Fort Frederick State Park Campground

Open — The campground is open today, July 3, 2025. Portable toilets are available from the first Saturday in May to the first Sunday in November. Note: The Plantation Trail (Red Blaze) is closed until further notice due to storm damage.

About

Fort Frederick State Park Campground offers 29 campsites equipped with stone dust camping pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts. Portable toilets are available in the campground from the first Saturday in May to the first Sunday in November. A comfort station with flush toilets and rinse-off stations is located near the fort's parking lot. There is no potable water within the campground; however, potable water and a dumpster are located near the railroad tracks, approximately 0.6 miles from the campground. Tent camping is available from the first Saturday in May to the first Sunday in November, while self-contained camping units may camp year-round. The campground is closed during the Market Fair in April; for specific dates, contact the park at (301) 842-2155. Most campsites can be reserved from May through October via the Maryland Department of Natural Resources reservation system or by calling 1-888-432-CAMP. Unreserved sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Check-in time for family campsite guests is 3 p.m., and check-out is 1 p.m. The park also offers four youth group campsites available for organized youth groups from the first Saturday in May to the first Sunday in November. These sites can be reserved from May through October with a Maryland Department of Natural Resources Youth Group Pass. Unreserved sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis by contacting the park. Check-in for youth group campsite guests is 3 p.m., and check-out is 1 p.m. The campground is situated along the Potomac River, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. The park features historical exhibits, including the restored Fort Frederick, which dates back to the French and Indian War. Visitors can explore the fort, participate in reenactments, and learn about the area's rich history. The park also offers access to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, providing additional recreational opportunities.

Directions

Fort Frederick State Park is located at 11100 Fort Frederick Road, Big Pool, MD 21711. From I-70, take Exit 12 (MD-56/Big Pool Road) and follow signs to the park entrance. The campground is situated along the Potomac River within the park.

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