Camping near Martinsburg offers both lakeside and riverside options across West Virginia and Maryland, with elevations ranging from 400 to 800 feet above sea level. The region's mild climate allows for a camping season typically spanning April through October, with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s. The varied terrain provides both wooded seclusion and open waterfront sites depending on your preference.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: 1.5 miles from camp: Harpers Ferry Campground offers direct trail access to historic Harpers Ferry. One camper noted, "If you're facing the river then the trail is to the right of the campground with a sign reading that you have entered Harper's Ferry National Park. The trail is about 1.5 miles one way."
Water recreation on two rivers: The Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers provide multiple activities. At Antietam Creek Campground, "The Potomac is mostly flat with some 'swirlies' for experienced paddlers. I also saw some people tubing."
Historical exploration: Civil War sites: The region contains significant Civil War battlefields and historic sites. "Close to Antitiem battlefield, vineyards, antiques or even DC (1 hour)," reports a camper at Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA.
What campers like
Riverside camping with train views: Riverside sites are popular despite occasional train noise. A Harpers Ferry Campground reviewer shared, "Our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water). We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus."
Large, open spaces for families: Lazy A Campground receives consistent praise for its spacious layout. "This campground is fantastic for kids and pets. Lots of wide open space to run and play," mentions one visitor. Another noted it "has huge open fields for lots of outdoor fun."
Swimming options at multiple locations: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Martinsburg offer swimming access. At Greenbrier State Park, "The lake is a good place to swim or laze on a warm day," though one camper mentioned, "The beach by the lake is PACKED every weekend with day trippers."
What you should know
Water quality varies by location: Some campgrounds have mineral-rich water. A Lazy A Campground 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."
Limited cell coverage in remote areas: Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area has "no cell service at all - bring a weather radio," according to one camper. Plan communications accordingly when visiting more remote campgrounds near Martinsburg.
Gate access and registration systems: Several campgrounds have specific entry requirements. At Fort Frederick State Park, "Getting in and out of the campground is a pain since you have to go through a padlocked gate."
Camping permit costs: Budget-friendly options exist throughout the area. Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area charges "$10 a night. Campsites have a fire ring, a lantern hanger, and each area has a basic toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-focused amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park specializes in family camping with extensive activities. A visitor reported, "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."
Consider site location relative to bathrooms: Position matters for convenience. At McCoys Ferry Campground, a camper advised, "The best sites for Potomac views are 1, 3, 5, and 6. Site one is closest to the drop toilet which does not show on the campground map on the website."
Prepare for weekend crowds: Some locations become busy on weekends, especially during summer. One Greenbrier State Park visitor noted, "The staff really make sure the traffic is circulating and organized during the weekend when it's crazy busy!!"
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before setup: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. A visitor to Harpers Ferry Civil War Battlefields KOA 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."
Consider park road conditions: Access roads vary widely in quality. At Sleepy Creek, campers note there's a "Potholed dirt road coming up, a sedan can make it through but will have to take it slow."
Research dump station availability: Not all pet-friendly campgrounds near Martinsburg offer full hookups. Fort Frederick State Park has "Primitive sites but generators are allowed until 10pm. Right on the river and close to the Fort," according to a reviewer.
