Tent campsites near California, Maryland focus on access to the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay watersheds. The area features several primitive camping options with sites situated on coastal beaches and forested lands. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions between 50-75°F with periodic rainfall.
What to do
Fossil hunting along beaches: Calvert Cliffs State Park offers opportunities to find prehistoric shark teeth and fossils. A camper noted, "Such an amazing expieriance and brings right into the eyes of child with both adult and children searching for shark teeth. Not only is searching for shark teeth a blast, but, the views are beautiful" at Calvert Cliffs State Park.
Fishing and crabbing: Endeavor Point provides dedicated facilities for anglers. "The pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise," according to one visitor at Endeavor Point. Be aware that the campground limits crab catches to two dozen per person.
Hiking through coastal forests: Several parks feature trail systems through diverse ecosystems. At Belle Isle State Park, the Brewer's Point primitive campground requires either a boat-in approach or hiking to access campsites. Trails typically range from 1-3 miles through mixed hardwood forests and coastal marshlands.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront tent sites: Matoaka Beach Cottages offers tent sites with bay views. A camper shared, "We tent camped at Matoka Cabins and it was a beautiful Peaceful camping trip! Out spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves" at Matoaka Beach Cottages.
Primitive hike-in experiences: Sites requiring foot access provide greater solitude. At Caledon State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "7 or 8 tent pads. Wood for sale at the site for $4 honor system. Porta pottie right next to wood pile... Over all easy 2.5 mile hike on groomed gravel trails."
Community atmosphere for group outings: Lacy Oasis Campground offers a social environment. "My agency took about 25 children there last week and they did not want to leave, neither did I. The rates are very economical for what is being provided on the space," according to one group leader who visited the campground.
What you should know
Mosquito and bug preparation essential: Insect protection should be prioritized in summer months. A camper at Pax River Hog Point Campgrounds reported, "When we saw a review of this campground on Rec.gov complaining about the amount of bugs we thought they were being ridiculous, they were not."
Water access varies by location: Many primitive sites lack potable water. As noted at Leesylvania State Park Campground, "This campground was so pretty. It is small, but the price and location near DC cannot be beat. It is directly on Potomac River."
Campsite sizes typically limited: Most tent sites accommodate 1-2 standard tents. At Endeavor Point, one camper observed, "The campsites aren't dispersed and are pretty small but that's the only downside."
Seasonal availability restrictions: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Military Park at Annapolis operates year-round but remains "very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer dedicated play areas for children. One visitor noted, "The park has a great play ground right off the main parking lot for kids to play on as well as a few bathrooms" at Calvert Cliffs State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks provide nature programs. A visitor at Calvert Cliffs mentioned, "I was a TA on an optional field trip to Calvert Cliffs for an intro level class. I was a rainy day but we were able to go down to the shore and find fossils."
Family-friendly beaches: Protected swimming areas are available at select locations. At Lacy Oasis Campground, "If you are a nature lover, a person who loves peace, serenity, and, tranquility, or just need some respite, Lacy Oasis is the place to be. Whether you are an adult or a child, this place will have a positive effect on you."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent campgrounds near California, Maryland offer minimal RV facilities. Military Park at Annapolis Naval Station provides electric hookups and water connections, though spaces are typically reserved for military personnel and families.
Size restrictions: RV camping is limited to smaller units at most locations. Endeavor Point accepts RVs but has small sites with limited maneuverability for larger rigs.
Alternative RV options: Larger rigs should consider commercial campgrounds in nearby communities. The South Kings Camping area on Leoni Island offers waterfront RV sites with basic amenities but no sewer hookups.
