Owens Creek Campground sits deep in the woods of Catoctin Mountain Park at an elevation of 1,200 feet, creating cooler camping conditions than surrounding valleys. The campground's 50 sites are terraced on a hillside with woodchips covering the ground to reduce mud. Located about 16 miles from Waynesboro, this area connects to over 25 miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels for dogs and their owners.
What to do
Explore creek-side trails: Owens Creek runs alongside many campsites at Owens Creek Campground, offering natural water access. "My wife and I decided one Saturday morning and came across Owens Creek online. After setting up camp, we went for a walk along the creek and played in the water. We had a great trip," shares Matthew K.
Hike historic routes: The area offers trails ranging from easy family walks to challenging rocky paths. "Wolf rock and chimney rock were my favorite," notes Cory D., who enjoyed the wilderness experience at Owens Creek. The Thurmont Vista and Hog Rock trails are clearly marked and accessible for various skill levels.
Visit the mining area: At Gettysburg / Battlefield KOA, kids can try sluice mining. "My kids were obsessed with the goats and the little mining table. The staff felt like family," says Mike N. This offers an educational activity option close to Waynesboro during warmer months.
Catch a magic show: Family entertainment is regularly scheduled at campgrounds near Waynesboro. "They have SO many activities going on for kids and families including crafts and a magic show," notes Chelsea B. about the Hagerstown/Antietam KOA, making it ideal for families wanting structured activities.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural settings at Caledonia State Park Campground. "The sites are nice and level. It's very wooded and sites are spread out so you get plenty of privacy. Can't wait to come back," says Cassia M. about the park's layout, which provides a true forest camping experience.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms are consistently mentioned in reviews. "Very nice staff and accommodations. Centrally located with kid friendly activities," Ken K. notes about Gettysburg Campground, highlighting the balanced amenities for families.
Evening firefly displays: Unique natural phenomena delight campers in the region. "We chose this park for the nice pool (short walk from campsites) but loved the synchronous firefly show we saw in July!" writes Stephanie S. about Caledonia State Park, pointing out an unexpected natural attraction during summer months.
Pet-friendly policies: Dog friendly campgrounds near Waynesboro typically allow pets at most sites. "We were in the dogwood loop. My partner and our two dogs loved this campground!" shares Sarah K. about Greenbrier State Park Campground, noting the well-groomed tent pads and shaded sites perfect for pets.
What you should know
Varied seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "The camp store stocks supplies with limited hours. During peak season, there are nature programs going on," Regina C. explains about Cunningham Falls State Park, which runs from April through October.
Weekend crowds: Popular areas become extremely busy, especially at water features. "The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers - we avoided it since we are careful due to COVID," Sarah K. notes about Greenbrier State Park. Plan weekday visits when possible for a quieter experience.
Variable site conditions: Terrain can create challenges at some campgrounds. "The sites are nice and level. Really great for tents and small rvs," explains PattyD T. about Owens Creek, though sites there may require some leveling due to the hillside location.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "Since you're near the highway, there is constant road noise and it's even worse on the trails but it's quiet otherwise," Chelsea B. mentions about Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area, something to consider when selecting specific sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near playgrounds: Placement matters when camping with kids. "We stayed in the 'C' row site. Great shade and access to the playground. You can let the kids play all day while sitting at your campsite cooking and just hanging. It's only 15 yards for the play set," Larry N. recommends at Granite Hill Camping Resort.
Look for water features: Lakes and creeks provide natural entertainment. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed," Casey L. shares about Cunningham Falls. Water access keeps children occupied during warmer months.
Check scheduled activities: Family-focused events enhance the camping experience. "They have a ton of activities for the entire family. A lot of activities for children," Stephanie G. notes about Gettysburg Battlefield KOA, making planning easier for parents who want structured options.
Pack rain activities: Weather can change quickly in the mountains. "It rained most of the weekend, but we still had a blast! The trail to the lake is accessible but far enough that you avoid the high day use traffic," says Marianne H. about Cunningham Falls, showing the importance of flexible planning.
Tips from RVers
Reserve early for hookup sites: Electric sites are limited at some parks. "There are very few electric sites on the three lower loops, the fourth loop is all electric sites," Dave V. explains about Houck Campground at Cunningham Falls State Park, requiring advance planning for RVers needing connections.
Prepare for tight navigation: Some campgrounds have challenging access. "This is a small but quaint KOA. Sites are a little tight, but allow you easy access to town once you get set up," Kirk S. mentions about Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA. Larger rigs should check specific site dimensions before booking.
Look for pull-through options: Easier entry sites save time and frustration. "A perk for us for our first trip with a camper was the pull thru sites," amy shares about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, noting this feature helps new RV owners especially.
Check dump station availability: Not all parks offer this service. "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," Chelsea B. advises about traveling between parks when necessary.
