1
4.7
(49)
Savage River State Forest
Maryland State Parks, Maryland
Dense canopies of ancient hemlocks and towering hardwoods create cathedral-like shade along winding trails that descend to rushing streams and the wild Savage River.
Tents
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.
21+ Campgrounds4.2★ AverageBest: Year-round
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Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
2
4.5
(43)
Swallow Falls State Park
Maryland State Parks, Maryland
Towering ancient hemlocks create a cathedral canopy where centuries-old giants filter sunlight onto shaded campsites along the rushing Youghiogheny River.
Tents
RVs
3
4.5
(133)
New Germany State Park
Oakland, MD
Maryland State Parks, Maryland
Maryland State Parks, Maryland
Towering hemlocks and hardwoods create a cathedral canopy above moss-covered trails that wind past ferns, wildflowers, and mountain streams. The dense forest canopy provides constant natural shade while woodland trails reveal deer, songbirds, and the quiet rustle of wildlife moving...
Tents
RVs
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 Forest2
Swallow Falls State Park3
New Germany State Park4
Owens Creek Campground5
Camp Misty Mount6
Big Run State Park7
Gambrill State Park8
Pocomoke River State Park9
Tuckahoe State Park10
Cedarville State Forest11
Elk Neck State Park12
Susquehanna State Park13
Martinak State Park14
Poplar Grove Youth Group Campground15
Smallwood State Park16
Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite17
Chisel Branch Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite18
Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight (Hbo) Campsite19
Rohrbach Group Campground20
Slyder FarmhousePlan 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
How to Book These Campgrounds
The most popular campgrounds for forest camping in maryland book up months in advance. Here are the tools to help you get a site.
Forest Camping in Maryland FAQ
We've ranked 21+ 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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