The best camping in Cowans Gap State Park, PA

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100% (4)

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

The best camping in Cowans Gap State Park, PA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Cosey Cabin

4. Cosey Cabin

100%
(21)
20mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$88
 / night
Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna

5. Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna

100%
(18)
20mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chambersburg, PA
The Cabin, Wood-Fired Sauna, and Meadow campsites at Montside Orchard boast one of the most magical sunset views in the Cumberland Valley. You can also expect to see a daily show of wildlife—herds of white tail deer, wild turkeys and hundreds of wild birds make Montside Orchard their home! Bring your binoculars--it's a wooded wonderland! The Cabin is hugged by woodlands at the back and bucolic green hills dotted with orchards and small farms out the front. Yet within 15 minutes you will have arrived in quaint, well appointed downtown Chambersburg-- a small town bursting with good art and good food! We are also conveniently located 10 minutes from I-81, a major North/South interstate and 10 minutes from Rt 30. While we don't allow hiking on the property Rt 30 takes you into Micheaux Forest, the Appalachian Trail and Caledonia State Park within 15 min and the historic Gettysburg National Park within 35. White Tail Ski Resort is 40 minutes South and Ski Liberty is 40 miles East.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Estes Place

7. Estes Place

98%
(32)
22mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$21
 / night
Wilbur's Shed

8. Wilbur's Shed

99%
(132)
23mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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 one hour and thirty minutes 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. Your GPS will not bring you to the exact driveway location. You need to be personally observant. This is the top of a mountain ridge. The access lane is steep, rocky, and has water erosion ditches you must drive over. Do not attempt this if you have a low profile car or a new/fragile camper. 4WD/AWD is highly recommended. Low profile and fancy cars are not recommended. This camping site is for those who want to live ruggedly like Lewis Clark. To see the water ditches you must drive over, go to YouTube and search "Wilbur's Shed - Blairs Mills", and it is the account of a cat with a white face. 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 an RVs park where you will socialize with a hundred other campers. This is primitive and isolated. This is an ideal camping spot if you want to escape from people. 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. Rental through Hipcamp does not include hunting or the use of firearms, nor the use of dirt bikes and ATVs.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Grouseland Hospitality

10. Grouseland Hospitality

98%
(316)
27mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$44
 / night
CLOUD NINE VICTORIAN FARM

13. CLOUD NINE VICTORIAN FARM

99%
(132)
29mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Smithsburg, MD
BEST OF HIPCAMP AWARD WINNER 3 TIMES HARDY CAMPERS ONLY PLEASE PLS ASK ABT SPECIFIC DATES Spectacular Setting-360 Views-Farmland Mts- Orchards- 1890 Historic Buildings -5G Wifi - Games, Arts and Crafts, Swings Lots of peaceful places to sit, very nice wash up and restrroom area, Kitchen set up in Barn w lg table, pantry etc. Beautiful Farmland Everywhere Fire pit , ShadeTrees, Gardens ,Meadows, Animals, Great Area Beautiful Big Barn w Kitchen area, Arts and Crafts and workshop , Huge Shade Trees, Upscale Chic washroom/bathroom area -Feed the Chickens, Gather their colored eggs- Activities and Games-Tree Swings-Horseshoes-Basketball-Checkers-Cards- Living Farmstead Museum, Hands on- Old Tools and Ways -Gardening-Birdwatching- PYO Flowers,Herbs, Veggies -Great Fire Pit, Cast Iron Skillets, Tools and Grates provided -Learn about Agriculture and times on a 1890 American Farm - Local Orchards, Creameries,Mennonite Feed and dry goods stores MICROWAVE - HOTPLATE TOASTER ,FIREPITS, Big Webber Charcoal grill ***FIREWOOD BUNDLES AT FARM/ONLINE IN EXTRAS AREA*** Victorian Summer Kitchen Curiosity, circa 1890, is located on small, organic Cloud Nine Farm among the beautiful Orchard, Dairy and Mennonite country of Western Maryland. Glorious sunrises over the Catoctin Mts and a great 360 vista of the surrounding Farmlands and Orchards. Close to the AT and several State Parks, great biking . Awesome area. We DO have good Wifi in all buildings THIS IS REAL FARM COUNTRY Fresh local produce available at innumerable Orchard stands throughout the year. This includes milk and ice cream :) , Apples, Peaches, Plums, Cherries, Strawberries, and all types of veggies and meats. The summer kitchen and its loft are outfitted as they would have been in the Victorian times, with implements for cooking, canning, candle making, herb and plant processing, braided rug making. etc. Also, part of the stable is set up as a eating area, and the barn and hayloft as a hands on Farm museum to explore. Old fashioned games and rope swings and Arts and Crafts for additional fun.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$99
 / night
Site 1

14. Mountain View Mini Farm

98%
(26)
29mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 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
Forest House at Warren Estates

17. Forest House at Warren Estates

100%
(39)
33mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Newville, PA
No parties! No Events! We are not a venue. The Forest House and grounds are for use by our registered guests only. It has been our dream for quite some time to have a place where we could "get away from it all" and relax. The Forest House has the best of both worlds—all the amenities of nature along with all the best from home. From its stone fireplace to its granite counter tops, this log home has many of the luxuries one would expect to find in a fine hotel. We supply the linens, soaps, shampoos and so forth. This is a "just bring your toothbrush" kind of place. Free Internet/WiFi and free continental US long distance. Log home. Super clean and fun. Fully prepped with linens and towels. A "just bring your toothbrush" kind of place. 3 miles from the midway point of the Appalachian Trail. Plenty of parking. NOTE: must be 25 or older to rent. NOTE: Base rate is based on an occupancy of 2. Each additional guest (above 2) is $25/night additional. Accommodations Overview: Scan QR code (third photo) with mobile phone for an immersive 3D Tour. 1250 square feet (main living area & loft); Fully finished basement (450 square feet); Bedroom 1: queen bed (closed door, main living area); Bedroom 2: queen bed (closed door, main living area); Bedroom 3 (open loft area): twin beds (qty 3); Fully finished basement. Pricing Overview: Price shown is based on double (2 guests) occupancy. $25 per person/per night for additional persons (above 2). $80 cleaning fee per stay. We have 2 large Roku-enabled TVs, so guests will have access to our very own Netflix account, YouTube, and many other entertainment options. Want to enjoy a nice fire in the fireplace or the fire pit out back? We even supply the firewood! Adjacent to the Michaux State Forest (you are practically in it!). Pine Grove Furnace State Park (3.1 miles away). Full beach, concessions and swimming area. Kings Gap Environmental Education Center (about 8.5 miles away). Full access to the home. Once you book, I will send you a key code which opens up the lock box adjacent to the front door. It is an "honor system" check-in/check-out. Note: be sure to re-enter the lock box code in order to close the box.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$250
 / night
Updated Fire Ring. 16' diameter crushed rock area around fire ring. Campsite is mowed weekly and sized about 80'x80'.

18. Mother Earth Organic Farm

100%
(63)
33mi from Cowans Gap 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
Taylors Landing Camping Club

19. Taylors Landing Camping Club

99%
(499)
34mi from Cowans Gap 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
Ridge Rider Campground

20. Ridge Rider Campground

100%
(14)
35mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$39
 / night
100% (4)

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Cosey Cabin

100%
(21)
20mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$88
 / night

Montside Orchard Camp, Cabin&Sauna

100%
(18)
20mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chambersburg, PA
The Cabin, Wood-Fired Sauna, and Meadow campsites at Montside Orchard boast one of the most magical sunset views in the Cumberland Valley. You can also expect to see a daily show of wildlife—herds of white tail deer, wild turkeys and hundreds of wild birds make Montside Orchard their home! Bring your binoculars--it's a wooded wonderland! The Cabin is hugged by woodlands at the back and bucolic green hills dotted with orchards and small farms out the front. Yet within 15 minutes you will have arrived in quaint, well appointed downtown Chambersburg-- a small town bursting with good art and good food! We are also conveniently located 10 minutes from I-81, a major North/South interstate and 10 minutes from Rt 30. While we don't allow hiking on the property Rt 30 takes you into Micheaux Forest, the Appalachian Trail and Caledonia State Park within 15 min and the historic Gettysburg National Park within 35. White Tail Ski Resort is 40 minutes South and Ski Liberty is 40 miles East.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

Estes Place

98%
(32)
22mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$21
 / night

Wilbur's Shed

99%
(132)
23mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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 one hour and thirty minutes 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. Your GPS will not bring you to the exact driveway location. You need to be personally observant. This is the top of a mountain ridge. The access lane is steep, rocky, and has water erosion ditches you must drive over. Do not attempt this if you have a low profile car or a new/fragile camper. 4WD/AWD is highly recommended. Low profile and fancy cars are not recommended. This camping site is for those who want to live ruggedly like Lewis Clark. To see the water ditches you must drive over, go to YouTube and search "Wilbur's Shed - Blairs Mills", and it is the account of a cat with a white face. 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 an RVs park where you will socialize with a hundred other campers. This is primitive and isolated. This is an ideal camping spot if you want to escape from people. 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. Rental through Hipcamp does not include hunting or the use of firearms, nor the use of dirt bikes and ATVs.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night

Grouseland Hospitality

98%
(316)
27mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$44
 / night

CLOUD NINE VICTORIAN FARM

99%
(132)
29mi from Cowans Gap State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Smithsburg, MD
BEST OF HIPCAMP AWARD WINNER 3 TIMES HARDY CAMPERS ONLY PLEASE PLS ASK ABT SPECIFIC DATES Spectacular Setting-360 Views-Farmland Mts- Orchards- 1890 Historic Buildings -5G Wifi - Games, Arts and Crafts, Swings Lots of peaceful places to sit, very nice wash up and restrroom area, Kitchen set up in Barn w lg table, pantry etc. Beautiful Farmland Everywhere Fire pit , ShadeTrees, Gardens ,Meadows, Animals, Great Area Beautiful Big Barn w Kitchen area, Arts and Crafts and workshop , Huge Shade Trees, Upscale Chic washroom/bathroom area -Feed the Chickens, Gather their colored eggs- Activities and Games-Tree Swings-Horseshoes-Basketball-Checkers-Cards- Living Farmstead Museum, Hands on- Old Tools and Ways -Gardening-Birdwatching- PYO Flowers,Herbs, Veggies -Great Fire Pit, Cast Iron Skillets, Tools and Grates provided -Learn about Agriculture and times on a 1890 American Farm - Local Orchards, Creameries,Mennonite Feed and dry goods stores MICROWAVE - HOTPLATE TOASTER ,FIREPITS, Big Webber Charcoal grill ***FIREWOOD BUNDLES AT FARM/ONLINE IN EXTRAS AREA*** Victorian Summer Kitchen Curiosity, circa 1890, is located on small, organic Cloud Nine Farm among the beautiful Orchard, Dairy and Mennonite country of Western Maryland. Glorious sunrises over the Catoctin Mts and a great 360 vista of the surrounding Farmlands and Orchards. Close to the AT and several State Parks, great biking . Awesome area. We DO have good Wifi in all buildings THIS IS REAL FARM COUNTRY Fresh local produce available at innumerable Orchard stands throughout the year. This includes milk and ice cream :) , Apples, Peaches, Plums, Cherries, Strawberries, and all types of veggies and meats. The summer kitchen and its loft are outfitted as they would have been in the Victorian times, with implements for cooking, canning, candle making, herb and plant processing, braided rug making. etc. Also, part of the stable is set up as a eating area, and the barn and hayloft as a hands on Farm museum to explore. Old fashioned games and rope swings and Arts and Crafts for additional fun.
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 / night

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The best camping in Cowans Gap State Park, PA 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.
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