Camping spots near California, Maryland feature a mix of Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River access points within 30 miles of town. The region sits at near sea level with tidal marshes and mixed pine-hardwood forests creating diverse ecosystems. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-75°F range for more comfortable camping.
What to do
Fossil hunting: Calvert Cliffs State Park offers a unique opportunity to find prehistoric shark teeth and fossils. "It is a very nice walk about 2 miles to the beach where you can hunt for fossils," notes a visitor, though they mention "the beach has gotten smaller over the years however the trail has gotten much better." The well-marked trail leads to a shoreline where you can search for 15-20 million-year-old fossils.
Historical exploration: Point Lookout State Park combines camping with Civil War history. "The park used to be a prison for Confederate soldiers, so lots of cool exhibits and memorials for history buffs," explains one camper. The lighthouse, museum, and historical sites provide context about the area's significance during the Civil War.
Water activities: Dennis Point Marina and Campground provides direct water access for boaters and anglers. "I went tent camping here and it was really really nice. Staff was friendly and the bathrooms was very clean," notes a visitor who enjoyed the marina amenities. The facility includes boat launching facilities, fishing areas, and camping within walking distance of the water.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Westmoreland State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots. "The tent sites are awesome and mine have always been pretty private feeling despite being somewhat near others," shares one camper. Another notes, "We stayed on the B loop, the lot we reserved by only looking at a park map was nice a spacious for our popup."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Westmoreland State Park, a visitor mentions "bathhouses are always SO clean and heated in the winter. So appreciate the recycling bins." At Dennis Point Marina and Campground, a camper specifically noted the "very clean" bathrooms as a highlight of their stay.
Seasonal variety: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions. A Point Lookout visitor in April noted, "We didn't have to fight the summer crowds," while another camper visiting in October reported, "It was quiet with a couple activities planned." Off-season camping provides more solitude with fewer insects compared to summer months.
What you should know
Bug pressure: Insects can be intense, particularly in summer months. A Point Lookout camper warned, "The bugs were killer. Luckily, there was a nice strong breeze blowing off the water during the vast majority of our stay. However, the second it stopped, the bugs descended on us. Mosquitoes, gnats, biting flies, you name it."
Standing water concerns: Low-lying areas often have drainage issues. At Point Lookout, a camper observed, "I think we're in a swamp. I assume mosquitos get very nasty here pretty soon! There's standing water surrounding my site." Sites near marshes tend to retain water after rainfall.
Legend
