The camping areas near Broomes Island sit along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay in Calvert County, Maryland. Most campsites in this region lie between 10-50 feet above sea level with shoreline access to either the Patuxent River or various creek tributaries. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity from June through September, making water proximity a valued feature for campers seeking relief from the heat.
What to do
Fossil hunting: At Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping, visitors can search for prehistoric shark teeth and marine fossils along the beach area. "Such an amazing expieriance and brings right into the eyes of child with both adult and children searching for shark teeth. Not only is searching for shark teeth a blast, but, the views are beautiful and walkin thru the woofs Is very calming!" reports Sarah F.
Fishing and crabbing: Multiple piers and waterfront access points provide opportunities for anglers. "The pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise," notes Ally S. about Endeavor Point. Many campgrounds offer dedicated areas specifically for crabbing activities.
Kayaking creek tributaries: King's Landing Park near Final-Lee Here campground offers water access. "We kayaked the river and creek through beautiful marshlands where we saw caterpillars walk on water, a heron and bald eagles soaring above, turtles, a cove where thousands of tadpoles were amidst metamorphosis scampering through and atop the water, and a multitude of dragonflies," writes Kelly M.
Winter beach hiking: Less crowded cooler months provide a different experience. "Went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year," notes RL about Westmoreland State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer vegetation barriers. "The sites for tents are big enough for a 4 person tent. There are clean bathrooms and the hosts, who I have spoken to many times, are friendly and knowledgeable about the area," mentions Bill G. about Cedarville State Forest.
Water access: Direct waterfront sites provide views and activities. "We had site 68 which had plenty of space for the TT, truck and car to park. The sites have plenty of separation and the park was very quiet," writes Nick E. about Point Lookout State Park.
Camp hosts: Attentive staff enhance the experience at several locations. "Saw the hosts mowing different grassy areas several times throughout our stay. Bath house was very clean and well-maintained. Looks like host cleaned it several times a day," Jen V. notes about Point Lookout State Park.
Heated facilities: Winter campers appreciate year-round amenities. "Bath houses are heated which is amazing. We had a large group so we rented B49 and B48," mentions RL about Westmoreland State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal bug concerns: Ticks and mosquitoes thrive in the humid environment. "These things are awful! We tried fans, tiki torches, and many deet free or light deet products before having to buy 100% deet so we could be outside," warns Kasey M. about Cedarville State Forest.
Site selection strategies: Some loops offer significantly different experiences. "While the B Loop was beautiful with waterfront campsites, the bugs were awful and there was no shade anywhere. I think it would make for pretty miserable camping, at least in the summer," cautions Tara S. regarding Point Lookout State Park.
Standing water challenges: Low elevation can create drainage issues. "There's standing water surrounding my site. We're in a swamp," notes Buck P. about Point Lookout. Several reviewers mention similar concerns across multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Broomes Island.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically by location and carrier. "No internet access at the campsite, but could get it if you were a few feet away from the Loop. It's a complete dead spot for Verizon anyway. Not good if you're working while camping," warns Buck P.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access timing: Waterfront areas get crowded during peak periods. "During the October trip there were a lot of families with kids, and it was cool because people decorated their sites for Halloween," reports Jen S. about Point Lookout State Park.
Recreational options: Consider facilities beyond camping. "The park has a great play ground right off the main parking lot for kids to play on as well as a few bathrooms. Also right off the parking lot is a little fishing pond which leads you to the main trail to get down to the beach," explains Anthony S. about Calvert Cliffs.
Summer water activities: Swimming options provide heat relief. "There is a pool but we were not able to use it due to COVID. There is a large park area close to office with large trees and a playground," notes Amy J. about Take It Easy Campground.
Off-peak advantages: Consider visiting in shoulder seasons. "Sunday and Monday nights if you have flexibility with jobs etc. It was SUPER quiet during my stay. Absolutely wonderful," advises RL about visiting pet-friendly campgrounds near Broomes Island.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Large rigs face challenges at some locations. "Site 6 was good but not for larger rigs. We have a pop up and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs. Site 5 or 7 wouldn't have that problem," advises Nurse N. about Cedarville State Forest.
Hookup availability: Different loops offer varying amenities. "Tulip Loop has full hookups which was great, but the sites are basically in a swamp. I think we were there before the mosquitos. I'm sure with all the standing water they'd be everywhere!!" notes Buck P. about Point Lookout State Park.
Driving approaches: Access roads can be tricky. "The park is well off the beaten path, but has plenty of historic and other attractions near by. We stayed on the B loop, the lot we reserved by only looking at a park map was nice a spacious for our popup," reports Anthony D. about Westmoreland State Park.
Proximity to supplies: Several campgrounds offer nearby shopping. "If you've forgotten anything you can pop on by the Target or Costco right outside the forest," mentions moonbeans about Cedarville State Forest.
