Campsite 46

For Maryland residents yearning for a tranquil escape into the heart of nature, a superb opportunity awaits in the western reaches of our beautiful state. Campsite 46, nestled within the expansive and picturesque Rocky Gap State Park in Flintstone, Maryland, offers more than just a place to set up camp; it provides a gateway to a wealth of outdoor experiences and a chance to truly unwind. Whether you're an avid RVer, prefer the simplicity of a tent, or are looking for the added comfort of a cabin or yurt, Rocky Gap State Park, and by extension, Campsite 46, caters to a wide array of preferences. It’s a destination where the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains meets the serene, clear waters of Lake Habeeb, promising a memorable adventure for families, couples, and solo explorers alike.

Campsite 46 is part of the extensive camping facilities at Rocky Gap State Park, which is generally located at 17600 Campers Hill Drive, Flintstone, MD 21530. While "JFPJ+HF, Flintstone, MD 21555, USA" is a precise geographical marker for the site itself, visitors from across Maryland will find the park remarkably accessible. From central Maryland locations like Baltimore or Washington D.C., the most common route involves taking I-70 West to I-68 West. Rocky Gap State Park is directly off I-68 at Exit 50, making for a straightforward and relatively quick journey into Allegany County’s stunning landscapes. This convenient highway access means less time spent navigating complicated routes and more precious moments enjoying the natural beauty that Western Maryland has to offer. Its ease of reach makes it a perfect weekend retreat or a longer vacation destination for local Marylanders seeking a refreshing change of scenery.

As part of the highly-regarded Rocky Gap State Park Campground, Campsite 46 benefits from a comprehensive suite of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all visitors. The park is committed to providing a diverse camping experience, catering to various needs and preferences.

• Accommodation Variety:

  • Individual Campsites: The campground features 278 individual campsites. Many of these, including those in designated loops (like Ash Loop), offer 30-amp electric hook-ups, accommodating both RVs and trailers. Both back-in and pull-through sites are available, with some capable of handling larger rigs up to 60 feet.

  • Mini Cabins and Yurts: For those who prefer a solid roof over their heads but still want a camping feel, there are 15 mini cabins and a yurt. These units typically include beds and electricity, offering a more comfortable, yet still rustic, experience. Campers should bring their own linens, and it's worth noting that air conditioning and heat are generally not provided in these units.

  • Family Group Site: A spacious group area is available, designed to host up to 40 people. It includes a two-story mini cabin with electricity, several 30-amp electric hookups, and a large group fire ring, perfect for family reunions or larger gatherings.

  • Youth Group Camping Areas: Two specialized areas are provided exclusively for registered youth groups.

• Essential Facilities & Conveniences:

  • Bathhouses: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with hot water showers are strategically located within each camping loop, ensuring convenient access for all campers.

  • Dump Station: A dedicated dump station is available for RV campers, simplifying waste disposal at the end of a stay.

  • Camp Store: An on-site camp store offers a range of essential camping supplies, firewood, ice, snacks, and souvenirs, reducing the need to leave the park for forgotten items.

  • Snack Shack: Operating seasonally, this offers quick refreshments and prepared foods near the beach area.

  • Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each individual campsite typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering around a campfire.

  • Cell Service: Fair cell service is generally available within the campground area.

• Recreational Amenities:

  • Private Swimming Beach: A designated, private swimming beach on Lake Habeeb is accessible only to campground guests, providing a less crowded experience for swimming and sunbathing.

  • Watercraft Rentals: During the warmer months (typically Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day), canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent, allowing campers to explore the beautiful Lake Habeeb.

  • Playground: A dedicated playground ensures that younger campers have a safe and engaging area for active play.

  • Nature Center: The park’s Nature Center offers educational programs and exhibits about the local ecosystem, providing opportunities to learn about Maryland’s flora and fauna.

  • Scales & Tales Aviary: This unique feature allows visitors to see and learn about rescued, non-releasable birds of prey and other native Maryland wildlife.

  • Hiking and Biking Trails: Direct access to over 20 miles of diverse trails, including the popular Lakeside Loop Trail around Lake Habeeb and more challenging mountain paths, caters to all levels of hikers and bikers.

Rocky Gap State Park, encompassing Campsite 46, is renowned for several key features that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts in Maryland:

• Stunning Lake Habeeb: Often referred to as having the "bluest water in the state," Lake Habeeb is a centerpiece of the park. Its clarity and calm waters make it ideal for swimming, fishing for various species (including trout, bass, and bluegill), and non-motorized boating.

• Dramatic Mountain Scenery: The park is set within a rugged mountain gap, featuring impressive mile-long gorges, sheer cliffs, and dense hemlock forests. This creates a breathtaking backdrop for all camping and outdoor activities, offering a true sense of immersion in Western Maryland's natural grandeur.

• Extensive Trail Network: With over 20 miles of trails, campers have abundant opportunities for exploration. From the paved and accessible "Touch of Nature" trail to the challenging "Evitt's Homesite Trail" and the scenic "Lakeside Loop," there's a path for every skill level and interest, allowing for intimate encounters with the park's diverse ecosystems.

• Proximity to Rocky Gap Casino Resort: A unique highlight is the park's adjacency to the Rocky Gap Casino Resort. This offers a convenient option for campers to enjoy amenities like fine dining, an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, and casino entertainment, providing a contrasting, yet easily accessible, leisure experience.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Activities: The park excels in providing activities for all ages. The private swimming beach, playground, Scales & Tales Aviary, and Nature Center make it an ideal destination for families with children, ensuring there's always something engaging to do.

• Pet-Friendly Environment: Recognizing that pets are part of the family, Rocky Gap State Park allows dogs in many of its camping loops (specifically Ash, Birch, Chestnut, Dogwood, and Elm – sites 1-143), as well as in designated day-use areas and a pet-friendly swim area in the lake, making it easy to bring your furry companions along.

• High Standards of Cleanliness: Visitors frequently commend the park's commitment to cleanliness, especially regarding the bathhouses. This dedication significantly enhances the overall comfort and enjoyment of the camping experience.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Campsite 46 and Rocky Gap State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: JFPJ+HF, Flintstone, MD 21555, USA (The official park address for campground registration is 17600 Campers Hill Drive, Flintstone, MD 21530)

Park Information Phone: (301) 722-1480

Park Reservations: 1-888-432-CAMP (2267) or visit the Maryland State Park Reservations website at https://parkreservations.maryland.gov

For Maryland locals, Campsite 46 at Rocky Gap State Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty and recreational richness of their home state without the need for extensive travel. Its convenient location in Allegany County makes it an easily accessible retreat from urban centers, allowing for more time to enjoy the crisp mountain air, the clear waters of Lake Habeeb, and the myriad of activities available. Whether you're looking for an active adventure involving hiking, biking, or water sports, or simply seeking a peaceful place to relax by a campfire, Rocky Gap provides the perfect setting. The park's commitment to maintaining clean facilities, offering diverse accommodation options, and providing engaging activities ensures that every visit is comfortable and memorable. By choosing to camp at Rocky Gap, Marylanders can discover or rediscover a true gem within their state, fostering a deeper connection with its natural heritage while creating cherished memories with family and friends. It's truly a local treasure, just waiting to be explored.