Pogo Memorial Campsite

## Embrace the Trail: Pogo Memorial Campsite, Your Respite on the Appalachian Trail in Maryland

For those who heed the call of the wild and seek an authentic backpacking experience, Pogo Memorial Campsite stands as a well-regarded and thoughtfully maintained haven directly on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Maryland. Located near Hagerstown, this primitive campground is a testament to the dedication of those who support the AT, offering essential amenities for thru-hikers and section hikers alike. It's not a typical drive-up campground with extensive facilities, but rather a vital and welcoming stop designed for those traveling on foot.

Pogo Memorial Campsite embodies the spirit of self-reliance and community that defines the Appalachian Trail. It's a place where you can pitch your tent on a carefully prepared site, enjoy the tranquility of the forest, and rest weary legs before continuing your journey. The care put into its maintenance, from swept-out tent pads to a clean privy and reliable bear poles, speaks volumes about its commitment to providing a positive and responsible outdoor experience for every hiker passing through Maryland.

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## Location and Accessibility

Pogo Memorial Campsite is situated directly on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (AT) near Hagerstown, MD 21740, USA. Its precise location is along the AT within what is generally considered the South Mountain State Park area. As a trailside campsite, Pogo is accessible exclusively by foot. This means hikers will need to hike in, typically as part of a longer backpacking trip along the AT in Maryland.

For local Marylanders looking to experience Pogo, common access points to the AT in this region include road crossings near South Mountain State Park, Washington Monument State Park, or Greenbrier State Park. From these access points, hikers would embark on a several-mile trek along the AT to reach the campsite. For example, Pogo Memorial Campsite is approximately 1.7 miles north of Annapolis Rocks and 2 miles north of the intersection of the AT and the Thurston Griggs Trail. While physically demanding, this foot-only access ensures a peaceful and immersive natural environment, free from vehicle noise and crowds, making it a true escape for those who appreciate primitive camping.

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## Services Offered

Pogo Memorial Campsite provides essential, primitive services tailored to the needs of backpackers and hikers on the Appalachian Trail. These are designed to support a Leave No Trace ethic and ensure a comfortable overnight stay in a wilderness setting. The key services available include:

• Designated Tent Sites: The campsite features numerous cleared and relatively flat tent sites, many dug into the side of a hill, offering stable ground for pitching tents. Reviewers note these sites are well-maintained and "swept out."
• Privy (Outhouse): A well-maintained and clean privy is available, providing a designated and sanitary facility for human waste disposal. This is a significant amenity for primitive campsites on the AT.
• Bear Poles/Cables: To encourage safe food storage and minimize human-wildlife conflict, bear poles or cables are provided. Hikers are expected to hang their food and scented items to protect them from bears and other animals.
• Water Source: A natural stream is typically within moderate walking distance from the campsite, providing a water source for hikers. It is crucial for campers to be prepared to filter or treat all water from natural sources before consumption.
• Fire Pits: Many sites include fire pits made from rocks, allowing for safe and contained campfires, provided local fire regulations and conditions permit.
• Seating Areas: Some campsites have informal chairs or seats constructed from rocks, adding to the rustic comfort.

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## Features / Highlights

Pogo Memorial Campsite offers a unique set of features that make it a highly regarded stop for Appalachian Trail hikers:

• Direct AT Access: Its prime location directly on the Appalachian Trail means unparalleled convenience for thru-hikers and section hikers exploring the Maryland portion of the trail.
• Exceptional Maintenance: Customer reviews consistently highlight the impressive amount of work and dedication put into maintaining the campsite. This includes clean sites, a well-kept privy, and clearly defined areas.
• Thoughtful Site Design: The campsites are largely "dug into the side of the hill," creating surprisingly flat and usable spaces even on sloped terrain. This shows a considerate approach to making the most of the natural landscape.
• Rustic Charm: The use of natural materials like rocks for fire pits and seating areas contributes to an authentic, rustic camping experience that blends seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness.
• Quiet and Welcoming Atmosphere: Despite its popularity among hikers, Pogo is often described as quiet and welcoming, providing a peaceful environment for overnight stays or even just a daytime rest.
• Bear Safety Infrastructure: The provision of bear poles addresses a critical safety concern for backpackers, allowing for secure food storage and promoting responsible wilderness practices.
• Proximity to Natural Resources: The nearby stream offers a convenient water source, and the surrounding Appalachian Trail corridor provides ample opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and enjoying the serene forest environment.
• Historical Significance (Implied): While Pogo is a memorial site, its connection to the AT and the history of trail maintenance and community efforts to support hikers adds an intangible layer of significance.

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## Promotions or Special Offers

As a primitive, trailside campsite on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Pogo Memorial Campsite does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense. It operates as a public resource for hikers, maintained by volunteer efforts and partnerships with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and local trail clubs like the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) and the Mountain Club of Maryland (MCM).

The "offer" here is the availability of a free, well-maintained, and essential camping spot for those undertaking a challenging long-distance hike. There are no fees for camping at Pogo Memorial Campsite, nor are reservations accepted or required. Access is first-come, first-served, reflecting its purpose as a fundamental part of the AT's infrastructure for self-supported hikers. The greatest "promotion" is the consistent dedication of volunteers who ensure the site remains clean, safe, and available for all who traverse this iconic American trail.

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## Contact Information

Pogo Memorial Campsite, being a primitive site directly on the Appalachian Trail, does not have a dedicated phone number or on-site office for direct contact. Information regarding the campsite, including its amenities and status, is typically disseminated through:

• Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC): The primary organization overseeing the Appalachian Trail. Their website and guidebooks are the most authoritative sources for trail information, including campsites.
• Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC): The local trail maintaining club responsible for this section of the AT. They often manage shelters and campsites in the region.
• Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR): As the campsite is within or adjacent to Maryland state park land (South Mountain State Park), the DNR provides oversight for regulations.

For general inquiries related to the Appalachian Trail in Maryland, or for information regarding trail conditions and regulations, hikers should consult official AT guidebooks, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy website, or the Maryland DNR website for relevant state park information.

Address: Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Hagerstown, MD 21740, USA (This address is approximate, as the campsite is on the trail itself).

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## Conclusion: Why Pogo Memorial Campsite is Suitable for Locals

For Maryland residents with a passion for backpacking and a desire to experience the legendary Appalachian Trail, Pogo Memorial Campsite offers a unique and highly suitable opportunity. Its location directly on the AT in Western Maryland means it's accessible for weekend section hikes, allowing locals to tap into the grandeur of this iconic trail without necessarily committing to a long thru-hike. It provides a convenient and well-equipped overnight stop for those exploring the beautiful South Mountain region, including popular nearby destinations like Annapolis Rocks and Washington Monument State Park.

Pogo is perfect for experienced local backpackers seeking a no-frills, authentic wilderness experience, as well as for scout groups or outdoor clubs looking for a responsible and well-managed primitive site for training or recreational trips. The presence of a clean privy, reliable water source (with proper treatment), and essential bear poles streamlines the camping process, allowing hikers to focus on the natural beauty and physical challenge of the trail. For Marylanders who cherish the tranquility of the forest, the satisfaction of self-sufficiency, and the unique camaraderie of the hiking community, Pogo Memorial Campsite is not just a place to sleep, but an integral part of an unforgettable Appalachian Trail adventure right in their own backyard.

Pogo Memorial Campsite

Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Hagerstown, MD 21740, USA