Ash Campground

For Marylanders seeking a refreshing and accessible outdoor escape, Ash Campground, nestled within the beautiful Greenbrier State Park in Boonsboro, MD, is an excellent choice. This particular camping loop is well-regarded by visitors for its prime positioning and essential comforts, providing a fantastic base for exploring the scenic Appalachian foothills. As satisfied campers have noted, it offers a "great location to the lake/beach" and boasts "decent bathrooms and showers," ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Ash Campground is not a standalone destination, but rather one of four distinct camping loops within the expansive Greenbrier State Park. This integration means that campers at Ash benefit from all the diverse recreational offerings of the wider park, while enjoying the specific characteristics of their chosen loop. The park itself is a multi-use recreational area, renowned for its 42-acre man-made lake and extensive trail system, offering a wide array of activities for all ages and interests.

Whether you’re planning a tranquil weekend retreat or an activity-filled family vacation, Ash Campground at Greenbrier State Park provides the perfect setting. Imagine waking up to the sounds of birds, taking a leisurely stroll to the inviting white sandy beach for a morning swim, and then returning to a well-maintained campsite after a day of hiking or fishing. The focus on convenience, combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, makes Ash Campground a consistently popular choice for Marylanders looking to reconnect with nature without venturing too far from home. It's a testament to the fact that you can find a truly rewarding outdoor experience right here in Maryland.

Ash Campground is strategically located within Greenbrier State Park, with the park's main address being 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA. This prime setting places it within Washington County, Maryland, in the stunning backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains. Greenbrier State Park itself is a well-known multi-use recreational hub, celebrated for its natural allure and varied outdoor pursuits.

For Maryland residents, Greenbrier State Park boasts excellent accessibility. It is conveniently situated approximately three miles northeast of Boonsboro and, crucially, is just a short drive off Interstate 70. This makes for a relatively easy and direct journey from major population centers across the state. For instance, from Baltimore, the drive typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, and from the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, it's a similar travel time. Even those coming from more western parts of Maryland, like Cumberland, will find the park easily reachable via I-68 and connecting routes. This ease of access is a significant benefit, allowing locals to transition quickly from their daily routines to a refreshing natural environment.

Once inside Greenbrier State Park, well-maintained roads lead directly to the various camping loops, including Ash Campground. While the park entrance gate typically closes at sunset, campers who anticipate arriving later can contact the park office directly for specific instructions, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free check-in. Furthermore, the park's advantageous proximity to significant historical sites, such as Antietam National Battlefield, and direct access to sections of the Appalachian Trail, adds considerable value. This makes Greenbrier State Park and its Ash Campground not just a camping destination, but a central point for diverse recreational and educational experiences in Western Maryland.

Ash Campground, as an integral part of Greenbrier State Park, provides a robust array of services designed to ensure a comfortable and convenient camping experience for all visitors. These services cater to a wide range of camping styles and needs, from those seeking basic tent sites to campers with RVs.

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: Ash Campground offers sites suitable for both tent camping and RVs. While specific site-by-site amenities may vary, each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a cooking grate, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires. While Cedar Loop is noted for electric hookups, other loops like Ash primarily offer non-electric sites, emphasizing a more rustic experience while still providing essential comforts. Sites are generally spacious and designed to offer a degree of privacy, often surrounded by natural vegetation.

• Clean Bathhouses with Hot Showers: A highly appreciated service, the campground provides conveniently located bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers. Visitors consistently praise these facilities for their cleanliness and upkeep, ensuring a refreshing and comfortable experience after a day of outdoor activities.

• Dump Station: For the convenience of RV campers, a central dump station is readily available within Greenbrier State Park, simplifying waste disposal procedures before departure.

• Potable Water Access: Throughout the park and within the camping loops, various spigots provide access to potable drinking water, ensuring campers have a reliable source of fresh water for their needs.

• Online Reservation System: To guarantee a spot, especially during peak seasons, campsites at Ash Campground can be reserved in advance through the official Maryland Parks Reservations website or by phone. This system allows campers to plan their trip with certainty and secure their preferred site.

• Firewood Sales: For ease and safety, firewood is available for purchase within the park. This eliminates the need for campers to transport firewood from outside the park, which helps prevent the spread of invasive species.

• Park Ranger Assistance: The presence of dedicated park staff and rangers ensures a well-managed and safe environment. They are available to provide assistance, guide check-ins, and offer instructions for late arrivals, contributing to a secure and welcoming atmosphere.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Greenbrier State Park generally offers pet-friendly camping options. While specific loops or restrictions might apply, it allows many campers to bring their beloved canine companions along for their outdoor adventure.

Ash Campground, as an integral part of Greenbrier State Park, boasts numerous features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts across Maryland.

• Exceptional Lake and Beach Access: A standout feature, as noted by reviewers, is the "great location to the lake/beach." Greenbrier Lake is a 42-acre man-made freshwater lake with a beautiful white sandy beach. This provides abundant opportunities for swimming (with lifeguards on duty during peak season), sunbathing, and enjoying the water. Campers can also bring electric-motor boats, canoes, and kayaks, or rent paddleboats and rowboats for serene paddles on the lake.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: The park encompasses nearly eleven miles of diverse hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks, winding through various habitats. A segment of the renowned Appalachian Trail also crosses the park's eastern border via Bartman Hill Trail, offering a direct connection to a nationally significant long-distance trail for avid hikers.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviewers consistently praise the "decent bathrooms and showers," highlighting the park's commitment to cleanliness and comfort. The availability of hot showers is particularly appreciated by campers after a day of activities.

• Shaded Campsites: While specific details on tree cover for Ash are less explicit than for Birch, being part of Greenbrier's forest setting suggests sites are generally well-shaded by trees, providing natural cooling and a pleasant ambiance, crucial during warmer months.

• Family-Friendly Environment: Greenbrier State Park is designed to be family-friendly, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and the safe, supervised swimming beach. The overall atmosphere encourages family bonding and outdoor recreation for all ages.

• Fishing Opportunities: Greenbrier Lake is regularly stocked with trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill, offering excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. A Maryland Angler's License is required for those 16 and older.

• Year-Round Visitor Center: A visitor center within the park provides valuable information on the South Mountain Recreation Area, local wildlife, and features a small gift shop. It serves as a great resource for planning activities and learning more about the surrounding area.

• Proximity to Historical Sites: The park's location near historic Civil War battlefields, notably Antietam National Battlefield, offers a unique opportunity to combine outdoor recreation with educational tours of significant historical landmarks.

• Security and Park Management: The camping area is generally separated with a locked gate, contributing to a secure environment. The presence of park staff helps ensure rules are followed, and campers respect each other's space and privacy.

As a Maryland State Park, Ash Campground, like other loops within Greenbrier State Park, operates under the standardized pricing and discount structures set by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). While you won't find fleeting promotional codes as with private campgrounds, there are established programs designed to offer value, particularly to Maryland residents and specific demographics.

• Senior Citizen Discounts: Senior citizens who possess a valid Golden Age Pass are eligible for a half-price discount on camping fees when staying Sunday through Thursday. This is an ongoing benefit that significantly reduces the cost of a multi-night stay for eligible Maryland seniors.

• Youth Group Camping Rates: Greenbrier State Park offers special, reduced rates for organized youth groups. There's a nominal reservation service fee plus a per-camper service fee, making it a very affordable option for groups such as scout troops, school outdoor clubs, and other youth organizations seeking an outdoor experience.

• Day-Use Reservation System During Peak Season: Starting in May 2025, during peak times (weekends and holidays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day), Greenbrier State Park requires advance day-use reservations. While this is a management tool, it effectively ensures that visitors who have a reservation will have guaranteed entry, reducing overcrowding and traffic issues. This guaranteed access can be seen as a value-added service, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience during busy periods.

• Maryland State Park Pass Programs: Maryland residents can invest in various state park passes, such as the Annual Maryland Park Passport. These passes offer cost savings by providing unlimited day-use entry to all state parks and facilities for a full year, as well as discounts on certain state-operated concessions and boat rentals. While not a direct discount on camping fees, it provides overall value for frequent park visitors.

For the most accurate and current information on camping fees, specific eligibility for discounts, and any updates to reservation policies, it is always best practice to consult the official Maryland Department of Natural Resources website for Greenbrier State Park or utilize their online reservation portal.

To plan your camping trip to Ash Campground within Greenbrier State Park, or to gather more specific details regarding its facilities and make reservations, you can use the following contact points:

• Address (Greenbrier State Park): 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA

• Greenbrier State Park Office Phone: (301) 791-4767 (available weekdays from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

• Reservations (Maryland Parks Reservations): To book your campsite, visit parkreservations.maryland.gov or call 1-888-432-2267.

Calling the park office directly is recommended for any specific questions about Ash Campground, checking current conditions, or if you anticipate a late arrival. For making campsite bookings, the statewide reservation system is the most efficient and recommended method.

For Marylanders, Ash Campground at Greenbrier State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for an outdoor adventure, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational diversity, and convenient accessibility right in their own backyard. Its location in Boonsboro, easily reachable from major population centers like Baltimore and Washington D.C., means that a rejuvenating escape into nature is both quick and stress-free, making it ideal for everything from impromptu weekend getaways to planned family vacations.

The suitability for locals is significantly enhanced by the park's well-maintained facilities and the welcoming environment of Ash Campground. Reviewers consistently praise the "decent bathrooms and showers," which ensure a comfortable stay even while enjoying the rustic charm of camping. The "great location to the lake/beach" is a major draw, providing immediate access to swimming, sunbathing, and various water activities on Greenbrier Lake. This convenience is a huge plus for families, allowing children and adults alike to enjoy the water without extensive travel within the park.

Beyond the immediate campsite amenities and lake access, Greenbrier State Park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities that cater to all interests. From extensive hiking trails that wind through the Appalachian foothills (including a section of the famed Appalachian Trail) to excellent fishing in the stocked lake, there's always something to do. For Marylanders, this means a chance to explore the diverse ecosystems of their state, engage in healthy outdoor activities, and create lasting memories with family and friends, all within a familiar and well-managed state park system. The focus on accessibility, combined with programs like senior citizen discounts, further solidifies its role as a vital local resource. Ash Campground at Greenbrier State Park isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a quintessential Maryland outdoor experience, offering relaxation, adventure, and a profound connection with the state's natural beauty.

Ash Campground

Boonsboro, MD 21713, USA