Offbeat "Staycation" Getaways in MD

After a long, dreary winter in isolation, it’s natural to feel restless and catch a touch of wanderlust. As the weather warms up, the sun starts to make more appearances, and colors start to return to the Maryland landscape, there’s no better time to pack up the car and go explore new parts of Maryland. If you’re looking for something different, but not interested in taking a plane or sitting in the car for hours upon hours, here are some suggestions for a memorable weekend getaway without even having to leave the state!

1. The Treehouse Camp at Maple Tree Campground - Rohrersville, MD
   Tucked into South Mountain’s portion of the Appalachian Trail, this campground has a variety of lodging options. Seasoned campers would be content with one of their wooded or open-field tent sites (the field sites give views of the valley!). Another option is one of their three-season treehouses. For the full treehouse experience, though, reserve one of their Tree Cottages - houses on stilts built 8-10ft off the ground, equipped with beds, decks, fire pits, and an indoor wood stove. On the other hand, you may find your nerdy explorer’s heart drawn more to the Hobbit House, with its indoor fairy forest mural, thatch-covered porch, and wildflower-adorned roof!
   Click here to book a reservation!
   (photo credit: The Tree House Camp - Facebook)

2. Fixins Farm - Mount Airy, MD
   Conveniently located in the heart of Mount Airy’s wine country, you can’t get more relaxing than this quaint farmhouse with gorgeous views. Have an evening drink around the firepit while watching the sun set over the lush rolling hills, or sip your coffee on the stone patio while watching the farm animals start their morning (yes, you can interact with the farm animals!). There’s even a hot tub for cool nights, and a pool for warm summer days!
   Click here to reserve!
   (photo credit: Fixins Farm - airbnb)

3. Point Lookout State Park Campground - Scotland, MD
   If you’re more into ghost tours and Edgar Allen Poe than wine tours and the Hobbit, this one is right up your alley. During the day, set up camp at one of its 143 wooded campsites, and enjoy the water views and picnic areas. Once the sun sets, though, be prepared to meet the bayonet-holding ghost of a Civil War soldier who paces back and forth in front of the lighthouse (did we mention it was a Civil War prison camp that held over 50,000 Confederate soldiers?). Or sneak over to the beach and try to catch a glimpse of the spirit some have seen walking straight into the water. If you decide to stick to your fire circle, though, don’t be surprised if you hear voices over the crackling fire. And those weird noises and footsteps you might hear throughout the night? Sure, it could be a raccoon or a sleepless squirrel - but don’t be surprised if you find boot prints outside your tent, even though they don’t match the boots of anyone in your party…
   Click here to reserve your campsite!
   
   (photo credit: Dept of Natural Resources)

4. “Gypsy” the Retro Airstream - Knoxville, MD
   For anyone looking for a gorgeous hiking experience, but wants more of a 70s vibe built into their accommodations, you can’t beat this camper. This old-school camper looks brand-new inside, and is perfect for a romantic getaway. The inside boasts a full kitchen, a California king, bathroom, heat and A/C, and ZERO wifi access. The camper is on 10 acres of farmland, and aside from the other rentable campers scattered around, there’s no one else around to spoil your fun with loud noises. Plus, it’s near Harpers Ferry, some great breweries, and a variety of outdoor activities (inluding kayaking, hiking, and rafting).
   Click here to reserve!

(Photo credit: “Gypsy” the Retro Airstream - airbnb)

5. Yurt at Yorkie Acres Farm - Friendsville, MD
Ever wanted to stay in a yurt on a 100+ farm and hang out with all kinds of farm animals? I bet you do now. This is a 20ft yurt with a king sized bed, a futon, and front doors that open to a full view of the sun rising over the farm’s pastures. Sure, you have to go to a separate yurt for all bathroom needs, but that’s a small price to pay to know you’re sleeping mere yards away from a giant, wooly highland cow. The grounds have honeybee hives and wildflower fields, as well as a stream to splash in, and some great hiking trails.
Click here to book your yurt!
(photo credit: Yurt @ Yorkie Acres Farm - airbnb)