The Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia where Gerrardstown is situated offers camping amid hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet. The region experiences mild springs and falls with summer temperatures typically reaching the 80s. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with several campgrounds remaining open year-round despite seasonal limitations.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area provides a large lake for kayaking and canoeing, though swimmers should be cautious. "Boat ramps are available for kayaking, canoeing, and small boats with electric power," notes one visitor. The lake has underwater hazards to navigate around: "Swimming is possible off some of the sites but there are a ton of lily pads in most areas. Better to kayak and canoe and get it, just beware of underwater stumps."
Historic exploration: 30 minutes from camp: The proximity to historic sites makes camping here appealing for history buffs. A camper staying at Harpers Ferry Campground mentioned, "From there you can grab a bite, visit the history of Harper's Ferry or continue exploring more hiking trails." Another visitor adds, "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia."
Outdoor shooting: 40 minutes north: For those interested in target practice, The Cove Campground offers unique recreational options. "With great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," says one reviewer. Another camper confirms this amenity: "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites."
What campers like
River access for cooling off: Multiple campgrounds feature water access points that campers appreciate during warmer months. At Lazy A Campground, a visitor noted, "Small and quiet campground. Gorgeous location in the fall. River access for fishing or splashing around." The water features are particularly popular with families: "This campground is fantastic for kids and pets. Lots of wide open space to run and play."
Open fields for recreation: Spacious grassy areas provide room for outdoor games and activities away from wooded sites. One camper at Lazy A Campground appreciated that "it has huge open fields for lots of outdoor fun." Another mentioned the campground "has horseshoes, playground, large outdoor picnic area, as well as a clean bathhouse with showers."
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers seeking privacy with water views have options in the region. At Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area, one visitor observed, "For me the two most difficult amenities to find at one campground is 1) secluded drive-up site 2) that is on a lake/river/etc. So because Sleep Creek has many sites with both, we will continue to go back." Another camper highlighted the atmosphere: "It's very peaceful, at least every time I've gone. Amazing views of the lake and surrounding mountains."
What you should know
Water quality varies significantly: Some campgrounds in the region have water issues to consider. At Candy Hill Campground, a camper noted that highway proximity creates "a little noisy" environment. At Lazy A Campground, a recent visitor warned: "The only reason it lost a star is that the water has sulfur. It smells and it stained our brand-new toilet and we had to replace all our water filters after one weekend."
Access road conditions: Roads to camping sites near Gerrardstown, West Virginia can present challenges for some vehicles. At Sleepy Creek, a visitor cautioned, "Potholed dirt road coming up, a sedan can make it through but will have to take it slow." The remoteness requires preparation: "It's a good 7 miles off the main road, so make sure to bring everything you need with you."
Cell service limitations: Many campsites have limited connectivity. One camper at Camp Cacapon advised, "Be sure to download checkin instructions prior to arrival as there is wifi, but no cell service … bonus for relaxation!" Another visitor confirmed this isolation: "Don't be concerned by the reviews of no signal, yes they are true, but isn't that part of the appeal?"
Tips for camping with families
Water attractions for kids: Several campgrounds offer water features specifically appealing to children. At Jellystone Park Williamsport, just 35 minutes from Gerrardstown, a visitor shared: "We recent went camping for the first time at Jellystone in Maryland. 5 of our 6 kids came with us, so we knew we needed to find a camping ground more geared kids. Jellystone was amazing in every way possible." Another family noted, "The kids were never bored and had so much fun."
Playground access: On-site play areas provide entertainment when families aren't exploring. One camper at Lazy A Campground appreciated the amenities: "It also has horseshoes, playground, basketball, fire pit, plenty of open area, large enough sites." A different visitor mentioned the campground's "large grassy sites. Easy to maneuver. Lots of open space."
Budget considerations: Campground pricing varies widely within 30 minutes of Gerrardstown. At Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area, a camper reported, "Wonderful place to go camping. Camping is $10 a night." Meanwhile, at Jellystone Park, a visitor noted the contrast: "It was a nice place to stay for kids, lots to do for them. But very expensive for tent camping. I still paid nearly 100 a night."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should research utilities before booking sites near Gerrardstown. At Camp Cacapon, a visitor with a travel trailer appreciated that "The RV spot is perfect, so leveled all you have to do is shock your wheels." Another RVer added: "We stayed for a full week at their RV site with our 32ft camper trailer."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra work to position larger vehicles. At Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA, an RVer warned, "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air."
Space between sites: RV campers often note the proximity to neighbors when reviewing camping sites. A visitor to Candy Hill Campground mentioned, "Sites were spacious and mostly level." At Harpers Ferry KOA, an RVer observed the opposite: "Get cozy, the sites are quite small and tightly packed together."
