Rohrbach Group Campground

4.39

50 reviews

18316 Burnside Bridge Road, Sharpsburg, MD 21782

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Featured in:Group Camping Maryland Primitive Camping Maryland Mountain Camping Maryland +4 more

Quick Facts

515 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 th...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Antietam National Battlefield site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

515 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 th...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Antietam National Battlefield site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Rohrbach Group Campground

$25.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group tent-only area has a nightly rate of $25. This fee excludes taxes or incremental charges and does not reflect any applicable discounts.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$25.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(301) 432-5124

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What Campers Say

4.39

Recommended

Based on 50 reviews

30 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioussites

"User reviews emphasize the suitability of the campground for scout groups and civic organizations, praising its historical significance and spacious sites. However, the lack of potable water and steep terrain for some sites are consistent drawbacks."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

18316 Burnside Bridge Road, Sharpsburg, MD 21782

Rohrbach Group Campground

18316 Burnside Bridge Road, Sharpsburg, MD 21782

Driving directionsThe visitor center is located at 5831 Dunker Church Rd. off of MD Rt 65, ten miles south of I-70 and one mile north of historic Sharpsburg, Maryland. The campground is located at 18316 Burnside Bridge Road, Sharpsburg, MD 21782.

Roads leading to the campground are paved and accessible by regular vehicles. Seasonal closures may occur, and visitors should verify road conditions ahead of time.

Nearby places

Sharpsburg (1 mile, approximately 5 minutes)

Hagerstown (10 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Frederick (30 miles, approximately 45 minutes)

Washington, D.C. (70 miles, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Groceries and supplies are available at the battlefield market nearby, though visitors may need to travel to Safeway in West Virginia for more extensive options. Nutters Ice Cream (cash only) and Antietam Creek swimming area are popular stops nearby.

Best Time to Camp at Rohrbach Group Campground

Winter transforms the battlefield into a serene, frost-kissed landscape where temperatures dance between crisp 29°F mornings and mild 41°F afternoons. The season brings its own magic – perhaps a dusting of snow to blanket the historic grounds, or gentle rain that whispers stories of the past. Despite the chill, winter's moderate humidity keeps the air comfortable for those bundled in warm layers. Each season paints the battlefield in different hues, but winter offers a particularly contemplative atmosphere, perfect for reflection around the campfire.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Open in summer but reviews note heat and need to bring water; still usable for groups.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall favored for cooler temps and fewer bugs; season recommended in reviews.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring favored for cool temps and good conditions; reviews cite spring as a top time to visit.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside Apr 1–Nov 30; winter use not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 1 - November 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 1 through November 30.
Current Alerts: No potable water available at the campground due to ongoing construction at the visitor center. Guests must bring their own drinking water.

About Rohrbach Group Campground

Step into history at Rohrbach Group Campground, where young scouts and civic groups can experience the hallowed grounds of Antietam National Battlefield under starlit skies. This rustic, walk-in camping retreat offers an authentic wilderness experience for groups of up to 30 adventurers per site. Here, modern conveniences give way to the simple pleasures of primitive camping – pack your water bottles and prepare for an unforgettable journey where nature and history converge. The absence of running water only adds to the authentic frontier experience, teaching self-reliance while fostering deeper connections with both the land and your fellow campers.

Rohrbach Group Campground exclusively accommodates group tent camping with a primitive setup. No options for RVs, cabins, or individual camping are available.

Historical SignificanceYour tent sits on ground that witnessed the pivotal moment when America's destiny hung in the balance. On September 17, 1862, these peaceful fields erupted in the bloodiest single day of combat in American history, forever changing the nation's trajectory. The Confederate Army's northward advance was halted here, and from this Union victory emerged President Lincoln's courage to issue the Emancipation Proclamation. As you explore the battlefield by day and gather around your campfire by night, you'll feel the weight of history beneath your feet – where brave soldiers once stood, young scouts now learn lessons of courage, sacrifice, and the precious nature of freedom.

Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms the battlefield into a serene, frost-kissed landscape where temperatures dance between crisp 29°F mornings and mild 41°F afternoons. The season brings its own magic – perhaps a dusting of snow to blanket the historic grounds, or gentle rain that whispers stories of the past. Despite the chill, winter's moderate humidity keeps the air comfortable for those bundled in warm layers. Each season paints the battlefield in different hues, but winter offers a particularly contemplative atmosphere, perfect for reflection around the campfire.

Natural Features and SceneryBeyond its historical significance, this campground offers a living tapestry of Maryland's natural beauty. Rolling farmlands stretch toward wooded horizons, while ancient limestone forests harbor secrets in their shadowy depths. Morning mists rise from pastoral meadows where white-tailed deer graze peacefully, a stark contrast to the battlefield's turbulent past. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting the brilliant flash of Eastern Bluebirds, the distinctive call of Horned Larks, and the elusive Grasshopper Sparrows hiding in tall grasses. Keep your eyes skyward for the majestic sight of Red-Tailed Hawks circling on thermal currents, while the distinctive drumming of Pileated Woodpeckers echoes through the forest. Curious woodchucks may even venture near camp, adding charm to your wilderness experience.

Geological RegionNestled in western Maryland's picturesque Cumberland Valley, the campground showcases the region's distinctive limestone geology that has shaped both its natural beauty and agricultural heritage. This fertile valley, carved by ancient waters and time, creates a patchwork quilt of emerald pastures, dense woodlots, and limestone forests that have sustained communities for centuries. The unique geological foundation supports diverse ecosystems, from calcium-rich soils that nourish wildflowers to rocky outcrops that provide habitat for specialized plants and animals. This is where the natural history of millions of years meets the human history of a defining American moment.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in starts at 3:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is by 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 30 guests per site.

Groups

Each group site accommodates up to 30 people and is equipped with fire rings and picnic tables.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are spacious, walk-in accessible, and spread out within the campground. There is no clear demarcation for individual campsites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online portal or contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available for advance reservation only; no first-come, first-served sites.

Cancellation PolicyA $10.00 service fee applies for reservation changes. Cancellations incur a $10 fee if made more than 48 hours in advance. Within 48 hours, the first night's fee is also charged.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specifically mentioned in the authoritative content. However, some reviews indicate steep terrain, particularly at sites 9 and 10.

Site SizeEach campsite is large enough to accommodate up to 30 people, offering adequate space for group camping.

PrivacyThe sites provide open space, which may limit privacy between groups, as indicated by user reviews.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesFor easier access, choose sites closer to the parking area like #9. Bring tents instead of hammocks due to limited tree coverage. Be aware that site markers may be confusing, leading to occasional overlap.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides opportunities for hiking, biking, historical education, and ranger-led programs. Its location within the Antietam National Battlefield makes it ideal for cultural and historical exploration. Wildlife viewing is also a notable activity due to the diverse landscape.

HikingThe campground connects to the 15 miles of trails within Antietam National Battlefield, with Bloody Lane and Final Attack Trails being the most popular. Trails vary in difficulty and provide historical and natural exploration opportunities.

BikingCycling on the battlefield tour road is a popular activity, with a safety requirement for helmets for riders under 16.

Wildlife viewingThe battlefield's diverse habitat supports wildlife such as white-tailed deer, woodchucks, Eastern Bluebirds, and Red-Tailed Hawks. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching and other wildlife observations.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsPark ranger programs and pre-arranged ranger-led activities provide cultural and historical education about the site and the Civil War.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsAbsence of potable water and reliance on pit toilets are noted hazards. Visitors must bring water for drinking and cooking. Wildlife like turkeys and other animals may be present near campsite borders.

Active AlertsNo potable water available at the campground due to ongoing construction at the visitor center. Guests must bring their own drinking water.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood is provided but must meet restrictions.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly stated in sources.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include the Sharpsburg Volunteer Fire Department (approximately 1 mile away) and Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown (approximately 10 miles away).

Trash & RecyclingVisitors are expected to pack out their trash as there are no mentions of on-site trash or recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesLocated near Antietam Creek, which features a swimming hole and a rope swing.

Camp HostRangers are available for service projects upon pre-arrangement. No live-in campground host is mentioned.

Weather at Rohrbach Group Campground

Reviews

4.4

50 reviews

Recommended

Rohrbach Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews emphasize the suitability of the campground for scout groups and civic organizations, praising its historical significance and spacious sites. However, the lack of potable water and steep terrain for some sites are consistent drawbacks.

Review Summaries

Based on 50 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently commend the spacious sites, the historical setting, and the cleanliness of the facilities. "The campground was in good shape and the boys enjoyed the time spent at Antietam."

Based on 50 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of potable water and steep terrain for certain sites (e.g., sites 9 and 10) are recurring concerns. "No water available on site, but water was available at the visitor center during their...

Based on 50 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors suggest bringing ample water supplies and preparing for the lack of cell service. "Bring your own potable water. Drinking water is not provided at the campground."

Based on 50 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open from March to November. Spring and fall are favored for cooler temperatures and fewer bugs, while summer experiences are noted for their heat and the need for water.

Based on 50 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great campground! Lots of parking and relatively clean out house!" "Sites are roomy, and there was lots of cut and seasoned firewood available."

Based on 50 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 9 is noted for being close to the parking lot but difficult to access due to steep terrain. Site 1 and 2 are praised for good maintenance and firewood availability.

Based on 50 reviews