Camping options near Annapolis, Maryland extend throughout the Chesapeake Bay region with sites ranging from waterfront locations to wooded state parks. The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers reaching average highs of 87°F in July and mild winters with average lows around 34°F in January. Spring and fall camping seasons feature moderate temperatures with occasional coastal storms affecting the region.
What to do
Water activities at bayfront locations: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina allows campers to fish directly from waterfront sites. One visitor noted, "Beautiful waterfront sites and good location right off 95. Fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks." The park also offers a dedicated area for launching small watercraft.
Hiking and biking trails: Patapsco Valley State Park Hollofield Area offers 70 miles of multi-use trails accessible directly from campsites. A reviewer mentioned, "We enjoyed hiking the trails directly from our campsite that led us down to the Patapsco River. There is a lot of history associated with the River and the area. You can even swim in this river."
Wildlife viewing: Tuckahoe State Park Campground provides access to the Tuckahoe Creek and Lake with opportunities for bird watching. The park includes a Bird Aviary housing rehabilitated birds that cannot be released. A camper explained, "The camp sites are laid out in a circle with the bathhouse in the center. You can purchase ice and firewood from the ranger station and some other odds and ends."
What campers like
Natural surroundings close to urban areas: Greenbelt Park Campground offers camping with convenient access to Washington DC. One camper shared, "There is plenty of space between camp site clusters. The park itself is safe, quiet, permitting some nice treks through the woods. The other great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods."
Waterfront views: Campers at Bay Shore Campground appreciate the scenery. According to a reviewer, "Perfect location for relaxation. No pool & not much to do for kids. But loved the view & area. Only 3 miles to drive into town." Another visitor commented, "Most of the sites are seasonal renters, except for the section we were in. Not much to do at the campground, but we loved the sunsets each night."
Military connections: Military Park United States Naval Academy/Annapolis Naval Station Annapolis FamCamp serves those with military credentials. A visitor described it as "Military campground. Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Annapolis region operate seasonally with limited winter availability. Tuckahoe State Park Campground is open March 25 to November 27, while Patapsco Valley State Park Hollofield Area operates April 1 to October 30. Bay Shore Campground remains open year-round but with limited services during winter months.
Reservation requirements: Cherry Hill Park requires advance booking, especially during peak season. A visitor advised, "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. We loved it." The park charges premium rates but includes amenities like 50-amp hookups, water, sewer, playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, and nightly hayrides.
Site spacing variations: Campground density varies significantly across the region. A Patapsco Valley visitor noted, "The sites were nice and level, but a bit small, with a short driveway. Fair amount of trees surrounding our site, but since there are still very few leaves, it felt way closer and less private." Some campgrounds offer more secluded options on outer loops.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities are available at several parks. A visitor to Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride." These features provide entertainment options for children during extended stays.
Natural play areas: Some parks incorporate natural elements for play. A camper at Patapsco Valley described, "There is a 'natural' playground in the loop, and then if you drive down further to the park entrance, there is a large playground for the kids. I've attached photos from the 'natural playground' aka, large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it."
Educational opportunities: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp offers nature education possibilities. A visitor shared, "This campground is aboard Fort Belvoir, an US Army base in Northern, VA. It is very clean and there are many amenities close by. The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and utilities: RV campers should note size limitations at certain parks. At Bar Harbor RV Park, a camper observed, "Some of the trailer sites are a tough back in but worth the trouble. WiFi is good, washrooms are modern and adequate. Sites are paved, pretty level and just a bit close."
Height restrictions: When approaching Patapsco Valley State Park Hollofield Area, RVers must be aware of low clearance. A reviewer cautioned, "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)"
Power considerations: Most campgrounds provide limited electrical service. Camp Meade RV Park visitor noted, "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle. They reminded me." RVers should bring adapters as many parks only offer 20/30-amp service rather than 50-amp hookups.
