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Best Campgrounds near Rippon, WV

1,023 Reviews

Campgrounds around Rippon, West Virginia provide access to both the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers with several established camping areas within a 30-minute drive. Harpers Ferry Campground offers riverfront sites with tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations, while nearby Watermelon Park Campground focuses primarily on RV camping with river access. The region includes a mix of privately operated campgrounds with full amenities and more rustic options like Sky Meadows State Park Campground, which offers hike-in tent sites approximately 20 miles southeast of Rippon.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping availability, with many campgrounds operating on limited schedules. Harpers Ferry Campground operates from April through October, while Brunswick Family Campground in nearby Maryland runs from late March to early November. Winter camping options are limited, though Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA remains open year-round. Most riverfront sites require reservations during summer weekends when water activities become popular. Cell service varies throughout the region, particularly in more remote locations. As one camper noted, "Road through the campground was pitted and muddy. The sites were small and dirty, which was disappointing given the beautiful location on the Potomac River."

Riverfront camping represents the most sought-after experience in the area, with the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers providing scenic views and recreational opportunities. Campers consistently mention the easy river access as a highlight, though train noise affects several campgrounds. "What a lovely spot for relaxation and some time in nature. Too bad the Marc train runs right above your head all night," noted one visitor at Harpers Ferry Campground. Most developed campgrounds offer water and electric hookups, while tent-specific areas typically provide more basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. Family-friendly amenities are common at the larger established sites, with several campgrounds offering additional activities like tubing, ziplining, and hiking access to nearby trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail that pass through the region.

Map showing campgrounds near Rippon, West VirginiaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Rippon, West Virginia (159)

    1. Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA

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

    $40 - $80 / night

    "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. "

    "We were able to walk or ride our bikes to the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and access the C+O Canal Tow Path from there."

    2. Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders

    24 Reviews
    Harpers Ferry, WV
    10 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. Watermelon Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Berryville, VA
    9 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."

    4. Candy Hill Campground

    22 Reviews
    Winchester, VA
    16 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."

    5. Berryville Berries

    5 Reviews
    Boyce, VA
    11 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."

    6. Sky Meadows State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Paris, VA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 592-3556

    "Parking is in a locked lot steps away from trail head which leads to campsites about a mile away. Campsites are in a wooded area of park well away from other park attractions so it's very quiet."

    "But you have to drive up to the main building, register, go back to the overnight lot, put in the gate code, hang the lot tag on your mirror, and hike in to the site."

    7. Brunswick Family Campground

    12 Reviews
    Brunswick, MD
    17 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."

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

    11 Reviews
    Sharpsburg, MD
    16 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."

    9. Greenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    41 Reviews
    Boonsboro, MD
    27 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."

    10. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport MD

    23 Reviews
    Williamsport, MD
    25 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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Rippon, WV

415 Photos of 159 Rippon Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Rippon, WV

1023 Reviews of 159 Rippon Campgrounds

  • 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.

  • E
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Camp Cacapon

    Great camping in a perfect spot

    We stayed at this campground Sep 26-28 and had a fantastic time. The campsite is in a perfect spot on the Cacapon river, and the facilities are excellent. Nice campsites, clean bathrooms and a charming little pavilion that you can rent and hang out with your group.

    Highly recommend

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Watermelon Park Campground

    Beautiful setting!

    This camping ground is for RVs only. It's right on the Shenandoah River so it's a quiet peaceful setting. However it's a long way from any town, has terrible wifi, (the mobile data was slightly better) & doesn't hav a laundry room. The road in is very narrow so our moterhome had a little difficulty getting in, but we made it! There is only a dumping station. This is just info, not a bad review :) they have showers & firewood & the staff is very friendly & helpful! Tubing on the river was closed for the season but that wud have been a great pass time!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Beautiful spot!

    Our site was amazing! The very last car camping site on the road. We were right on the river, we swam and fished. There were plenty of walk in sites beyond ours. Unfortunately there was a decent bit of trash we cleaned up. The road was a little rough, but our 92 ford camper made it, just go slow

  • Zoey W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    South Fork Shenandoah River

    Horrie Neighbors

    dont disregard the warnings about noise like i did, constant speakers all the time until 4am. i think its out of jurisdiction for park rangers so they wont do anything either

Guide to Rippon

Camping near Rippon, West Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy the hiking trails and fishing spots nearby. One visitor at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground said, "Hiking, fishing, breathtaking views, tons to do in the area!" This park is a great spot for both activities.
  • Exploring History: If you're into history, check out the nearby battlefields. A camper at Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders mentioned, "The view was pretty," highlighting the historical significance of the area.
  • Swimming and Relaxing: Many campgrounds have swimming lakes. A reviewer at Greenbrier State Park Campground noted, "Swimming lake is excellent," making it a perfect spot for families.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Bull Run Regional Park said, "Bathhouses are ample and clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpful staff. One camper at Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA shared, "Staff was always friendly and accommodating," making the experience more enjoyable.
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough space between sites. A reviewer at Cunningham Falls State Park mentioned, "Sites are spaced quite well," which adds to the comfort of camping.

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders warned, "The trains run all night," which might not be ideal for light sleepers.
  • Crowded Areas: Popular campgrounds can get crowded, especially on weekends. A visitor at Lake Fairfax Campground noted, "It is crowded enough that you do not really feel like you are out 'in nature,'" so plan accordingly.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have basic amenities. A camper at Candy Hill Campground mentioned, "There is not much to do," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A parent at Greenbrier State Park Campground said, "The kids loved the man-made beach and park," making it a hit for families.
  • Space for Kids to Play: Choose campgrounds with spacious sites. A camper at Cunningham Falls State Park noted, "We did notice electric loop is a bit closer spaced but not near as bad as other campgrounds," which can help families find a comfortable spot.
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has a camp store. A visitor at Hagerstown / Antietam Battlefield KOA mentioned, "Nice food amenities," which can be a lifesaver for busy families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Make sure to choose level sites for easier parking. A camper at Cunningham Falls State Park warned, "Beware: The sites on the lower side of the road (mostly even numbered) are pretty level," which is crucial for RVs.
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders said, "You really need to be proficient at backing the RV into tight spaces," so practice your maneuvering skills.
  • Look for Amenities: Check for dump stations and water hookups. A camper at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground appreciated the "water and electric hook ups," which can make your stay more comfortable.

Camping near Rippon, West Virginia, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Rippon, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, Rippon, WV offers a wide range of camping options, with 159 campgrounds and RV parks near Rippon, WV and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Rippon, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rippon, WV is Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA with a 3.7-star rating from 39 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Rippon, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near Rippon, WV.

What parks are near Rippon, WV?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 parks near Rippon, WV that allow camping, notably Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park and Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park.

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