Baltimore's RV parks and campgrounds provide diverse camping experiences within driving distance of the city. The area sits along the Chesapeake Bay watershed with an average elevation of 480 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 50-70°F range.
What to do
Water recreation: Patapsco River: At Hollofield Area Campground, campers can access multiple water activities. "Took a fairly easy hike down to the river and even went for a swim. Loved it so much, I stopped on the way back home again!" notes Diana S.
Military history exploration: Fort Belvoir: Located a short drive from Baltimore, Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp offers historical sites and outdoor activities. A reviewer explains, "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."
Urban tourism: Washington DC day trips: Cherry Hill Park serves as an ideal base for city excursions. "You can't beat the proximity to DC and surrounding areas. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5," shares Jennifer H.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers prime water access sites. Casey L. notes, "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks."
Park amenities and activities: Many RV parks Baltimore offer extensive on-site features. George L. reports, "WiFi is good, washrooms are modern and adequate. A lot of long term residents but the transient sites are pretty separate. Sites are paved, pretty level and just a bit close."
Convenience to attractions: Round Top Campground provides good access to historical sites. Dave R. shares, "We were there to relax but also to explore the town and battlefields. The drive into town was short and had enough road side visuals to keep you from dwelling on the drive."
What you should know
Site spacing and layout: Most Baltimore area RV parks have relatively close sites. At Drummer Boy Camping Resort, Laure D. observes, "The site was pretty level and an okay side. Our site was separated from our neighbors site with nice foliage. There is a large seasonal section and lots of activities."
Weather and seasonal considerations: Be prepared for sudden changes in Mid-Atlantic weather. At Camp Meade RV Park, Rick V. mentioned, "We had a nice shady spot, what was great with a heat of 94F." Many campgrounds have seasonal sections that fill quickly during peak times.
Military base protocols: Some of the best campgrounds near Baltimore are on military bases. Elvin J. advises Camp Meade visitors, "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle. They reminded me."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Cherry Hill Park offers numerous facilities for children. Beth R. lists, "Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride."
Natural play areas: Some parks feature unconventional play spaces. At Hollofield Area Campground, one camper noted, "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."
Weekend vs. weekday visits: Timing affects your experience significantly. A reviewer at Hollofield observed, "The campground and park fill up on the weekends but are nearly empty during the week. There are several hiking trails in this part of the park."
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: At Drummer Boy Camping Resort, Laure D. mentions site configuration challenges: "Many of the sites are on annoying slope where the table/fire pit is not level to the camper. The roads are very confusing and difficult to navigate."
Site selection strategy: When booking at busy campgrounds, consider location carefully. Jeremy K. advises, "Giving it 3 stars because we really enjoyed the pool and getting our feet wet with our new TT. But this was a very crowded place and the site we had wasn't very appealing."
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at some parks. Thomas notes about Fort Belvoir, "Good site, secure location, decent facilities with solid WiFi. Pier within walking distance. Good location, tho our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."
