Shepherdstown sits along the Potomac River at an elevation of around 400 feet, creating varied terrain that affects many local campgrounds. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while fall brings cooler weather and colorful foliage that attracts many weekend campers. RV sites near Shepherdstown, West Virginia often require advance planning due to the popularity of nearby historical attractions and recreational opportunities.
What to do
River activities: Access the Potomac directly from your campsite. At Brunswick Family Campground, campers can enjoy multiple water-based activities just steps from their site. "The Shenandoah is just as beautiful. The little store has just the necessities and there is an amazing playground for the kids," notes a visitor. The campground's location offers easy water access for fishing, swimming, and boating.
Hiking trails: Explore the historic C&O Canal. The towpath runs directly through several area campgrounds, offering miles of flat, scenic hiking and biking. "Situated on the C&O canal, so you could walk or bike for miles in either direction for hours! Harpers Ferry is only 6 miles away on the trail," mentions one Brunswick camper. The canal path connects multiple historical sites and offers wildlife viewing opportunities year-round.
Historical explorations: Visit Civil War battlefields and landmarks. Drummer Boy Camping Resort serves as an excellent base for exploring Gettysburg, just minutes away. "It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," reports a camper. Many historical sites offer special programs during summer months that highlight regional history.
What campers like
Creek-side sites: Experience camping next to flowing water. Gettysburg Campground offers popular riverside spots. "The tenting area is calm and has a creek right next to it to listen to in the evening and morning," writes one visitor. These water-adjacent sites typically fill first, especially on holiday weekends, so early reservations are recommended.
Kid-friendly amenities: Multiple options for family entertainment. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park receives high marks from families with children. "We recent went camping for the first time at Jellystone in Maryland. 5 of our 6 kids came with us... The kids were never bored and had so much fun," shares a family camper. While these amenities come at a higher price point, many families find the value worthwhile.
Privacy options: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites. Several campers mention appreciating the wooded sections at certain campgrounds that provide more separation between sites. "Trees lined the sides of our site which was nice for privacy and shade," notes one reviewer at Drummer Boy. Request wooded or end sites when making reservations for more space between neighbors.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks border several campgrounds. Harpers Ferry Campground sits near active train tracks. "The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains," explains one camper. Light sleepers may want to bring earplugs or request sites farther from the tracks.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds close during winter months. The majority of RV parks near Shepherdstown operate from April through October, with limited options available during colder months. Some facilities like water parks and swimming pools may have shorter seasons, typically Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Site levelness: Mountainous terrain affects many camping spots. Unlevel sites appear in multiple campground reviews. "Site was unlevel and infested with black flies," reports one Brunswick camper. Bringing leveling blocks is strongly recommended for RV campers throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for diverse weather conditions: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly in the region. Pack both warm weather gear and rain protection when visiting. The mountains can create microclimates where weather changes rapidly.
Consider shoulder seasons for fewer crowds: Early fall provides excellent camping conditions with cooler temperatures and less competition for popular sites. "We camped here in May for Memorial Day weekend. We usually avoid holidays but gave this campground a try," shares a visitor at Round Top Campground.
Check bathroom facilities before booking: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The bathhouse had no hot water and was filthy," reports one Jellystone visitor, while another campground received praise: "I'll go again just for the showers... Best camping showers I've ever had."
Tips from RVers
Extension cords may be necessary: Some campgrounds have unusual utility hookup placements. "Water pressure is low, road traffic noise. Water and electric are in award spot on our site," notes a Round Top Campground visitor. Bringing additional extension cords and water hoses can prevent frustration.
Advanced reservations critical for holiday weekends: The area's proximity to major cities creates high demand, especially for full-hookup sites. Many campgrounds report being completely booked on summer and fall weekends.
Consider site location carefully: At Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA, site selection matters significantly. "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," reports one RVer. When making reservations, specifically ask about site length, width and levelness for your particular RV size.
