Campsites near Arnold, Maryland typically offer sites within 30 minutes of both Annapolis and Baltimore. The region sits at the intersection of suburban areas and natural waterways, with elevations generally below 100 feet. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though several year-round options accommodate winter camping with full hookups.
What to do
Water activities on the Chesapeake Bay: Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camping provides beach access and water recreation opportunities. "There are wonderful views of the water and swimming at the beach, pavilions for social gatherings, showers and bathrooms that are kept pretty very clean, and room for backpacking, hiking, picnicking," notes Rachel S.
Historical exploration in DC: Cherry Hill Park offers convenient access to nearby historical sites. "Great for a DC visit. This campground is conveniently located in the middle of the DC / Annapolis area and has a lot to offer!" mentions Philip T. The park provides transportation options: "On-site bus shuttle. Gated. On-site camp store," according to Beth R.
Riverside hiking: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area features numerous trails along the water. "Patapsco Valley offers 6 different entrances. Each one provides several different trail heads and experiences. The trails we have been on are all pretty moderate to hard but offer beautiful waterfalls and river views," states Angel G.
What campers like
Accessibility to urban areas: Greenbelt Park Campground provides a natural setting near metropolitan centers. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," mentions Becky. The park offers connections to larger trail systems: "The American Discovery Trail (ADT) passes through the park."
Playground facilities for children: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," explains Elise M. about Washington DC / Capitol KOA.
Swimming options: Several parks maintain pools or water access. "Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer, Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," lists Beth R. about Cherry Hill Park.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Campground density differs between parks. "The sites are pretty close but adequate. Many staying at the campground are working in the area, but all seem to be great folks," notes Beverly T. about Adventure Bound Washington DC.
Off-season advantages: Many campers recommend avoiding summer crowds. "Extremely over crowded in the summer. The park closes daily very early as it hits capacity. The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall," advises Tony P. about Sandy Point State Park.
Aircraft noise: Several campgrounds experience overhead flight paths. "Sites were well-maintained, including lavatories. Plenty of tree cover. NOTE: park service forbade tying lines or straps to the trees at the time of our visit (Autumn 2024), so if you favor hammock camping or deploying tarps/ridgelines, plan accordingly," mentions Timothy C. about Greenbelt Park.
Tips for camping with families
Nature discovery options: Hollofield Area Campground offers educational outdoor spaces. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," explains Angel G. about nearby facilities.
Tent site selection: Look for specific loops designed for tent camping. "If you're a tent camper and don't need electric, the sites on the outer loop were quite nice and private," advises Jen V. about Hollofield Area Campground.
Transportation planning: Several parks offer transportation to attractions. "No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!" points out Jason E. about Cherry Hill Park. This eliminates parking concerns when visiting popular sites.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Plan arrivals during daylight hours. "Do not try and come in after dark. Very tight and very dark," warns Matthew S. about Adventure Bound Washington DC.
Limited hookup options: Most parks offer electric but not full hookups. "There is only 20/30amp electricity and NO water or sewer - although there was a dump and a place to fill your water tank," explains Travyl Couple about Hollofield Area Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "Camp site wasn't level at all. I was actually kind of worried that it would slide into the woods," notes Guerrmo about their experience at Washington DC / Capitol KOA.
