campgrounds with varying terrain. The region sits within the Appalachian highlands with elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet, creating cooler temperatures than nearby urban areas. Most primitive sites in state forests lack amenities while developed campgrounds offer electric hookups, shower facilities, and recreational options accessible from April through October.

What to do

Hiking at Savage River State Forest: This 54,000-acre forest offers numerous hiking trails with stream crossings and woodland paths. "The 5 mile hike around Lake Habeeb is enjoyable. Great way to see all sides of the park," noted one Rocky Gap State Park visitor, while another mentioned, "There are plenty of hiking in the park and in the adjacent parks like New Germany state park."

Fishing options: Multiple water bodies provide fishing opportunities within driving distance. At New Germany State Park, "The park has about 15 or so miles of trails. The trails are easy to medium and are open to cross country skiing in the winter months. The lake has a small beach and the water is always cool." Another camper shared, "You can do non-motorized boating like kayaks and such."

Winter recreation: Unlike many camping areas that close for winter, several locations offer winter activities. A camper at Savage River State Forest reported, "We went camping the last week of August and it was beautiful. If you're from the area you know how hot it can be at this time of year but it's at least 10 degrees cooler out here." New Germany State Park is "very popular amongst cross-country skiers in the winter, especially since they have full-service cabins and a warming hut by the lake."

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Many campers value the solitude available at certain campgrounds. At Green Ridge State Forest, "There are nearly 100 campsites within the forest boundaries and with the exception of the Kasekamp sites (that cater more to river floating and the nearby C&O Canal) most of them have no neighbor within half a mile." Similarly, a Savage River visitor commented, "I stayed at a primitive campsite with my dog and we found a site right on a beautiful stream. It was a good sized site with a nice fire circle. my favorite part was how private it was, each campsite was 50-100ft away from each other at least."

Beach and water access: Lakeside recreation areas provide swimming and boating opportunities. At Rocky Gap State Park, "We brought paddle boards and the lake was perfect for paddle boarding. Note that you cannot swim anywhere outside of the roped swim areas." Another visitor appreciated that "the campground beach is fun. There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle."

Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds feature generously sized sites. A visitor to Hillcrest River Kampground noted, "The spots were very spacious. We had a such a beautiful view!" Rocky Gap State Park campers consistently mentioned the spaciousness: "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have you own sections of woods."

What you should know

Varying amenity levels: Facilities range from completely primitive to full-service. A camper at Ohiopyle State Park noted, "We have a wonderful, big electric and water site. Our camper doesn't have a bathroom so we need the bathhouse. There isn't one on every loop, but this one does have a restroom." By contrast, at Green Ridge State Forest, "There are no amenities unless you bring it yourself. None of the sites are appropriate for RVs."

Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited or no connectivity. At New Germany State Park, "Note that there is very little to no cell phone reception in the park, so combined with the lack of hookups, this is definitely an unplugged, 'connect with nature' type of camping experience." Similarly, in Savage River State Forest, reviewers mentioned "No cell service. Beautiful forest."

Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal temperature variations. A New Germany State Park visitor explained, "The only negative was the lack of hookups, as it got pretty cold at night, and our battery was unable to sustain the needs of our heater." Rocky Gap campers mentioned "A fair amount of gnats and other bugs but no mosquitoes to speak of."

Tips for camping with families

Family-friendly swimming areas: Several parks offer designated swimming beaches ideal for children. At New Germany State Park, "Nice destination spot if you have children. A great swim area where mom can relax while kids play." Rocky Gap State Park has "their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public. Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch."

Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. A Rocky Gap State Park visitor noted, "The bathhouses are always clean and well stocked. The camp sites are tucked into the woods with plenty of room for camping." New Germany State Park offers "For kids they have a small jungle gym and critter center."

Educational opportunities: Several parks provide nature centers and educational experiences. At Laurel Hill State Park, "Activities/Amenities: Many include fishing, swimming, boating, bicycling, hiking, geocaching, and hunting. The lake is separate from the campground, but it is less than a mile away and a reasonable distance walk."

Tips from RVers

Site selection considerations: RVers should research accessibility before arriving. At Shawnee State Park, "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating!" Another RVer advised, "As we drove through the rest of the RV park area we noted that many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches that did not provide sufficient area to maneuver a large rig into them."

Hookup availability: Electrical service varies by campground. At Hidden Springs Campground, "Many E/W only sites but all sites are nice and fairly level, well maintained!" At Laurel Hill State Park, "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable."

Road conditions: Access to some campsites requires careful navigation. A Green Ridge State Forest visitor warned, "Be aware that every site is approached by roads that are gravel (if you're lucky) or dirt, which is more likely." At Savage River State Forest, "The roads were all paved which was nice."

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Southampton, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Southampton, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 135 campgrounds and RV parks near Southampton, PA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Southampton, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Southampton, PA is Rocky Gap State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 52 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Southampton, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Southampton, PA.

What parks are near Southampton, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Southampton, PA that allow camping, notably Jennings Randolph Lake and Youghiogheny River Lake.