Pogo Memorial Campsite

Pogo Memorial Campsite stands as a hidden gem within the Maryland section of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, offering a dedicated space for hikers and backpackers to rest amidst the beauty of South Mountain. Established and maintained with care by the Mountain Club of Maryland, this campsite serves as a memorial to Walter "Pogo" Rheinheimer, an avid young outdoorsman and club member. Unlike large commercial campgrounds with paved roads and hookups, Pogo Memorial provides an authentic backcountry experience that resonates with those seeking a quiet connection with the Maryland wilderness. For locals and regional visitors, it represents one of the most well-maintained primitive camping options along the ridgeline, known for its unique stonework and organized layout.

The campsite is a testament to the dedication of the hiking community. Visitors often remark on the impressive craftsmanship found throughout the grounds, from the flat tent platforms carved into the hillside to the sturdy rock-hewn seating surrounding the central fire pits. Because the terrain on South Mountain can be notoriously rocky and steep, the effort put into leveling these sites makes a significant difference for overnight travelers. Whether you are a "thru-hiker" making your way from Georgia to Maine or a Maryland family embarking on a weekend backpacking trip, Pogo Memorial offers a welcoming and orderly environment that stands out among the various shelters and stealth-camping spots along the trail.

Location and accessibility define the Pogo experience, as it is strictly a walk-in, backcountry site. The campsite is located on the Appalachian Trail (AT) north of the popular Annapolis Rock and Black Rock Cliffs overlooks. For those looking for the most direct route, many Maryland locals use the Thurston Griggs Trail, which begins at a small parking area at the end of White Oak Road in Clear Spring. This trail is a steep but rewarding blue-blazed path that climbs the western slope of the mountain, meeting the AT directly across from the campsite entrance. Alternatively, hikers can access Pogo by trekking north from the US-40 parking lot near Greenbrier State Park. This approach allows visitors to take in the spectacular westward views of the Cumberland Valley before settling into the sheltered, wooded hollow of the campsite.

Services offered at Pogo Memorial Campsite are tailored to the needs of self-sufficient backpackers. While you won't find electricity or a camp store here, the facility provides the essential infrastructure required for safe and sustainable primitive camping. The layout is designed to minimize the impact on the environment while maximizing comfort for guests. The presence of a reliable water source nearby is a major service for hikers in this region, where ridgeline springs can occasionally run dry during the hot Maryland summer months.

• Designated tent sites, including newer leveled platforms located up the hill.
• A well-maintained privy (outhouse) that is frequently praised for its cleanliness compared to other trail shelters.
• Bear poles for secure food storage, protecting your supplies and the local wildlife.
• Stone fire rings at multiple sites for controlled and safe evening campfires.
• Access to a mountain spring located approximately 300 feet down the Thurston Griggs Trail.
• A blue-blazed side trail system that makes navigating the various levels of the campsite easy.
• Informational signage and a register for hikers to document their journeys.
• Hand-built rock chairs and benches located at several of the larger group sites.

The features and highlights of this campsite are largely a result of the extensive volunteer work performed on the site. One of the most unique aspects is the "tiered" nature of the campground; there are older sites closer to the AT that are perfect for larger groups, like Boy Scout troops, and newer, more secluded sites higher up the slope for those seeking privacy. The site's proximity to some of the best views in the state makes it a strategic highlight for any Maryland outdoor itinerary. After a quiet night under the canopy, a short morning hike leads you to the dramatic Black Rock Cliffs, where you can watch the fog lift off the valley floor.

• Kid-friendly hiking opportunities with relatively moderate ridgeline walking between Pogo and Annapolis Rock.
• Impressive "Flintstone-style" rock furniture that provides a comfortable place to eat and socialize.
• Dense forest canopy that provides excellent shade and protection from the wind.
• Proximity to Black Rock Cliffs, offering one of the best sunset views in Washington County.
• A quiet, peaceful atmosphere that is typically less crowded than the Pine Knob Shelter to the south.
• Educational opportunities for children to learn about Leave No Trace principles and trail history.
• Clearly marked boundaries that protect the delicate mountain flora while providing ample camping space.
• Excellent bird-watching opportunities, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons.

Because Pogo Memorial is a backcountry site on a national scenic trail, there is no traditional street address for a GPS to follow. Instead, hikers should use the coordinates or trail maps provided by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. The contact information below reaches the regional management office for South Mountain State Park, which oversees the area.

Address: Appalachian National Scenic Trail (near Thurston Griggs Trail junction), Hagerstown, MD 21740, USA
Phone: (301) 432-5124 (South Mountain State Park Office)

What is worth choosing when it comes to Pogo Memorial Campsite is the balance of "ruggedness" and "civilization." It is worth choosing if you find the main AT shelters too crowded or loud, as the dispersed nature of the Pogo sites allows for much more personal space. For families with children who are ready for their first overnight backpacking trip, Pogo is an excellent choice because the hike in via Thurston Griggs is manageable, and the campsite features—like the privy and the bear poles—provide enough structure to make the experience feel secure and organized.

Furthermore, it is worth choosing for the sheer beauty of the craftsmanship. There is a certain charm in sitting in a chair made of mountain stone, knowing it was built by volunteers who love the trail as much as you do. The campsite is "swept out" and remarkably clean, reflecting a high standard of stewardship that encourages guests to leave the site even better than they found it. If you are looking for a place to truly disconnect from the digital world and sleep among the oaks and maples of the Maryland mountains, Pogo Memorial is a destination that delivers a profound sense of peace and accomplishment.