Cockerham Youth Campsite

Cockerham Youth Campsite offers a unique and secluded outdoor experience for residents of the Maryland region and beyond. Nestled within the expansive 5,656-acre Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area (NRMA) in Elkton, Maryland, this campsite is specifically geared toward youth organizations and group gatherings. Fair Hill itself is a former duPont estate known for its rolling hills, pristine woodlands, and extensive trail systems. For Marylanders looking for a site that combines historical significance with natural beauty, Cockerham provides an "off the beaten path" feel while still being managed with professional oversight by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

The campsite is a "hidden gem" for those who value privacy and the traditional camping experience. Unlike commercial RV parks with high-density layouts, Cockerham Youth Campsite is situated in a quiet, wooded setting that fosters a true connection with nature. It is an ideal venue for Scout troops, school groups, and other recognized youth organizations seeking a space for environmental education, team-building, or a simple weekend retreat under the stars. The atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, providing a perfect escape from the faster pace of urban life in nearby Wilmington or Baltimore.

Location and accessibility are major highlights for this Elkton destination. The campsite is located on Training Center Drive within the Fair Hill NRMA, accessible via major regional routes such as MD-273 and MD-213. This makes it a convenient trip for Maryland residents in Cecil and Harford Counties, as well as visitors coming from Delaware and Pennsylvania. The site is designed to be drive-up accessible, meaning groups can easily transport gear and supplies directly to the campsite. Furthermore, the facility includes wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances, ensuring that the beauty of Fair Hill is available to all members of a group regardless of mobility needs.

Accessibility at Fair Hill extends to the natural surroundings as well. The campsite is positioned near a vast network of multi-use trails that are popular for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. It is important for visitors to remember that at Fair Hill, horses have the right of way, adding to the unique equestrian charm of the area. For those using GPS navigation, the Training Center Drive location is easy to find, and the gravel roads leading to the site are well-maintained and suitable for most standard vehicles.

Cockerham Youth Campsite offers essential services tailored to group camping and primitive outdoor stays. While it maintains a rustic feel, it provides the necessary infrastructure to support a safe and comfortable outing for large groups. These services include:

• RV electric hookups for groups that require power for medical needs or specific camping equipment.
• RV water hookups and a reliable source of running water available on-site.
• A spacious pavilion with picnic tables, providing a sheltered area for group meals, meetings, and activities regardless of the weather.
• Professional management by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that the grounds are safe and regulations are enforced.
• Reserved camping through the Maryland state park system, allowing for guaranteed placement for sanctioned youth organizations.
• Basic sanitation facilities, including a privy (port-o-potty) located conveniently near the main camping area.

The features and highlights of Cockerham Youth Campsite are what truly make it a standout choice for the Maryland community. The site is designed to accommodate the dynamic needs of a large group while preserving the integrity of the natural landscape. Notable features include:

• A large group fire pit, which serves as the central hub for evening gatherings, storytelling, and traditional campfire cooking.
• Expansive wooded space with plenty of room for multiple tents, allowing for flexible layout options for different group sizes.
• Direct access to miles of scenic hiking and walking trails within the Fair Hill NRMA, perfect for nature study and exercise.
• Spacious, scenic views of the surrounding Maryland countryside, offering excellent photography and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs, ensuring that the family pet or a group’s mascot can join the adventure.
• A "good for kids" environment with ample safe space for children to play and explore the woods under supervision.
• Proximity to other Fair Hill attractions, such as the historic covered bridge and various equestrian event zones.

For those interested in booking Cockerham Youth Campsite for their organization or event, the contact information is through the Fair Hill NRMA park office. As a state-managed facility, it is important to check for current availability and any specific requirements for youth group permits. The staff is professional and ready to assist with the reservation process:

• Address: Training Center Dr, Elkton, MD 21921, USA
• Local Phone: (410) 398-1246
• Management: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

What is worth choosing about Cockerham Youth Campsite is the rare combination of seclusion and accessibility. It offers a "backcountry" feel without requiring a miles-long hike to reach the site. For youth leaders, the drive-up access and the presence of a shelter (pavilion) provide a safety net that makes camping with large groups much more manageable. The site is also an exceptional value, with camping fees going toward the maintenance and protection of Maryland's natural resources. By choosing Cockerham, groups are supporting the Fair Hill NRMA while providing their members with an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Furthermore, the location within Fair Hill means that there is never a shortage of activities. Whether your group is interested in fishing the Big Elk Creek, bird watching in the diverse habitats, or participating in an environmental project, the campsite serves as the perfect base of operations. The reviews from real customers emphasize that it is an "awesome" and "beautiful" location that is "full of heart." If you are looking for a place where you can watch the sunrise over rolling pastures and enjoy the quiet rustle of the Maryland woods, Cockerham Youth Campsite is a premier choice for your next group outing.