Discover Primitive Camping at Potomac River’s Unique Hike-In Island Tent Sites
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
overnight to multiple days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed to hike with camping gear and navigate uneven riverbank terrain.
Overview
Escape the crowds and camp on exclusive hike-in islands along the Potomac River near Harpers Ferry. Enjoy serene waterfront views, fishing, boating, and a true primitive camping experience just an hour from major metro areas.
Campground Hike In Island Tent Site
Riverside Campsites on a Peninsula
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of primitive camping at the unique Hike-in Island Sites on the Potomac River. Accessible only by foot, these waterfront sites offer a serene escape surrounded by water, perfect for families. Enjoy activities like boating and fishing, all while being just an hour from major metro areas.
Hike In Island Sites
The unique Hike-in Island Sites are on a peninsula that sticks out into the Potomac River. These are basic but unique sites that really put you out on the water. Site 110 is shaded with less of a view and the other 2 are out in the river surrounded by water without much shade. They are a unique camping experience. There is no vehicle access/parking at the sites, and gear will need to be carried 100 yds from the parking area. These sites are typically only available in the summer and fall during periods of lower river levels.
2 Adults and 2 dependent children under 18 per site.
These sites are weather-dependent due to the close proximity to the river.
Please be aware that in the event of flooding or potential flooding, Harpers Ferry Campground may have to cancel reservations with refund as only liability. We will do our best to relocate your group to another spot in the campground.
Only one hour from the Washington, DC and Baltimore Metro Regions, River Riders offers primitive waterfront camping on the Potomac River in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia where Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia come together.
Campsites and cabins are available on a beautiful deep water section of the Potomac River near Harpers Ferry in Jefferson County. A four mile section of deep water runs from our campground to above the Dargan Bend Boat Ramp in Maryland. Pontoon boats, fishing boats, water skiing, wake boarding, and jet skis are welcome. Pitch your tent and tie your boat up out front. Bring your RV as well. We also offer beautiful, River Front Cabins that offer heat and AC, as well as their own full bathrooms.
Our finished bathhouse is now open so our overnight guests can take showers & our dumping station is available for our RV guests, who can now dump their sewage before leaving the campground! The bath house does have handicap accessibility; please let us know when booking so we can answer all your questions.
These sites are not to have a car park on them!
Book multiple nights for savings! These Sites are in the 100 Section on the Peninsula
Adventure Tips
Pack Light for the Hike-In
Carry only essentials as you’ll need to hike with all your gear to access these island campsites.
Bring a Portable Water Filter
Island sites lack potable water, so a reliable filtration system is necessary for safe drinking water.
Check River Conditions Beforehand
Potomac water levels and currents can affect access; verify local river status before your trip.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles
Keep the islands pristine by packing out all trash and minimizing campfire impact.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- Smallmouth bass
History
Harpers Ferry's location at the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers made it a key 19th-century transportation and Civil War hub, enriching the area's cultural backdrop.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to strictly follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the delicate river island ecosystems and protect local wildlife habitats.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight Backpack
Eases carrying camping gear for the hike to island sites.
summer specific
Portable Water Filter
Ensures access to safe drinking water from the river.
Waterproof Tent
Protects against river spray and unpredictable weather on the islands.
spring specific
Fishing Gear
Allows anglers to enjoy fishing smallmouth bass and sunfish from shore.
summer specific