The best campgrounds near Silver Spring, Maryland with climbing

Near the border of Washington DC and Virginia, Silver Spring ties together diverse parks, spectacular shorelines, and historical landmarks like those found in Catoctin Mountain Park. Its centrality makes the area ideal for exploring surrounding states and sites, and the area is wrapped in biodiverse landscapes featuring a wide variety of parks, peaks, and Hipcamps. Just 30 minutes south, campers can access the nation’s capital for a day trip to President’s Park and its monuments. Around Silver Spring, Hipcampers will find campsites, glampsites, farmlands, and retreats year-round, whether crossing borders, staying within state lines, or heading out to the Potomac River.

97% (854)

Top-rated campgrounds

Firewood is included at no additional cost.

Near the border of Washington DC and Virginia, Silver Spring ties together diverse parks, spectacular shorelines, and historical landmarks like those found in Catoctin Mountain Park. Its centrality makes the area ideal for exploring surrounding states and sites, and the area is wrapped in biodiverse landscapes featuring a wide variety of parks, peaks, and Hipcamps. Just 30 minutes south, campers can access the nation’s capital for a day trip to President’s Park and its monuments. Around Silver Spring, Hipcampers will find campsites, glampsites, farmlands, and retreats year-round, whether crossing borders, staying within state lines, or heading out to the Potomac River.

97% (854)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Bears Den Campground

95%

(1173)

45mi from Silver Spring · 5 sites · Tents · Shenandoah Retreat, VA

Set up your tent in our remote but easily accessible campground, 100 yards off the Appalachian Trail. Roast marshmallows by the fire pit and watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Site #1 is on a hilly slope and accommodates 4 campersSite #2 accommodates 8-10 campersSite #3 accommodates 4 campersSite #4 accommodates 6-8 campersSite #5 accommodates 6-8 campers About the property Located on a 66-acre plot just five miles from the Shenandoah River, our property offers amazing access to hiking and the outdoors while also keeping civilization within striking distance. Bear Chase Brewery is just a half mile walk across the street, and we are 15 miles from Purcellville. The land and lodge used to be the summer home of a trained opera singer, whose singing could be heard throughout the mountain. Your Host lives onsite in the stone house that also acts as a hostel for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Built in the 1930's all from locally sourced hand-hammered stone, the house is open every night from 5pm - 9pm. Note that we offer several campsites relatively close to each other, so you should expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. About the listing Pitch your tent in a forested area just a short walk up from where you’ll park your car. Enjoy unbeatable proximity to hiking and panoramic views while still having basic amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. You’ll have access to a composting pit toilet, and can access potable water from the tap in the lodge. That’s also where you can access hot showers. As noted above, we host Appalachian Trail thru hikers on the property, so you may see them hanging around or sleeping in the bunkhouse near the shared facilities. so please be respectful of hours when you come in for a shower. No showers after 10 pm For meals, we have picnic tables, and you are encouraged to cook over the fire pits that accompany each site. Please practice Leave No Trace practices during your stay, as the property has raccoons and other critters who will be drawn to any food scraps that are left behind. Pets are allowed! Please keep them on leash during your stay. Trash can be disposed of in dumpster up the hill Additional details to note Expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. No kitchen equipment is provided, so campers must bring their own supplies if they'd like to cook. We do not offer WiFi, but there is good cell reception for all common carriers.

2. Hawkwood Farm

100%

(305)

44mi from Silver Spring · 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.

3. Mountain Lake Retreat

100%

(8)

45mi from Silver Spring · 1 site · Lodging · Harpers Ferry, WV

Romantic get away, gather with friends or bring the kids- this vintage Mountain Lake resort house boasts spacious gathering areas, wonderfully appointed bedrooms, an expansive, private fenced yard, large deck, fire pit and hot tub! The kitchen is fully stocked and the coffee lounge and dining room beckon you to relax as you plan your day. The third bedroom is a unique, flex space with its own full bathroom. Spend your days on the sandy lake beach then walk back to the Mountain Lake Club for dinner and drinks at sunset.

4. Catoctin Mountain Park

100%

(22)

84 sites · Sabillasville, Maryland

Get a close-up view of the history of the Old Line State on this park's well-maintained trails.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery

43mi from Silver Spring · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Hillsboro, VA

Welcome to Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery, one of the highest rated farm winery and brewery combinations in Northern VA! Founded as Notaviva Vineyards in 2008, and expanded to include Notaviva Brewing in 2019, we are the world's most original brewery & winery brand. Each of our beverages is paired with a musical genre or lyrical inspiration. Our goal in the founding of our business is to capture the feelings that music can create and put it in our beers, wines, ciders and hard seltzers. Learn more about the origins of the word Notaviva here. We are located on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge mountains near the Appalachian Trail in beautiful western Loudoun County, Virginia, just a short drive from our county seat Leesburg. We are also the nearest winery and brewery to Harpers Ferry, WV as well as the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. Whether you’re looking for beer at a winery, or wine at a brewery, or cider and hard seltzer, we have everything you’re looking for, in addition to the most hospitable staff on the Loudoun Heights Tourism Trail. Just an hour west of Washington DC, and open year-round with seasonal hours, our wide selection of small batch hand crafted beverages is sure to impress.

6. Private River - RV or tent

86%

(22)

46mi from Silver Spring · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Shannondale, WV

Learn more about this land: Enjoy in your RV (no power) and/or tent camping with private river access on the Shenandoah River in Harpers Ferry, WV. Numerous amenities combined with peaceful sunrise and sunset views make this site a rare gem. Expect to see all sorts of birds along the river and other wildlife on the property. Conveniently located 6.5 miles from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and 5 miles south of Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. The private bathhouse (Taj Mah Potty) has a clawfoot tub, shower, toilet, sink, small refrigerator and is air conditioned for your convenience. Two sit on top kayaks, life jackets, and paddles are included for use at our private put in. Our site is priced in comparison to an RV site at the KOA in Harpers Ferry. The difference is this is a private site, with 100' of private river frontage, and you are not on top of your neighbor. If you are tent camping feel free to book, but realize this spot is priced according to rv rates.

7. Lucky Duck Farm

100%

(2)

46mi from Silver Spring · 1 site · Tent, RV · Shenandoah Retreat, VA

This property is located near major thoroughfares to conveniently access all the local activities. Some of the closest attractions are the Shenandoah river, Cool Springs Park for biking and bird watching & Civil War History. The camp site is walking distance to the Bears Den and Ravens Rock trailheads. There are small businesses for local food and entertainment and AT trail supplies all with in walking distance. Within a 5-10 mile radius you will find many breweries and wineries for day and evening time entertainment. Historical Winchester and Leesburg are each a 25 min drive. The campsites are level and come with separate eating area. The campsite has pond views and fire circle for cooking. If you need something just ask

8. Catoctin Quaker Camp

98%

(76)

47mi from Silver Spring · 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.

9. Deer haven campsites

97%

(17)

47mi from Silver Spring · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Myersville, MD

Learn more about this land:You can set up your campsite then Bike, hike, or visit several lakes and falls within 6 miles. Lots of mountain and back roads! Never ending things to do and see nearby Camp David, Cunningham Falls and Greenbrier State Parks just to name a few. Check a map and search the area. Several sites are available!

10. Robins Nest

100%

(1)

34mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · Lodging · Paeonian Springs, VA

The spaceCottage is built from years of reclaimed lumber and timber raised and cut on our property nearby. We designed the cottage to be a private location, the back deck is surrounding by trees. Learn more about this land:Brand new cottage crafted from all reclaimed materials. Open floor plan with high ceilings are sure to impress. The luxury of this cottage cannot fully be felt until your perfect stay.The spaceCottage is built from years of reclaimed lumber and timber raised and cut on our property nearby. We designed the cottage to be a private location, the back deck is surrounding by trees. Your only complaint will be having to go home the next day. Cleaning precautions for everyone are taken to extreme lengths. All linens, pillows, etc. are completely removed and cleaned. All surfaces receive commercial disinfectant and upon the request of the guest we can cordinate fogging services. We apologize in advance that some normal things are removed completely like printed house manuals. We ask that you remove all trash and a few other things upon departing to help us stay safe as well.The internet cannot be guaranteed if there is a problem with the provider. In a wooded area bugs are normal. Loud noise or Guest not on the reservation will result in immediate termination and removal. We have a zero tolerance policy. Our relationship and safety of our neighbors and neighborhood is of upmost importance to us.

Camper favorites near Silver Spring

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery

43mi from Silver Spring · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Hillsboro, VA

Welcome to Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery, one of the highest rated farm winery and brewery combinations in Northern VA! Founded as Notaviva Vineyards in 2008, and expanded to include Notaviva Brewing in 2019, we are the world's most original brewery & winery brand. Each of our beverages is paired with a musical genre or lyrical inspiration. Our goal in the founding of our business is to capture the feelings that music can create and put it in our beers, wines, ciders and hard seltzers. Learn more about the origins of the word Notaviva here. We are located on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge mountains near the Appalachian Trail in beautiful western Loudoun County, Virginia, just a short drive from our county seat Leesburg. We are also the nearest winery and brewery to Harpers Ferry, WV as well as the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. Whether you’re looking for beer at a winery, or wine at a brewery, or cider and hard seltzer, we have everything you’re looking for, in addition to the most hospitable staff on the Loudoun Heights Tourism Trail. Just an hour west of Washington DC, and open year-round with seasonal hours, our wide selection of small batch hand crafted beverages is sure to impress.

Private River - RV or tent

86%

(22)

46mi from Silver Spring · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Shannondale, WV

Learn more about this land: Enjoy in your RV (no power) and/or tent camping with private river access on the Shenandoah River in Harpers Ferry, WV. Numerous amenities combined with peaceful sunrise and sunset views make this site a rare gem. Expect to see all sorts of birds along the river and other wildlife on the property. Conveniently located 6.5 miles from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and 5 miles south of Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. The private bathhouse (Taj Mah Potty) has a clawfoot tub, shower, toilet, sink, small refrigerator and is air conditioned for your convenience. Two sit on top kayaks, life jackets, and paddles are included for use at our private put in. Our site is priced in comparison to an RV site at the KOA in Harpers Ferry. The difference is this is a private site, with 100' of private river frontage, and you are not on top of your neighbor. If you are tent camping feel free to book, but realize this spot is priced according to rv rates.

Lucky Duck Farm

100%

(2)

46mi from Silver Spring · 1 site · Tent, RV · Shenandoah Retreat, VA

This property is located near major thoroughfares to conveniently access all the local activities. Some of the closest attractions are the Shenandoah river, Cool Springs Park for biking and bird watching & Civil War History. The camp site is walking distance to the Bears Den and Ravens Rock trailheads. There are small businesses for local food and entertainment and AT trail supplies all with in walking distance. Within a 5-10 mile radius you will find many breweries and wineries for day and evening time entertainment. Historical Winchester and Leesburg are each a 25 min drive. The campsites are level and come with separate eating area. The campsite has pond views and fire circle for cooking. If you need something just ask

Catoctin Quaker Camp

98%

(76)

47mi from Silver Spring · 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.

Deer haven campsites

97%

(17)

47mi from Silver Spring · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Myersville, MD

Learn more about this land:You can set up your campsite then Bike, hike, or visit several lakes and falls within 6 miles. Lots of mountain and back roads! Never ending things to do and see nearby Camp David, Cunningham Falls and Greenbrier State Parks just to name a few. Check a map and search the area. Several sites are available!

Robins Nest

100%

(1)

34mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · Lodging · Paeonian Springs, VA

The spaceCottage is built from years of reclaimed lumber and timber raised and cut on our property nearby. We designed the cottage to be a private location, the back deck is surrounding by trees. Learn more about this land:Brand new cottage crafted from all reclaimed materials. Open floor plan with high ceilings are sure to impress. The luxury of this cottage cannot fully be felt until your perfect stay.The spaceCottage is built from years of reclaimed lumber and timber raised and cut on our property nearby. We designed the cottage to be a private location, the back deck is surrounding by trees. Your only complaint will be having to go home the next day. Cleaning precautions for everyone are taken to extreme lengths. All linens, pillows, etc. are completely removed and cleaned. All surfaces receive commercial disinfectant and upon the request of the guest we can cordinate fogging services. We apologize in advance that some normal things are removed completely like printed house manuals. We ask that you remove all trash and a few other things upon departing to help us stay safe as well.The internet cannot be guaranteed if there is a problem with the provider. In a wooded area bugs are normal. Loud noise or Guest not on the reservation will result in immediate termination and removal. We have a zero tolerance policy. Our relationship and safety of our neighbors and neighborhood is of upmost importance to us.

Public campgrounds near Silver Spring

100%

(1)

Camp Misty Mount Cabins

50mi from Silver Spring · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Catoctin Mountain Park

Stories from the community

B

Ben

1 week ago

Tent

2 nights at Bears Den Campground

The campsite was great! People are friendly and the view was fantastic. All the sites are located in a clearing next to the trail, and they all had fire pits and benches available. The owner was very friendly as well.

S

Steph

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Bears Den Campground

This was such a lovely area! I mainly carcamped but the lot was extremely accessible to the sites. The area is somewhat secluded (although actual camp sites are pretty close quarters). I am already planning to go back in the spring!

T

Tomo

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawkwood Farm

Hosts were great! Our car got stuck in the mud, and the hosts helped to pull it out. We also ended up needing help to start the fire, and they immediately came over to help. It is a great place to camp, especially if you are a beginner!

E

Elena

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

Great site! Had everything we needed: a flat spot to pitch the tent, toilet, and showers. The fire pit was great and there was plenty of parking pretty close to the site.

C

Chris

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

The campsite was nice. It was on a bit of a slope so be sure to position your tent accordingly. The firewood was very convenient and located up the hill behind the hostel. The overlook was beautiful.

C

Cathrine

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

We spent two nights at #3. It is very well situated in regards to the trail and house. We forgot a pot for coffee and were able to borrow from the house, which we are grateful for. We went 5 min down the road into Bluemont for a visit to the general store and community playground. Great woods, wonderful campfire, kids (6 & 8) had a blast!

K

Keenan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

These sites are located at the Bear's Den Center along the AT in Virginia. Super cool location, and you can walk to a large brewery/restaurant within 15 minutes. I'd definitely camp here again. Fair warning: while the tent sites are quite large, they are all arranged in a circle. If any of the sites are rambunctious, you will hear it. Didn't bother, but don't come here expecting to be alone.

B

Barnabas

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Bears Den Campground

The property is beautiful, and the forest in the fall was particularly lovely.

Kate

November 2025

9 ft campervan

1 night at Hawkwood Farm

We were welcomed and greeted like friends. The meadow spot was beautiful. Lovely stay

hscha

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

The campers before us did leave broken glass and plastic around our camp site, however the property was beautiful and the host was very responsive and helpful. We had a lovely relaxing stay and got to hike a part of the Appalachian trail we haven’t seen before. Would definitely revisit.

M

Martin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

Nice clean site, excellent fire pit and picnic bench. Plenty of space too!

S

Steve

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lucky Duck Farm

First of all Margaret was awesome ...responsive to and questions and very helpful .. love the location. It was very private and close to where we wanna do hang out and enjoy the area of Bluemont.

B

Bryan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

Camp site was clean and signage was good. there was a little confusion at first on where the camp sites were, but it was quickly shown when addressing the map. The trails were awesome, we look forward to coming back!

H

Harrison

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

Wonderful site maintenance, excellent camping options, fire pit, benches, and picnic table.

N

Nathan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Bears Den Campground

Pretty spot! Very clean and had a nice large firepit

T

Tameika

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Bears Den Campground

This was such an amazing spot to camp. I’m glad I chose this site because it was perfect for the fall leaves. A piece of the Appalachian trail is was than 100 yds away and everything was clean and well maintained. Wonderful stay

S

Santos

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Bears Den Campground

Great campsite with beautiful views. I would definitely recommend going here.

D

Dean

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Catoctin Quaker Camp

Fantastic spot for camping. Very remote. You can see so many stars at night.

David

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

Beautiful site. Close enough to other campers that it doesn’t feel secluded, but far enough that it still feels private. Only 1 bucket of wood was included, which wasn’t enough. $9 felt steep for more. Overall, great experience. Great location. Bit pricier than similar places.

K

Kate

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

I loved this campsite!! So beautiful, clean and it was amazing to get a free bucket of firewood.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(22)

Catoctin Mountain Park

Sabillasville, Maryland

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Silver Spring with climbing guide

Where to go

Catoctin Mountain Park

Sitting on the northeast end of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Catoctin Mountain Park is home to over 25 miles of hiking trails, historical sites, and camping. The park offers multiple campgrounds with tent sites and unique historic cabins and dorm rentals. Find the state’s largest waterfall along the Cunningham Falls Nature Trail, or journey through the half-mile loop Charcoal Trail to learn about the region's charcoal-making history. The west side of the park provides quiet and secluded trails where campers can traverse the Catoctin National Recreation Trail filled with historic colonial sites.

Gunpowder Falls State Park

Sail the scenic shoreline of Gunpowder River at Gunpowder Falls State Park. Sitting an hour northeast of Silver Spring, Gunpowder Falls—one of Maryland’s largest state parks—provides campers with six areas of outdoor adventure. The Hammerman Area in Middle River provides pavilions, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a swimming beach, as well as the nearby Dundee Creek Marina where boaters can access a boat launch, fuel, and rentals. Lack of on-site camping requires campers to plan ahead and explore the surrounding campgrounds, cabin rentals, and vacation cottages.

Prince William Forest Park

Venture across the border of Virginia to Prince William Forest Park. Covered by a canopy of trees, the peaceful park welcomes hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Picnic areas offer day-use options, while overnight campers can choose from tent sites, RV sites, backcountry camping, and cabin rentals. Note that the grounds are dry sites only, and there are no hookups for RVs or trailers. The Chopawamsic Backcountry Area is perfect for secluded serenity, though campsites only hold two tents maximum and no campfires are allowed.

When to go

Silver Spring welcomes campers year-round to enjoy the changing seasons and lavish landscapes. Late spring, summer, and early fall bring temperatures in the high 70s and 80s, ideal for campers wishing to hit the water and sleep under the stars. As cooler temperatures approach, catch the artistry of nature at work in the unforgettable fall foliage. Winter weather sees average highs around 40°F and lows that drop below freezing overnight from late November to March. Experience with cold weather camping is highly recommended, or a cabin rental for a snowy stay.