J
John B.
Scout
ScoutArtillery Ridge Campground
One of the nicer campgrounds in the area
Staff is friendly and everything is kept up well, newly renovated pool and pavilion area.
Camping near Simpsonville, MD
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near Simpsonville, Maryland range from full-service RV parks to more primitive tent camping areas within a 30-mile radius. Cherry Hill Park in College Park and Patapsco Valley State Park offer diverse accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. The Washington DC/Capitol KOA in Millersville provides glamping and yurt options alongside traditional camping, while Greenbelt Park Campground offers a more rustic experience with tent and RV sites but limited hookups.
Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with most facilities fully operational from April through October. Several campgrounds like Patapsco Valley State Park's Hilton and Hollofield Areas specifically note a season from "April 1 to October 30." Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when facilities reach capacity. "This is a fairly nice, bare bones NPS campground. If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it," noted one camper about Greenbelt Park. Weather conditions can impact camping experiences, with summer humidity and occasional thunderstorms common in the region. Many campgrounds provide water access, though swimming is prohibited in some areas like the Potomac River.
Developed campgrounds in the area typically include amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms. The region's proximity to Washington DC makes it popular for visitors seeking outdoor experiences while remaining close to urban attractions. Campers frequently mention the convenience of public transportation access from certain campgrounds. "We picked up the camping registration outside the office at the entrance, no need to speak with anyone. Then we just drove down to our campsite in the family camping loop," reported a visitor to Cedarville State Forest. Mixed-use campgrounds accommodating both tent and RV camping dominate the area, with varying levels of privacy between sites. Trail access is commonly available directly from campgrounds, with Patapsco Valley State Park offering over 70 miles of multi-use trails. Wildlife sightings, particularly birds and small mammals, enhance the camping experience despite the relatively developed nature of the region.
Best Campgrounds near Simpsonville (106)
1. Cherry Hill Park
"Metrorail is about 6 miles from campground, near University of Maryland."
"Great camping amenities, soft cushioned sites, with power and water close by. DO NOT GET BASIC TENT SITES AS THEY ARE NEXT TO HIGHWAYS AND VERY NOISY!!! Premium tent sites would be a better choice."
from $999 / night
Check Availability2. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
"If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."
"The campsite is superb with walking trails, wildlife and the occasional overflying US Presidential Helicopter. Easily accessible from close by freeways, and charmingly peaceful"
from $20 / night
Check Availability3. Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area
"Camp site(Tent camping)
The camp site is what it is, just a camp site :) It's one of the bigger state parks surrounded by forest in MD.""Another negative was after the storm for the next few days we heard trees falling nearby."
from $20 - $51 / night
Check Availability4. Hollofield Area Campground
"It has 8 recreation areas and we stayed at the Hollofield Area in April- one of our first experiences in a Maryland State Park. Beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking /multi use trails."
"This campground is pleasant, but the sites are situated quite close to one another."
from $19 - $27 / night
Check Availability5. Ramblin' Pines
"We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick."
"We love this home away from home ❤️"
from $30 - $70 / night
Check Availability6. Washington DC / Capitol KOA
"They have a nice dog area for the dog to be able to run around and exercise which a lot of places we have been do not have a place for the dog to really exercise."
"The location worked for my trip but not sure it’s that convenient to DC."
7. Little Bennett Campground
"Quiet woods in Maryland about 30 or 40 miles north of DC. Tenting, and RV spots partial to full service. Just of hiway 270. pricey ($66/night) for a state park, but nice."
"PROS Very nice small Montgomery County Park
No reservation fee to make on-line reservations
Reserved 137 days prior to arriving
Entrance gate required entry code Instructed by staff via gate phone"
8. Camp Meade RV Park
9. The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
from $150 - $200 / night
Check Availability10. Lake Fairfax Campground
"We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."
"For tent camping I would suggests sites 30,33 or 35 these are tucked along the tree line. The bathroom facilities were the cleanest I have seen in a campground."
from $30 - $70 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 15 min from Baltimore, MD
- 32 min from Washington, DC
- 1 hr from York, PA
- 1 hr 8 min from Gettysburg, PA
Recent Camping Photos near Simpsonville, MD
362 Photos of 106 Simpsonville Campgrounds
Jennifer S.
Hollofield Area Campground
Jennifer S.
Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area
Artemis A.
Cherry Hill Park
Michelle L.
Ramblin' Pines
Nick C.
Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
Angie G.
Washington DC / Capitol KOA
Manager P.
Pinetree Associates
James W.
The Garden
Shari G.
Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Ch. A.
Little Bennett Campground
Chrystal P.
Marsden Tract Group Campsite
Emerson K.
Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway
Recent Reviews near Simpsonville, MD
951 Reviews of 106 Simpsonville Campgrounds
- JJohn S.Scout
Ramblin' Pines
Weak WiFi
For $90 per night the WiFi should work better. Didn’t connect at all. Had to use the antenna pointed East to get local Baltimore news.
- hheather B.Scout
Cherry Hill Park
Like a resort
This camp ground is like a resort with 2 pools mini golf splash pad and many other amenities
- H
Holly B.
GuideCherry Hill Park
My All Time Favorite…so far
This park is top notch. The grounds are immaculate. The staff is friendly and helpful. They have a lovely gift shop. We were in the 400 sites and it was nice and shady. Though you are close to highways I don’t recall hearing and noise. I love that they have shuttles to DC., walking trails and a large dog park. This is my all time favorite park so far and I need to go back.
- TTroli R.Guide
Aberdeen Proving Ground RV Park
Bougie sites; AWFUL reservation system
BASE ACCESS REQUIRED!
Electric/Water/Sewer hookup sites for $56 a night! (2 night minimum) Which is a great full hookup price, even though it's gone up $6 since last year. Weekly and monthly pricing available as well.
The sites are neat, well maintained, level, and sunny with concrete pads and paved campground roads. Centrally located laundry facilities and airconditioned bath house. Playground, boat launch, beach volleyball court, disk golf, basketball court, and outdoor pool all within walking distance. Other base amenities include: commissary, gas station, bowling, BBQ, Dunkin', and Greek restaurants, and golf. (I'm sure I'm forgetting something.)
Note: in July it is very buggy - the biting flies are the worst. So bring bug spray or a screened in tent to eat in.
The downside: the reservation system is a major PITA. You have to download a PDF packet, fill it out, and EMAIL it in. When you get your confirmation, it doesn't include a specific site number. You get assigned one when they call you the week of your scheduled check-in for payment completion.
Don't miss out on: the water! My advice would be to reserve one of their boats at the same time you reserve your campsite. The water in this area is great - no jellyfish, low waves. You can SUP, kayak, pontoon boat. Whatever your preference. There are large flats of grasses - which you'd want to avoid with a motor but are so much fun to paddle over. Also check out the Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge island. You can't go inland, but you can anchor off shore, jump in and wade around the shallows.
Also very driveable to an off-base movie theater, Baltimore, and Havre de Grace.
Linda R.ScoutGettysburg
Cranky
Frome the moment you drive up the women at the gate is about as welcoming ( as my Pops would say ) "A fart in church.," Great way to start your vacation. Didn't get much better in the office. The one guy that worked there did at least smile at us....
Jeremy G.
TravelerJoint Base Andrews Military FamCamp
Could be a great campground but......
There are some good things about this Famcamp. It's like a diamond in the rough. If the military would spend some time and money on it, it could be a great campground. One of the greatest points about this campground is its location. You are so close to downtown D.C.! Every RV site (as far as I saw) was a level concrete pad. All sites, except for tent sites, have full electricity. Most sites have sewer and water. Sites 12-18 should be mainly used for the smaller travel trailers. I had an interesting time getting my 35' 5th wheel into the site. Even though I got my RV into the site, I don't have much room for my truck. My site has a picnic table, fire pit, and a grill. Everything is rusted beyond repair. My grill was filled with cigarette butts and my fire pit had trash in it. There is some shade. My site has two trees at the front of the pad on both sides of the RV. My bedroom stays nice and cold and I have a good view for my Starlink in the rear. The sites are close to each other, but there is some space. The good thing is that we are surrounded by the golf course. You don't get much noise from the base, because of the location, and because the FamCamp is surrounded by trees. You can hear the busy road outside the fence but I don't hear it much inside the RV. Every once in a while you'll hear an aircraft... but this is an air base, it's expected. We were told the community laundry was not working and to use the base laundry mat. Finally, one of the best parts about the campground, is the lady at outdoor rec that is in charge of the Famcamp. She is very nice and helpful. She will try to assist you with anything you need from directions to useful tips.
- AAimee K.Traveler
Washington DC / Capitol KOA
Good location
Nice campground, maintained very well and clean. Laundry room and Propane fill on site so that was nice. RV Site was fairly level and easy to get into. Some sites are a bit close together and not long enough to keep your tow vehicle hooked up. A bit inconvenient if you’re only there for 1 night.
Matt S.
LegendGettysburg Campground
Great Location in Gettysburg
We spent 4 nights at Gettysburg Campground to attend the AIM Club Rally(Lincoln’s Legacy- Gettysburg 250), and it served as base camp for the event.
WHAT I LIKED:
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Location, Location, Location: This park is an absolute winner for convenience—just 5 minutes from the Gettysburg battlefields, museums, and the heart of town.
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The Atmosphere: The staff gave us a warm reception at check-in, and the site itself was clean, well-maintained, and spacious enough to back up to a running creek. Lots of mature trees offer lots of shade and character.
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Big-Rig Friendly: Navigating a 45-foot motorhome with a toad can sometimes be stressful, but this park was easy to maneuver.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:
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Late-Night Power Struggles: On our final night, the campground experienced grid strain. Our Hughes Watchdog Power Center saved the day—but it had to shut off our power 7 different times due to low voltage. Aside from losing a few hours of sleep to the chorus of appliances cycling off and on, no harm was done. I recommend using a surge protector/voltage regulator if you stay here.
WOULD WE COME BACK?
- Absolutely! Minor power hiccups aside, this is a beautiful, clean park situated right in the middle of everything you'd want to see and do in the area.
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Guide to Simpsonville
Campgrounds near Simpsonville, Maryland offer a mix of state parks and private facilities within a 35-mile radius. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 200-400 feet, creating moderate hiking conditions suitable for various skill levels. The region experiences high humidity during summer months with temperatures regularly reaching 85-95°F from June through August, while spring and fall camping seasons provide more comfortable 60-75°F temperatures.
What to do
Trail exploration at Patapsco Valley State Park: Access over 70 miles of varied terrain trails directly from the Hilton Area campground. "The hike I did was not very long but was well worth it. The trail was well marked but there was some confusion at one point on where we were suppose to go. Luckily I had an app that kept me on trail. There are some pretty cool Bridges, old houses, and a water fall," noted one visitor to Patapsco Valley State Park.
Urban exploration with public transportation: Stay at Greenbelt Park Campground and utilize nearby metro stations for DC access. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground... Oh, and bonus, the American Discovery Trail (ADT) passes through the park," shared a camper at Greenbelt Park Campground.
Water activities at regional parks: Several campgrounds provide water-based recreation opportunities during summer months. At Lake Fairfax Campground, one visitor commented, "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, fishing, & canoeing)."
What campers like
Wooded seclusion near urban areas: Many campgrounds offer surprising privacy despite proximity to cities. "We stayed at site D72 for 4 days. The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," explained a visitor at Little Bennett Campground.
Transit convenience to DC attractions: Campers appreciate the ability to reach major attractions without driving. A Cherry Hill Park visitor shared, "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5."
Seasonal flexibility: Some campgrounds maintain year-round operations. At Ramblin' Pines, campers can access facilities throughout winter months when most other area campgrounds close. "My brother lives about ten minutes from this campground. He failed to make a reservation so we ended up on a primitive site w no electric or water. Which actually worked out quite well in the end we made it work for us."
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary seasonally: During peak season (May-September), weekend reservations should be made 2-3 months in advance for popular campgrounds. "We picked up the camping registration outside the office at the entrance, no need to speak with anyone. Then we just drove down to our campsite in the family camping loop," reported a visitor to Cedarville State Forest.
Weather impact on camping experience: Summer thunderstorms can create drainage issues at some campgrounds. "One negative was that when it rains it really flushes through the grounds. We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm and it was very wet even after the rain died down," noted a camper at Patapsco Valley State Park.
Site privacy considerations: Campground layouts differ significantly in terms of site spacing. "The inner circle has electric but no water or sewer. The outer circle is primitive. There is a dump station. There is a decent bathhouse but it does get buggy," observed a visitor at Hollofield Area Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature multiple play areas for different age groups. "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," explained one family camper.
Swimming options: Water features vary significantly between campgrounds. At Washington DC/Capitol KOA, "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."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer nature programming specifically for children. "This is a small gem of a state park campground, one of only two is the massive Patapsco Valley State Park. It's a bit odd getting here through a suburban neighborhood, but the Hilton area is great. It seem like this area is, possibly unintentionally, geared toward children. There is a massive playground, nature play space, sensory trail, and a small nature center."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookups can be limited in the region, requiring planning. "Driveways are all very narrow. Most have too much tree cover for solar or starlink, but some sites are more open and you might be able to make it work. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Cost is $20/night, must reserve on recreation.gov."
Navigational challenges: Several campgrounds have tricky entrance routes. "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)" warns an experienced RVer about accessing Patapsco Valley State Park.
Alternative accommodations: Some of the best places to camp near Simpsonville, Maryland offer cabin options for those without RVs. "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it.'"
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Simpsonville, MD?
Which is the most popular campground near Simpsonville, MD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Simpsonville, MD is Cherry Hill Park with a 4.8-star rating from 44 reviews.
What parks are near Simpsonville, MD?
What parks are near Simpsonville, MD?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Simpsonville, MD that allow camping, notably Greenbelt Park and Rock Creek Park.
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