Glamping near Harpers Ferry, West Virginia places visitors within the Blue Ridge Mountains where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet at elevations of approximately 300 feet. The area experiences mild springs and falls with average temperatures between 60-75°F, while summer temperatures typically reach the upper 80s. Fall foliage typically peaks in mid-October, creating optimal conditions for tent and luxury camping experiences.
What to do
River activities: 1.5 miles from town. The Potomac River runs adjacent to several campgrounds, offering excellent recreation opportunities. At Brunswick Family Campground, visitors can wade right in: "The Shenandoah is beautifully clean, clear and cool. There wasn't much late night going on it seemed all the campers for the most part were turned in by 11," according to Brian S.
Hiking trails: 4-5 mile routes. The Maryland Heights Trail provides moderate hiking with significant elevation gain and historical features. "We took the dogs to the frequented Maryland Heights Trail, and that was a great 4-5 mile uphill jaunt that overlooks the town," notes a visitor. Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders offers direct access to multiple trails.
Battlefield exploration: 30 minutes away. The nearby Civil War sites provide educational opportunities with well-preserved historical landmarks. "Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door. Frederick and Antietam are each barely 30-minutes by car," reports Matt S. at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA.
What campers like
Riverside camping: direct water access. Many sites place campers mere feet from the water's edge. At Brunswick Family Campground, "The river is mesmerizing and campground staff is welcoming and helpful with any of your needs. Situated next to the river so half of the sites have river views. Nice boat loading ramp and dock for fishing," shares Susan K.
C&O Canal access: 6 miles to attractions. The towpath allows for extended bike rides or walks without vehicle traffic. "Situated on the C&O canal, so you could walk or bike for miles in either direction for hours! Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail," notes a reviewer at Maryland Brunswick Family Campground.
Convenience to historic sites: multiple options. The region's strategic location makes it ideal for history enthusiasts. "Absolutely, this is a nice campground with lots of great places nearby including Harpers Ferry, Antietam, Frederick, Washington DC, Baltimore, and more," writes Matt S., highlighting how easily visitors can reach multiple destinations from their base camp.
What you should know
Trains run nearby: hourly service. Railroad tracks border several campgrounds in the area, creating noise issues for light sleepers. "The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night," warns Sherri C. Earplugs are recommended for most riverside camping options.
Weather considerations: spring flooding. The riverfront location means sites can become muddy after rain. "I'll give them credit for opening early in the season, and for the quiet location, but the place is a muddy mess when it rains," reports Thomas B. about Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA.
Site spacing varies: proximity issues. Many campgrounds pack sites closely together, particularly in popular loops. "Get cozy, the sites are quite small and tightly packed together," notes Matt S., while another camper explains, "Our section had mostly pop-ups and mid-size travel trailers, so the sites were all grass and gravel. However, the area with pull-through sites for big rigs was just a huge RV parking lot."
Tips for camping with families
Water park options: daily or seasonal passes. Several campgrounds feature water recreation facilities specifically for children. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport MD, "There is a lot on offer here to keep everyone busy. There is a small creek to play in and a nice little hiking trail within the campground. Has a great water park, playground and bounce pad feature," according to Beth C.
Fall festival timing: October weekends. Special Halloween events run throughout October at several locations. "We have stayed in the camping cabins here multiple times. Fall is the best at this campground with the trick or treating and haunted house," mentions Rachael P., describing the seasonal activities at Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA.
Kid-friendly trail options: under 2 miles. Choose shorter hikes with interesting features to keep children engaged. "We liked camping here and plan to eventually return. Nice park with hike to the waterfalls, swimming in the lake and playground," shares Jennifer R. about Cunningham Falls State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: request end sites. Corner locations typically provide more space than interior spots. "We got lucky and got an end site despite arriving without a reservation. To top it all off, we got there during get one free sale and ended up paying less for a site here than at the less attractive Harper's Ferry campground," advises Erin S.
Leveling challenges: bring extra blocks. Some premium sites have elevation issues requiring additional equipment. "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. 'Premium' sites should be somewhat level, am I right?" cautions Matt S.
Navigation considerations: tight turns. Many campgrounds feature narrow, winding interior roads that challenge larger rigs. "The roads are very windy and narrow, and I can't imagine trying to maneuver a large RV in there," warns one camper, while another notes that at Little Bennett Campground, staff instructed them to "proceed to campsite as check-in at camp store is at dead end with insufficient turning space for pickup towing 28ft bumper pull."
