Campsite 66

For Marylanders yearning for a genuine escape into the tranquil embrace of nature, Campsite 66 in Little Orleans, MD, offers a wonderfully secluded and peaceful primitive camping experience. Tucked away within the expansive Green Ridge State Forest, this campsite is a favorite among those who prioritize quiet solitude and a deep connection with the natural world over bustling amenities. It's the kind of spot where the sounds of the forest replace urban noise, and starry nights provide an unforgettable canopy.

Campsite 66 stands out for its "super secluded" nature, a characteristic highly valued by campers seeking privacy and a true wilderness feel. The sites within Green Ridge State Forest are generally well-spread out, and Campsite 66 is no exception, offering plenty of room for campers to spread out their tents and gear without feeling cramped by neighbors. This generous spacing contributes significantly to the peaceful atmosphere that defines camping here.

While the road leading to Campsite 66 might be described as "tough" or "rugged," requiring a bit of careful driving, the destination is well worth the effort. This less-traveled access contributes to the site's secluded charm, deterring those less committed to a rustic adventure. Once there, campers find a quiet haven, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. Even though it's deep in the forest, the site offers surprisingly good proximity to the C&O Canal Towpath, making it a convenient stop or base camp for hikers and bikers exploring this historic trail.

Campsite 66 embodies the spirit of primitive camping in Maryland's largest state forest. It provides the essential elements – a place to pitch your tent, a fire ring, and a picnic table – encouraging a self-reliant approach to outdoor living. For local Marylanders, it's an accessible and authentic opportunity to experience the wild beauty of their state, offering a profound sense of escape and rejuvenation that often leads visitors to vow, "We will definitely return."

Campsite 66 is located in Little Orleans, MD 21555, USA, specifically within the vast Green Ridge State Forest. Green Ridge State Forest, Maryland's largest state forest, is situated in Allegany County, offering a rugged and pristine natural landscape that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts.

Accessing Campsite 66 typically involves navigating forest roads that, as noted by visitors, can be "rugged." While these roads might require a high-clearance vehicle or careful driving, they are part of the adventure and contribute to the secluded nature of the campsite. The general access to Green Ridge State Forest is primarily via state and county roads leading into the Little Orleans area. From major thoroughfares like Interstate 68, visitors would typically take exits that lead towards Little Orleans and then onto the specific forest roads.

For Maryland residents, Campsite 66 offers an accessible wilderness experience within a reasonable driving distance from many parts of the state. Its location within Green Ridge State Forest means it's surrounded by abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, including an extensive network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and hunting. Furthermore, reviewers mention its proximity to the C&O Canal Towpath, indicating that bikers and hikers along the canal often pass by or utilize this area. This connectivity makes Campsite 66 an excellent base for multi-day explorations of both the state forest and the historic canal. While the journey to the campsite might be a bit of an adventure itself, the reward is a deeply secluded and tranquil setting, perfect for those truly seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in Maryland's natural beauty. It is highly recommended to check current forest road conditions with the Green Ridge State Forest Headquarters before embarking on your trip.

Campsite 66, as a primitive campsite within Green Ridge State Forest, adheres to the typical offerings of such sites. These services are designed to support a rustic outdoor experience, emphasizing self-sufficiency and minimal impact on the environment. Based on general information for Green Ridge State Forest primitive campsites, the following services are usually provided:

• Picnic Table: Each designated campsite, including Campsite 66, comes equipped with a picnic table for convenience in food preparation, dining, and other camp activities.

• Fire Ring: A fire ring is provided at the site, allowing campers to build campfires for warmth, cooking, and ambiance. It is crucial to observe all fire regulations and any active burn bans, especially during dry periods.

• Spacious Tent/Camping Area: The site is known for being "super secluded" and having "nice and spread out" areas for setting up tents, offering ample room and privacy.

• No Potable Water On-Site: Primitive campsites in Green Ridge State Forest typically do not have a direct source of potable water. Campers must bring all their drinking and cooking water or be prepared with reliable water purification methods (filters, chemical treatments, boiling) for natural water sources.

• No Plumbing (Vault Toilets Only): There are generally no flush toilets or showers at primitive campsites. Sanitation facilities are usually limited to vault toilets (outhouses) located within reasonable distance in the forest, not necessarily at each individual campsite.

• Permit Required: Camping at designated primitive sites in Green Ridge State Forest requires a permit, obtainable from the Green Ridge State Forest Headquarters. There is a fee associated with these permits, typically $10 per night for the first six people, with an additional per-person charge for larger groups.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Individual primitive campsites in Green Ridge State Forest are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning advance reservations are not typically taken for these specific sites. Campers must register at the headquarters before occupying a site.

• Super Secluded Setting: A primary highlight, offering significant privacy and a true sense of isolation in nature, away from crowded areas.

• Spacious Campsite: Known for being large with ample room for tents and gear, allowing campers to spread out comfortably.

• Proximity to C&O Canal Towpath: Located close enough that bikers are often seen passing by, making it an ideal stop for those traversing the historic C&O Canal.

• Access to Green Ridge State Forest Trails: Serves as a gateway to numerous hiking, mountain biking, and exploring opportunities within Maryland's largest state forest.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Ideal for those seeking tranquility and a break from urban noise, promoting relaxation and connection with the natural environment.

• Authentic Primitive Camping: Offers a genuine back-to-basics outdoor experience, perfect for self-reliant campers.

• Natural Beauty: Surrounded by the rugged and scenic landscapes of Western Maryland, providing picturesque views and fresh air.

• High Return Rate: Visitors express a strong desire to return, indicating a highly positive and memorable experience.

As Campsite 66 is a primitive campsite managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) within Green Ridge State Forest, it operates under a standardized fee structure rather than commercial promotions or special offers. The inherent value of Campsite 66 lies in its natural setting, secluded atmosphere, and the affordable cost set by the public land management.

Typically, primitive campsites in Green Ridge State Forest require a permit, which includes a nominal per-night fee (e.g., $10 per night for up to six people, with additional charges for more). These fees are set by the DNR and are subject to change. There are no "discounts" or "deals" in the traditional sense.

For the most accurate and current information regarding permit fees, any specific regulations, or potential alerts for Campsite 66, Marylanders should directly consult the official website of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources or contact the Green Ridge State Forest Headquarters. The "special offer" is the opportunity for an affordable, authentic, and highly sought-after secluded camping experience in one of Maryland's most beautiful natural areas.

For information regarding Campsite 66 and to obtain the necessary permits for primitive camping within Green Ridge State Forest, the primary point of contact is the Green Ridge State Forest Headquarters. There is no direct phone number or specific contact for the individual campsite itself.

Address (Green Ridge State Forest Headquarters): 28700 Headquarters Drive NE, Flintstone, MD 21530

Campsite Location (Approximate): HGJQ+F9, Little Orleans, MD 21555, USA

Phone (Green Ridge State Forest Headquarters): (301) 478-3124

It is highly recommended that campers call the Green Ridge State Forest Headquarters during their operating hours (generally 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily) before their visit. They can provide essential information on campsite availability, required permits, current forest conditions, road accessibility (especially important for rugged roads), and any fire restrictions. This proactive approach ensures a smoother and more enjoyable camping trip to Campsite 66.

For Maryland locals, Campsite 66 in Green Ridge State Forest represents a premier destination for those craving genuine solitude and a true wilderness experience without venturing far from home. Its reputation as a "super secluded" site is a major draw, offering an unparalleled level of privacy and quiet that is increasingly rare in popular camping areas. For residents seeking to truly disconnect from the demands of daily life and immerse themselves in nature's tranquility, Campsite 66 delivers.

While the access roads might be rugged, this very challenge contributes to the site’s secluded charm, ensuring that only those truly committed to a rustic adventure will reach its peaceful confines. The reward is a spacious area perfect for setting up tents, surrounded by the natural beauty of Maryland’s largest state forest. Its proximity to the C&O Canal Towpath also makes it an ideal base for active Marylanders who enjoy hiking or biking along this historic trail, allowing for seamless transitions between primitive camping and outdoor exploration.

Campsite 66 embodies the essence of primitive camping: a few basic amenities like a picnic table and fire ring, but largely an untouched natural environment. This encourages self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the simple pleasures of outdoor living. For families, couples, or solo adventurers within Maryland looking for an authentic, uncrowded, and profoundly peaceful camping experience, Campsite 66 is an excellent choice. It offers an invaluable opportunity to reconnect with nature, enjoy stargazing, and create lasting memories in a truly unspoiled corner of their home state, leaving many visitors eager to return.

Campsite 66

HGJQ+F9, Little Orleans, MD 21555, USA