Campgrounds near Lusby, Maryland offer diverse camping options beyond the typical shoreline experience. The area's coastal plain elevation ranges from sea level to about 150 feet, creating a mix of wetland and forested camping environments. Winter temperatures average 30-40°F while summer highs regularly reach 85-95°F with high humidity, affecting campsite comfort and preparation needs.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping provides access to shorelines where visitors can discover prehistoric treasures. One visitor mentioned, "I was a TA on an optional field trip to Calvert Cliffs for an intro level class. I was a rainy day but we were able to go down to the shore and find fossils. What a great experience for (hopefully) future geologist."
Fishing and crabbing: Endeavor Point offers dedicated facilities for water activities. A camper noted, "The pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise." The pier provides direct access to productive fishing waters.
Historical exploration: Point Lookout State Park features Civil War sites and a lighthouse. A visitor shared, "The park used to be a prison for Confederate soldiers, so lots of cool exhibits and memorials for history buffs." These sites provide educational opportunities about the area's past.
Water recreation: Many campsites offer swimming, boating, and paddling opportunities. Westmoreland State Park Campground has boat rentals and a swimming area. A camper reported, "They did have great trails, a lot of scheduled events for all ages, a pool and boat rentals and competitive prices."
What campers like
Private beach access: Matoaka Beach Cottages provides secluded shoreline camping. One visitor explained, "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."
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer well-sized camping spots. A visitor to Point Lookout State Park commented, "The sites have plenty of separation and the park was very quiet. We talked to several fellow campers and all were very welcoming and helpful."
Clean facilities: Westmoreland State Park maintains quality amenities. A camper mentioned, "Bathhouses are always SO clean and heated in the winter. So appreciate the recycling bins." This attention to maintenance enhances the camping experience.
Wildlife viewing: The wetland setting around many campsites provides excellent nature watching opportunities. At Calvert Cliffs, a visitor shared, "Such an amazing expieriance and brings right into the eyes of child with both adult and children searching for shark teeth. Not only is searching for shark teeth a blast, but, the views are beautiful."
What you should know
Bug intensity varies by season: Insects can be problematic, particularly in warmer months. A camper at Point Lookout State Park observed, "Again, the setting was very beautiful, but the bugs were killer. Luckily, there was a nice strong breeze blowing off the water during the vast majority of our stay. However, the second it stopped, the bugs descended on us."
Beach conditions change: Erosion affects shoreline access at some sites. A visitor to Calvert Cliffs State Park noted, "I go here annually. It is a very nice walk about 2 miles to the beach where you can hunt for fossils. The beach has gotten smaller over the years however the trail has gotten much better."
Cell service limitations: Communication can be restricted at certain campsites. A camper at Point Lookout mentioned, "No internet access at the campsite, but could get it if you were a few feet away from the Loop. It's a complete dead spot for Verizon anyway."
Site differences within campgrounds: Location within a campground significantly impacts experience. One visitor explained, "Seems like most other sites on the outside of the loop were similar (grassy setting backing to water or trees), while the sites inside of the loop were in an open, marshy field."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Calvert Cliffs, a visitor shared, "The park has a great play ground right off the main parking lot for kids to play on as well as a few bathrooms. Also right off the parking lot is a little fishing pond."
Holiday activities: Seasonal events enhance family experiences. A visitor to Point Lookout State Park noted, "We rescheduled to this weekend after our original reservation weekend was flooded out 2 weeks ago... This weekend was Halloween weekend. It was quiet with a couple activities planned."
Swimming options: Westmoreland State Park Campground provides structured water recreation. A camper reported, "With access to the Potomac River, beaches, shark tooth island (!), what seems like endless beautiful hiking trails and the cleanest camp grounds I have ever seen I would recommend everyone to visit this park."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers and ranger programs offer learning experiences. A visitor shared, "I love the sharks' teeth display in the shop and when I was there they were working on putting bones together of a whale that was found!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: Choosing the right spot impacts comfort. An RVer at Point Lookout State Park shared, "We had site 68 which had plenty of space for the TT, truck and car to park. The sites have plenty of separation and the park was very quiet."
Hookup availability: Solomons Navy Recreation Area provides full-service connections. A military camper mentioned, "Great military campground with spacious sites, and anything else you could want!" The sites include electric, water, and sewer hookups.
Weather considerations: Seasonal variations affect RV camping experience. A visitor noted, "Very hot for an early spring trip. Not much shade in the sites here. The trail isn't shaded either." Air conditioning needs increase electricity usage during summer months.
Year-round options: Several campgrounds operate through winter, though with limited amenities. As one visitor to Take It Easy Campground described, "The campground was quiet and had some full timers. Their campers were newer and looked nice."
