Campgrounds near Dunkirk, Maryland provide alternatives for outdoor recreation on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, approximately 30 miles southeast of Washington, DC. The area features mixed deciduous forest and coastal wetlands with an elevation ranging from 100-150 feet above sea level. Seasonal conditions vary significantly with humid summers reaching 90°F and winter temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails: Prince William Forest offers extensive hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," notes Bridget H. of Bull Run Regional Park.
Kayaking: Access to Mattawoman Creek provides calm waters ideal for beginner paddlers. "Mattawoman Creek is right there and great for kayaking," reports Lorraine P. from Smallwood State Park, which offers direct water access approximately 25 miles south of Dunkirk.
Historic sites: Several campgrounds provide access to Civil War landmarks and educational opportunities. "DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," reports Kenneth H. about Prince William Forest, noting the concentration of historical attractions within driving distance.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the thoughtful layout at various campgrounds. "The sites are well spaced, and while on the smaller side they're very private with woods between each one," notes Caitlin A. about Smallwood State Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms rank high on camper priorities. "They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," writes Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Proximity to DC: Location remains a key advantage for Dunkirk area RV campgrounds. "This campground is good to go. But without that convenience factor I would not rate this site as worth visiting," notes Chris F. about Cedarville State Forest, highlighting the practicality of camping near urban amenities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most RV campgrounds near Dunkirk require booking well ahead. "If you, like me, hate making reservations over the phone, it was worth it! Quick, simple, painless process," explains Megan K. about Prince William Forest.
Noise factors: Proximity to urban areas means ambient noise at many sites. "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," warns Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Cell coverage: Service varies significantly by provider across campgrounds. "I can confirm Verizon and Google fi have great service. I would imagine any other carrier would work just as well," reports Megan K. at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Insects: Ticks can be problematic in warmer months. "Just bring tweezers. Each site had picnic table, fire ring, and pretty level parking spot," advises Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest, noting practical precautions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play areas. "The playground is nice," notes Kristen M. about Prince William Forest, while others have varying quality. "The playground is about 15 years old, and you can tell it was really nice at one point," mentions Jen V. about Smallwood State Park.
Activities for children: Structured programming exists at select locations. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon," shares Bridget H. about Bull Run, adding "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides."
Educational opportunities: Cherry Hill Park offers convenient access to Washington DC attractions. "We took the train from Union station to Penn station. Saw the nationals, the orioles. So fun," explains Jennifer H., highlighting the educational value of nearby cultural sites.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Understanding campground layout impacts the camping experience. "Lots are really staggered/set back from each other so feels like you have more space. Average lot size in general, but the set back feels like you have more space," explains Megan K. about Prince William Forest.
Military options: Active and retired military personnel have additional choices. "Military campground. Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap," notes Ginny L. about Military Park United States Naval Academy/Annapolis Naval Station, located 35 miles northeast of Dunkirk.
Drainage concerns: Preparing for weather events requires consideration. "The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," warns Stuart O. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Hookup variations: RV hookups differ significantly across campgrounds. "I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained," confirms Megan K. about Prince William Forest.
