Glamping options around Cockeysville, Maryland provide modern amenities within natural settings at several area campgrounds. Located in the Piedmont region with elevations ranging from 300-800 feet, the area features rolling hills and deciduous forests with dramatic seasonal color changes. Winter camping near Cockeysville can see temperatures drop below freezing, while summers average in the mid-80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Equestrian adventures: At Artillery Ridge Campground, visitors can take guided horseback tours through historic areas. "You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground," notes one reviewer. This campground connects directly to historic sites, providing unique access for history enthusiasts.
Disc golf courses: Codorus State Park Campground offers multiple disc golf courses for all skill levels. "The park has trails to the lake that were a nice walk. We drove to the public boat launch and rented a pontoon to take on the water," shares Sarah L. The park maintains two separate 18-hole courses located in different day-use areas.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds and lake access points provide year-round fishing. "I took her older cousins to the fishing pier, and we didn't even get a nibble, but I think it was too cold for panfish that close to shore," reports one visitor at Lums Pond. Most campgrounds require valid fishing licenses, available online or at local sporting goods stores.
What campers like
Modern bathhouse facilities: Susquehanna State Park Campground receives consistent praise for clean facilities. "Bath house was immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated," notes Jen V. Several parks have upgraded their shower facilities in recent years with individual stalls and reliable hot water.
Educational historical sites: Proximity to historical landmarks makes camping near Cockeysville appealing for history buffs. One camper at Artillery Ridge noted, "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."
Diverse site options: Cherry Hill Park offers various camping experiences from secluded tent sites to premium RV spots. "There are some nice tenting sites under the trees and off by themselves for the true campers, and for the rest of us glampers there are hookups and lots to do," explains Scott C. Sites range from basic tent pads to full-service concrete pads with patios.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping sites near Cockeysville book months in advance, especially for holiday weekends. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Site privacy considerations: Some campgrounds have more densely packed sites than others. "The only complain we had was people walking through our sites due us being close to the playground and the noise level on the playground," mentions a visitor at Artillery Ridge Campground.
Seasonal operating schedules: Many campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. "Season: 2nd Friday April to November 1," notes the information for Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, which is typical for many parks in the region that close for winter.
Varying glamping standards: What constitutes "glamping" differs between locations. Some offer basic cabins with electricity, while others provide fully-furnished units with private bathrooms. "We stayed in one of the cabins, which had 2 beds and a bunk bed, sink and toilet, refrigerator, microwave, dining table and sofa," explains one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate amenities: Tucquan Park Family Campground focuses on family activities. "Our 3 young kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground. There was also a nice pond — it looked pretty full of fish," shares melissa. Families should check age restrictions for activities like pools and jump pillows.
Playground proximity: Consider site location relative to playgrounds when booking. "I had chosen this site, based on two factors: 1. It was available and 2. It was close to the playground. Unfortunately, it was most likely available because it was overrun with roots and rocks (no pad for the tent)- and you also couldn't see the playground from the site," notes Jennifer S. about Susquehanna State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs during summer months. "The kids, wife and I had fun hiking to a really old tree in the area (I dont remember the name, but it was really cool)," mentions Paul N. These programs typically run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Check the placement of utility connections before selecting a site. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," cautions Amanda H. about Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Site levelness: Ramblin' Pines sites receive mixed reviews for levelness. "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus," reports one camper. Many RVers recommend bringing additional leveling blocks even for sites described as level.
Specialized amenities: Several campgrounds offer RV-specific facilities. "50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer," lists Beth R. about Cherry Hill Park, adding, "Cons: Gravel pad, Expensive, Spotty Wi-Fi." Most full-hookup sites in the region cost $45-65 per night depending on season and amenities.
