Rohrbach Group Campground

Rohrbach Group Campground serves as a hallowed destination for those looking to combine outdoor recreation with a profound immersion in American history. Located within the boundaries of the Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg, Maryland, this campground is managed by the National Park Service and offers a specialized environment for organized groups. Unlike traditional commercial campgrounds, Rohrbach is a primitive, walk-in facility that prioritizes the preservation of the landscape where the bloodiest single-day battle in American history took place on September 17, 1862.

For Maryland residents and visiting organizations, the campground provides a rare opportunity to sleep on the same ridges and fields that were pivotal during the Maryland Campaign of the Civil War. The site is characterized by vast, rolling meadows of mowed grass and mature stands of trees that offer a sense of seclusion and solemnity. It is a quiet, reflective space designed for education, teamwork, and historical appreciation, making it a staple for youth organizations and civic groups across the Mid-Atlantic region.

Location and accessibility are central to the Rohrbach experience. The campground is situated at 18316 Burnside Bridge Road, just a short distance from the iconic Burnside Bridge and the Final Attack trail. While the address places you in the heart of the battlefield, the actual campsites are walk-in only, meaning guests must park their vehicles in a central lot and transport their gear to their designated sites. This design helps maintain the historic integrity of the viewshed. For those with mobility considerations, the campground provides a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, though it is important to note that the terrain to the campsites can be uneven and the walk to the restroom facilities may be significant depending on which of the ten sites you are assigned.

Services offered at Rohrbach Group Campground are intentionally primitive to reflect the historic nature of the park. Guests should arrive fully prepared for a "pack-it-in, pack-it-out" experience. There are no modern electrical hookups or RV sites, as the facility is strictly for tent camping by organized groups. While the park rangers do their best to support visiting groups, self-reliance is a key component of staying here. It is important to note that potable running water is not available directly at the campsites; groups are required to bring their own water or collect it from the spigot located behind the Antietam National Battlefield Visitor Center.

• Tent sites specifically designed for organized scout and civic groups.
• On-site parking lot with designated wheelchair-accessible spaces.
• Sturdy latrines and outdoor restroom facilities located near the parking area.
• Handwashing stations available seasonally for basic hygiene.
• Firewood provision (foraging for wood on battlefield grounds is strictly prohibited).
• Access to expert ranger-led programs and educational battlefield tours upon request.
• Large mowed grass areas suitable for group activities and historical reenactment discussions.
• Secure reservation system through Recreation.gov for organized group planning.

The features and highlights of Rohrbach Group Campground are what set it apart from any other camping location in Maryland. The most significant highlight is the immediate proximity to the landmarks of Antietam. Campers can wake up and immediately hike to the Bloody Lane, the Cornfield, or the National Cemetery. The campground itself overlooks some of the most critical terrain of the battle’s afternoon phase. Because it is reserved for groups, the sites are exceptionally large and can accommodate up to 30 people per site, providing ample room for troop meetings or outdoor kitchens.

• Direct access to over 15 miles of battlefield hiking trails including the Final Attack Trail.
• Proximity to Antietam Creek, offering a scenic backdrop and natural cooling during summer months.
• Large, designated fire rings at each site for evening gatherings and cooking.
• Standard picnic tables provided at every site to facilitate group meals.
• Nighttime views of the stars in a protected dark-sky area of Washington County.
• A short drive or moderate hike to the historic town of Sharpsburg for local supplies.
• Educational environment perfect for earning merit badges or completing civic service projects.
• Clean and well-maintained pit toilets that are built into permanent, sturdy structures.

Groups interested in reserving a site should plan well in advance, as this is a popular location for regional organizations during the spring and autumn months. Reservations must be made through the federal Recreation.gov portal.

Address: 18316 Burnside Bridge Rd, Sharpsburg, MD 21782, USA
Phone: (301) 432-5124

What is worth choosing when planning a trip to Rohrbach Group Campground is the opportunity for a truly immersive historical education. While the lack of running water and the walk-in nature of the sites require more effort than a standard KOA, the payoff is an unmatched connection to the past. It is worth choosing for leaders who want to teach their groups about the costs of the Civil War, the importance of preservation, and the skills of primitive camping. The lack of pavilions or covered structures means your group will be "living with the weather," which serves as a powerful teaching tool for self-sufficiency and preparation.

Additionally, the campground's layout is worth choosing for those who value space. The sites are spread out enough that even when the campground is at full capacity, the noise of other groups is often muffled by the natural topography of the ridge. For a Maryland group seeking a "manhunt" or "capture the flag" style game in the evening (with respect to the hallowed ground), the rolling hills and stands of timber provide a perfect natural arena. Ultimately, a stay at Rohrbach is not just a camping trip; it is a pilgrimage to a site of national significance, offering a quiet, beautiful, and deeply moving experience for those who respect its history.