Cross the Border to Mountain Camping
Seasonal RV camping just 40 minutes from Hagerstown
Hagerstown camping options are limited - Washington County doesn't have mountain campgrounds, and the nearby Maryland state parks are heavily booked. But just 40 minutes north across the Pennsylvania border, Pine Ridge Campground offers the mountain camping experience Hagerstown residents have been searching for.
Located at 2,050 feet elevation in Pennsylvania's Michaux State Forest, Pine Ridge is closer to Hagerstown than many Maryland camping options - and offers a completely different experience. Instead of flat, crowded campgrounds, you're in genuine mountain forest with cool temperatures, ATV trails, and a seasonal community.
The drive from Hagerstown is straightforward: I-81 North into Pennsylvania, then mountain roads to the campground. Many of our Hagerstown-area campers say crossing the state line feels like entering a different world - the mountains rise quickly and the temperature drops noticeably.
As a seasonal campground, Pine Ridge becomes your Maryland escape hatch. Your site is yours from April through October. When Hagerstown heats up in summer, your cool mountain retreat is just 40 minutes away.
Why Not Camp in Hagerstown?
Washington County, Maryland has limited camping. The state parks near Hagerstown book up fast, and commercial RV parks are basic overnight stops. For anything resembling mountain camping, Maryland residents typically drive an hour or more.
Pine Ridge shortcuts that for Hagerstown residents. At just 40 minutes north in Pennsylvania, you get higher elevation (2,050 ft vs. Maryland's ~1,000 ft options), more trail access (90+ miles of ATV trails), and better amenities (pool, WiFi, full hookups) than any Maryland option at similar distance.
Plus, crossing into Pennsylvania puts Gettysburg just 30 minutes from camp - adding world-class history to your camping weekends.
Why Hagerstown Residents Choose Pine Ridge
Just 40 minutes from Hagerstown - close enough for weekend escapes, far enough to feel like a real getaway.
Just 40 minutes from Hagerstown - closer than most MD mountain options
2,050 ft elevation is significantly higher than MD campgrounds
Direct access to 90+ miles of ATV trails not available in MD parks
Gettysburg battlefield is 30 minutes from camp for history day trips
Seasonal site means guaranteed spots - no MD state park booking fights
Pool, fiber WiFi, and community events all season
Pennsylvania mountains offer what Washington County can't
Getting Here from Hagerstown
30 miles
40 minutes drive
Head north on I-81 to PA, then take Route 233 or Route 30 toward Shippensburg Road and into the mountains. An easy interstate-to-mountain drive.
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Hagerstown Area Campgrounds vs. Pine Ridge
| Feature | Campgrounds Near Hagerstown | Pine Ridge |
|---|---|---|
| Elevation | MD campgrounds are ~1,000 ft or less | 2,050 ft elevation - noticeably cooler |
| ATV Access | Not allowed in MD state parks | 90+ miles of trails from your campsite |
| Availability | MD state parks book up months ahead | Your seasonal site is always yours |
| Nearby History | Antietam is close but limited camping | Gettysburg is 30 min from Pine Ridge |
Day Trips from Pine Ridge
Your seasonal site at Pine Ridge puts you at the center of amazing attractions - many closer than from Hagerstown!
Gettysburg Battlefield
Full Day
The battlefield is just 30 minutes from Pine Ridge - easy day trip for Civil War history.
ATV Trail Adventure
Full Day
Ride 90+ miles of Michaux State Forest trails right from camp. Maryland state parks don't allow ATVs - Pine Ridge does.
State Park Tour
Half Day
Explore Pennsylvania state parks near Pine Ridge - hiking, swimming, and natural beauty.
Explore Nearby Attractions
These attractions are all easy day trips from Pine Ridge
Gettysburg National Military Park
Walk the hallowed ground of America's most famous Civil War battle.
Michaux State Forest ATV Trails
40+ miles of designated ATV trails through pristine Pennsylvania forest.
Caledonia State Park
Swimming pool, hiking trails, fishing, and historic sites in a beautiful mountain setting.
Pine Grove Furnace State Park
Two pristine lakes, Appalachian Trail midpoint, and historic iron furnaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Pine Ridge from Hagerstown?
Pine Ridge is approximately 40 minutes (30 miles) north of Hagerstown. Take I-81 North into Pennsylvania, then mountain roads to the campground. It's an easy drive.
Is Pine Ridge closer than Maryland mountain camping?
For most Hagerstown residents, yes. Maryland's mountain campgrounds (Deep Creek, Savage River) are 90+ minutes west. Pine Ridge is just 40 minutes north and at higher elevation with more amenities.
Can I ride ATVs at Pine Ridge?
Yes! Pine Ridge has direct access to 90+ miles of ATV trails in Michaux State Forest. This is a major advantage over Maryland state parks, which don't allow ATV riding.
Do other Maryland residents camp at Pine Ridge?
Absolutely! We have members from Hagerstown, Frederick, Baltimore, and other Maryland communities. The short drive to Pennsylvania mountain camping is well worth it for the experience.
What Hagerstown Area Campers Say
“We tried every campground within an hour of Hagerstown. Pine Ridge is 40 minutes and it's the best mountain camping we've found - higher, cooler, and with ATV trails.”
Dave & Susan P.
Hagerstown, MD
Ready to Escape Hagerstown?
Join the Hagerstown-area families who have discovered Pine Ridge as their mountain escape. Just 40 minutes to cool mountain camping, pool, and community.