Campsite 33

rocky gap state park cabins

Are you a Maryland resident yearning for an escape to the tranquil beauty of Western Maryland’s mountains? Campsite 33 is nestled within the sprawling and picturesque Rocky Gap State Park in Flintstone, MD, offering an ideal setting for your next outdoor adventure. This renowned state park campground provides a classic camping experience amidst stunning natural landscapes, making it a beloved destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature right here in our beautiful state.

For many Marylanders, finding a reliable and enjoyable camping spot that offers a blend of natural serenity and convenient amenities is key to a perfect getaway. Rocky Gap State Park's campground, including sites like Campsite 33, delivers on this promise. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors, with access to a beautiful lake, miles of hiking trails, and a variety of recreational activities. While some reviews mention concerns about dust from fast-moving vehicles within the campground, this is a common issue in many gravel-road camping areas and can often be mitigated with preparation. The overall positive experiences of countless visitors highlight the park's appeal, making it a premier choice for those in Maryland seeking a refreshing and memorable outdoor escape.

Campsite 33 is located within Rocky Gap State Park, with its primary address being Flintstone, MD 21530, USA. The park's main campground entrance is typically found at 17600 Campers Hill Drive, Flintstone, MD 21530. This prime location in Allegany County positions it in the heart of Western Maryland’s rugged beauty, surrounded by over 3,000 acres of public land and the stunning 243-acre Lake Habeeb.

Accessibility for Maryland residents is excellent, as Rocky Gap State Park is conveniently located just off Interstate 68 (Exit 50), making it a straightforward drive from various parts of the state. The park's proximity to major highways ensures that visitors can easily reach this natural oasis. Once inside the park, campers at Campsite 33 will find themselves immersed in a forested setting, with easy access to the lake, hiking trails, and the park’s many facilities. While some internal roads may be dusty, the ease of reaching this serene destination from across Maryland makes it a highly desirable choice for local campers.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Rocky Gap Campground offers a wide array of camping accommodations, including individual campsites suitable for tents and RVs. There are 278 individual campsites in total, with 30 equipped with 30-amp electric hook-ups.
• Mini Cabins and Yurts: For those seeking a more comfortable "glamping" experience, the park offers 15 mini cabins (sleeping four or six people) and a yurt (accommodating eight people). These units typically include electricity and beds, though guests need to bring their own linens.
• Family and Youth Group Sites: The campground features a dedicated family group site that can host up to 40 people, including a two-story mini cabin with electric hookups and a group fire ring. There are also two youth group camping areas for valid youth organizations.
• Bathhouses with Hot Water: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with hot showers and restrooms are available in each campground loop, providing essential comforts for all campers.
• Dump Station: For RV campers, a convenient dump station is available within the campground.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store provides camping essentials, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, and information, ensuring campers have access to necessities on-site.
• Boat Rentals: Seasonal rentals for canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available at the park's boathouse on Lake Habeeb (typically Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day).
• Nature Center and Aviary: The park boasts a nature center offering educational programs and is home to the Scales & Tales Aviary, providing engaging activities for all ages.
• Private Swimming Beach: Campers have access to a designated private swimming beach, perfect for enjoying Lake Habeeb's clear waters.
• Snack Shack: A seasonal Snack Shack, located near the campground beach, offers prepared foods, snacks, and drinks.
• Pet-Friendly Loops: Pets are allowed in most camp loops, with the exception of Hickory Loop, making it a welcoming destination for furry family members (specific rules apply).

• Lake Habeeb Access: The crown jewel of Rocky Gap State Park is the 243-acre Lake Habeeb, renowned for its remarkably clear, blue waters. Campers have direct access for swimming, boating, and fishing.
• Extensive Trail System: The park offers miles of multi-use trails, catering to various skill levels, including the popular 5.2-mile Lakeside Loop trail around Lake Habeeb. These trails are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the rugged mountain landscape.
• Scenic Gorge: Rocky Gap Run winds through an impressive mile-long gorge, featuring sheer cliffs, scenic overlooks, and a dense hemlock forest, providing breathtaking natural beauty.
• Playground: A well-maintained playground is available within the campground, offering a fun and safe area for children to play.
• Fishing Opportunities: Lake Habeeb is stocked with various fish species, providing excellent fishing opportunities for anglers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna.
• Nearby Golf Course and Casino: For those seeking additional entertainment, Rocky Gap Casino Resort, featuring an 18-hole golf course and a casino, is located adjacent to the state park, offering a convenient option for entertainment and dining.
• Family-Oriented Environment: With a range of activities and amenities designed for all ages, Rocky Gap State Park campground fosters a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Variety of Site Types: From basic tent sites to electric hookups and cozy cabins/yurts, the campground offers flexibility to suit different camping preferences and comfort levels.

As a Maryland State Park, Rocky Gap Campground (Campsite 33) frequently participates in state-wide promotions or offers specific programs. For Maryland residents looking to visit, it's highly advisable to check the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website for the most current promotions and reservation details. While specific, real-time "promotions" in the traditional sense might vary, here are common offerings that state parks often provide or that guests should inquire about:

• OPERATION: CAMPOUT! Program: This special program is available for active military personnel and their immediate families. It allows them to borrow camping gear free of charge (including a tent, chairs, stove, lantern, and more) to encourage outdoor recreation. Camping fees still apply, but the gear provision is a significant benefit. Reservations for this program should be made directly by calling the park office.
• Off-Season Rates: State parks often have reduced camping rates during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or during weekdays outside of peak summer.
• Maryland Resident Discounts: While not always explicitly advertised as a blanket discount, it's worth inquiring if there are any specific benefits or rates for Maryland residents.
• Senior/Disability Discounts: Maryland State Parks typically offer discounts for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.
• Package Deals (e.g., Stay & Play): Sometimes, the adjacent Rocky Gap Casino Resort may offer packages that combine a stay at the campground with access to casino amenities or golf, though these would be separate bookings.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any promotions, booking windows, or special rates, Maryland residents should visit the official Maryland Park Service reservation website (https://parkreservations.maryland.gov) or call the reservation center at 1-888-432-2267. For OPERATION: CAMPOUT! specific inquiries, contacting the park office directly at 301-722-1480 or rockygap.statepark@maryland.gov is recommended.

For reservations, general inquiries, or more specific information about Campsite 33 and the broader Rocky Gap State Park campground, Maryland residents can use the following contact details:

• Park Address: 12900 Lake Shore Drive, Flintstone, MD 21530 (This is the general park address, the campground entrance is typically 17600 Campers Hill Drive)
• Campground Registration/Park Office Phone: (301) 722-1480
• Maryland Park Service Reservation Center: 1-888-432-2267 (TTY users call 1-866-804-7846)
• Email: rockygap.statepark@maryland.gov

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made online via the Maryland State Parks reservation portal. It's always a good idea to contact the park directly for any specific questions about your stay.

For Maryland residents, Campsite 33 within Rocky Gap State Park offers an unparalleled opportunity for an accessible and enriching outdoor experience. Its location in Flintstone provides a convenient escape to the mountains, offering a stark and beautiful contrast to the hustle and bustle of urban and suburban life elsewhere in the state. This easy accessibility means that a memorable camping trip, filled with natural beauty and recreational opportunities, is always within a reasonable driving distance, making it ideal for both quick weekend getaways and longer family vacations.

The suitability for locals is further enhanced by the park's diverse offerings. Whether you prefer pitching a tent under the stars, enjoying the comforts of an RV with hookups, or opting for a cozy mini cabin or yurt, Rocky Gap provides options to suit every camping style and comfort level. The abundance of activities – from swimming and boating on Lake Habeeb to hiking miles of scenic trails, exploring the nature center, or even trying your luck at the nearby casino – ensures that there's something for every member of the family. Even with the mentioned concern about dust, the sheer breadth of natural beauty and recreational options often outweighs this minor inconvenience for most visitors.

Moreover, as a Maryland State Park, Rocky Gap provides a well-maintained and professionally managed environment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The presence of amenities like clean bathhouses, a camp store, and various recreational facilities contributes to a comfortable stay. For any Marylander seeking a refreshing escape into nature, filled with adventure, relaxation, and the chance to create cherished memories, Campsite 33 at Rocky Gap State Park stands out as an excellent choice, embodying the best of what our state's natural landscapes have to offer.

Campsite 33

Flintstone, MD 21530, USA