Camping near Burtonsville, Maryland offers a convenient base for exploring both natural areas and city attractions within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the transition between the Piedmont Plateau and Coastal Plain, with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet and a moderate climate that allows for extended camping seasons. Most campgrounds maintain open sites from April through October, with select locations offering year-round availability.
What to Do
Disc golf at Bull Run: A challenging 18-hole course suitable for beginners and experienced players. "Bull Run Regional Park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds," notes reviewer Tom C. at Bull Run Regional Park.
Fishing at Codorus State Park: Cast for bass, trout and other species in Lake Marburg. "The lake is beautiful and the trail around the lake is nice. A nice park to go to if you just want to rest around the camp fire," writes Dawn T. from Codorus State Park Campground.
Metro access to DC landmarks: Several campgrounds offer direct transit connections to Washington DC attractions. "This campground is very close to DC and you are able to ride the metro bus right from the campground," states Jonathan B. about camping options near the capital.
Hiking at Little Bennett: Access over 25 miles of trails through hardwood forests. "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly," says Ray & Terri F. from their stay at Little Bennett Campground.
What Campers Like
Secluded sites in wooded settings: Many campgrounds offer natural privacy despite urban proximity. "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back... Very quiet campground," reports Napunani at Little Bennett Campground.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathhouses and shower facilities. "Bathrooms were nice. the loop C bathrooms had 3 toilet stalls and 2 shower stalls," notes Sarah L. about Codorus State Park Campground.
Blend of nature with urban convenience: Locations that balance outdoor experiences with city amenities. "Surprisingly nice campground in a city. Lots of things for kids to do and access to bike trails outside of the complex," writes Jwalker about Cherry Hill Park.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Early morning and evening wildlife viewing. "Eagle haven! Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere!" exclaims Kathie M. about Pohick Bay Campground.
What You Should Know
Higher costs than rural campgrounds: Urban-adjacent camping typically commands premium pricing. "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. We loved it... Cons: Gravel pad, Expensive, Spotty Wi-Fi," explains Beth R. about Cherry Hill Park.
Variable site conditions: Some campgrounds have elevation challenges. "Check out your site before booking, some sites are steep but spacious," advises ben S. about Louise F. Cosca Regional Park.
Wildlife encounters: Take proper food storage precautions. "Raccoons run wild at night flipping trash can lids on your campsite hunting for food. Use repel spray to keep the raccoons off your site," warns Tye S. about Louise F. Cosca Regional Park.
Seasonal considerations: Facilities and amenities vary by season. "Little Bennett offers seasonal glamping from April through October with access to hiking trails and outdoor activities," according to local camping guides.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity planning for different age groups: Seek campgrounds with varied recreation options. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," advises Elise M. from Washington DC / Capitol KOA.
Swimming restrictions: Check policies before promising pool time to children. "I didnt like that non potty trained kids are not allowed to swim in their pool. Luckily we only have a 9 month old currently that isn't potty trained so she didn't care," explains Stephanie H. about Washington DC / Capitol KOA.
Entertainment schedules: Some campgrounds offer structured activities. "We had a great time here over a long weekend in August... They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night," shares Ben G. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited dump stations: Check availability and placement before arrival. "There is a dump station at the beginning of the campground with access to water as well. Free of charge," notes Tye S. about Louise F. Cosca Regional Park.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. "Roads are very narrow and there is only 1 way in and 1 way out (same entrance)," cautions Tye S. about narrow campground roads.
Leveling preparation: Bring additional blocks for uneven sites. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," shares Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Premium glamping alternatives: For those seeking luxury camping near Burtonsville without RV equipment, upscale glamping options include canvas structures with amenities. "The cabins had a front porch with picnic table and fire pit," notes a satisfied glamper from Ramblin' Pines.
