Campsite 13

For Marylanders dreaming of a camping experience that offers true peace, solitude, and abundant space, Campsite 13 within the expansive Rocky Gap State Park in Flintstone, MD, stands out as an exceptional choice. Unlike many campgrounds where sites are tightly packed, Campsite 13 is celebrated for its generous dimensions and its fortunate placement, ensuring a sense of privacy and distance from neighboring campers. It's the perfect setting for those looking to truly unwind, disconnect from the everyday hustle, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Western Maryland.

Rocky Gap State Park, encompassing over 3,000 acres of rugged mountains, features the stunning 243-acre Lake Habeeb, fed by Rocky Gap Run. The park itself is a gem, offering impressive sheer cliffs, scenic overlooks, and a dense hemlock forest. Within this picturesque landscape, individual campsites like Campsite 13 provide a personal sanctuary. One satisfied camper highlighted this aspect perfectly, stating, "Great site, very peaceful and distant from others. Plenty of space for our 3 vehicles and 16’ camper." This emphasis on privacy and room to breathe is a major draw for many Marylanders seeking a genuine outdoor escape.

However, it's worth noting that the terrain can sometimes present challenges, as one review mentioned, "Got stuck in the mud here. Had to wait until morning to move the truck when the ground was harder." This underscores the need for campers to be prepared for natural conditions, especially after rain, ensuring they have appropriate vehicles and equipment for varying ground conditions. Despite this, the overall allure of Campsite 13 lies in its ability to offer a serene and spacious base from which to explore all that Rocky Gap State Park has to offer, from lakeside recreation to mountain trails.

Campsite 13 is located within Rocky Gap State Park, at 17600 Campers Hill Drive, Flintstone, MD 21530, USA. Rocky Gap State Park is nestled in Allegany County, in the western region of Maryland. This area is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, lush forests, and the pristine waters of Lake Habeeb. The park's address is easily found, and it's a well-known recreational destination within the state, making it a straightforward journey for Maryland locals.

Accessibility to Rocky Gap State Park is excellent for residents across Maryland and surrounding states. The park is conveniently located just off I-68 (Exit 50), making it an easy drive from major metropolitan areas like Baltimore and Washington D.C., typically within a two to three-hour drive. Once inside the park, well-maintained paved roads lead to the various campground loops. While individual campsites like Campsite 13 are praised for their distance from others, the internal roads generally allow for easy navigation with vehicles and campers.

For Campsite 13 specifically, while it offers ample space for vehicles and campers, the review mentioning getting "stuck in the mud" indicates that certain sites, particularly if they are grassy or dirt-based, may become soft after rain. Campers with larger RVs or those visiting during wet periods should be mindful of site conditions and choose appropriate parking spots. Despite this minor caveat, the overall accessibility to this peaceful retreat within a prominent Maryland State Park remains a key advantage for local campers.

Rocky Gap State Park Campground, where Campsite 13 is located, offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to enhance the camping experience for all visitors:

• Individual Campsites: The campground boasts 278 individual campsites, including a mix of primitive tent sites and sites equipped with 30-amp electric hook-ups. Campsite 13 is noted for its ample space, accommodating multiple vehicles and a 16-foot camper.
• Mini Cabins and Yurts: For those seeking a step up from traditional camping, the park offers 13 mini cabins (sleeping four or six people) and a yurt (accommodating eight). These provide electricity and beds, requiring campers to bring their own linens.
• Family & Youth Group Sites: Dedicated areas are available for larger family gatherings (up to 40 people with a two-story Mini Cabin and six 30-amp electric hookups) and organized youth groups.
• Bathhouses with Hot Water: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses are conveniently located in each campground loop, providing hot showers for all campers.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available for RVs, ensuring proper waste disposal for those with self-contained units.
• Camp Store: An on-site camp store offers essential camping supplies, snacks, ice, and firewood, ensuring convenience for campers who may need to resupply.
• Rocky Gap Snacks: A snack bar provides quick bites and refreshments, especially handy during peak seasons.
• Private Swimming Beach: The campground has its own designated swimming beach on Lake Habeeb, offering a less crowded alternative to the main public beach and often including a nearby playground for children.
• Watercraft Rentals: Canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available from spring to fall, allowing campers to easily enjoy Lake Habeeb.
• Scales & Tales Aviary: An on-site aviary provides an educational and engaging experience with rescued birds of prey and other native Maryland wildlife.
• Nature Center: Offers interpretive programs and exhibits to help visitors learn about the park's natural and cultural history.
• Pet-Friendly Areas: Pets are allowed in designated camp loops (Ash, Birch, Chestnut, Dogwood, and Elm – Sites 1-143) but must be leashed and cleaned up after.

Rocky Gap State Park, and by extension Campsite 13, offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination for Marylanders:

• Spacious & Private Campsites: A key highlight, as confirmed by reviewers, is the ample space and distance between sites, ensuring a peaceful and uncrowded camping experience. This is particularly true for sites like Campsite 13.
• Lake Habeeb Access: The beautiful 243-acre Lake Habeeb is the centerpiece of the park, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing (known for bass and trout), boating (electric motors only in designated areas, car-top boats allowed on Lake Habeeb), and scenic enjoyment.
• Extensive Trail System: Over 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails wind through the park, including the popular 5.3-mile Lakeside Trail around Lake Habeeb, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Recreational Variety: Beyond camping, the park provides a private swim beach, a playground, picnic areas, and access to the park's main day-use area and visitor facilities.
• Educational Programs: The nature center and Scales & Tales Aviary offer engaging activities for all ages, providing insights into local wildlife and ecology.
• Proximity to Rocky Gap Casino Resort: While separate from the state park, the nearby Rocky Gap Casino Resort offers additional dining, entertainment, and golf options for those looking for a touch of luxury or a change of pace during their stay.
• Rugged Mountain Setting: The park's location within the Appalachian Mountains provides a dramatic and beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities, characterized by deep valleys, sheer cliffs, and dense forests.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystems within the park support a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local fauna.

As a Maryland State Park campground, Rocky Gap State Park typically adheres to a standardized fee structure set by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), rather than offering frequent, ad-hoc promotions. However, there are inherent "offers" and benefits that make camping here attractive for Maryland residents:

• Affordable Rates: State park camping generally offers excellent value for money, providing access to extensive natural resources and well-maintained facilities at a reasonable cost. Nightly rates for campsites (including electric hookups) typically range from $23 to $29 per night (rates may vary by season and specific site).
• Maryland Park Service Passport: Maryland residents can often purchase a Maryland Park Service Passport, which provides unlimited day-use access to all Maryland State Parks for a year, offering significant savings for frequent visitors. While this primarily covers day-use fees, it enhances the overall value of visiting state parks, including Rocky Gap.
• Military Discounts: While not explicitly stated for all state park campgrounds, Maryland DNR often offers discounts for active military personnel and veterans on certain fees. It's always advisable to inquire directly.
• Longer Stay Savings (Implied): While not a direct promotion, booking for multiple nights generally provides more value than single-night stays, allowing for a more immersive experience.

Reservations for campsites at Rocky Gap State Park can be made through the Maryland Park Service reservation system, either online at parkreservations.maryland.gov or by calling 1-888-432-2267. It's recommended to book well in advance, especially for popular sites like Campsite 13, particularly during peak seasons and holidays, as they fill up quickly.

For reservations, general inquiries, or to learn more about Rocky Gap State Park and its campgrounds, including Campsite 13, you can use the following contact information:

Address (Campground Registration): 17600 Campers Hill Drive, Flintstone, MD 21530, USA

Park Administrative Offices: 12500 Pleasant Valley Road, Flintstone, MD 21530

Camp Office Phone: (443) 603-6324

Park Headquarters Phone: (301) 722-1480

Duty Ranger (24/7): (240) 357-4404

Reservations: 1-888-432-2267 or parkreservations.maryland.gov

Email: rockygap.statepark@maryland.gov

It is always recommended to check the official Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website for Rocky Gap State Park for the most current information on operating hours, seasonal changes, specific site availability, and any updated policies or alerts.

Campsite 13 within Rocky Gap State Park is an outstanding choice for Marylanders seeking a spacious, peaceful, and amenity-rich camping experience close to home. Its location in Flintstone, MD, offers convenient access from across the state, making it ideal for weekend escapes or longer family vacations without extensive travel. The primary draw of Campsite 13, as highlighted by visitors, is its generous size and separation from other sites, providing a level of privacy and tranquility that is often hard to find in popular campgrounds. This allows Maryland locals to truly relax and feel immersed in nature.

Beyond the individual site, being part of Rocky Gap State Park means access to a wealth of recreational opportunities: swimming and boating on the beautiful Lake Habeeb, extensive hiking trails through scenic mountain terrain, and educational programs at the nature center. The availability of clean bathhouses, a camp store, and watercraft rentals further enhances the comfort and convenience of the stay. Despite the potential for muddy conditions, which is common in natural settings, the overall value and quality of the experience at Rocky Gap make it a top-tier choice for Marylanders looking to enjoy the outdoors, create lasting family memories, and rejuvenate in a truly beautiful natural setting.

Campsite 13

Flintstone, MD 21530, USA