The Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River regions surrounding Callaway maintain moderate temperatures year-round, with high humidity from May through September. Cabins in the area typically operate from March through November, though some properties maintain winter availability. State park cabin rentals tend to offer better value during weekdays, with discounts up to 30% compared to weekend rates.
What to do
Water trails exploration: At Janes Island State Park Campground, visitors can paddle well-marked kayaking routes through marshlands. One visitor noted, "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." Kayak rentals available April through October.
Fossil hunting: Westmoreland State Park Campground provides access to beaches where visitors search for prehistoric shark teeth. A camper reported, "I love the sharks' teeth display in the shop and when I was there they were working on putting bones together of a whale that was found!" Most productive hunting occurs after storms or at low tide.
Historical exploration: Point Lookout offers exhibits related to its Civil War history. According to reviews, "The park used to be a prison for Confederate soldiers, so lots of cool exhibits and memorials for history buffs." Tours of the historical buildings run Thursday-Sunday from April through October.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Belle Isle State Park Campground receives praise for its well-spaced sites. A camper explained, "Only 30 sites, all which have electric/water hookup. Most sites are shady and level, with lots of space between." Sites on loop perimeters typically offer more seclusion than interior locations.
Clean facilities: Westmoreland State Park maintains exceptionally clean bathhouses. One visitor emphasized, "Bathhouses are always SO clean and heated in the winter. So appreciate the recycling bins." Most parks provide daily cleaning schedules posted at comfort stations.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks offer dedicated fishing areas. At Endeavor Point, "the views are great" and access to fishing piers is convenient. Fishing licenses required for anyone 16 or older, available online or at local tackle shops.
What you should know
Bug intensity: Nearly every review mentions insect activity. A visitor to Belle Isle warned, "SUPER MUTANT BUGS GALORE. We had super mutant mosquitoes and horse flies. They were resistant to citronella candles, essential oils, and bug spray with 40% deet." Bug season peaks mid-May through September.
Reservations required: Point Lookout State Park and other state parks fill quickly, especially waterfront sites. One reviewer recommended, "We were last minute campers on Memorial Day Weekend, so we didn't have many sites to choose from." Most parks allow reservations up to 12 months in advance.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly between locations. At Point Lookout, a visitor reported, "No internet access at the campsite. It's a complete dead spot for Verizon anyway. Not good if you're working while camping." Service improves at higher elevations and nearer to towns.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: Matoaka Beach Cottages offers private beach access ideal for children. A visitor shared, "We tent camped at Matoka Cabins and it was beautiful. Our spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves." Water depth remains shallow for 20-30 feet from shoreline.
Playground access: Multiple locations feature play areas. At Pohick Bay Campground, a visitor mentioned, "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."
Camp store amenities: Point Lookout provides basic supplies at their store. As one camper noted, "There is a park store at 10560 Point Lookout Rd on the way to/from the Lighthouse which has toiletries and other necessities you may have forgotten, plus snacks and drinks." Most stores operate limited hours after Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bethpage Camp-Resort receives praise for level sites. A reviewer stated, "We stayed in Sycamore 09. The site was clean and level. No fire pit or grill, so plan ahead." Many parks provide site-specific details online about ground conditions.
Hookup locations: Experienced RVers note that sewer connections vary between parks. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, a visitor mentioned, "Sewer is in 2 locations for each site." Always bring extension hoses as placement may not match your rig's configuration.
Road conditions: Some parks have tight internal roads. A Bethpage visitor cautioned, "Roads are tight." Low-hanging branches can also pose challenges for taller rigs, particularly after storms when parks may not immediately clear debris.
