Campgrounds near Hancock, Maryland offer various levels of rustic camping experiences across heavily wooded terrain at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet along the Potomac River watershed. This area sits at the narrowest part of Maryland, where winter lows can reach 20°F and summer highs often exceed 90°F with moderate humidity. The majority of sites become available for booking April through October, though some campgrounds remain open year-round.
What to do
Hike the Green Ridge Forest: Green Ridge State Forest offers nearly 100 primitive campsites with access to extensive trail systems. "Green Ridge lies to the western most area of Allegany County. The woods here are teaming with deer, bear, turkey, and hunters (in season of course)" according to Bill G., who adds that it's worth bringing your own facilities since "it's worth bringing a bucket to do your business in, the sites along 15mile creek are the ones that usually go first."
Explore the C&O Canal: At Fifteen Mile Campground, you can access both the water and the historic towpath. "It would make a great shuttle point, or RV base camp for the weekend if you plan to ride the C&O Trail," writes Shari G., who notes "Many sites have a lovely view of the Potomac River. In addition to being situated on the C&O Towpath Trail, you can launch a paddle boat or electric motor, but no gas-powered engines."
Visit Fort Frederick: The historic fort provides educational opportunities along with camping. "The fort is very cool, and exhibits are great," writes Sean M. Hikers will find "tons of markers on the trails with history," according to adrian F., making it a good stop for those interested in the region's past.
What campers like
Secluded primitive sites: Green Ridge State Forest provides genuine wilderness camping experiences. "From our campsite, we could not see or hear the next closest campsite, in fact, I'm not exactly sure where it even was. All of the sites are primitive sites with only a fire circle and a picknick table," reports Benjamin L., who adds that "Many of the back sites require high clearance, 4 wheel drive vehicles to get to."
River access and paddling: Campers appreciate waterfront sites at McCoys Ferry Campground. "All sites are basically waterfront, nice quiet campground with water access and a boat ramp," writes Adeline M. Another camper, Josh G., notes the convenience factor: "We stayed at campsite #1 off of 15 mile creek Road. Only a mile or so from I68. Great cell and internet reception with AT&T."
Spacious forest campsites: Rocky Gap State Park Campground offers generously sized campsites. "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have you own sections of woods," reports Jeff H., adding that the park has "Clean, well run camp store. Nice beach area with volley ball nets. Lots of paddle boards and canoes for rent."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding risks: Some campgrounds experience periodic flooding. At McCoys Ferry, one reviewer noted: "be cautious of the water level because the week before we came the entire campground was under water making the sites smell of swamp and very muddy."
Limited services in remote areas: Many sites have minimal facilities. "There are no latrines, bathrooms or showers anywhere to be found and the closest store is 30 minutes away," warns Benjamin L. about Green Ridge State Forest. Similarly at Fifteen Mile, "NO potable water, clean pit toilet," reports Denis P., highlighting the primitive nature of these sites.
Train noise at certain campgrounds: Fort Frederick State Park Campground and others experience train disruptions. "It is also very loud at the campground due to the train which sounds like it is two feet from your tent," warns Sarah K., though many campers find this adds to the historical feel of the area.
Tick prevention important: According to several reviewers, tick activity is high in warmer months. Green Ridge visitors specifically mention this: "I do think the system of renting and paying for campsites could be improved via the use of technology," notes Caden R., who also advises bringing tick prevention supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and water activities: Camp Cacapon offers good swimming options for families. "The camp is quiet and immaculately maintained, and it is situated in a lovely area along the river," writes Snezana H., who traveled with family. Another reviewer, Jessica W., confirms that "We love it here. The first year we stayed on a tent site. We upgraded to the cottage the last 2 years."
Playgrounds and amenities: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. Katie H. appreciates Rocky Gap State Park because "near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch. I really like that there are trails from the camp loops to the beach."
Educational opportunities: Fort Frederick's historical elements provide learning opportunities. "Nice place but only good if you're sticking to your site," notes William S., suggesting families should plan activities around the fort's educational exhibits rather than just staying at their campsite.
Dog friendly options: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Hancock welcome pets with specific rules. At Little Orleans Campground, "Bath houses were kept clean but there was no hooks in the showers. Staff was nice, wood wasn't badly priced and the camp store had a huge selection of things you may need!" reports Michaela M., who also notes it's "Nice little campground for families."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Our site P1 is a full hook up pull through but it's really unlevel. We ran out of blocks trying to level on this site and were still off a bit," warns Jennifer K. about Little Orleans Campground, adding that "Sites and roads are gravel, nice newer fire pit and picnic table at each."
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have difficult access. At Camp Cacapon, a reviewer notes it's "a bit out of the way, but road access is good for all but large rigs." Similarly, Michael G. mentions that Happy Hills Campground has "roads are very windy and narrow, and I can't imagine trying to maneuver a large RV in there."
Seasonal sites dominate: Many campgrounds cater to long-term residents. "This place has the amenities of a resort, but the feeling of a campground. With that being said, it does cater to many seasonal, long term sites where the campers do not ever move their RV," explains Michael G. about Happy Hills Campground, noting that "the only negative would be that because most of the campers are seasonal/long-term, they all have golf carts or 4-wheelers that they ride around on."
