Tent camping opportunities near Maidsville, West Virginia range across state lines into Pennsylvania and Maryland, with sites available from primitive backcountry locations to more developed campgrounds. The region sits within the northern Appalachian highlands, where elevations typically range from 800 to 2,000 feet. Summer temperatures average in the mid-80s with cooler nights, while spring camping often contends with rainfall averaging 4-5 inches monthly.
What to do
Fishing access: At Big Run State Park Campground, campsites near the stream provide direct access to trout fishing. "The stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish," notes camper Nathan S. Sites near the reservoir allow for easy fishing access without long hikes.
Creek exploration: Camp sites positioned along streams at several locations offer natural water play areas. One camper at Big Run State Park Campground shared that their children "loved playing in the water" at their creek-adjacent site, making it ideal for family water activities during summer months.
Hiking from camp: The Laurel Ridge State Park Campground provides access points to the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Brian S. recommends "hiking in from the northern end of the trail near Johnstown to the first camping area along the trail," which offers dramatic valley overlooks to the east.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Stream-adjacent sites provide natural sound barriers between campsites. Katie H. notes you can "set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds" at Big Run, while multiple campers mention appreciating the natural white noise for sleeping.
Site spacing: The best tent camping near Maidsville, West Virginia often features well-spaced sites. At Camp Ara, campers appreciate the hospitality along with practical amenities. Kaitlin B. describes the unique welcome: "Imagine being greeted by a happy Golden Retriever upon entering your next campsite..need I say more?"
Secluded atmosphere: Many campers value the remote feeling at primitive sites. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, Shari G. notes the isolation: "The only people you will see are the ones who've biked, boated, or walked in." This campground offers lean-tos, picnic tables, and firepits with river access.
What you should know
Water sources: Potable water availability varies significantly between campgrounds. At Indian Creek Camplands, campers need to bring their own water or filtration equipment. For Big Run State Park, Nathan S. advises: "Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park."
Train noise: Several campgrounds along trails have train tracks nearby. For GAP Trail camping at Roundbottom, Shari G. warns: "It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up -- so bring good earplugs!"
Bathroom facilities: Expect primarily pit toilets at most primitive tent sites. At Laurel Ridge State Park Campground, Ashleigh M. noted: "The bathhouse could use a renovation. It felt old and kind of dirty." Some sites have no facilities at all, requiring campers to practice proper waste management.
Tips for camping with families
Reservoir access: Possum Tail Farm Camp offers tent camping near a pond, making it suitable for families who want water activities without creek currents. The farm setting provides a different camping experience than state park options.
Seasonal considerations: Mosquitoes can be problematic at water-adjacent sites in summer months. Aakansha J. reported about Big Run: "There was a lot of space between each site and it was very peaceful, but the mosquitos sucked." Plan accordingly with repellent from June through August.
Site selection: For families with hybrid campers or larger tents, Andy C. recommends "lot 73 [at Big Run] for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek." Families should reserve sites near bathroom facilities when possible, as some campgrounds have facilities at considerable distances from tent sites.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility limitations: Most tent camping areas near Maidsville have limited RV access due to narrow roads and primitive sites. At Laurel Highlands Hemp Farm, tent sites and yurts are available, but access requires navigating unpaved roads. The farm offers Friday night activities described as "Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending."
Limited hookups: Even at developed campgrounds, full hookups are rare. Christopher M. notes about Indian Creek Camplands: "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites." Most RVers need to be self-contained with their own water and power supplies when camping in this region.
