Cabin accommodations near California, Maryland range from basic rustic structures to more deluxe units with modern conveniences. Sites generally operate from spring through fall, with limited winter availability. The Chesapeake Bay region features flat terrain and waterfront locations, creating opportunities for water recreation alongside traditional forest camping experiences.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: Westmoreland State Park provides unique opportunities to find prehistoric shark teeth and fossils. "Fossil beach is a bit of a hike. Which is great if you're looking for that kind of thing," notes a camper who stayed at Westmoreland State Park Campground.
Kayaking water trails: Janes Island State Park offers well-marked water trails through marshes and channels. One visitor reported, "The water trails have a big variety from large channels to narrow marsh routes and bird watching is excellent. There's a beach that's an easy 1-mile paddle away with lots of room to spread out and have a private space to yourself." Janes Island State Park Campground maintains water access points for self-guided exploration.
Historical sites: Point Lookout State Park contains Civil War prison camp exhibits and memorials. A visitor mentioned, "The park used to be a prison for Confederate soldiers, so lots of cool exhibits and memorials for history buffs." The lighthouse and museum provide additional historical context when open.
What campers like
Private sites with waterfront views: Belle Isle State Park offers sites with water proximity. According to one review, "You can choose a spot on the marsh and over the water and there's you will see your neighbors, but we choose to stay tucked into the back where there are full hookups. There, each site is surrounded by tall reeds and you have near total privacy." Belle Isle State Park Campground maintains waterfront cabins separated from tent camping areas.
Seasonal water activities: Warm-weather months provide swimming opportunities at designated beaches. A visitor at Point Lookout State Park noted, "This park offers tons of activities and amenities, such as a huge fishing pier, camp store, canoe/kayak rental, lighthouse, historical sites, swimming beach, etc." Water temperatures remain comfortable from late spring through early fall.
Winter camping options: Several parks maintain cabin availability year-round. "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. Bath houses are heated which is amazing," reports a Westmoreland visitor, highlighting off-season benefits.
What you should know
Insect conditions: Biting insects become problematic in summer months. A Janes Island camper warned, "No-see-ums bite all day long, bug spray helps with these. Deer flies bite from the morning sun until it's dark and they are the worst at dusk. Fire smoke doesn't keep them away and Bug spray does not help keep these flies from biting." Areas near standing water experience the most intense insect activity.
Cabin equipment provisions: Most cabins provide basic furnishings but require supplemental items. Matoaka Beach Cottages maintains private cabin sites with minimal amenities. Guests should bring their own linens, cooking supplies, and personal items as rental units typically provide only beds, basic furniture, and limited kitchen equipment.
Reservation requirements: Holiday and summer weekends fill quickly, often months in advance. Reservations for cabins open 6-12 months ahead depending on the facility. Weekday and off-season availability improves substantially for last-minute trips.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Many parks offer ranger-led activities for children. At Pohick Bay Campground, a visitor reported, "They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning."
Protected swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide safer water access. "There is also a beach area for swimming. It gets full in peak season with day use partiers, but it's still wonderful," notes a Point Lookout visitor. Most swimming areas lack lifeguards, requiring parental supervision.
Multi-family site options: Some parks offer buddy sites for group camping. At Westmoreland, one camper shared, "We had a large group so we rented B49 and B48," demonstrating how families can book adjacent sites. Cabin arrangements sometimes include multiple bedrooms to accommodate larger family groups.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Sites with full hookups provide additional comfort for extended stays. A Belle Isle visitor noted, "Only 30 sites, all which have electric/water hookup. We've been here twice now, once with an RV and once in a tent. Most sites are shady and level, with lots of space between." Endeavor Point offers more limited electrical service with fewer full hookup options.
Cabin alternatives for RV travelers: When RV space is unavailable, cabin rentals provide similar comforts. Endeavor Point maintains both RV sites and cabin rentals on the same property, allowing flexibility for travelers. One visitor mentioned the property offers "beautiful views" and "quite restful" accommodations as alternatives to RV camping.
