The Gerrardstown area sits at the eastern edge of West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle, with an elevation ranging from 500-1,000 feet above sea level. Seasonal temperature swings can be significant, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Camping options in this region benefit from proximity to both the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, providing water recreation opportunities throughout the warmer months.
What to do
Hiking on historic trails: Brunswick Family Campground offers direct access to the C&O Canal towpath, where you can walk or bike for miles in either direction. "Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail," notes Susan K., making it perfect for day trips.
Fishing and paddling: At The Cove Campground, water activities are readily available. "Great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," writes Victoriana P. The campground features "a small beach, picnic tables everywhere, a volleyball ball sand court, a dock, you can fish in the lake, rent non motorboats," according to Shanna B.
Historical exploration: The region's Civil War significance provides educational opportunities. At Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA, the "location, location, location" is emphasized by Matt S., who notes the campground is situated with "close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door."
What campers like
Private woodland sites: Rocky Gap State Park Campground receives praise for spacious, naturally-separated campsites. "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 your own sections of woods," reports Jeff H.
Waterfront camping: Campers appreciate direct water access at Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders, where "our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water)," according to Mikala S. The riverside setting provides "great fishing and swimming right at your camping spot."
Family-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport earns high marks for its extensive amenities. "Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had an ice-cream/quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly," David S. shares. Another camper notes, "We had a blast and will be returning next season."
What you should know
Train proximity: Several campgrounds are situated near active railroads. At Brunswick Family Campground, "the Brunswick train station and depot is just a few hundred feet away and you can hear trains at all times of the night," warns Sherri C. Similarly, at Harpers Ferry Campground, campers mention the nearby trains: "The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains."
Site spacing concerns: Some campgrounds pack sites tightly together. At Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA, Matt S. notes, "Get cozy, the sites are quite small and tightly packed together." Another reviewer, Brian P., confirms: "Only thing I didn't care for is the sites are pretty close together and some of the back-in sites are not very level."
Seasonal operations: Many glamping close to Gerrardstown, West Virginia operate on limited schedules. For instance, Brunswick Family Campground is open "Mar 25 - Nov 1," while Harpers Ferry Campground operates from "April 1 to October 31." Weather conditions affect facilities, with one camper at Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA describing it as a "marginal muddy mess" during rainy spring conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground offers excellent family water activities. "The primitive spots are right next to the river...great fishing and swimming right at your camping spot," notes Matt P. The park has "campsites located on the Southfork of the Shenandoah River, as well as modern electric sites, RV sites, and cabins."
Activity-rich environments: For families seeking structured entertainment, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park provides "lots to do for kids of all ages, gaga pit tournaments at night, movies, hay rides, character events tons of stuff," according to David S. Another parent confirms, "If you are looking for a fun filled vacation that is by far the most kid friendly park we've ever been to this is it!"
Affordable options: Budget-conscious families can find good value at certain campgrounds. Mikala S. reports that at Harpers Ferry Campground, "We got a discount for staying 2 nights so it was only $29 a night." She adds a money-saving tip: "Don't buy the $25 firewood itll be gone in one night they have wood throughout the campground go forage!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA, an RVer cautions: "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air." Another notes that "some of the back-in sites are not very level."
Road conditions: Access roads at some campgrounds require careful navigation. At The Cove Campground, Christopher K. mentions, "The road is gravel and could use some work, I'd recommend 4x4 drive." Similarly, narrow roads can present challenges, with Jen V. noting at Harpers Ferry KOA, "All roads were very narrow and winding. We did fine with the pup, but can't imagine trying to navigate a large motorhome through there."
Hookup arrangements: At various campgrounds, hookups have specific configurations. Christopher K. points out that at The Cove Campground, "There are 4 water spigots in camp 1. However all the travel trailers hooked up, which means you either had to make friends or disconnect their water in order to have access."
