The best camping in Western Maryland Rail Trail, MD

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Discover the scenic Western Maryland Rail Trail and its outdoor delights.  

The best camping in Western Maryland Rail Trail, MD

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Site 1

1. Mountain View Mini Farm

98%
(26)
4.2mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Berkeley Springs, WV
Welcome to Mountain View Mini Farm!! Almost Heaven West Virginia. Where we have a few animals on the property and do some homesteading. On the property we also have a Ice-Cream Shack that is open to the public. Hours for the Ice-Cream Shack varies. We are close to Historic Berkeley Springs and love sharing this piece of heaven with people like yourself. If you do not like the big camp grounds and just want a nice spot with a view to pitch a tent, or set up your camper, then you found it . A little about Mountain View Mini Farm. We are just minitues outside of Historic Berkeley Springs WV and 15 minutes from Cacapon State Park. You will have Great Views of the stars from your site. The sites are not far from our barn, and we will leave one tractor bay open for you, just in case it was to rain and you want to use it as shelter. The sites are not perfect level so you will have to level your camper a little. You will have your own fire ring and picnic table, also you will have access to fresh water. You will need a good size water hose if your going to hook up water to your camper from site 1. We have electric hookups that are 20amp Only. There is a clean outhouse but no shower at this time. We are working on making a shower. There is plenty of room for outdoor yard games. You will hear a little road noise and we do have neighbors. You will see me and my family out working around and feeding animals at times. The hosts house is not to far from the campsites. This is just a peaceful piece of property on a mini farm to get away and relax and explore Berkeley Springs WV. We are also only 15 minutes to Cacapon River for Kayaking and Swimming. We are also only 15 minutes to the C&O canal for hiking and biking. We do sell firewood for $7.00 that's around 13 pieces of wood. There is cornhole by the ice-cream shack that you are welcome to play. There will be more things added to the property in the near future. So come on out to the mountains and be our guest.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Estes Place

2. Estes Place

98%
(32)
5.2mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hancock, MD
Nestled within 45 acres of wooded hills and valleys, Estes Place offers a tranquil retreat just 5 miles from the Town of Hancock. Situated near the scenic C&O Rail Trail, ideal for paved walking, running, and biking, our location also boasts proximity to popular eateries such as IHOP, Burger King, Pizza Hut, and a variety of local dining options. With capacity for over a dozen tent sites, each offering unique accessibility, seclusion, and amenities, Estes Place caters to a range of camping preferences. Our two main sites feature fire rings for campfires (weather permitting), along with a porta-potty for convenience. Site one is accessible to small campers and pop-up trailers, while sites 3 and beyond are accessible by walking, backpacking, ATV, or very small compact 4WD vehicles. Explore approximately 2 miles of moderate to intense loop hiking trails and gravel roads, meandering past half a dozen year-round streams and foot-long waterfalls teeming with salamanders, frogs, and crayfish. Experience the vibrant wildlife that inhabits our surroundings, from daily sightings of deer and squirrels to nightly visits from barred owls and bats. Keep an eye out for occasional appearances by turkey, sapsuckers, woodpeckers, porcupines, raccoons, foxes, and coyotes, with the possibility of encountering a black bear annually and even a rare sighting of a mountain lion. During March through June, lucky visitors may stumble upon up to 8-inch black morel mushrooms, while certain years bring the elusive cicada and their deafening buzz. Summer nights are illuminated by enchanting displays of lightning bugs (fireflies) amidst the warmer temperatures.
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from 
$21
 / night
😎

3. The Byrd's Nest on the River

99%
(282)
9.9mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Great Cacapon , WV
~ Awarded Hipcamp’s Best in State: West Virginia, since 2019 ~ The Byrd's Nest is a river front, primitive campsite on the scenic Cacapon River in Great Cacapon, WV. The property is very secluded, but only 2 hrs from D. C. and Baltimore. The space can accommodate 5 tents comfortably or a few small campers (w/o hookups). Please note- I only book one group at a time. You'll have plenty of privacy! Spend your day bird watching on the river deck, put up your hammock and chill, go hiking or mountain biking at Cacapon State Park, take the kayaks out and paddle around, go fishing, or take a float trip. I can provide info on put in/take out spots depending on how long you'd like to float. I have 3 kayaks available for your use, or BYO if you'd like to venture further outside of the property lines. There is one big fire ring for cooking and/or bonfires, along with a large stationary stand up charcoal camp grill. There is also a small communal shed down at camp that contains extra camping supplies, etc.. feel free to use use and put back and or/ contribute to it! :) This spot is close by to Berkeley Springs, Paw Paw Tunnel, Cacapon State Park, and other nature preserves. More hiking, biking, restaurants, spas, antiquing- all within a beautiful 20 minute drive if you wish to venture out. There is a cabin on the property. I will more often be home than not, I will communicate with you about that around your stay. Sometimes I"ll come down to the river frontage if I drop in for a float .Also, we all get around on four wheelers and UTV's. So you will hear them from time to time. If I am home, please feel free to come up if you have any concerns/questions or to say hi! :) *Please note, you can normally get to this site without a 4 wheel drive vehicle. However, when the river is high it will sometimes flood the low water bridge where it crosses the Cacapon. If this is the case during your stay, I will provide all necessary information regarding projected river levels and directions. I will also offer a full refund if the bridge is impassable. If I do not respond soon after your inquiry, it's because I am without reception. if your inquiry expires in 24 hours, I will still get back to you! Thanks in advance for your patience.
Pets
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from 
$94
 / night
Ridge Rider Campground

5. Ridge Rider Campground

100%
(14)
11mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 79 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Little Orleans, MD
Where the Potomac River snakes out of the Western Maryland highlands near Little Orleans, MD lies the Ridge Rider Campground. We claim more than 220 acres of the country’s most beautiful, practically untouched woodlands, but it’s all yours – to explore, to fish, to commune with nature and your fellow travelers, whatever is your desire. Equally home to the rugged and the relaxed, Ridge Rider is pure camping in the best American tradition, whether you’re tent camping, driving your RV, or staying in a quaint cabin. Your family will treasure Ridge Rider. We have some unique features, like group tenting and air-conditioned and heated, cabins where some are pet-friendly. We’re also a favorite for whole-season guests. We’ve designed Ridge Rider to be a vacation in itself. At the central facility, you can enjoy the recreation room full of pool tables, pinball machines, and games. You’ll also find RV parts, hunting and fishing supplies, firewood, and ice at the Camp Store. We’re rich in outdoor recreation, with a sparkling clear swimming pool, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and a terrific playground for kids with a log playhouse. Hot showers, a brand-new laundry, and a multi-use pavilion complete the necessities. No wonder so many campers stay all season.
Pets
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from 
$39
 / night
Casita Of LOVE (Panhandle WV)

6. Casita Of LOVE (Panhandle WV)

99%
(38)
11mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 2 sites · Lodging · Great Cacapon, WV
Nestled deep in the heart of the forest, our cozy glamping cabin awaits—where the whispering trees, golden sunsets, and a sky full of stars create the perfect retreat. Unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature as you sit by the crackling campfire, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let the magic of the wilderness soothe your soul. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, this hidden gem offers the perfect escape. Come and experience the beauty, peace, and wonder of nature like never before. Our property is very secluded next to the scenic and healing waters of Cacapon River, WV. at just 2hrs. from Washington D.C, Baltimore, Virginia, Maryland or Northern VA. We are just 15 minutes away from Berkeley Springs town (First Spa of America) with restaurants, spas, antique shops and 25 minutes from Cacapon State Park. There is an abundance of local activities, hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, boating, horseback riding (Cacapon State park), paddling, mountain bike trails, wildlife watching and swimming. Check more at @InvisibleLoveHouse Book your stay now and let the forest welcome you home!
Pets
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from 
$125
 / night
Grouseland Hospitality

7. Grouseland Hospitality

98%
(316)
11mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Clearville, PA
Grouseland's Private Campsites are located on top of our ridge offering a unique scenic overlook and a near virgin sky perfect for stargazing. We have 4 sites ready for you here at Grouseland! Please read their descriptions and book the one best for you! We encourage guests to bring dogs, however dogs must be kept on leads when on site or on leashes when on walks. There are no exceptions to this rule to ensure the safety of all of our guests. All sites include an allotted amount of free firewood, miles of hiking trails, and use of communal facilities including a hot shower and flush toilet. Tall Oaks Campsite: A small private site and is our only rustic style site, so no water or electricity, designed maximum 6 people with parking for 3 cars on site and space for 4 average size tents. This site has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, a bench and charcoal grill. Twisted Oak Campsite: A medium-sized luxury private site includes potable water and electricity on site, designed for maximum 8 guests with parking for 4 cars on site and has space for several tents. This site has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, benches, charcoal grill, and on-site string lights. Red Maple Campsite: A large luxury private site that includes potable water and electricity on site, designed for a maximum 10 guests with on-site parking space that is 90ft long and 20ft wide, for an RV or 6-8 cars and overflow parking for several more cars. It is designed to be backed into with an RV and then pulled out of. This site can handle several tents and has two picnic tables, two portable toilets, a scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, benches, a charcoal grill, and on-site string lights. Aspen RV Campsite: A medium private luxury drive through site great for RVs, rooftop tents, pop ups or camper vans. This site includes potable water and electricity on site, designed with water and electric hookups for a single camping vehicle, maximum 6 people. This site is a drive through site, so guests don’t have to back in or out. This site also has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, charcoal grill, and a bench.
Pets
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from 
$44
 / night
Upstream view from South site. Dock currently unavailable.

11. Stoney Creek Campground

97%
(371)
17mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Great Cacapon, WV
Enjoy one of our four large, beautiful sites with friends or family. The South, North and Rocks sites offer great privacy and seclusion. The Bridge site offers unique charm and close proximity to river, creek and bridge, and has the best WiFI access. Plenty of greenery between sites. You should mostly only see neighbors when going to bathhouse. On our property you will find, four large camp sites, Stoney Creek Country Store on the river, Pavillion next to the store, Cacapon River Outfitters behind the store, smallground campground next to pavillion, giant swing, bathhouse closest to riverside/campground, and a few (5) other trailers (mobile homes) further behind the store/bathhouse. The dead-end road that goes through our property leads to another riverside community that is sparsely developed. Kayak, boat or tube (we offer Tubing and Canoes). Fish or watch wildlife. (Fishing licenses available on DNR site for cheap) Nearby attractions if the river is not enough: * C&O Bike Trail, 185mi long from Washington DC to Cumberland MD (~9 miles) * Paw Paw Tunnel, part of C&O park (~9 miles) * Potomac River (~9miles allows gas powered boats) * GreenRidge Forest 47,560 acres (~10 miles, hiking trails and sightseeing) * Sideling Hill Wildlife Management area, 2,507 acres (2 miles) * Eidolon Nature Preserve (~12 miles) * Windmyer Hunting area, 422 acres, along route 9 (14 miles) * Berkeley Springs Spas, Pool, Park and Mineral Waters * Towns of Berkeley Springs, Hancock, Flintstone, Cumberland and Winchester within 40min drive * Cacapon State Park, 6,115 acres.. Hiking and Biking trails.. (~18miles) Day trips Swallow Falls (1h 40m drive) Deep Creek Lake area (90m drive) Black Water Falls (2h drive)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Breakfast with a summer view of the Allegheny Mountains of WV

12. Riverside Mountain Retreat

100%
(27)
19mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Bloomery, WV
Visit the site ranked by Hipcampers as one of the top three sites in West Virginia. Pitch your tent on a wooded mountain knoll overlooking the Cacapon River surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains as far as you can see. The Cacapon River is a hidden scenic gem and the cleanest river in West Virginia. This is rugged West Virginia at its best. Wildlife abounds and it is common to see Bald Eagles, Black Bears, and Whitetail Deer. If relaxing on the ridge line and enjoying the views are not enough, hike down to the river via the powerline cut or trails and swim, paddle, or fish (WV license required...one day passes are available online). You can also hike the creek running through the deep hollow, which follows the state access road while enjoying dark Hemlock woods and shale cliffs. If you like to mountain bike, you will find the mountain access roads and trails offer you some back country riding fun. The campsite has nice level areas for pitching a tent and an established fire ring and picnic table. Trails allow one to hike in or drive (a four wheel drive is necessary to access the ridge line campsite). The campsite is very private, but it's possible you will see a friendly neighbor pass by on the trail or see folks staying at the cabin in the valley along the river flats if you go down to the river or you can get a bird's eye view of cabins in the valley across the river from the top. The campsite is no trace so you must bag out all garbage and waste. Cat holes and such are not permitted so campers must bring and use a camp toilet. During exceptionally dry periods, open fire restrictions may be put in effect. You will need a four wheel drive vehicle to access the site. If not, or in inclement weather (snow or heavy rains), you can hike in from the state road where the access road begins. Learn more about this land: The property's history dates back to pre-European settlement and was originally inhabited by Native Americans with archaeological evidence dating back at least 10,000 years. After European settlement, numerous of battles were fought in the area during the French and Indian War, American Revolution, and it was even a cross-roads for armies during the Civil War. Farming, sustenance farming, and logging were the primary industries throughout the region. Later, during the Industrial Revolution, the river, limestone, charcoal, and iron ore from the area fueled a local iron bloomery, which the area, "Bloomery," is still named. The land you are camping on was nearly completely logged over the last hundred years, but a few old growth trees can still be found throughout the mixed hardwoods forest. On the way to the campsite you will also pass the old original school house (now a hunting cabin) located on a neighbor's adjoining property. There are still a few old timers left that attended the one room schoolhouse as children, but the building predates them by many years. There is also an old Methodist Cemetery located on the property (not near the campsite) that dates back to the 1700s. If you happen to find this site, please do not disturb it.
Pets
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from 
$45
 / night
Cosey Cabin

15. Cosey Cabin

100%
(21)
22mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 3 sites · Lodging · Greencastle, PA
This is a 160 square foot tiny house/cabin in a small wooded area at the rear of my 2 acre property. A separate 90 square foot bath house is also provided. Both are primitive, ie, no electric or running water. The are some solar lights and candles for nighttime. Enjoy laying in the hammocks with a nice camp fire in the evening. The house is heated with a small wood stove but there is no air conditioning. Cook either on the wood stove or over the fire outside. In the summertime it is nice and private with the surrounding vegetation Please keep in mind. This is a primitive setting in the woods. It will be hot in the summer and temperature must be maintained in the winter with the wood stove or Buddy Heater. While I do spray for bugs to the best of my ability, there is a good chance you will encounter at least a few. We are in a residential country setting, so you may experience other wildlife as well. In the summertime while the foliage is up it is quite private, although you can still hear the neighbors. In the winter you will be able to see the neighbors as the trees are bare.
Pets
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from 
$88
 / night
WonderWoods at Rocky Gap

17. WonderWoods at Rocky Gap

99%
(80)
23mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Flintstone, MD
Surrounded by the 3000 acres of Rocky Gap State Park, you have the best of all worlds -- camping with creature comforts on a 4-acre private homestead with woodlands, meadows and an orchard, with walkable access to over 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails and swimming, 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. Please note, this is family homestead, and there are two houses on the property. FYI: - Hot-water showers, flush toilets and an equipped kitchenette with small fridge, coffeemaker and microware are available for your use. - Two campsites are available. Each includes a picnic table, fire pit, and two Adirondack chairs for your use. - A treehouse-like tiny house in the woods is available. Fully equipped with heat/AC and tiny kitchen, it is steep 1/4 mile hike perfect for those who like a little adventure. (I will bring up your luggage and supplies in the 4-wheeler). - Wifi available at all sites. - Plentiful firewood, available on a pay-what-you-will basis. Please note: From December to March, the access road to get to our property occasionally gets icy (we plow it but do not salt). 4WD/AWD and/or snow tires is recommended during those months. Enjoy your stay!
Pets
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from 
$34
 / night
Taylors Landing Camping Club

18. Taylors Landing Camping Club

99%
(499)
25mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 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
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Toilets
from 
$33
 / night
Treehouse close up from deck.

19. Sacred Roots Herbal Sanctuary

99%
(601)
25mi from Western Maryland Rail Trail · 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

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The best camping in Western Maryland Rail Trail, MD guide

Overview

About

Cycle along the scenic Western Maryland Rail Trail and indulge in a camping experience like no other. This 26-mile trail offers picturesque landscapes, charming towns to explore, and campsites for restful nights under the stars. Enjoy the serenity of the trail, soak in the beauty of the countryside, and create memories of a lifetime as you embark on this cycling and camping adventure.

When to go

The Western Maryland Rail Trail is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from spring to fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Winter can be cold and less ideal for outdoor activities. Always check the weather before your trip, as the trail can become muddy after heavy rains.

Know before you go

  • Trail hours are from sunrise to sunset, providing ample time for a full day of exploration.
  • Class 1 electric bicycles are welcome on the trail, adhering to the same rules as traditional bikes.
  • Be aware of the Indigo Tunnel closure and use the designated by-pass.
  • The trail is wheelchair accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors.
  • For a more interactive visit, download the Activity Booklet online before your trip.
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