Camping options near Beltsville, Maryland sit within the Piedmont region at elevations between 150-400 feet, creating a transitional landscape between coastal plains and the Appalachian Mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder 55-75°F conditions. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities where temperatures generally hover between 25-45°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: 70+ miles at Patapsco Valley State Park: The extensive trail system provides routes for all skill levels across the park's 32-mile corridor. "We absolutely loved this campground! Very short drive in to Baltimore—around 30 minutes. Nice playground for the kids. Some nice scenic areas—great for pictures," notes Gayle B.
Water recreation: Multiple swimming areas within 15 miles: Several campgrounds offer water activities during summer months. At Lake Fairfax, "They have a water park when in season. If you're looking for something close with some amenities this is it," according to Adrian F.
Mountain biking: Dedicated trails for cyclists: Some campgrounds cater specifically to mountain bikers with trail access. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too); wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat), skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground," reports Amy B. about Lake Fairfax Campground.
What campers like
Urban-adjacent camping: 15-40 minutes to major cities: Many campers appreciate the proximity to urban attractions while maintaining a camping experience. "Pohick Bay is my go-to weekend camping spot. Just a few miles outside DC, Pohick Bay is a hidden gem in the area," says Rachel L. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Birds and deer sightings common: Despite the urban proximity, wildlife encounters remain frequent. At Greenbelt Park, "There is plenty of space between camp site clusters. The park itself is safe, quiet, permitting some nice treks through the woods... the great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods," notes one reviewer.
Seasonal activities: Programmed events at most campgrounds: Many sites offer scheduled activities, especially on weekends and holidays. "We checked in, I followed an employee (Darnell) in his golf cart to my RV spot. The staff was very friendly, the grounds were clean and well maintained," reports a visitor at Washington DC / Capitol KOA.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites fill 2-3 months ahead for weekends: Weekend availability, particularly at Greenbelt Park Campground, becomes limited during peak seasons. "Loop A is for organized groups/youth/scouts, Loop B is for tents and RVs under 30 ft, Loop C is for tents, and Loop D is for tents and RVs under 35 ft. No hookups at any of the sites," explains Laura M.
Noise considerations: Air traffic and highways audible at most sites: Most campgrounds experience some level of urban noise. "You can barely hear the traffic from the road outside the park. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," mentions Miranda M.
Site conditions: Variable levelness at tent-only areas: Tent campers should prepare for potentially uneven ground. "Decent little campground! It was quiet aside from occasional air traffic noise, and while there wasn't much spacing between some camp sites everyone was respectful. My spot was a little difficult to find because the online park map was incorrect," explains Lauren S.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Multiple options at most campgrounds: Many sites feature dedicated children's areas. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," notes Elise M. about Washington DC / Capitol KOA.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers within 10 miles: Several campgrounds offer interpretive programs and facilities. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," shares Angel G.
Swimming options: Pools and water features available May-September: Multiple locations provide water recreation during warm months. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer. Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," adds Anne K.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites require early booking: Most campgrounds offer limited full-hookup sites that fill quickly. At Little Bennett Campground, "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup. D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C & E are tents only," explains Ray & Terri F.
Leveling requirements: Bring blocks for most sites: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "Site #D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back. Site #D69 gravel parking pad," notes one RVer.
Maneuverability considerations: Limited turn-around space at some parks: Larger rigs should research access details before arrival. "Entrance gate required entry code. Instructed by staff via gate phone to proceed to campsite as check-in at camp store is at dead end with insufficient turning space for pickup towing 28ft bumper pull," cautions Napunani.
