Camping options near California, Maryland include both rustic tent camping and upscale glamping experiences within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the convergence of the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay, creating a unique coastal environment with mild winters and humid summers. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Fossil hunting expeditions: At Westmoreland State Park Campground, visitors can discover prehistoric treasures along the shoreline. "Beautiful park with a super fun activity! Just a half mile from the visitor center is a leisurely hike to a place where you can find ray's teeth and other small fossils from 15 million years ago," notes camper Rachel A.
Kayaking water trails: Janes Island State Park Campground features well-marked kayak routes through marshlands and open water. "The park has well-marked kayaking trails. 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," shares Sean F.
Wildlife viewing: The coastal location provides excellent birdwatching opportunities throughout the year. At Pohick Bay Campground, one camper noted, "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded feeling at Matoaka Beach Cottages, which offers glamping close to California, Maryland. Michael shares, "They have a few tent camping spots as well as cabins. Just call ahead. I just showed up and got a perfect camp spot with a view of the sunrise and access to the private beach."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities. At Janes Island State Park Campground, reviewers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms were nicer than my bath at home and sparkling clean. Staff was amazingly pleasant and helpful," reports Kristen D.
Waterfront access: Direct water access for swimming and boating is a major draw. At Roaring Point Waterfront Campground, camper Leah H. notes, "Nothing fancy here but who needs fancy when you have a beach, fishing, live entertainment and the beast sunsets going?"
What you should know
Bug preparedness: Insects can be problematic during summer months, particularly at waterfront sites. "Unfortunately the bugs were so bad, it was nearly impossible to enjoy. 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," warns Sarah M. about her Janes Island stay.
Weather considerations: The Chesapeake region experiences frequent summer thunderstorms. At Westmoreland State Park, camper RL shares, "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. Definitely gets windy near the river."
Reservation timing: Popular glamping options near California, Maryland book quickly during peak season. Lacy Oasis Campground has only six sites available, making advance planning essential for this intimate camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Family-friendly events can enhance camping trips with children. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, one camper shared, "Our son still talks about the cardboard boat races from last season! Always clean, pool complex is great, playgrounds are a hit with our son."
Multiple recreation options: Diverse activities keep children entertained throughout your stay. Ben G. describes Pohick Bay: "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. 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."
Water safety: Beaches in the area vary in swimming conditions. At Westmoreland State Park, a camper noted, "At the time of my visit a couple of weeks ago there was a bit of algae in the water that could cause irritation to stomach and skin, so just be mindful of this. I did hike down to fossil beach but definitely avoided the water."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: RV campers should research specific site characteristics before booking. At Janes Island, Michael G. advises, "We weren't a huge fan of our site, site 50, because it was difficult to get into and it backed up to the marina. We basically had to do a u-turn in reverse with our 30ft travel trailer which wasn't the easiest to get in the site."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at some campgrounds in the area. The Solomons Navy Recreation Area offers an exception with "spacious sites" that include complete hookups, according to Sharon F. This military campground features "a beach, 3 pools, marina, what else do you need."
Road navigation: Interior campground roads present challenges for larger rigs. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, a reviewer mentions, "Roads are tight" despite the campground being "big-rig friendly" overall, so advance planning for arrival and departure routes is recommended.
