The best camping in Gathland State Park, MD

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Discover Gathland State Park's Civil War history and scenic trails.  

The best camping in Gathland State Park, MD

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Happy Heart Highlands and Alpacas

1. Happy Heart Highlands and Alpacas

98%
(85)
1.7mi from Gathland State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Rohrersville, MD
Peaceful camping with privacy on a 160-acre historic farm! Minutes from Harpers Ferry, Antietam Battlefield and the C&O Canal to name a few. We are within an hour of Gettysburg and within an hour and a half of DC if you're planning a day trip. We have a prime central location with close access to so many things to do. This beautiful property is nestled in a valley between Elk Ridge and South Mountain with incredible sunrises, sunsets and starlit night skies. Walk out to the fishing pond, or follow the trails around the pastures to meet the cattle grazing. We have Scottish Highlands and Black Angus grazing as well as Alpacas. We also have beautiful peacocks on the property. We are a working farm so expect to see tractors and you may even see us baling hay or tending to the cattle. You may smell some animal smells which we work at keeping to a minimum but again, we are a working farm. It’s a true farm experience. Also, please keep in mind that during warm weather you may encounter some bugs. Gnats and flies are always a possibility and of course at times they can be worse than others. That can always be a possibility when camping or being outdoors. Bring bug spray, citronella and anything else to help with insects. If you stay by the pond you may hear frogs which personally I enjoy hearing but some may not. Consider bringing a generator and run a fan if you think the sound might bother you or some way to block sounds. We enjoy talking to our guests so feel free to stop us for a chat. At the RV sites you have 30 and 50 amp power as well as water. All the water spickets are potable and drinkable. Please be aware that some may not have great cell service and as noted in the amenity section we do not have WiFi at any of the sites yet. It is something we are looking into for the future. If something is urgent you should be able to pick up WiFi near the tenant house and a password can be provided for you to try.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
We outfitted our platform tents with a covered porch for protection from rain and sun. A perfect place for morning coffee!

3. Camps at Evensong Farm

100%
(37)
5.2mi from Gathland State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Sharpsburg, MD
Evensong Farm is a preserved historic farm adjacent to the Antietam National Battlefield. We have set up two, almost identical, sites on a 60 acre parcel of our farm which is very private for our campers, but allows access to the lovely Antietam Creek. The sites themselves are about 500 feet apart so, while they maintain privacy when booked by different parties, can also be booked together for group stays. We have been hosting campers at our "glampsites" since 2021. Each off-grid site has a 12x16 platform with a 10x12 canvas side wall tent, a firepit and chairs, a cooking area with a grill and sink for washing up, a picnic table and benches, and a private bathroom with a composting toilet and solar shower bag. The main tent is set up for 2 people, although 4 is possible. The sites can handle a max of 12 people, with the use of additional tents (BYO or you can set up some of ours). We provide an electronic camp guide to all of our campers that include our recommendations for things to do in the area, as well as camping tips and other handy info. Inside the tent you will find a queen size bed, side tables, and a cafe table and chair set. We have put down foam flooring and a carpet for your comfort and provide numerous battery powered lights, lanterns and fans. In cold months we can add a propane heater to keep the chill away. We also have some games, maps of the area, decks of cards, and a fire extinguisher. Stepping outside the tent you'll find our long rainfly creates a covered porch where you can relax on our provided chairs. There are additional chairs around the firepit and each firepit has a cooking grate so you can cook over your campfire. We provide one bundle of firewood (including kindling) per night with your reservation. We do sell additional firewood, if needed. In our kitchen area you will find a picnic table and chairs, 5 gallons of drinking water, a clean up table that includes a foot operated pump sink with an additional 5 gallons of washing water, a grill (one site has propane and the other has charcoal), trash and recycling bins, grill tools, lighters, plus dish and hand soaps. Our farm is a mile and a half from the town of Sharpsburg, MD, home of the Antietam National Battlefield (and Nutter's Ice Cream Shop). You will find the Appalachian Trail to our east and the C&O Canal to our west (10 minute drive to either).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$117
 / night
Camp Battleview

4. Camp Battleview

97%
(17)
6.8mi from Gathland State Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Sharpsburg, MD
🌲 Escape to Nature's Embrace at our Campground! 🏕️ Discover the perfect blend of history and relaxation just a half a mile away from the hallowed grounds of Antietam National Battlefield. Our camp spot offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while being conveniently close to one of the most significant sites of the Civil War. Nestled amidst towering trees and serene landscapes, our campground provides a tranquil retreat for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking your RV, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and recharge. But that's not all! Just steps away, you'll find a delightful restaurant and convenience store, serving up delicious meals and providing all the essentials for your camping adventure. From tasty snacks to forgotten necessities, everything you need is right at your fingertips. Come experience the beauty of the outdoors and the rich history of Antietam, all while enjoying the convenience and comfort of our campground. Book your stay today and create memories that will last a lifetime! 🌳✨ Local attractions: C & O Canal Potomac River for Fishing, tubing, kayaking, swimming, and boating Antietam Winery Potomac Ridge Brewery Captain Benders Nutter's Ice Cream Bavarian Inn River & Trail (20 mins) River Ryders (20 mins) Hagerstown, MD for all your shopping needs is only a 15 minute drive. On the following Sunday’s there is a Farmers Market in the same field as the camping, we ask that campers stay to the left of the field on these days: April 6, April 27 May 4, May 18 June 1, June 22 July 6, July 20 Aug. 3, Aug 17 Sept 7, Sept 21 Oct 5, Oct 19 There is plenty of space for campers during the farmers market, feel free to book and enjoy all the vendors!! Upcoming events in the field for you to enjoy: - April 13th Easter Egg hunt, check out our facebook for more details - May 18th-May 25th Group Camping Party!! All are welcome!!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$36
 / night
Camp Loudoun RV Rentals

6. Camp Loudoun RV Rentals

97%
(221)
8.7mi from Gathland State Park · 17 sites · Lodging · Lovettsville, VA
Enjoy the great outdoors from our spacious sites with lots of privacy on our rural farm. Farm land from the 1800s, come enjoy what I have. Choose a new activity every day like biking, fishing, hiking, and off-roading. Then, spend a quiet evening relaxing in nature and exploring the creeks that run through the property. With 30 sites to choose from, you can experience a new spot every time you stay. Be sure to check out our Appalachian Trail experience that offers a guided hike of the rock faces overlooking the western side of the trail. Lovers of the outdoors and American history will find tons to do in the area. Three additional national parks make for great areas of exploration. Enjoy visiting Antietam National Park, Harpers Ferry National Park and hiking along sections of the famous Appalachian Trail.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$108
 / night
Sistermoon Farm

8. Sistermoon Farm

100%
(24)
9.6mi from Gathland State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Shenandoah Junction, WV
Sistermoon Farm is a 33-acre space committed to love, nature, and building community. Nestled in the mountains of the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, we are located between the historic destinations of Shepherdstown and Harpers Ferry. Much of our land is surrounded by forest, with walking trails for our guests to enjoy. On our land, we grow seasonal vegetables and hay. Our peaceful space provides a soft place to land, to accompany any adventure of your choice. In minutes, you can be wading in the Potomac River, biking on the C&O Canal, adventuring on the Shenandoah River, or taking a stroll on the Appalachian Trail. This area is home to amazing food, refreshing breweries, relaxing wineries, and so much more.We are so excited to welcome you to this space and we hope you love it as much as we do. We look forward to your visit to Sistermoon Farm!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$62
 / night
Look at all this space!

9. Hawkwood Farm

100%
(305)
10mi from Gathland State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Myersville, MD
Hawkwood Farm is a historic property in the Catoctin Mountains. The house dates back to 1803. At that time, it is documented that there was a blacksmith shop on the property. There is a functioning blacksmith shop today, as well as an expansive wood working shop. A ;band of rhyolite runs through the property that was used by Native Americans for spear points dating back to the paleolithic period. Presently, we strive to live as sustainably and as closely to nature as possible, being good stewards of the land that we are blessed to call home. If you are looking for lots of open space with a sensational view of the sky then this is the place for you! This site is great for viewing all kinds of celestial events. You will also have access to the rest of what Hawkwood Farm offers including forest trails and an array of wildlife. Pitch a tent, or sleep literally under the stars. ; We are asking that people take their trash with them.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Taylors Landing Camping Club

10. Taylors Landing Camping Club

99%
(499)
11mi from Gathland State Park · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · Sharpsburg, MD
Experience the beauty of this historic property featuring a mix of woodland, grassy hilltops, and clover filled bottomlands. Enjoy the nearly direct access to the CO Canal Historic Park and the kid friendly, serene stretch of the Potomac River we border. Choose from 11 similar sites available for your camping pleasure in our clover filled bottomland as well as our Hilltop sites for maximum privacy, exclusivity and star gazing potential. The natural Shade/Privacy nooks will keep the midday sun off of tents and the surrounding old growth forest makes for a great hike up to a very accessible and kid friendly cave to explore. All sites now have either 10x13, 13x20 or 16x20 shade sails available to keep the afternoon sun at bay. (check individual sites for shade sail size available and in the "extra" section) Throughout the summer, the river offers a user-friendly experience as water levels recede. Embark on float trips, kayaking, excellent fishing, swimming, cave exploring, or visit the historic towns and the Antietam Battlefields nearby for a touch of civilization during your stay. We have two kayaks on site free of charge. We have some life vests, but if you have your own, bring those along. The river's main beach located between sites 7 and 8, is shaded/filtered sun all day long while our smaller beach at site 1 is sunny most of the day and affords some of the nicest river lounging via a rock ledge that spans 4wd or All Wheel Drive are recommended. If it's been relatively dry, single wheel cars are 100% fine. We have ways to mitigate most weather events. Please pre-order firewood via a message to me or via the "extra" section for your site so I can have it waiting for you. $40 buys you a long night's ++ burn worth of well seasoned hardwood. Cash venmo paypal zelle all accepted upon arrival. If ordering firewood using the "extra" feature, 1 load is $20.00 which is a 1/2 nights supply. Order 2 if you want a full night/morning supply. I will credit unused wood. Please, no fireworks are permitted at any time.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$33
 / night
The Lavat Spot Eudaimonia

12. The Lavat Spot Eudaimonia

99%
(50)
11mi from Gathland State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bolivar, WV
This beautiful property features 1.5 acres of land with 200 feet of waterfront on the Shannendoah River. The site has electric hookups and potable water available for convenience. Property can accommodate larger groups. Please reach out to host. You can enjoy the outdoors with an outdoor kitchen area, outdoor shower, firepit, and deck with stairs leading to the water. Kayaks, a canoe, floating tubes and a variety of yard games are provided for your use. The property is located just minutes away from downtown Harpers Ferry and the Charlestown Hollywood Casino. You'll also have plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities with River Riders and Harpers Ferry Brewery and Adventure Park nearby. The area is abundant with wildlife, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
Crowspeak

13. Crowspeak

100%
(10)
12mi from Gathland State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Hillsboro, VA
From the flat land at the bottom to the top of the mountain, this is a place where you can find a spot to sit and think, draw, paint, nap, or identify over 30 medicinal plants in their natural habitats (absolutely NO harvesting of medicinals or wildflowers!). Listen to the many birds, spot the wildflowers. Some areas are accessible by wheelchair, while others are not, but all areas offer something to sustain your spirit. If you feel the need to explore the area, you are within walking distance of NotaViva Farm Brewery and Winery, 15 dirt road minutes from the new Sweet Run State Park one direction and Breaux Vineyard in the other direction. The Appalachian Trail is just over the top of the mountain and Harpers Ferry National Park is down the road and over the Shenandoah River. We might be a teeny bit biased, but we think this is area of northwest Loudoun County, VA is one of the loveliest places in the world.
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
Treehouse close up from deck.

14. Sacred Roots Herbal Sanctuary

99%
(601)
12mi from Gathland State Park · 11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Shepherdstown, WV
Looking for a personal retreat or get away ? Escape to our beautiful, RUSTIC 32 acre wild homestead / farm. A lovely balance between wild and tame. We are 10 minutes from the Potomac River, 10 minutes from Opequon Creek, 20 from Antietam Creek and 30 minutes from the Shenandoah River. Harper's Ferry is 30 minutes way and downtown Historic Shepherdstown is just down the road. We are also close to several state parks. - What do we mean by "RUSTIC" ? The camping experience we offer is about unplugging from the modern world , getting back to basics, slowing down and re-connecting with the land. Simply put, this is CAMPING .... not glamping. (Our Cosmic Cottage is also rustic, despite the amenities that come with it). - CAMPSITES and TREEHOUSE - No electricity or wifi on the land. Campsites and TREEHOUSE are nestled in the woods. So although your vehicle will be parked within 50 ft or so from site, you cannot pull directly up to the site and get any closer because of the trees. - SHOWER and PORTA POTTY - roughly a 5 minute or less walk from sites to shower and / or porta potty. Shower hours are 8 am- to 8 pm. The shower has hot and cold running water . You can drive to the shower if you need to. - RESPONSE TIME - This is a working herb farm/ sanctuary and we so do not always have our phones on us. We will make every effort to respond to you within a few hours. Please be patient and you will receive a response. -BOOKING - If you are interested in booking and / or availability, go to the HIPCAMP BOOKING CALENDAR and enter the dates you are interested in. for the most up to date accurate info on availability. - Feel free to wander through the herb gardens, eat your meals in the garden pavilion (we have picnic tables there and hammocks), get your Zen on in the meditation hut , and stroll through the woodland medicine path where we grow endangered and at at risk plant plants. (heads up.. the woodland medicine path goes to seed by the Fall and is usually munched down by the deer by then, but is still a nice short stroll in the woods).
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
Catoctin Quaker Camp

17. Catoctin Quaker Camp

98%
(76)
14mi from Gathland State Park · 10 sites · Lodging · Thurmont, MD
Catoctin Quaker Camp was established in 1958 and its 385 acres are mostly forests. There is a pond, bathhouse, and plenty of land to explore (385 acres). The camp is located on Frederick County's South Mountain formation and is adjacent to the Frederick City watershed which is filled with beautiful trails. We have 8 different cabins available to rent and the option to book out the entire property. Toilets, showers, picnic tables, and potable water are all available on site. Campfires are permitted! No pets allowed. Catoctin Mountain National Park, Cunningham Falls State Park and Gambril State Park are all within a 10 to 15-minute drive. Adventure awaits at Catoctin Mountain Park! Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this park is the perfect getaway. Hike a trail and enjoy an epic view.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$68
 / night
Riverside Farm by the Monocacy

18. Riverside Farm by the Monocacy

97%
(280)
14mi from Gathland State Park · 7 sites · Tents · Walkersville, MD
PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE DESCRIPTION BEFORE BOOKING... 30 acres of mostly reclaimed farmland. We are located where Glade Creek flows into the Monocacy River. There is evidence of civil war activity here and the old river ford is on our property. Creek and river access make this a beautiful, peaceful place that is full of life. The energy here is overwhelmingly positive. Our house was built in the 1850s and the neighboring farm was built shortly after—lots of history on this property. You will be able to camp right next to Glade Creek which is always cool, clean, and refreshing. Our goal with opening the land up for camping is to eventually phase out commercial farming on the property and transform it into woodlands using native plants and trees. We've already started by planting hundreds of native tree species along the creek and river banks. Each camper gets us closer to that goal! Thanks for your support! See our map in the gallery for a complete overview of our property including site locations. Please note that you will need to drive back through the crossing to access the portable toilet. Property occasionally floods. Zero flash floods, just slow river overflow. Check this site for flooding info. https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?gage=fdkm2 Flood stage is 15 feet. We HIGHLY recommend a vehicle with AWD or at least a decent ground clearance.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$37
 / night
Updated Fire Ring. 16' diameter crushed rock area around fire ring. Campsite is mowed weekly and sized about 80'x80'.

19. Mother Earth Organic Farm

100%
(63)
15mi from Gathland State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Smithsburg, MD
The farm is located in picturesque rolling hills of Maryland. We've had many requests for photo shoots and weddings... it's that amazing! The farmhouse used to be the local post office (many years ago).Mother Earth Organic Farm is the epitome of getting away. Camp with your tent, RV, schoolie, truck camper, or hammock tent on this marvelous organic farm with scenic pasture and mountain views. Bring your telescope or add ours as an extra. The night sky view is amazing! The Milky way is visible on clear nights. You may see farm animals including goats, chickens and cows during your stay. In addition, Mother Earth Organic Farm has a plethora of wildlife including hummingbirds, bald eagles, white egrets, turtles, bears, and foxes. There are walking trails on the farm and a 1/3 acre pond.The Appalachian Trail (AT) is about a mile down the road (access point with ample parking). There are many parks nearby including Gambrill State Park, Cunningham Falls State Park (longest cascading waterfall in Maryland) and many others.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night

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The best camping in Gathland State Park, MD guide

Overview

About

With numerous campsites in proximity, visitors can explore the park's fascinating Civil War heritage and picturesque trails. The enchanting Appalachian scenery sets the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable camping trip.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Gathland State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is either blooming or showcasing a vibrant array of colors. Summers can be warm, perfect for avid hikers, while winters may be less crowded but chillier.

Know before you go

  • Check the park hours before your visit; it's open from 8am to sunset.
  • Remember to bring water and snacks, as there are limited food options available.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking the Appalachian Trail.
  • Be mindful of the park's historical significance and treat structures with respect.
  • Cell service may be limited, so plan your visit and communicate with your group in advance.
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