Poplar Grove Youth Group Tent Campground

Poplar Grove Youth Group Tent Campground is a specialized outdoor destination designed specifically for organized youth organizations seeking an authentic wilderness experience. Located within the breathtaking expanse of Catoctin Mountain Park in Thurmont, Maryland, this campground offers a unique opportunity for young explorers to connect with nature in a primitive, rustic setting. The park is dedicated to fostering teamwork, leadership, and environmental stewardship among youth groups, making it a favorite choice for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, school clubs, and church youth organizations from across the Maryland region.

The atmosphere at Poplar Grove is one of quiet seclusion and natural beauty. Surrounded by a lush hardwood deciduous forest, the campground provides tree-sheltered, flat tent sites that change beautifully with the seasons. Whether groups are visiting during the vibrant bloom of spring wildflowers or the crisp, colorful days of autumn, the environment encourages a healthy dose of imagination and outdoor adventure. Unlike commercial campgrounds, Poplar Grove prioritizes the "traditional" camping experience, where the sounds of the forest and the crackle of a campfire take center stage, away from the distractions of modern technology.

Location and accessibility are key factors for groups planning a retreat at Poplar Grove. Situated at 6602 Foxville Road in Thurmont, MD, the campground is located on the western side of Catoctin Mountain Park. For Maryland residents, it is conveniently accessible via Route 15 and Route 77, providing a straightforward drive from major hubs like Frederick, Baltimore, or Hagerstown. The entrance and parking area are designed to be accessible, featuring wheelchair-accessible parking lots and entrances. However, visitors should be aware of seasonal access changes; from December through mid-March, the access road (Manahan Road) typically closes to vehicles, requiring groups to hike approximately one mile from Camp Round Meadow to reach the sites, further adding to the wilderness adventure.

The services offered at Poplar Grove Youth Group Tent Campground are tailored to support self-sufficient, organized groups. The facility emphasizes a "Leave No Trace" philosophy and provides the basic infrastructure needed for a successful group outing. Professional onsite services and park management ensure the area remains well-maintained and safe for all visitors. The primary services available include:

• Dedicated onsite services including regular maintenance of common areas and facilities.
• Provision of firewood for campfire circles, with dead and downed wood collection also permitted within park guidelines.
• Self-check-in and self-check-out procedures for reserved groups, allowing for a streamlined arrival and departure process.
• Managed parking areas with designated spots for group vehicles and utility trailers.
• Access to the nearby Catoctin Mountain Park Visitor Center for interpretive programs and regional information.
• Emergency dispatch services available 24 hours a day to ensure the safety of youth participants.

The features and highlights of Poplar Grove make it a standout choice for youth leaders looking for a high-quality camping environment. Every aspect of the campground is designed to facilitate group interaction and outdoor education. Some of the most notable features include:

• Three spacious group tent sites, each capable of accommodating up to 25 people, providing ample room for large troops or classes.
• A large, shared central pavilion that serves as an ideal gathering spot for group meals, lessons, or rainy-day activities.
• Private campfire circles and grills at each site, perfect for traditional outdoor cooking and evening storytelling.
• Sturdy picnic tables provided at every campsite to facilitate organized group dining and craft activities.
• Access to well-maintained vault toilets (pit toilets) centrally located for all campers.
• Proximity to over 25 miles of hiking trails within Catoctin Mountain Park, including the Catoctin National Recreation Trail.
• Kid-friendly environments that are specifically vetted for safety and educational value for participants under the age of 18.
• Bear-proof dumpsters located in the parking area to promote wildlife safety and proper waste management.

For organizations interested in reserving a site or learning more about the specific requirements for youth group sanctioned stays, the park office is available for inquiries. Please note that reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance through the national reservation system.

Address: 6602 Foxville Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA

Phone: (301) 663-9388

Mobile Phone: +1 301-663-9388

What is worth choosing about Poplar Grove Youth Group Tent Campground is its unwavering commitment to the youth experience. In a world where many campgrounds have become crowded with RVs and modern luxuries, Poplar Grove remains a sanctuary for primitive tent camping. It is worth choosing because it offers a level of privacy and focus that is essential for youth development programs. Here, scouts and students can learn to pitch tents, manage a campfire, and navigate the woods in a controlled, professional environment that is specifically reserved for them. The shared pavilion and spacious common areas make it easy for multiple groups to coexist while still having enough room for their own private traditions.

Furthermore, the campground's integration into Catoctin Mountain Park means that educational opportunities are everywhere. From studying the diverse hardwood forest to hiking to nearby landmarks like Cunningham Falls State Park (located just three miles away), there is never a shortage of activities to fill a weekend itinerary. For Maryland youth leaders, Poplar Grove represents an affordable, reliable, and exceptionally beautiful resource that helps inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Choosing this campground ensures a safe, well-maintained, and memorable wilderness experience that participants will carry with them for years to come.