Best Campgrounds near Chesapeake Beach, MD
Chesapeake Beach, Maryland sits at the intersection of coastal recreation and woodland camping opportunities, with several established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. Breezy Point Beach offers waterfront camping from May through October with electric hookups and RV-friendly sites directly in Chesapeake Beach. Nearby, smaller private campgrounds like Final-Lee Here and Lacy Oasis provide more intimate camping experiences with just 3-6 sites each, often featuring tent camping and basic amenities. Adventure Bound Washington DC in Lothian operates year-round with full hookup options for RVs and cabins, serving as a convenient base for exploring both the Chesapeake Bay area and Washington DC.
Most campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, particularly during the peak season of May through September when summer visitors flock to the bay. Humidity and mosquitoes present challenges during summer months, with several campers noting the need for insect repellent. As one visitor to Cedarville State Forest mentioned, "We tried fans, tiki torches, and many deet-free products before having to buy 100% deet so we could be outside." Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly, sometimes causing muddy conditions at campgrounds with poor drainage. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, though noise from nearby Naval air operations affects some campgrounds.
Water activities represent the primary draw for campers in the Chesapeake Beach area. Kayaking, fishing, and boating opportunities abound, with several campgrounds offering water access or boat rentals. According to one camper at Final-Lee Here, "We kayaked the river and creek through beautiful marshlands where we saw caterpillars walk on water, a heron and bald eagles soaring above, turtles, and a cove where thousands of tadpoles were amidst metamorphosis." The strategic location between Washington DC and the Chesapeake Bay makes these campgrounds popular with visitors exploring both urban and natural attractions. Campers frequently mention the convenience of using these locations as a base for day trips to Annapolis, Solomon's Island, and Washington DC while returning to more natural settings in the evening.