Swallow Falls State Park Campground offers a variety of glamping options near Southampton, Pennsylvania, situated in Garrett County at elevations around 2,300 feet. The park contains Maryland's highest free-falling waterfall at 53 feet and hosts stands of old-growth hemlock trees estimated to be over 300 years old. Winter temperatures typically range between 19°F and 34°F, while summer temperatures average 55°F to 79°F.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: 1-2 mile trails lead to multiple cascades at Swallow Falls State Park Campground. The main trail is relatively short but packed with natural features. "The trails to the namesake falls are beautiful and very family-friendly, with lots of helpful signage. However, the parking lots and trailheads were PACKED on the weekend, so if you're a day tripper, get there early!" notes Jen V.
Fishing in stocked ponds: 2 fishing areas available at Middle Ridge Campground with catch-and-release options. "Short drive down the mountain to get to the ponds but my husband and oldest son had a blast catching fish in their ponds!" reports Kayla M.
Winter camping: Year-round access with temperature variations from 19°F-79°F depending on season. "Swallow falls is awesome year round. In the winter the snow and ice is beautiful, fall is lovely and summer is fun," according to Marcandpatti B. The park offers distinctive seasonal experiences with frozen waterfalls in winter months.
What campers like
Large, private campsites: 20+ feet between sites in most loops provides privacy. "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," explains Jeff H. at Rocky Gap State Park.
Clean facilities: Daily maintenance of bathhouses even during peak season. "The bath house was kept very clean, even though the campground was full," says Kimberly H., who stayed in cabin 170 in Fir loop at Rocky Gap.
Wooded sites: Natural shade coverage at Laurel Hill State Park Campground creates a forest atmosphere. "The campsite and bathrooms were clean when we arrived and when we left. 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," advises Erik E., who stayed in the dog loop.
Pet-friendly options: Designated loops for camping with dogs at multiple parks. Some sites are limited, so reserve early. "The dog park is awesome. It's the size of a real, normal dog park," writes Whistle P. about Pioneer Lakes RV Park.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Spotty connection in most areas with minimal bars at best. "Fleeting cell at best on Verizon," reports Lee D. about Laurel Hill State Park. Some campgrounds offer WiFi near main buildings, but coverage is typically limited to those areas.
Wildlife encounters: Regular bear activity requires proper food storage. "We were told there were regular bear sightings and there were bear boxes at each site; we saw many deer but not a single bear," notes Lee D. at Deep Creek Lake State Park Campground.
Traveler
