Camping options near Severna Park, Maryland extend beyond standard developed sites to include military campgrounds and specialized accommodations. The region sits at low elevations along the Chesapeake Bay watershed, with most camping areas under 300 feet above sea level. The climate creates distinct camping conditions throughout the year, with September and October offering milder temperatures in the 70s and lower humidity compared to summer months.
What to Do
Explore DC attractions: Cherry Hill Park in College Park provides excellent access to Washington DC. "The best park in the DC area! Very nice grounds, clean, and amenities galore! Plan and reserve your DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park," notes Jason E. The park offers a concierge service for arranging city tours.
Urban hiking trails: Greenbelt Park Campground offers access to wooded trails while staying close to metropolitan areas. "The American Discovery Trail (ADT) passes through the park," mentions Becky, highlighting how campers can connect to longer trails. The park maintains multiple hiking loops suitable for various skill levels.
Swimming options: During warmer months, Sandy Point State Park provides beach access despite limited camping. "Great day at the beach," reports Tom F., though another visitor cautions, "The water is warm though, but the sand is brown and rough."
What Campers Like
Quiet wooded sites: The secluded atmosphere at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area appeals to many campers. "Phenomenal, clean sites in a beautiful wooded area. It is all it's cracked up to be!" writes Jonathan B. Sites include fire pits and cooking crates with picnic tables.
Pool and recreation areas: Washington DC / Capitol KOA features numerous recreational amenities. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc)," reports Elise M. The facilities remain well-maintained throughout the camping season.
Natural wildlife viewing: Campers at several parks enjoy wildlife encounters. At Hollofield Area Campground, one camper noted seeing deer and numerous bird species in the early mornings. The wooded settings throughout the region support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
What You Should Know
Seasonal crowds: Summer attendance drastically affects the camping experience at many parks. "This park is extremely crowded and very dirty during the summer season," reports Christina E. about Sandy Point State Park. Weekday visits typically offer a quieter experience than weekends.
Noise considerations: Urban proximity means some campgrounds experience traffic noise. One Greenbelt Park camper mentioned, "Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground." Airport noise affects some sites at Hollofield Area Campground.
Campground policies: Hollofield Area Campground and other Maryland state parks prohibit bringing alcohol into the parks. Timothy C. notes an important rule at Greenbelt Park: "Park service forbade tying lines or straps to the trees at the time of our visit, so if you favor hammock camping or deploying tarps/ridgelines, plan accordingly."
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for dedicated play spaces: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds and kid-friendly amenities. "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," writes Angel G. about Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area. The sensory trail provides accessible outdoor experiences for children of all abilities.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabin rentals offer comfort with outdoor access. "We tent camped at Pine Tree Associates. They are a nudist club with a very nice camp ground," notes brian R. Cabins at various campgrounds typically require earlier reservations than tent sites.
Visit during shoulder seasons: Spring and fall visits avoid both summer crowds and insects. "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. regarding Sandy Point State Park.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many campgrounds feature sites with varying terrain. "Camp site wasn't level at all. I was actually kind of worried that it would slide into the woods," warns Guerrmo about Washington DC/Capitol KOA. Requesting specific sites when booking can address this issue.
RV size restrictions: State parks often have stricter size limitations than private campgrounds. Hollofield Area Campground accepts RVs in their electric loop, but warns: "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.)"
