Tent campsites near Brentwood, Maryland range from primitive sites with limited amenities to more developed options with basic facilities. The region sits in the Chesapeake watershed at elevations between 50-300 feet, creating varied camping terrain from riverside flats to wooded hillsides. Summer camping temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions in the 60-75°F range.
What to do
Playground exploration: The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley State Park features extensive play areas for families with younger campers. "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," notes Angel G. "The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground."
Fossil hunting: Sandy Point State Park's shoreline provides opportunities to search for prehistoric remnants. "Our favorite thing to do is to fossil hunt for sharks teeth. In late spring while school is still in session, the beaches are less crowded," says Angel G. The Chesapeake shoreline yields various marine fossils during low tide.
Kayaking opportunities: Within 30 minutes of Brentwood, paddlers can access multiple waterways. "Roland Lake in Baltimore County is a great place to kayak on the Patapsco River. Tons of wildlife, facilities, and amenities for you and your family," notes Anthony S. Kayak rentals typically cost $15-30 per hour, with multiple launch points available.
Hiking trails: The Forest Glen Trail in Patapsco Valley follows Saw Mill Branch Stream with moderate terrain. "This trail follows the Saw Mill Branch Stream and can connect with several trails to make for very interesting hiking adventures," reports Rachel S. Most trails range from 1-3 miles and connect to form longer routes.
What campers like
Natural settings: Lacy Oasis Campground receives high marks for its peaceful environment. "If you are a nature lover, a person who loves peace, serenity, and tranquility, or just need some respite, Lacy Oasis is the place to be," writes Terrance D. "This space is about healing and being grounded with yourself."
Convenience to Baltimore: Some primitive tent sites offer surprising proximity to urban areas. "Very short drive in to Baltimore—around 30 minutes," reports Gayle B. about Patapsco Valley State Park. "Nice playground for the kids. Some nice scenic areas—great for pictures. Lots of picnic areas."
Swimming access: Several camping areas provide water recreation opportunities. At Patapsco Valley, "We found a small river and swimming hole at the bottom of the hill off to the side opposite the cabins/park," shares Alexandra T. Designated swimming areas typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Affordable rates: The Military Park United States Naval Academy/Annapolis Naval Station Annapolis FamCamp provides budget-friendly options for eligible campers. "Military campground. Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap," notes Ginny L. Civilian campgrounds in the area average $25-35 per night for primitive sites.
What you should know
Tent pad surfaces: Some campgrounds have specific requirements for tent setup. At Patapsco Valley, "The crushed stone at the sites isn't comfortable for tents, and they won't let you pitch it on the ground, so bring extra pads and alternative ways to secure the tent to the ground," advises Sean M.
Weather vulnerabilities: Low-lying campsites can experience drainage issues during storms. "When it rains it really flushes through the grounds. We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm," reports Alexandra T.
Access challenges: Some primitive sites require substantial hiking to reach. At Marsden Tract Group Campsite, "Purchasers the camp site is beautiful secluded quiet wonderful if you're looking for that extreme outdoors a no civilization it's a good hike to get to the campsite there's no parking nearby no water no bathrooms or electricity," explains Chrystal P.
Seasonal crowds: Peak summer periods bring higher visitor numbers to tent sites near Brentwood. "This is a small gem of a state park campground, one of only two is the massive Patapsco Valley State Park. It's a bit odd getting here through a suburban neighborhood, but the Hilton area is great," notes Sean M. Weekday camping offers more solitude than weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring combines camping with adventure activities. "Very convenient for before or after your time in the largest aerial challenge course in North America. Groups only—no individual campsites," advises Elizabeth R. Most adventure activities require reservations 1-2 days in advance.
Weather preparation: Tent camping with children requires extra planning for temperature changes. "We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm and it was very wet even after the rain died down," cautions Alexandra T. Pack extra tarps and rain gear even during dry forecasts.
Nature programs: Patapsco Valley State Park offers educational opportunities for young campers. "It seem like this area is, possibly unintentionally, geared toward children. There is a massive playground, nature play space, sensory trail, and a small nature center," shares Sean M. Programs typically run weekends from April through October.
Stroller limitations: Not all trails accommodate wheeled equipment. "Be aware that neither the hiking trails or playground are stroller friendly," warns Angel G. Baby carriers work better than strollers for families with infants and toddlers on most area trails.
Tips from RVers
Firewood restrictions: Local regulations affect what campers can bring. "Remember: no alcohol or firewood can be brought into the park. Firewood can only be purchased on site due to harmful insects. But the money goes toward the parks volunteer program," notes Sean M. from Patapsco Valley. Bundled firewood typically costs $5-8 per bundle at most campgrounds.
Check-in timing: Arrival procedures vary between campgrounds. "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," advises Gabrielle E. Some sites allow early arrival for an additional fee of $10-15.
Water access planning: At Leesylvania State Park Campground, "This campground was so pretty. It is small, but the price and location near DC cannot be beat. It is directly on Potomac River," writes Anne K. RVers should plan water refills before arrival at primitive sites.
