Fall Camping in Maryland
Discover the best fall camping across Maryland. Embrace the magic of autumn camping. Vibrant foliage, crisp air, and campfire nights under the stars.
Fall Camping in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Swallow Falls State Park
Towering hemlocks frame Maryland's highest waterfall as autumn transforms the Youghiogheny River gorge into a kaleidoscope of crimson and gold, with mist-kissed trails drawing fewer visitors once summer crowds depart.
Owens Creek Campground
Brilliant scarlet and gold maples blanket Catoctin Mountain's ridges each October, transforming primitive campsites into front-row seats for nature's greatest color show.
New Germany State Park
Blazing hardwoods frame the hemlock-shaded trails and glassy 10-acre lake, while September through October brings a serene escape from crowded campgrounds.
About Fall Camping in Maryland
Fall camping in Maryland offers an extraordinary tapestry of autumn experiences, from the misty Appalachian peaks of western Maryland to the blackwater rivers of the Eastern Shore. The state's diverse geography creates distinct fall camping zones: the Catoctin Mountains blaze with hardwood color while ancient hemlocks frame cascading waterfalls, and coastal cypress swamps glow amber along tidal rivers.
Best Time
Peak fall camping in Maryland spans from late September through early November, with timing varying by elevation and region. Western Maryland mountains, including Swallow Falls and Savage River, reach peak color in early to mid-October, typically the second and third weeks, when sugar maples, birches, and oaks create spectacular displays against evergreen hemlock backdrops.
Season Highlights
- Stunning fall foliage
- Cooler, comfortable temperatures
- Fewer crowds and quiet sites
- Perfect campfire weather
Explore Fall Camping in Maryland
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve western Maryland mountain campgrounds like Swallow Falls and New Germany by late July for October weekends, as these premier fall destinations fill quickly.
- 2Weekday camping offers significantly better availability and solitude even during peak color.
- 3Layer clothing strategically: mornings can dip into the 30s while afternoons reach the 60s, requiring everything from base layers to light jackets in a single day.
- 4Bring a quality sleeping bag rated to at least 20°F, as mountain nights grow cold quickly after sunset.
Fall Camping in Maryland FAQ
We've ranked 20+ fall campgrounds in Maryland based on foliage, weather, and reviews. Top options feature stunning autumn colors and comfortable temperatures.
Fall foliage in Maryland typically peaks during September through November, though timing varies by elevation and latitude. Check local foliage reports for optimal timing.
Maryland offers excellent fall camping with colorful foliage, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer. Many campgrounds have special fall activities and harvest-season events.
Popular Maryland Campgrounds Book Fast
The best fall camping in Maryland book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Swallow Falls State Park
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- Search 20+ fall camping in Maryland
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