Campgrounds near Bowie provide year-round camping opportunities across Maryland's piedmont region, where average summer temperatures reach 85°F and winter lows hover around 30°F. The area sits at an elevation of 150-250 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for hiking and exploration. Most campgrounds maintain operating schedules from April through October, with a smaller selection remaining open during winter months.
What to do
Hiking trails: 70+ miles available at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area with routes for all skill levels. "Beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking/multi use trails. There are parks on both sides of the river to explore and experience the trails. Be sure to bring/download maps," notes Travyl Couple.
Disc golf: 18-hole course at Pohick Bay Campground offers a challenging layout for all skill levels. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests Rachel L. The course winds through wooded areas and open fields.
Kayaking and fishing: Multiple access points on the Patapsco River within 30 minutes of Bowie. "You can even swim in this river. Fishing looked like fun too but we didn't have time," mentions Travyl Couple. Rentals available seasonally at Pohick Bay where "boat rental a short walk down the trail from the campgrounds."
Nature exploration: Discovery Center at Patapsco Valley features educational exhibits. "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," writes Angel G. "The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground."
What campers like
Proximity to Washington DC: Washington DC / Capitol KOA provides easy access to DC attractions. "Centrally located between Annapolis, Baltimore, and DC. This trip we spent most of our time in DC and only went to Annapolis one night," shares Stephanie H. Travel time to downtown DC typically runs 30-40 minutes.
Wooded seclusion despite urban location: Hollofield Area Campground offers forest camping minutes from the city. "This is a great park for day-tripping with a very convenient location," notes Jen V. Another camper adds, "Being just barely off the beaten path, I wasn't expecting all too much... I was surprised at the quiet, understated beauty of the forestry around the perfectly level campsite."
Natural playgrounds and features: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Bowie include nature play areas. "There is a 'natural' playground in the loop... large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it," shares Jennifer S. about Hollofield Area Campground. These natural features provide entertainment beyond traditional playground equipment.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening animal sightings are common. "I noticed a family of deer grazing close by, a great way to settle in for the evening," writes Crystal C. about her stay at Greenbelt Park. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars for spotting bald eagles at Pohick Bay, where one reviewer notes "Eagles everywhere!"
What you should know
Seasonal crowds and availability: Weekends fill quickly at Greenbelt Park Campground while weekdays offer more solitude. "The campground and park fill up on the weekends but are nearly empty during the week," notes Rebecca C. Reservations recommended 2-3 months ahead for summer weekends.
Metro access for city exploration: Transportation options vary by campground. "Take the METRO if you are going into the District. There are two stations very close to camp (Greenbelt and University Park)," advises Laura M. "The train ride from the Greenbelt station to the national mall is about 30 min. Get off at the Archives station to be in the center of all the sites."
Weather considerations: Summer storms can affect camping conditions. "We set up camp and ate dinner only to be hit by a tornado watch in the area. I spent most of the trip adjusting the water proofing so we stayed dry," recalls Justin G. at Cedarville State Forest.
Ticks and insects: Prepare with appropriate repellent, especially May through September. "Lots of trails but in June at least the ticks were waaaay too plentiful," warns Joe C. Another camper adds, "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Cherry Hill Park offers extensive recreational facilities. "This campground has so much to offer... Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," lists Beth R. Multiple swimming options keep children entertained during hot summer months.
Nature-based learning: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Bowie offer environmental programs. "There are monthly programs at the campfire circle that I sometimes attend even when not camping here," mentions Becky about Greenbelt Park.
Playground access: Campgrounds offer varied play equipment. "The check in is a breeze and the staff is super nice and helpful. They gave us a great intro to the park as we were first timers. They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning," shares Ben G. about Pohick Bay.
Site selection: Choose sites strategically for family needs. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," notes Ben G. Loop selection impacts noise levels and bathroom accessibility.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Adventure Bound Washington DC requires careful site selection. "Sites were very close. The site was part Gravel and mostly mud/grass. There was trash on site," reports Cynthia D. Bringing leveling blocks is essential at most area campgrounds.
Water and electric access: Hookup availability varies across campgrounds. "The inner circle has electric but no water or sewer. The outer circle is primitive. There is a dump station," explains Rebecca C. about Hollofield Area.
Bridge clearance restrictions: Watch for height limitations when approaching certain campgrounds. "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)," warns Travyl Couple about Patapsco Valley State Park.
Arrival timing considerations: Plan daytime arrivals when possible. "Do not try and come in after dark. Very tight and very dark," advises Matthew S. about Adventure Bound. Some campgrounds also have strict check-in times: "This was also the first time we have ever had to wait till exactly 3pm to check in. So if you arrive early expect to wait until 3."
