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Best Campgrounds near Charles Town, WV

1,126 Reviews

Campgrounds near Charles Town, West Virginia span from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks with cabins and glamping options. Harpers Ferry Campground and Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA provide access to the scenic Potomac River and historic sites within a short drive of Charles Town. The region includes several established campgrounds offering electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities, with many sites located along waterways. Candy Hill Campground in nearby Winchester and Watermelon Park Campground in Berryville provide additional options with varying levels of amenities and proximity to natural attractions.

Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with most open from spring through fall, though some like Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA remain open year-round. Summer months bring higher occupancy, especially at riverside locations where water activities are popular. Train tracks run alongside some campgrounds, particularly those near Harpers Ferry, creating potential noise issues for light sleepers. Road access varies by location, with some campgrounds requiring navigation through narrow roads or one-way tunnels. A camper noted, "There is a one-way tunnel a few feet from the campground. The practice is for cars to stop, blow their horn to announce their presence, then proceed into the tunnel."

Waterfront camping represents a major draw for visitors to the area, with the Potomac River offering swimming, fishing, and paddling opportunities. Several campgrounds provide direct river access, which proves popular among summer visitors. "We brought our paddle boards and river access was super easy. Freshwater hookup and electrical hookup were convenient," wrote one reviewer about Harpers Ferry Campground. While riverside sites offer scenic views and recreation, they often come with trade-offs. Noise from nearby railroad tracks affects several campgrounds, with trains passing frequently day and night. Developed campgrounds in the region typically provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to toilets, though facility cleanliness and maintenance can vary significantly between locations. The proximity to historic Harpers Ferry adds cultural interest, with some camping areas offering walking distance or short drives to this popular destination.

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Best Camping Sites Near Charles Town, West Virginia (159)

    1. Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA

    39 Reviews
    Harpers Ferry, WV
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 535-6895

    $40 - $80 / night

    "The town of Harpers Ferry is very close and lots of great trails to explore in the nearby area. Casino in Charles Town is also close if that’s your thing. Wifi and cell service was great."

    "We set up camp at Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday as our launchpad to visit the historic sites in and around Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Frederick, Maryland. "

    2. Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders

    24 Reviews
    Harpers Ferry, WV
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 535-2663

    "This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don’t let this deter you from completing it. The trail is well maintained, marked, and exciting."

    "Harper's Ferry is a little town in WV nestled right next to the Potomac River. It's also a convenient halfwayish point on the Appalachian Trail."

    3. Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    41 Reviews
    Boonsboro, MD
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 432-2267

    $23 - $29 / night

    "Positives

    • Big, immaculately groomed tent pads

    * Mostly tent campers!"

    "Our site was private and kind of faced away from most other sites. There was a hiking trail behind us that led to the lake."

    4. Antietam Creek Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

    11 Reviews
    Sharpsburg, MD
    11 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "All the sites are very open and run along the multi-use trail. People are constantly walking, running, and biking by."

    "Pretty standard campground—the perks are it’s location to nearby attractions and the river/creek. It depends on what you’re looking for—easy camping and proximity to Antietam and Harper’s? Golden."

    5. Brunswick Family Campground

    12 Reviews
    Brunswick, MD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 834-9950

    $10 - $90 / night

    "Picked this location because it is close to our home in Silver Spring, MD but far enough to make us feel like we were leaving town."

    "Great location right next the river. Easy to walk into the river or tube down it. Lots of different activities for kids and plenty of space at each site to make your home away from home."

    6. Watermelon Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Berryville, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 955-4803

    $60 - $150 / night

    "It is a nice campground, decent and clean facilities and a nice location near the river. Price is a little high considering there is no sewer hookup (dump station is on site)."

    "Well maintained and owner was around everyday doing work on the property and was friendly."

    7. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport MD

    23 Reviews
    Williamsport, MD
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 223-7117

    $99 - $471 / night

    "There is a food court in the swimming pool and a camp store right next to it. They play movies every night at the outdoor theater near the pool."

    "This campground has tons of nice cabins and tent sites, all in wooded surroundings. There is a small creek to play in and a nice little hiking trail within the campground."

    8. Candy Hill Campground

    22 Reviews
    Winchester, VA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 662-8010

    $38 - $77 / night

    "Unfortunately, it is located right on a major highway. This means there is easy access, but the traffic noise is less than ideal. But the gem of this place is the management and staff!"

    "No restaurant within walking range so have food on hand. There are a few places that will deliver but the food is a 5 out of 10 at best. Hwy 81 is right next door so you will hear road noise."

    9. Berryville Berries

    5 Reviews
    Boyce, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 955-6648

    $50 / night

    "With easy access off major roadways and a short drive from Winchester, VA, you can get whatever you need and then be back in the woods in no time."

    "Best thing about it is the proximity to the WMA.  It's rustic and somewhat remote, but easily accessible from the WMA.  Lots to do as Berryville is a quaint little town but not far from Winchester."

    10. Nahkeeta Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Martinsburg, WV
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 263-5382

    $50 / night

    "Great location for exploring Harpers Ferry. Right next to the highway but the noise doesn’t bother us."

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Recent Camping Photos near Charles Town, WV

465 Photos of 159 Charles Town Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Charles Town, WV

1126 Reviews of 159 Charles Town Campgrounds

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    Love this Campground

    I love camping in Matthews Arm, it has a flush toilet restroom. The site A7 has a hug parking, can fit RVs and spacious area for tent, table, fire pit. Only downside is that the tent pad is kind of connected to site A09, so privacy is not the best.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Manor - Cunningham Falls State Park

    Hot showers! But no dump station

    Campsite We stayed at M17 after staying at M26 for a night. 17 wasn’t as level and so we had to scrunch to one side of the site to get level. It was closer to the bath house. Overall cozy. Bath house It’s in need of some repairs but don’t let that scare you- these showers are hot and the shower wands are a really nice convenience after using cold push button showers. Lantern flies! Invasive Spotted Lantern Flies are everywhere. I squished as many as I could but keep an eye out and check your gear before leaving! Dump station 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. Road noise Since you’re near the highway, there is constant road noise and it’s even worse on the trails but it’s quiet otherwise. Deducted one star for no dump station.

  • Jack W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Great dispersed spot

    Only a few spots around, but beautiful spot right on the river with fire pits. No other amenities but it was exactly what we were looking for

  • Spencer W.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Cedar Creek Trail dispersed campsite

    Cedar Creek Trail Dispersed Campsite

    Went to Stultz gap and was a little unimpressed. Drove about 10 minutes further north on the same road.

    Location is approximate. After the intersection, the road will turn into a trail (marked by a metal gate) and there is a campsite right there.

    Was very peaceful and clean. Had an established fire ring.

  • Spencer W.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Stultz Gap Dispersed Campsite

    Stultz Gap Dispersed Camping

    The spot itself is right next to the road. The map seems to indicate trails connected but they appear very overgrown.

    Appears some may use this with horses as some small amount of waste was left behind.

    We ended up driving about 10-15 minutes further north along the same road and found a nicer spot with an established fire ring.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Manor - Cunningham Falls State Park

    Great non-electric site, no dumstation

    This site is at the very top of the loop so it has a great cozy vibe and is spaced well away from other sites. The only downside is that the bathhouse is a walk downhill and then a walk back uphill. Surprised there’s no place for someone to park next to the bathhouse - only trails to it- so if you have accessibility needs, consider choosing a site that’s lower in the loop. The site is level and was raked by the hosts before we got there. Really clean and quiet except for some road noise. Showers are SO nice compared to other campsite. Hot water is hot, no push buttons, and there is a shower wand in both stalls. No dump station though!! Dump before you get here. Also if you work remote and depend on service, it’s spotty. Very wooded so Starlink can’t help much. OH- Don’t bother visiting the winery down the road. Ew. Just don’t.

  • Brian B.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    The Retreat at Shenandoah Meadows

    Great place, zero oversight…

    First, let me say that the viewers at this campground are incredible. We stayed there this September and my family had a fantastic time in their cabins. When we got there, we found our cabin and these had codes to be able to enter. All was fine till we started looking at bathrooms.

    None of the bathroom facilities are labeled, male or female, but it was just our family there so it wasn’t a really big deal. Later on in the weekend, another group showed up, and then we felt as though we needed to try and find or figure out another way to ensure that the girls were safe.

    Every building in the campground is open you can walk literally anywhere you would like. Nobody is there to enforce anything. We had such a good time, that I still give it four stars. We had such good views that I would still give it four stars. But I would be aware of what you’re going to.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA

    Dense and chaotic, but great breakfast

    We got here late on a Friday and boy was it packed. It was a pretty tight fit and at a perpendicular. Not sure why campsites do that. We didn’t use the bathroom or showers because it was so late and honestly because they only had one bathroom location for all those people and it was on the opposite side of the campsite. They have SO many activities going on for kids and families including crafts and a magic show. They also had a diner and general store. Didn’t go into the store but did get breakfast from the diner and the breakfast was honestly delicious. It was about a 20 min wait at 8:15 but the quality of the food totally makes up for that. I recommend the sausage gravy and biscuits. Overall, great spot if you’ve got kids. Pretty packed if you’re just traveling or looking for some outdoor time.

Guide to Charles Town

Camping near Charles Town, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park. Reviewers rave about the nearby hiking trails, with one saying, "Hiking trails leave right from the campground."
  • Fishing: At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing along the river. A visitor mentioned, "Tons to do in the area!"
  • Visiting Historical Sites: The area is rich in history, with places like Harpers Ferry nearby. One camper noted, "Great location, amazing amenities," highlighting the convenience of exploring local attractions.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses and clean campsites. A review for Rocky Gap State Park Campground states, "The bathhouses are always clean and well stocked."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Codorus State Park Campground said, "The sites are fairly large and they do have some full hook up sites which is nice."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Cherry Hill Park are noted for their community feel. One reviewer mentioned, "There is a generally good sense of community."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground warned, "This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7."
  • Site Proximity: Many sites are close together, which can be a downside for some. A review for Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA noted, "The sites were so unlevel, close together, and the whole infrastructure in need of repair."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in some areas. A visitor at Mathews Arm Campground mentioned, "No cell service."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities for kids. Bull Run Regional Park has a playground nearby, making it a great choice for families. One parent shared, "The playground and trails were nice, kids really enjoyed the chance to take in nature."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Greenbrier State Park Campground said, "There’s a lot to do in the area. Tons of hiking, exploring along the lake."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A visitor at Rocky Gap State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground has their own swim beach with a great playground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Make sure to choose a level site for easier setup. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA noted, "Our site was so unlevel that I was not able to get the RV leveled the entire weekend."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some campgrounds have tight spaces for larger RVs. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground advised, "Careful some near steep drop off."
  • Utilize Camp Store: Many campgrounds have stores for essentials. A visitor at Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "The camp store is very well stocked with camping stuff, food, and beer."

Camping near Charles Town, West Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground, and you’ll have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Charles Town, WV?

Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA is one of the top options, located just minutes from Charles Town. This campground offers excellent amenities and is conveniently positioned for exploring Harpers Ferry's historic sites and trails. It's also close to the Charles Town Casino for entertainment. Another excellent choice is Gary's Family Campground, which provides a tranquil nature experience with hiking and mountain biking opportunities. The campground features a game room, library, and Wi-Fi at the lodge, plus spectacular views and stargazing. Both locations offer a great mix of outdoor recreation and proximity to local attractions.

Where can I find tent camping spots near Charles Town?

Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders offers excellent tent camping options near Charles Town. The campground provides access to fantastic hiking trails, including paths that lead to scenic lookouts above Harpers Ferry. It's also conveniently located on the Appalachian Trail, making it ideal for hikers. Another good option is Brunswick Family Campground, situated between railroad tracks and the river, creating a serene atmosphere despite being close to urban areas. This campground is especially appealing for tent campers who want to escape city life without traveling too far from the DC metro area.

Are there any seasonal campgrounds open year-round near Charles Town?

Candy Hill Campground near Winchester stays open year-round and is just a short drive from Charles Town. This campground provides reliable winter accommodations with the necessary amenities for cold-weather camping. Another option is Watermelon Park Campground near Berryville, which maintains operations throughout the year. While many campgrounds in the region close during winter months due to harsh conditions, these locations remain accessible. Keep in mind that winter camping requires additional preparation, and some facilities or activities might be limited during the coldest months.

Are there any RV parks or campgrounds around Charles Town with full hookups?

Creekside Campground in nearby Edinburg offers full hookup sites for RVs, including creekside spots that provide a pleasant waterfront setting. At around $50 per night, these sites offer good value with plenty of space once navigated into position. For those willing to pay a premium, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport MD provides full hookup options with resort-style amenities. While slightly pricier, these campgrounds offer the complete range of water, electric, and sewer connections that RV campers require for extended stays, along with additional comforts and conveniences.

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