Camping in the Burtonsville, Maryland area provides access to the Patuxent River watershed, with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, making spring and fall particularly popular for camping. Winter camping remains viable at several campgrounds, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°F for extended periods.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Prince William Forest Park offers excellent day hiking opportunities near their RV campground. "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," notes Kenneth H.
Water activities: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina provides direct water access for fishing and boating. "Sites are on top of each other. Water hookup access was on the ground. It was raining and the area was saturated with no where to drain," reports Elvira A., highlighting the importance of checking ground conditions after rain.
Local history exploration: Harpers Ferry Campground serves as a base for exploring historical sites. "From there you can grab a bite, visit the history of Harper's Ferry or continue exploring more hiking trails," explains Maggie A., who adds that "the trail is about 1.5 miles one way" into the historic town.
Urban exploration: When camping near Burtonsville, many visitors use campgrounds as a base for city trips. "The park is close to Washington DC and offers a conceirge service for tours and things to do," shares Scott C. from Cherry Hill Park.
What campers like
River views: Waterfront camping spots are highly valued in the region. "Our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water). We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus," writes Mikala S. about Harpers Ferry Campground.
Convenient DC access: Cherry Hill Park earns praise for its transportation options. "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments," explains Jennifer H.
Military facilities: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp offers unique amenities for qualified visitors. "The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on," shares Jack R.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer special events throughout the year. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," says Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds have nearby train tracks. "The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will," warns Sherri C. about Harpers Ferry Campground.
Site spacing variations: Campsite density differs significantly between rv campgrounds near Burtonsville, Maryland. "Lots are really staggered/set back from each other so feels like you have more space. Average lot size in general, but the set back feels like you have more space," notes Megan K. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Utility reliability: Power outages can occur at some facilities. "Electric went out 3 times, once for over 24 hrs. It was in the high 90°," shares Charles S. about Round Top Campground, emphasizing the importance of backup plans during summer heat.
Military ID requirements: Several campgrounds near Burtonsville require military credentials. "This campground is abord Fort Belvoir, an US Army base in Northern, VA," explains Jack R., indicating the need for proper identification before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming options for children. "Quiet campground with tables and fire rings at all sites. Small, well stocked camp store. Propane and 2 easy dump stations. Nice pool and bath house," describes Mary P. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Playground availability: Bull Run Regional Park offers recreational areas for children. "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located," notes Yvonne B., suggesting families should check playground proximity when selecting sites.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds organize regular events for younger campers. "Lots of family activities. Very clean. Friendly staff," summarizes Kim W. about Ramblin' Pines.
Bathroom accessibility: Consider bathroom proximity when camping with children. "Only drawback I think for us on this trip is we wished the bath houses were closer. But they seemed to be clean and well maintained," shares Michelle L. about Ramblin' Pines.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some rv campgrounds in Burtonsville, Maryland and surrounding areas have uneven sites. "Sites were mostly level," notes Bille W. about Prince William Forest RV Campground, though other reviewers mention bringing leveling blocks for certain sites.
Check-in timing restrictions: Be aware of limited check-in windows at some facilities. "The keycard entry system is pretty inconvenient though ($40 cash only deposit!) and the hours are are inconvenient as well. You can only check in between 2 and 4!" warns Sean M. about Ramblin' Pines.
Site angle considerations: RV site layout can impact your camping experience. "Our site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," explains Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Hookup placement: Utility connections may be awkwardly positioned at some campgrounds. "Water and electric are in award spot on our site," mentions Alice G. about Round Top Campground, suggesting RVers bring extension cords and longer hoses.
