The best camping near Rock Creek Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Rock Creek Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Rock Creek Park

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Bears Den Campground

5 sites · Tents66 acres · 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.

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.

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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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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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Happy Heart Highlands and Alpacas

3 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 and within an hour and a half of DC if you're planning a day trip. We have a prime central location with close access to so many things to do. This beautiful property is nestled in a 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 and Black Angus grazing as well as Alpacas. We also have beautiful peacocks on the property. We are a working farm so expect to see tractors and you may even see us baling hay or tending to the cattle. We enjoy talking to our guests so feel free to stop us for a chat.

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Riverfront Retreat

23 sites · Tents50 acres · Richardsville, VA

50 acres of land with 1/2 mile of beautiful river frontage on the Rappahannock. Pick your spot anywhere on the property. Bring your fishin poles, kayaks, tubes, etc. Peace and quiet and mother nature.... This is raw land with no electricity, no water, no hookups. There are bathrooms and showers provided 1 mile away at the neighboring campground(free to use).

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Bald Eagle Farm on the Patuxent

3 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Brandywine, MD

Bald Eagle Farm has been in our family for three generations. Today two generations still live and operate the family farm. We once raised tobacco and cattle and have now converted to growing hay and grain. My family wants to share the views and the experience of sleeping under the stars on our beautiful secluded farm. You will hear nothing but the wind, birds, frogs and insects while you doze off or enjoy the dark sky and camp fire. We live on the farm so we are always here to help you out if needed. We can provide you with the firewood you need and water from our deep well. We are here to make your stay as comfortable as possible and provide a restroom in the case of an "emergency". Recently named a finalist for 'Best Hipcamp in Maryland'! Thank you SO much for your support and we look forward to hosting you in 2022. There are three campsites on the farm, one by the pond and two by the river. Very secluded and all sites include , firepit, log bench, and a picnic table that seats 3-4 people. PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN FIREWOOD. AT THIS TIME WE ARE OUT FOR THE SEASON. The original river campsite has been moved to a more remote spot so that all campers can access the pond and pier to the river. Farm encompasses nearly 300 acres on the Patuxent River. There is access to the river on high tide via our private creek (must bring your own canoe or kayak) and 150 acres of marshland. Over 100 acres of woods to walk through and a pond for wildlife watching. Local Spots to Visit: Canoe/Kayak/Fishing: Clyde Watson Boating Area, Patuxent River Park, Patuxent Wetlands Park, Cedar Haven Fishing Area Hiking: Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Patuxent River Park, Cedarville State Forest, Rosaryville State Park, Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, Maxwell Hall Park Places to Eat: Hardesty Haven Cafe, Moreland's Produce & Market, Cedarville Grocery. (Highly recommend packing well, we are approx. 20 minutes from a grocery store) Places to Drink: Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Romano Vineyard & Winery, Janemark Winery & Vineyard

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Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

2 sites · RVs, Tents139 acres · Westminster, MD

Welcome to our fifth generation, mini-valley, woodland, and rolling hills. Empty Cupboard Farm has been family owned since 1918. It is presently planted in soy and corn. Wildlife abounds, including deer, small mammals, and geese. Bald eagles and Heron even take a pond dip periodically. Woodland trails are accessible and new tree plantings can be observed. We welcome RVs under 30'. It will be too hilly for anything longer. (Be aware: inclement weather is not your friend here if your vehicle can't handle potentially slippery conditions.) Enjoy the following activities: Mountain biking, pedal onlyPond fishing. (Sorry, no swimming in the pond; but an "An open to the public", private pool is 13 miles/20min. As is the Y. Lawn games and a fire pit are available. So are the stars at night; cloud permitting. Consider the free star gazing app, SkyView Lite, even in the day and under clouds. Don't miss our stunning sunsets at the "Red Door," our entrance. Historical towns within 10 miles any direction are reached over rolling countryside. Gettysburg is less than 20 miles. Baltimore is less than an hours ride by open highway. Blue Ridge mountains 18 miles. Taneytown, 1836, has an extraordinary antique store that is a delight to browse; as well as fine dining, drive through, an open air beer garden and close by grocery stores. Homemade ice cream is found at Baugher's and Hoffmans in Westminster. Baugher's Orchard has "pick your own" available. There is a mini farm animal petting zoo at the orchard. Additional things to see: Boating in Carroll County Maryland. Local wineries Ski Liberty Carroll is a full service county whatever your needs. Check out carrollcountytourism.org to learn more No lions, tigers, and Oh my! However, be aware that small critters may try to steal your food. No recent bear sightings. Geese visit occasionally. Coyotes are seen periodically. All hunting rights are reserved for long term clientele; therefore, hiking on the farm may be curtailed if they are present during hunting season. (November- January) Consider using Sky View Lite on line to watch the sky.

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Cross Creek Farm

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Southern Gateway, VA

Originally part of Blake Farm, built in the 1930's. Blake Farm was subdivided into 5 acres farmettes in the 1990's. The original farmhouse is next door, now known as Agape Farms. The forest has reclaimed much of the original Blake Farm land. Visit over 4 acres of available land, from the pastures, to the wooded creek, or the very back edge of the farm abutting deep woods. Spend relaxing time petting the Nigerian Dwarf goats, Rhode Island Red chickens, and the super-friendly livestock guard dogs (Thomasina, Bucky, and Sarge). We are also located adjacent to Agape Farms, with its horses, ducks, and chickens. All this in horse country just minutes from I-95 and an hour from Washington, DC or Richmond, VA.

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Peaceful Hollow Pines

1 site · RV, Tent29 acres · Bluemont, VA

Learn more about this land: Just 1.6 miles from an Appalachian trail access point, our site is a beautiful slice of Blue Ridge mountain life. We have a small hobby farm with chickens, peacocks, and livestock guardian dogs (who bark at night). The rest of the property is wooded, with a 1/2 acre clearing great for tents and campers. PLEASE NOTE: at least one camper must be 21+. Until May 1, fires only from to 4pm-midnight due to local restrictions. You may purchase firewood from us or gather your own. :-)

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Hawkwood Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents91 acres · 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 abiding by social distancing procedures, so our contact will be limited at this time. You may be visited by our good natured Labrador Sawdust and our sweet Great Pyrenees Ivory. We are asking that people take their trash with them.

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Breezy View

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Mechanicsville, MD

Waterfront property with great sunsets and a relaxing view. Close to Budds Creek and Maryland International Raceway. Located on the Scenic Wicomico River a potomac tributary. The property is close to the Wicomico shores boat ramp and fishing pier. Also close by is the Wicomico Shores Golf Course, where aside from golfing you can enjoy an amazing burger and a beverage. Come kayak and fish or just enjoy a great sunset and campfire.

The best camping near Rock Creek Park guide

Overview

About

America's premier urban national park is a wilderness and recreational wonderland in the Northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C.
The 1,754-acre playground for humans and habitat for wildlife boasts over 32 miles of trails. You'll also find meadows and streams in the forested landscape that's just made for a leisurely picnic lunch.

The park's flat asphalt trails accommodate runners, cyclists, strollers, and rollerbladers. A thick cover of hardwood trees provides shade and a refreshing escape from the hectic city. There are two primary trails that run north-south in the park: The Western Ridge Trail and the Valley Trail. Multiple connector trails running mostly east-west join them. This makes it super easy to create your own 1- to 10-mile loops. Check out the Highlighted Hikes brochure for some moderate routes that take you through the forest and along the creek, passing by a Civil War fort and a 1880s poet's cabin.

You can pretty much practice the sport of your passion in Rock Creek Park. The Tennis Center has 15 hard courts and 10 clay courts. The park's two boating centers offer all sorts of rental equipment including canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. There's an 18-hole golf course complete with putting greens and pro shop. The Horse Center offers riding lessons, trail rides, and pony rides. Equestrians enjoy 13 miles of dirt and gravel bridle paths that crisscross the park.

The Old Stone House, two bookstores, a Planetarium, and the 4,200-seat Carter Barron Amphitheatre are just a few of the other attractions here. Ranger-led wildlife tours and other programs start or take place at the Nature Center, which also serves as the visitor center. Stop there first for trail maps. They'll fill you in on the numerous free or inexpensive adventures available to you at Rock Creek Park.