Best Camping in and near Swallow Falls State Park

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Swallow Falls State Park adventure.

Waterfalls and whitewater rapids lie along the wild Youghiogheny River in this Maryland park.

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Community favorites near Swallow Falls State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Swallow Falls State Park

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Swallow Falls Campground

63 sites · RVs, Tents In Swallow Falls State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Swallow Falls State Park

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Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Camp

31 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Parsons, WV

Welcome to the enchanting Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground, a pristine natural paradise nestled nearby the Monongahela National Forest and graced by the stunning Dry Fork River. Since our grand opening in July 2022, we've been welcoming guests year-round to explore and enjoy our 35 acres of unspoiled wilderness forest, complete with winding trails and a captivating 2100 feet of riverfront. Our diverse accommodations cater to all outdoor enthusiasts. Choose from 15 camping sites, each equipped with fire pits and slabwood benches amidst ample parking. For those seeking a rustic retreat, our 5 primitive shelter cabin sites feature cozy 10x12 lofted barn cabins, securely lockable with your padlock. RV adventurers are welcome too, with 10 picturesque near riverside spots (best suited for towed RVs up to 30 feet). Four of these provide full electric and water hook-ups, while the other six offer a serene boon-docking experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nearly 4 miles of wilderness riverfront, situated on a breathtaking road leading to the charming town of Parsons, WV - the heart of Tucker County and gateway to Thomas, Davis, and Canaan Valley. Your adventure starts here: kayak down the merging Dry Fork and Black Fork Rivers, stroll over to the nearby Hendricks via a charming cable suspension bridge, or explore the Fernow Experimental Forest, just a mile downstream. The surrounding Monongahela National Forest awaits with its vast, unlogged forests. Thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike will find no shortage of activities. From waterfall explorations, creek adventures, and fishing to kayaking, tubing, and hiking, there's something for everyone. Don't forget to bring your bikes, kayaks, tubes, roller blades, snorkels, goggles, and river shoes for an unforgettable outdoor experience! Our camp provides spring water spigots for general use, an office cabin with electric charging access, and clean porta-potties. Wi-Fi is available near the office cabin (password: campground19). The lovely town of Parsons, with all its conveniences, is just a 4-mile drive away. For a seamless experience, we offer online booking and self-check-in, with check-in starting at noon and designated parking spots for each campsite. Join us at Brooklyn Heights Riverfront Campground for a stay that promises tranquility, adventure, and a connection with nature like no other.

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EarthSky Private Camp & Retreat

6 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Philippi, WV

Hello Campers & Glampers! Our property is 16.5 acres, two of which are along the Tygart Valley River and the rest are within forest canopy on the mountainside. We are in the low foothills of the Appalachia. We have 4 riverfront sites and we are continually changing our space around This year we will be adding a tiny house on site 4 and a sweatlodge with soaking pool on Site 1 additional camping spots along the property near outhouse Each site is equipped with a steel fire pit/grill and a picnic table. We have been busy building hiking trails and more primitive campsites on the 14.5 acres on the hillside across the road from the riverfront for all to enjoy. Step outside your tent and enjoy natures bounty —outdoor activities including fishing, kayaking, hiking, bird watching are all at your fingertips and much more. There are 300+ acres of public land less than one mile away with miles of ATV and hiking trails and stocked ponds. If you're a fan of waterfalls just 4 miles down river is Arden Falls, one of our areas best kept secrets. The Tygart Valley River is one of the top kayaking rivers in the country. Audra State Park is less than 20 minutes away with lush forest trails with caves to explore. Well known hiking trails such as Seneca Rocks, Spruce Knob, and the Dolly Sods are all within an hour drive. Go to Nelson Rocks for the ultimate climbing experience on the Via Ferrata. We are the perfect place to come to explore the wild beauty of West Virginia without the crowds. A hidden gem!

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Bear Run Farms

5 sites · Lodging, Tents130 acres · Mount Storm, WV

We recently received a 2024 GLAMPY Award and we're ranked 3rd Best camping and glamping destination in the USA!! Our property features a pristine private blue water lake with a glamping cabin available lakeside, overlooking the water as well as many forested and lakeside tent and RV sites available as well. There is an abundance of local hiking trails, some with waterfalls, scenic train rides, 3 large lakes within 40 min for boating and fishing, horseback riding nearby, or just take in the relaxing natural beauty of our sites and immerse yourself in nature! Farm fresh eggs available! Fresh linens and towels provided in cabins!

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Abrams Creek Campground/Retreat

25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Mt. Storm, WV

Abrams Creek is like camping in a nature preserve, rather than in a commercial campground. On our campground, there are no generators, loud electronics, or other things that would distract from appreciating the sights and sounds of this pristine natural environment. And this is always a great place to beat the heat! We have a mountain climate; the peak temperature most days in the summer is in the high 70's or very low 80's, and at night, temperatures go down to about 60. You'll be breathing cool, clean, fresh mountain air all day long! Hot showers are included, and all sanitary facilities are *sterilized* between guests. We have taken every measure to safeguard your health! We are located in the mountainous Potomac Highlands region of West Virginia. Our vision is an environmentally conscious, eco-friendly campground developed in harmony with nature. We are not only a business, but also serve as an anchor for others who want to live more simply and close to the earth. The concept of rural revitalization means reinventing rural life so that it is economically sound, intellectually stimulating, and emotionally satisfying. Ask any of our staff if you would like to learn more about this!

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Cheat View Outpost

4 sites · RVs, Tents26 acres · Masontown, WV

On the edge of Cheat CanyonLearn more about this land:Several romote tent sites to choose from close to stream and trails Room for campers in meadow

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Willow Hollow Glamping

5 sites · Lodging144 acres · Flintstone, MD

Welcome to our beautiful 144 acre farm! It’s quiet and peaceful here. We have several miles of groomed hiking trails and a stocked fishing pond. Tents are drive in access away from the house. There are 4 tents total, but they are all far apart for your privacy. Observe the abundant wildlife or sit and watch some of the many farm animals. Located between two state parks. Each tent has it's own toilet tent and a solar camp shower. We have a coffee station on the front porch of the house in the mornings. There's axe throwing and two boats available for use. We sell firewood onsite. Tents are ideally set up for 2 adults (queen sized bed), but families are very welcome! You can bring air mattresses or sleeping bags for kids.

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White House Cabins

8 sites · Lodging120 acres · Uniontown, PA

Learn more about this land: We are at the foot of the Allegheny Mountains. 30 minute drive to white water rafting , famous Ohiopyle State Park.Falling Waters and Fort Necessity are easily accessed

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Sleepy Hollow Campground

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Grantsville, MD

This property and farm has been in our family for 3 generations. In 1964 my grandfather started the campground due to limited camping at New Germany. My father tells stories of it being filled with guests all summer long! Over the years there was few upgrades and now it's in need of a facelift. Landscaping, electric upgrades and bathhouse remodels were completed Spring 2021. We will continue to renovate in phases it's been a labor of love, but you can still see the beauty of this rural location and enjoy the peace and quiet. Hope you enjoy your stay. Lots of trees, shade and nature. It's located near New Germany State Park, 1.5 miles by car, less than a mile by foot. The state park has a lake and hiking trails. Garrett County has so much to offer, waterfalls, lakes, hiking, skiing, Amish gifts, history, fresh air, beautiful scenery. The campground was first started in 1964 by my grandparents, we are currently completing renovations in phases.

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Cooper's Whitewater Hideout

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Bruceton Mills, WV

This special and hidden place is the perfect hideaway along the West Virginia border with Maryland, just 15 minutes from Morgantown. It is perfect for anyone looking to fish, paddle, ski, hike, hunt, etc. . . and just get away from it all! This land has been developed for easy access and insulated serenity. The property is within a gated development with plentiful waterfront access along Laurel Run and Big Sandy Creek (multiple community parks exist including a waterfall hike to Wonder Falls). The strong 5G cell coverage here is great for hot-spotting. There are more than 20,000 acres of public lands within minutes of this campsite, come check this place out and enjoy a campfire away from it all! For River Runners: This site is within 5 minutes to the Lower Big Sandy, 30 minutes to the Cheat, 30 minutes to the Upper Yough, and 45 minutes to the Lower Yough. Also check out Highwater Hobbies in Bruceton Mills for all your gear needs: https://www.highwaterhobbies.com/ For Hikers: the gates of this development are located along the Allegheny Trail for more information see https://www.hikethealleghenytrail.org/

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Fourth Moon Camp

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents130 acres · Seneca Rocks, WV

Don't miss our incredibly unique experiences and extras, and be sure to check out our YouTube page for campsite walkthroughs, overviews, and tours. Fourth Moon Camp is an incredibly unique accommodation located directly behind Seneca Rocks. Your 130 acre camp site is less than a five minute walk to the rocks and features unique, mountain/valley views from the eastern aspect of the iconic rock formations. There are private trails leading directly to both Roy Gap Road as well as the North Peak of Seneca Rocks. Local attractions include Spruce Knob - Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, Monongahela National Forest, Germany Valley, Seneca Caverns, Nelson Rocks, Smoke Hole, North Fork Mountain, North Fork South Branch of the Potomac River, and so many more. The extras and attractions we offer on the property are also incredibly unique. Please feel free to message us with any questions about any of these add-ons and options. Fourth Moon Camp may be accessed by reservation only, via Roy Gap Road. This road is a gravel, state road. It is single-vehicle-width in many places, uphill, and without any easy turnouts. This road is advised for experienced drivers and capable vehicles only.

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WonderWoods Camping at Rocky Gap

2 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Flintstone, MD

Surrounded by Rocky Gap State Park, you have the best of all worlds -- camping with creature comforts on private property with 4 acres of woodlands, meadow and orchards, with walkable access to over 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails and swimming, hike to kayak/canoe/paddleboard rental on Lake Habeeb and great nature programs by park staff, plus golf course and casino at the Rocky Gap Resort. Historic downtown Cumberland, MD is just a 12-min drive away, with supermarkets, shops, restaurants, train rides and beautiful mountain views. Check out the C&O Canal Towpath and Great Allegheny Passage for hiking and biking. FYI: - Hot-water showers, flush toilets and an equipped kitchenette with small fridge and microware are available for your use. - A picnic table, fire pit, and two Adirondack chairs are available at each campsite for your use. - Wifi available. - Farm fresh eggs are available for purchase from your hosts. Enjoy your stay!

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Nanny’s Rustic Retreat

4 sites · Tents10 acres · Smithton, PA

This Adult only camping site is located on a small farm in a rural Westmoreland County setting and offers the view of the surrounding farmlands. This 10+ acres includes a farmhouse, stable and outside facilities including: hot tub, lounge chairs, secluded back deck, picnic tables with propane grills, 3 private toilets, a sink, two urinals, and don’t forget about the 2 private outdoor showers. All of this comes with a great view of the area. You are literary in the midst of a corn field and able to interact with farm animals that will add to this retreat experience. Remember this is an Adult only camping site which includes visitors. If you forget linens, pillows, towels, pillows etc these can be rented for a small fee. Each cabin has a full size bed with a mattress cover. You can also purchase fire wood as each site has an outdoor fire circle.

The best camping near Swallow Falls State Park guide

Overview

About

Visitors to Swallow Falls State Park make a beeline for its three waterfalls, and it’s not hard to see why. The 54-foot Muddy Creek Falls is a thundering explosion of water that makes for impressive views—and photos—while the Upper and Lower Swallow Falls cascade over scenic rocky ridges, framed by tall hemlocks. Daredevils can get their adrenaline fix whitewater rafting along the Youghiogheny River, but there are lower-octane activities to enjoy too. Hike or mountain bike along several miles of forest trails, enjoy catch-and-release trout fishing, then overnight at a tree-shaded campsite or camper cabin at Swallow Falls State Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve 65 campsites and three cabins via the Maryland State Parks website. A minimum 2-night stay applies on weekends (three nights over holiday weekends).
Sites can only be reserved from the Wednesday before Memorial Day weekend until the Tuesday after Labor Day. Outside of these times, they are only available on a first-come, first-served basis, except for the three full hookup sites (40, 42, and 42A) which must always be reserved in advance.
Campsite reservations open 365 days in advance.
Campsites can book up fast, especially for holiday weekends; aim to book at least three months in advance, or at least six months for cabins and full hookup sites.

When to go

Swallow Falls State Park is open year-round, but activities are seasonal. Whitewater rafting season typically runs from April through October, while the state campground is open from mid-April through mid-December (although bookable periods vary; see above). Peak season runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, when an early arrival is recommended to secure parking and picnic spots.

Know before you go

Swallow Falls State Park is about a one-hour drive from Morgantown.
Day-use fees apply for all Maryland State Parks, as do campsite booking fees. Fees are per-person from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and per-vehicle the rest of the year.
Facilities include restrooms, picnic areas, and bike rentals. Cell phone service is unreliable throughout the park.
Black bears are present at Swallow Falls State Park, so keep food and garbage secure in camping and day-use areas, and follow the park’s bear safety guidelines.