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Best Tent Camping near Patuxent River, MD

494 Reviews

State parks and public lands surrounding Patuxent River, Maryland offer several tent camping options with waterfront views. Calvert Cliffs State Park provides youth group tent camping from March through October, featuring basic amenities in a natural setting. Lacy Oasis Campground offers six tent sites with more developed facilities including showers and toilets. For military personnel, Pax River Hog Point Campgrounds at Naval Airstation Patuxent River provides tent-only sites with fire rings and water hookups. Matoaka Beach Cottages maintains a limited number of walk-in tent sites with beach access and views of the Chesapeake Bay.

Most tent campsites in the Patuxent River region feature flat, grassy or dirt surfaces with minimal site preparation. Campers should verify seasonal availability, as many locations operate from spring through fall only. Calvert Cliffs State Park's tent sites include drinking water, fire rings, and picnic tables, but limited facilities beyond basic toilets. At Caledon State Park across the Potomac in Virginia, tent campers must hike approximately 2.5 miles on groomed gravel trails to reach designated tent pads. One camper noted the park has an honor system for firewood sales ($4) but no water source on site, requiring visitors to pack in all drinking water.

Tent-only sites throughout the region provide varying levels of privacy and natural settings. At Matoaka Beach Cottages, visitors report peaceful tent camping with private spots offering bay views and the sound of waves. According to reviews, "Our spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves." The primitive tent camping experience at Caledon State Park rewards hikers with Potomac River views after a moderate trek. Backcountry tent camping options require more preparation but offer greater seclusion. Tent campers should arrive early at popular locations, particularly on weekends when sites fill quickly. Pack-out policies are common at primitive tent sites, with campers responsible for removing all trash upon departure.

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Best Tent Sites Near Patuxent River, Maryland (20)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Patuxent River, MD

22 Photos of 20 Patuxent River Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Patuxent River, MD

494 Reviews of 20 Patuxent River Campgrounds

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 11, 2023

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Beautiful campground, and great for visiting DC

    Beautiful campground, fairly large with 4 separate loops. 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.

    There’s a dump station and drinking water fill in loop C (sorry tenters who wanted to avoid RVs). The water fill was a little annoying in that there’s a handle you have to hold down the whole time, but we used a rock to prop the handle down. 

    The bathhouses are ok, happy to have free showers with hot running water. Faucets allow you to control the temperature and there’s continuous running water (no button to push). There’s only one large shower per bath house, and you only have a curtain (no door and no lock). Sites vary in levelness, some are fairly level and some are on a mini hill. 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, and you can do that when you arrive and pick a site (no service fee for this site)

    Cell service is pretty good for Verizon and ATT. 

    No alcohol allowed in the park. 

    GETTING TO DC: There’s normally a walking path from the campground to the metro station that takes you into DC (the green line takes you to the National Mall), but as of Oct 2023 the bridge is out due to a storm, and by the looks of it it’s been out a while and it doesn’t appear that it will be fixed soon. So what we did, since we don’t have a tow car, and just have our 26ft motorhome, is we packed up and drove to the Greenbelt station about 5 miles away, parked there for the day, and took the green line into town. The lot there is huge and open and free on weekends. Weekdays it’s about $5/day if you take the metro, and about $9 if you’re just parking there. The College Park station is closer but is apparently a parking garage (can’t confirm because we didn’t go to that station). This worked very well for us. You can pay for the metro with an app or get a card, either way it costs you $2 to buy the card, and then $2 each way on the train. Everyone over age 5 needs their own card, no sharing one card. The train ride from the Greenbelt station to the national mall is about 30 min. Get off at the Archives station to be in the center of all the sites.

  • Kristy R.
    Nov. 13, 2020

    Cherry Hill Park

    Great Family Fun

    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. My grandchildren live it there. We will return to a premium tent site soon.

  • Margaret D.
    May. 3, 2023

    Lake Fairfax Campground

    Comfortable sites

    Campground has mostly level gravel lots with fire rings, picnic tables. No water at site. Bath house is reasonably clean. Dump station is adequate.

  • K
    Jul. 4, 2019

    Final-Lee Here

    Ranger Review: LiquidI.V. Hydration Multiplier at Final-Lee Here Campground

    CAMPGROUND REVIEW: Nestled within the beautiful greenery of Huntingtown, Maryland, this campground offers heart, scenery, and access to numerous adventures. The grounds are a short drive to Washington D.C. parks and museums, as well as the Chesapeake Beach Water Park, or North Beach's beautiful new pier and Friday night Farmers Market including local art vendors and food trucks. Kings Landing Park is just a few minutes from Final-Lee Here, which offers hiking and equestrian trails, picnic areas, disc golf, swimming pool, fishing, and a launch for kayaks, canoes, or paddle boards.

    Final-Lee Here Campground offers its own beauty. As a long planned and awaited dream coming true, Connie and Ken Lee are using their gorgeous property to harbor a love for the outdoors in their family as well as those who visit. The land is well groomed with grassy, shaded tent sites, RV sites, tall, privacy-offering bamboo, evergreens (it's a tree farm), and forested trails to a soothing, water-trickling creek.

    The campground has several tent sites, and some are big enough to hold multiple tents for bigger gatherings. Sites offer tables, chairs, and a fire pit. Hot showers are available in a very nice outdoor tent set up. A potty chair, along with wet wipes and trashbags are available for use, or you can just use the outdoorsman's method ;). The Lees gave us plenty of firewood, offered dry wood after storms came through, and even offered to bring us fresh eggs from their chickens. (The rooster brought smiles as it welcomed our mornings with hearty salutes.) There is a small zip line for kids and you may request games such as cornhole, horseshoes, or Yardzee to play. The Lees also rent and transport single and double kayaks or canoes to Kings Landing for a minimal fee.

    On Friday, my teenage daughter and I took a trip to the Chesapeake Beach Water Park (I would recommend this for younger children, checking the internet for discounts) and we cruised the North Beach antique shops, pier and farmers market. Saturday was well planned for adventure, but out-of-the-blue storms hit hard. After breakfast, we kayaked the river and creek through beautiful marshlands where we saw caterpillars walk on water, a heron and bald eagles soaring above, turtles, a cove where thousands of tadpoles were amidst metamorphosis (having both tails and legs) scampering through and atop the water, and a multitude of dragonflies. We stopped at a Kings Landing dock, hydrated ourselves and ate our packed lunch. Dark clouds began rolling in and we paddled back to the boat launch, texting the Lee's to meet us for boat pick up. We had planned to hike and swim while at the park, but instead headed for our tent during the storm surges. Once the storms passed, we adventured onto the campground trails. One trail, though very well groomed, was steep, heading to the creek. We avoided it due to the wet conditions, and found other trails leading to the creek which were easier to maneuver. The creek was so peaceful. I would have loved to have more time here just taking it all in, but evening and another storm came upon us.

    I highly recommend this campground based on its heart and available opportunities. The Lees are absolutely wonderful and truly want their visitors to enjoy the outdoors and their stay. The only "con" I came across was the toileting situation. My teen daughter is not much on the outdoors, so the portable toilet and the natural method option were too weird and uncomfortable for her.

    PRODUCT REVIEW: As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I receive products to test from time to time - during this trip, I tested LiquidI.V. Hydration Multiplier. It is an electrolyte drink mix you add to a water bottle or 16 oz. of water. We tried the sampler pack. My favorite flavor is acai berry, and my daughter enjoyed the lemon-lime. Though we tried to remain hydrated, setting up camp and kayaking in the heat left us truly parched. Adding the LiquidI.V. to our water seemed to rejuvenate. Both my daughter and I feel that a whole "stick" seem to be overwhelming in one water bottle, but using half to 3/4 of a packet brought tasty hydration. I'm very picky when it comes to aftertastes, hating all fake sweeteners; however, this is made with pure cane sugar, and leaves your mouth satisfied. That is pretty rare! (Note: the passion fruit flavor left a slight aftertaste to me.) Additionally, my girlfriend and son tried some of our LiquidI.V. and loved it as well. This was great to have on hand!

  • Justin G.
    Sep. 14, 2016

    Cedarville State Forest

    Cedarville State Forest (Tornado)

    I took my girlfriend car camping in Cedarville State Forest. The camping trip turned more into a stay in the tent the whole trip. We set up camp and ate dinner only to be hit by a tornado watch in the area. I spent most of the trip adjusting the water proofing so we stayed dry. When the rain did calm down Cedarville state forest offered some very serene and peaceful views. Which is surprising due to the forests location.

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 8, 2023

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Close to DC, Quiet, and Pretty

    Greenbelt, MD: (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good (70 yr olds in 17’ trailer) Overall Rating: 4.5 Price: About $12 w our senior pass. Usage during visit: 50 % during week Site Privacy: Most inner loop sites are not very good. However, our inner loop site was very private. Most inner loop sites lack privacy. Pull Through” sites are more like pull over sites. The picnic table privacy is often not very good for the pull over sites. This is because the adjacent back in site is deeper with picnic table not blocked by the trailer.
    Site Spacing: Some are close. Check the map. Site surface: black top Reservations: Yes. We were able to change our site upon arrival on Rec.gov. Campground Noise: Very quiet.
    Road Noise: None Through Traffic: Not a problem if the site is in a loop. Electricity: No Water: Available at a few spigots and at the washbasins at the bathrooms Sewer: No Dump: Yes Generators: 6AM till 10PM Bathroom: Old but clean. Showers: Old but clean. Cirtains Pull Throughs: Some “pull over spots”. I have a pic or two of good ones in the D loop.
    Cell Service (Verizon): Great. Setting: 10 mins from subway for DC access. Great way to get to DC. Located in a deciduous forest serving as a pleasant getaway for locals.
    Weather: It was cool during our stay.
    Bugs: No problems yet. Solar: Most sites are not adequate.
    Host: They are friendly and very courteous. Notes: Amazing that there is such a pretty place so close to DC. This must be a great getaway for locals . …. We did not walk the park trails , but there are some.

  • R
    Oct. 4, 2021

    Cedarville State Forest

    Peaceful

    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. We could hear and smell horses when we got to our campsite, but it didn't last forever. 

    The site was mostly clean, had a few pieces of small trash scattered around when we arrived. The sites were decently spaced out from one another, it didn't feel like we were right on top of the people across and next to us. Our site was close to the restroom, it had a little path leading to the restroom, and it looked like there was little trail paths all around leading to the restrooms from the different parts of the loop. The path leading to the restroom from our site was gravel and easy to walk on. The restrooms were clean, but the floor was wet almost the entire time we were there (likely due to the showers).

    If you need to buy wood it is $5 for 8 pieces and you call a number given to you in your registration packet. The ranger will then drive by and drop off the wood at your campsite. The inner ring of this loop has electricity, and the electric box was just on the far side of the picnic table in the corner.

  • Andrew M.
    Dec. 2, 2020

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Great for activities; not much privacy

    Great if you’re looking for a quick escape from DC and with a lot of activities—paddling, hiking, and a 5 minute drive from Meadowood for mountain biking. I camped at the non-electric area and it was nice to play some disc golf across the street before dark. The hiking is nice—15 minutes on the trail to get to the water—and a quick walk to the marina/boat rentals.

    Campsites are well-equipped, but depending on which you will not have privacy and/or enough flat space for more than 1 tent. Most sites are right next to each other and no trees or other natural separation, and some saw did not have much space for tents. I had 141 which was good; 138 was the best that I saw; and if you want to get 2 for a bigger group try to get 112/113.

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2018

    Hidden Acres Campground

    Quiet nights at Private Campground

    Stopped off at this campground after finding it while passing though just before Labor Day weekend. While it was the last weekend for the pool before its closure and while they were in the process of working on some of the plumbing at the campground, it was a well put together campground which was very impressive.

    Located somewhat remotely from the larger community and near several places of interest along the road, this camp was a great stop for a tent camper like myself. They offer a basic tent site for $26 with nice bath houses. For full connections the price does rise slightly offering both both 20/30 amp and 50 amp connections for RVs.

    The roads around the camp are gravel and a little bumpy but the sites themselves were pretty level and grassy for tents which was pretty nice. Sites are located far enough off the road that road noise is minimal.

    I did also notice they have cabin rentals available and a pretty nice little store with lots of options for those who didn't bring everything with them.

Guide to Patuxent River

Tent camping near Patuxent River, Maryland offers coastal and riverfront experiences along the western shore of Chesapeake Bay. The region sits at low elevation—generally under 100 feet above sea level—with humid summers frequently reaching 85-90°F during peak camping season. Most sites require advance planning as primitive options have limited water access and developed campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends.

What to do

Fossil hunting and beachcombing: Calvert Cliffs State Park provides access to Chesapeake Bay shorelines where visitors search for prehistoric shark teeth and fossils. According to one camper, "This park is awesome! I have been going here for years... the beach is very beautiful even though every year it gets smaller and smaller. The park staff are very friendly, and are very informative on the many fossils you may find on your visit."

Fishing and crabbing: Endeavor Point offers pier access for fishing and crabbing activities. A camper notes, "The pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise. Definitely would recommend!"

Hiking to waterfront sites: Caledon State Park across the Potomac River requires a moderate trek to reach camping areas. One visitor explains, "It's a nice 3 mile hike to the campsite which is right by the Potomac river! They have porta Johns and a pavilion close by. The beach is beautiful and we saw the most gorgeous sunset."

What campers like

Bay views and sounds: Matoaka Beach Cottages offers waterfront tent sites with natural ambiance. A camper shares, "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."

Peace and quiet in off-season: Leesylvania State Park Campground attracts fewer crowds during spring and fall. A visitor notes, "This campground was so pretty. It is small, but the price and location near DC cannot be beat. It is directly on Potomac River."

Close proximity to waterfront: Tent sites at Endeavor Point provide convenient water access. A camper reports, "We went for labor day weekend and had a great time. It was pretty busy due to the holiday but still manageable. The campsites aren't dispersed and are pretty small but that's the only downside."

What you should know

Seasonal challenges: Sandy Point State Park experiences extreme crowding during summer. One visitor warns, "Extremely over crowded in the summer. The park closes daily very early as it hits capacity. The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall."

Pack-in water requirements: Primitive sites often lack potable water sources. At Caledon State Park, a camper advises, "Wood for sale at the site for $4 honor system. Porta pottie right next to wood pile... No water on site and no reasonable source to filter water from so be prepared."

Strict regulations: Lacy Oasis Campground enforces specific rules and quiet hours. A recent visitor describes, "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."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children near main facilities. At Calvert Cliffs State Park, a camper mentions, "The park has a great play ground right off the main parking lot for kids to play on as well as a few bathrooms."

Educational opportunities: Sandy Point State Park provides nature learning experiences. A regular visitor shares, "My family and I have been coming to Sandy Point my entire life. It is a great little spot on the Chesapeake river. Our favorite thing to do is to fossil hunt for sharks teeth."

Weather considerations: Plan for summer heat and insects. One camper at Naval Airstation Patuxent River notes, "In addition to an insane amount of bugs making the experience here uniquely miserable — it is not quiet or peaceful."

Tips from RVers

Limited RV accessibility: Many sites near Patuxent River restrict large vehicles. At Endeavor Point, reviewers mention the sites are small and not suitable for big rigs.

Military facilities: Annapolis FamCamp welcomes eligible military members with RV-friendly amenities. A visitor describes it as "Military campground. Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap."

Advance reservations essential: RV spaces at developed campgrounds require booking weeks ahead during peak season, especially for waterfront sites with electric hookups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Patuxent River, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Patuxent River, MD is Endeavor Point with a 3-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Patuxent River, MD?

TheDyrt.com has all 20 tent camping locations near Patuxent River, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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