The best camping near Cowans Gap State Park

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

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This idyllic lake is the campgrounds of your childhood with swimming, boating and even ice cream.

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Stay at a public campground in Cowans Gap State Park

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Cowans Gap Park Campground

208 sites · RVs, Tents In Cowans Gap State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Cowans Gap State Park

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Taylors Landing Camping Club

13 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Sharpsburg, MD

ONLY use 16869 Taylors Landing Rd, Sharpsburg Md for your GPS directions. UPON BOOKING, PLEASE CHECK THE "ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS" FOR YOUR SITE'S SELF CHECK IN INSTRUCTIONS. Experience the beauty of this historic property, featuring a mix of woodland, grassy hilltops, and clover filled bottomlands. Come and enjoy the near direct access to the C&O Canal Historic Park and Towpath 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. Whether you stay for a day or a month, immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquil waters of the Potomac River. 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 and 4 SUP's, and numerous inner tubes on site free of charge. We have some life vests, but if you have your own, bring those along. Explore the endless miles of easy biking, hiking on the C&O Canal Towpath. Whether looking for adventure or just chill, down time, this location is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. There is limited shade in the camping areas after 2-3:00 PM depending on the time of year. We're working on large area sun shelters but haven't gotten there just yet. The river's beach is shady or filtered sun all day long. 4wd or All Wheel Drive are strongly recommended. If it's been dry, single wheel drive is fine, but if we get a hard rain the day before or during the stay, I'll possibly be pulling you up the hill a short distance to exit. Please pre-order firewood via a message to me if at all possible, so I can have it waiting for you. $30.00 buys you a long night's burn worth of all seasoned hardwood. Cash venmo paypal zelle all accepted upon arrival. PLEASE READ ARRIVAL INSTRUSTIONS CAREFULLY AFTER BOOKING!! We share a driveway with the Shepherds Springs Outdoor Ministry and want to make sure you don't pass our entrance as the only place to turn around is up at their lodge.

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Beespoke Farms

11 sites · Lodging, Tents25 acres · Sabillasville, MD

A small, startup farm focused on regenerative agriculture and producing environmentally friendly products through environmentally friendly processes. With roughly 15 acres of grazing and forested space, and another 9 acres developing projects and orchard planting, we're located along the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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Sacred Roots Herbal Sanctuary

9 sites · Lodging, Tents32 acres · Shepherdstown, WV

Looking for a personal retreat or get away ? Escape to our beautiful, RUSTIC 32 acre wild homestead / farm. 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 campsites do not have electricity and there is no wifi on the land. Campsites 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 because of the trees. It is roughly a 5 minute or less walk from sites to shower. 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. *Please know that this is a working herb farm/ sanctuary and we are often working in the gardens or on the land doing physical labor, and so do not keep our cell phones on us at every moment. We will make every effort to respond to you within a few hours. We understand that folks have questions and are excited to hear back from us. The Hipcamp policy is that we have 24 hours. to respond. Please be patient and you will receive a response. If you are interested in booking, please check the Hipcamp booking calendar 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).

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Riverside Farm by the Monocacy

7 sites · Tents30 acres · 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.

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Wilbur's Shed

1 site · RV, Tent60 acres · Blairs Mills, PA

Let your children and dogs roam free without a leash. This property is remote and private. There are no neighbors nearby. This location is; twenty minutes north of I-76 Turnpike Willow Hill Exit forty-five minutes from Raystown Lake one hour and thirty minutes north of Gettysburg two hours south of PSU three hours east of Pittsburgh three hours west of Philadelphia five hours west of NYC There is some cell service, but it is limited. Can you hear me now? Be sure to save site information on your phone before you leave, in case you lose cell-service. This is not Alaska, but it is not a KOA campground, either. We recommend you print of bring a paper map. This location is in a mix of farmland and mountain Appalachia. You will see common species such as chipmunks, squirrels turkey and deer. Many bird species. There are also porcupines, skunks, and black snakes around. You may also see black bear - it is rare, but possible. You are visiting wildlife species in their natural habitat. Please be self-aware of your own level comfort with wildlife. Once again, this is not a village of RVs like in a KOA campground. There is a gutter when you turn off the road onto the lane. Please turn at a 45 degree angle and enter the lane gently or your vehicle with scrape the road. I have 30"x20' culvert to install, but I haven't yet made the commitment begin such a significant project. Nearby is the Tuscarora Creek which is excellent for trout fishing. The Tuscarora has a small but lovely window for kayaking from mid-March through the end of May. Please contact the host if you would like help to plan some paddle logistics. Twenty minutes south is Big Spring State Park which has an abandoned RR tunnel form the late 1800s. Forty-five minutes away is the 1,000 steps near Mt. Union which is part of the Standing Stone Trail that runs from Cowan’s Gap State Park to PSU. The Steps provides and amazing view of the Juniata River, and is a strenuous heart work-out. If you are interested in historic trains, East Broad Top Railroad is in Mt. Union. If members of your party would like a more pampered camping experience that includes real beds and hot showers, there is an adjoining property for rent on air b and b. Google search for The Crowe's Lounge.

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Mulehalla

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Williamsport, MD

Right off the C&O canal, Mulehalla offers primitive sites that are both beautiful and private with restrooms and showers available (no hot water, cold shower only). 1/10 of a mile walk to the Towpath, 9-hole amateur disc golf course, and firewood available for sale as well.

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Fiddlers Green Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents107 acres · Taneytown, MD

When you come here you are experiencing the rebirth of farming in this country while getting to connect with the natural world. This historic piece of preserved farmland has been in our family for 5 generations. The property is just over 100 acres with about half in forest conservation. We have two streams that join one another and create an amazing habitat for all kinds of wildlife. Our farm has always been a fun and healing place for our friends and family to gather. We love sharing the peaceful seclusion here with folks who enjoy and respect nature. We are a certified organic farm in the early stages of transforming it into a fully regenerative, permaculture operation. We grow hemp, medicinal herbs, and small grains as well as keep bees and a small tribe of goats. We'd love to have you!

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Stoney Creek Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · 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)

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Blase ‘n Love Forest

4 sites · Tents20 acres · MD

We have a beautiful forested mountain that sits at the southern edge of the GreenRidge State Forest. We sit on top of the Paw Paw tunnel and have access to the C and O Canal Trail. We view this place has nature's forest that we are stewards of. We are reclaiming this land that was clear cut over a hundred years ago for an apple orchard and then used as a sawmill and car dump. We have a beautiful deciduous and pine forest with an incredible scenic mountain top that can view the Potomac River at one end. Each day we are working the land to create a beautiful back to nature spot for campers, hikers, bikers, river and travel enthusiasts. Currently we are suited for being a “bring all your stuff with you” camping as we are completely off grid.

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Korgemae Farm Happy Heart Highlands

2 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Knoxville, 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 or DC is within an hour and a half 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 narrow 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 in our pastures. We have Scottish Highlands grazing in one of our pastures and Black Angus in another. We are a working farm so expect to see tractors and you may even see us baling hay or tending to the cattle. We enjoy talking to our guests so feel free to stop us for a chat.

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The Byrd's Nest on the River

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Great Cacapon , WV

~ Voted West Virginia's No. 1 HIPCAMP, three years in a row!! ~ 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 very 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 tubes available for your use, and 3 kayaks, 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 shed down at camp that contains rope, tarps, shovel, shade tent, tackle box, extra torch fuel 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. If I do not respond soon after your inquiry, it's because I am without reception. Even if your inquiry expires in 24 hours, I will still get back to you! Thanks in advance for your patience. 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, there is a back way in over the ridge. You will absolutely need 4 wheel drive with clearance and it takes about 30 minutes longer and a sense of adventure- but you'll be rewarded with beautiful views and waterfalls at the switchbacks:) This route in is only an option when the bridge is flooded, as it is a private road that has many gates. I will provide all necessary information before your stay regarding projected river levels and directions. I will also offer a full refund if the bridge is impassable and you decide not to come. Sadly, the floating dock you see in the older pictures did not make it through the river ice last winter. However, the deck is now turned into another tent platform! In addition to that, there is now a 9x14 pavilion and a porta john for your use! *Please visit Cacaponriver.org prior to your stay for more info on our beautiful river:)

Willows Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents165 acres · Union Bridge, MD

Willows Farm is a beautiful 165 acre, regenerative, cattle farm, raising 100% grass finished beef and high quality hay. We are excited to announce that we have our first 100% grass finished beef ready and waiting (May 2023) for your purchase here at the farm. Give Curtis a call at 301.252.1122 or visit our website https://willowsfarmbeef.com to see what we have to offer. Our farm is family owned and operated and is located in the beautiful rolling hills of northeast Frederick County in Union Bridge Maryland, just off route 75 on a quiet, country road. Please note the farm entrance address is 11935 Simpsons Mill Road, Keymar, MD, but the farm is technically located in Union Bridge. Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and relax near the campfire with your wood fired dinner. This site has electric and water hookup and firewood is available for a small fee. The campsite is situated at the highest point of Willows Farm, offering tranquil farm views, gorgeous mountain vistas and spectacular sunsets. Soak up the beautiful countryside during your stay on the farm and hike our 25 acres of wooded property and chase a few bunnies and spot a herd of deer. Take a brisk walk to the cattle pastures and chat with our curious and friendly Black Angus heifers, Eleni, Lola and Maggie and say hi to our horse Albe. All of the fencing at Willows Farm is electric to keep our cattle and horse in and you will get shocked if you touch it. Please be mindful of this with your pets and children. If you are fortunate enough to have the timing right, you can even watch an airplane take off and land on our farm grass strip — "Willows Landing", which is just to the north (cardinal direction) of the campsite. Just 30 minutes to Gettysburg battlefields, historical downtown Frederick, and many other exciting places for exploration, Willows Farm is a great location for fun! Spend an evening watching Bull riding and barrel racing at J Bar W Ranch just a few minutes down the street in Johnsville. If vineyards and breweries are your thing we are just 15 - 30 minutes from many fine establishments. A few of our favorites are Black Ankle Vineyards, Linganore Winecellars and Attaboy Beer. Antique shopping abounds in the nearby charming, little town of New Market. So you're hungry and have a hankering for local cuisine? Take a five minute drive to the quaint downtown of Union Bridge and visit one of the three delicious family run restaurants. You can even take a few minutes to give your truck a bath at the Union Bridge Car Wash in the middle of town. Enjoy your stay and please contact us if we can help with anything.

The best camping near Cowans Gap State Park guide

Overview

About

Gap State Park is a 1,085-acre park in the beautiful Allens Valley of Fulton County. And if you haven't heard of it, well, that suits the locals just fine.

State forest land surrounds this large lake, offering a sense of protected tranquility. In the summer, families come to swim, fish off the pier, and grab ice cream cones at the concession stands. At the lake's southern end, two boat ramps provide access to canoes, kayaks and electric motors.

Hikers find solitude and abundant wildlife on 10 miles of trails. For a challenge, the Tuscarora Trail loop winds up the Tuscarora Mountain. Paved paths provide easy terrain, and there are designated trails for mountain biking and horseback riding.

The clean campground has over 200 sites, with primitive tent sites and 30 or 50 amp hook-ups for RVs. Rustic cabins equipped with bunk beds are a great group option. Despite its many amenities, the park is rarely crowded, except at peak times like Labor Day and Memorial Day.

Notable campgrounds

Lakeside Campground - Wake up to the gentle lapping of lake waters at this picturesque site.
Forest Retreat Campground - Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the woods at this secluded spot.
Mountain View Campground - Offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your ideal spot, especially during peak season.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute opportunities.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a site.

When to go

The best time to visit Cowans Gap State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is stunning. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be crowded. Winters are quiet but can be quite cold, so ensure you're prepared if you visit during this season.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly for your visit.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your activities within this timeframe.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's natural beauty.
Some areas may be closed for conservation; respect all signage and barriers.
Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but it's wise to bring essentials.