Forest Camping in Maryland

Forest Camping in Maryland

Discover the best forest camping across Maryland. Immerse yourself in the forest. Towering trees, dappled sunlight, and the sounds of nature.

20+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: Year-round

Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region


About Forest Camping in Maryland

Forest camping Maryland offers an exceptional diversity of woodland experiences, from the ancient hemlock groves of Western Maryland's Appalachian highlands to the mysterious blackwater swamps of the Eastern Shore. The Old Line State's forested campgrounds span dramatic elevation changes and ecological zones, creating opportunities for everything from primitive backcountry adventures to family-friendly woodland retreats.

Best Time

Spring and fall represent peak seasons for forest camping Maryland adventures, with April through May and September through October offering ideal conditions. Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays beneath awakening forest canopies, with dogwood and redbud blooming in late April, while fall delivers spectacular foliage from mid-October through early November, particularly stunning in Western Maryland's mixed hardwood forests.

Scenery Highlights

  • Towering tree canopies
  • Shaded, cool campsites
  • Diverse wildlife viewing
  • Peaceful woodland atmosphere


Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Forest Camping in Maryland

Map Key
1
Savage River State Forest
2
Swallow Falls State Park
3
New Germany State Park
4
Owens Creek Campground
5
Camp Misty Mount
6
Big Run State Park
7
Gambrill State Park
8
Pocomoke River State Park
9
Tuckahoe State Park
10
Cedarville State Forest
11
Elk Neck State Park
12
Susquehanna State Park
13
Martinak State Park
14
Poplar Grove Youth Group Campground
15
Adirondack Shelters
16
Smallwood State Park
17
Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite
18
Chisel Branch Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite
19
Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite
20
Rohrbach Group Campground

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Forest hiking on mountain and lowland trailsWildlife observation and bird watchingPhotography of old-growth trees and forest landscapesFishing in forest streams and riversMountain biking on designated forest trailsWaterfall viewing in hemlock groves

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve Western Maryland forest campgrounds like Swallow Falls and New Germany well in advance through the Maryland Park Service reservation system, especially for fall foliage season when sites book solid months ahead.
  • 2Bring layered clothing for mountain locations where temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees from valley floors, and pack quality rain gear as Appalachian weather changes rapidly.
  • 3For primitive camping at Savage River State Forest or Big Run State Park, obtain free permits from forest headquarters and carry detailed topographic maps, as cell service is unreliable in remote valleys.
  • 4Eastern Shore forest campgrounds require different preparation: pack mosquito netting and DEET for summer visits, and consider screened shelters for comfort in humid coastal plain forests.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Forest Camping in Maryland

Forest Camping in Maryland FAQ

We've ranked 20+ forest campgrounds in Maryland based on tree coverage, wildlife viewing, and hiking access. Top options offer shaded sites and peaceful woodland settings.

Forest campgrounds in Maryland are home to diverse wildlife including deer, various bird species, and small mammals. Store food properly and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Maryland offers excellent forest camping with diverse woodland ecosystems, well-maintained trails, and shaded campsites perfect for summer escapes. Many sites offer both developed and primitive options.

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