Glamping and cabin accommodations near Shepherdstown offer a blend of outdoor access and comfort in Maryland's mountainous terrain. The area's elevation ranges from 400 to 1,700 feet, creating varied camping experiences from riverside locations to wooded mountain settings. Temperatures typically range from the high 80s in summer to below freezing in winter, making spring and fall particularly comfortable for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Explore historical hiking trails: The Appalachian Trail section near Annapolis Rock Campground provides elevated views from its 1,700-foot overlook. "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. 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," shares one visitor who appreciated the well-maintained trail.
Paddle the Potomac River: Brunswick Family Campground sits directly on the Potomac with easy water access. "The Shanandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical Campground showers perfect for the campground life," notes a repeat visitor who found the riverside setting ideal for kayaking and swimming during warmer months.
Experience Civil War history: Antietam Battlefield is just 20 minutes from multiple camping areas. "Close to Antitiem battlefield, vineyards, antiques or even DC (1 hour)," reports a camper who used Hagerstown KOA as a central location for historical exploration and wine tasting day trips.
What campers like
Direct river access: Campers at Harpers Ferry Campground consistently mention the river proximity as a major draw. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing," explains one reviewer who found the waterfront location compensated for basic facilities.
Family-oriented amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water features popular with families. "We had a blast and will be returning next season. Multiple pools and a great little water park. Store was well stocked, they also had a ice-cream / quick food store attached to the pool area and staff super friendly," writes a visitor who appreciated the infrastructure geared toward children.
Natural swimming areas: State parks in the region provide swimming opportunities beyond commercial water parks. "Great campsites- whether you have a tent or a big Class A, lots of well-maintained hiking trails of varying difficulty, lots of activities and amenities, there's just SO much here!" shares a longtime visitor to Cunningham Falls State Park.
What you should know
Train noise affects several campgrounds: Riverside locations often come with railway proximity. "The campground is adjacent to a very large, very busy train yard. It's not bothered me but you should be aware," mentions a Brunswick camper. Multiple reviews across riverside campgrounds note train sounds as the primary drawback.
Seasonal water feature availability: Cunningham Falls State Park waterfalls may disappoint during dry periods. "We hiked to the falls but with little rain, there was no falls. A very crowded hike with people everywhere," shares one fall visitor who found the autumn foliage compensated for the dry conditions.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Even upscale glamping close to Shepherdstown, West Virginia has inconsistent bathroom quality. "The bathroom trailer near the campsites was extremely smelly, with many of the 4 toilets clogged. The water from the sink sprayed everywhere," reports one camper detailing facility issues at an otherwise scenic location.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's programming: Many campgrounds offer structured activities. "Lots of things to do for younger ones. The adults can still relax in the lazy River and pool," notes a Jellystone visitor who found balanced entertainment for various age groups.
Consider lake alternatives: Houck - Cunningham Falls State Park offers water recreation beyond rivers. "The beach area at the lake was fantastic! My kids loved it plenty of areas to grill and dogs are allowed. Most of the time we did not spend at the campsite so we ended up having a fantastic weekend," reports a family who found activities compensated for average camping areas.
Plan for crowded hiking trails: Popular attractions can get congested, particularly on weekends. "A very crowded hike with people everywhere," mentions one visitor, suggesting families should arrive early or plan midweek visits to popular natural features.
Tips from RVers
Expect tight spacing at private campgrounds: Many reviewers mention close quarters as a common issue. "Only thing I didn't care for is the sites are pretty close together and some of the back-in sites are not very level," notes a camper at Harpers Ferry KOA who found the proximity workable when camping with friends but potentially uncomfortable otherwise.
Level sites can be challenging: Even premium locations struggle with terrain issues. "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," cautions one RVer who had to relocate to a different site upon arrival.
Check seasonal opening dates: Several luxury glamping and yurt accommodations near Shepherdstown operate seasonally. "When we got there, it was not open and we were told that it was only open on weekends this time of year," warns a camper who had received different information when booking, suggesting direct confirmation of facilities before arrival.
