Tent camping near Burtonsville, Maryland provides access to several state and regional parks within a 30-mile radius. The region features hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 250-500 feet above sea level, creating varied camping terrain. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring cooler 50-70°F temperatures with less precipitation.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation: At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, visitors enjoy varied terrain for day hikes. "The hike I did was not very long but was well worth it. The trail was well marked but there was some confusion at one point on where we were supposed to go," notes a camper who recommends the experience for beginner hikers.
Water activities: Kayaking and fishing options abound near the best tent camping near Burtonsville. "Great kayaking on the Patapsco River. Tons of wildlife, facilities, and amenities for you and your family," reports one visitor who found the park clean with knowledgeable staff.
Nature programs: Several parks offer educational opportunities. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," shares a camper who visited with children.
What campers like
Accessibility to Baltimore: Leesylvania State Park Campground offers proximity to urban areas while maintaining natural surroundings. One camper notes it's "so close to DC but so far away" and adds that "the price and location near DC cannot be beat. It is directly on Potomac River."
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening animal sightings enhance the camping experience. At Sandy Point, a visitor mentions, "Our favorite thing to do is to fossil hunt for sharks teeth. In late spring while school is still in session" the crowds are smaller and wildlife more visible.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive mention. "The bathhouse is nothing special, but it's well maintained and clean," reports one Patapsco Valley visitor, while another notes, "Very clean and the people we met were friendly."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Low-lying areas can flood during rainstorms. "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," explains one camper at Patapsco Valley.
Seasonal crowds: Many parks become extremely busy during summer months. At Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camping, a visitor warns, "Get there early on weekends and holidays. The line to get in can be a mile long!"
Park entrance challenges: Navigation to some camping areas requires attention. "Getting in to the park was a little difficult. We missed the entrance and had to turn around. Friends who were camping with us had the same problem," shares a Patapsco Valley camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring offers tent camping with recreational amenities. It's "very convenient for before or after your time in the largest aerial challenge course in North America," notes a visitor who recommends it for groups rather than individual campers.
Nature education: Take advantage of educational trails designed for children. "The sensory trail and playground" at Patapsco Valley "is the perfect little getaway from the city for camping, fishing and hiking. Be aware that neither the hiking trails or playground are stroller friendly," advises a family camper.
Multiple day visits: Some parks require more time to fully explore. "Patapsco Valley offers 6 different entrances. Each one provides several different trail heads and experiences... This definitely is a park that takes a while to explore all of it. It cannot be done in a day," explains a repeat visitor.
Tips from RVers
Military option: Military Park United States Naval Academy/Annapolis Naval Station Annapolis FamCamp provides basic accommodations for eligible service members. A visitor describes it as "Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap."
Water and electric access: While tent camping dominates near Burtonsville, some sites accommodate small RVs with hookups. "This campground was on the smaller side. You get a fire pit and cooking crate, and a picnic table," notes a camper who appreciated the amenities despite limitations.
Arrival timing: Plan check-in times carefully when visiting with an RV. One camper notes, "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."
