Patapsco Valley State Park offers several camping areas within 30 miles of College Park, making it a convenient pet-friendly destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The region sits at elevations ranging from 100-300 feet with a humid subtropical climate that includes hot summers and mild winters. Camping conditions vary significantly between urban-adjacent sites with full amenities and more remote locations with primitive facilities.
What to Do
Mountain biking on maintained trails: At Lake Fairfax Campground, campers can access excellent biking opportunities. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too); wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat), skateboard park, BMX park," notes reviewer Amy B.
Explore historical sites: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area offers history alongside natural features. "There are lots of pretty cool Bridges, old houses, and a water fall. I recommend this to any beginner hikers," says Anthony S., who appreciates the well-marked trails despite occasional navigation confusion.
Kayaking and canoeing: Water activities are popular at several parks in the region. "Roland Lake in Baltimore County is a great place to kayak on the Patapsco River. Tons of wildlife, facilities, and amenities for you and your family," mentions Anthony S., highlighting the clean conditions and knowledgeable staff.
What Campers Like
Public transportation access: At Greenbelt Park Campground, campers appreciate the easy access to Washington DC. "There are two stations very close to camp (Greenbelt and University Park). Rides vary depending on how far you are going but on average I spent about $10 per day on METRO versus $20-$40 on parking in the district," shares Crystal C.
Natural settings within urban areas: Many campers value finding secluded spots close to city amenities. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," explains Becky, adding that "Rangers keep a close eye on things, and there are monthly programs at the campfire circle."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers surprising wildlife encounters despite urban proximity. "Every morning birds and squirrels" are present at Hollofield Area Campground according to Diana S., while at Pohick Bay Campground, Kathie M. notes there are "Eagles everywhere!"
What You Should Know
Tent pad restrictions: At some parks, hammock camping is restricted. At Greenbelt Park Campground, Timothy C. points out that "park service forbade tying lines or straps to the trees at the time of our visit (Autumn 2024), so if you favor hammock camping or deploying tarps/ridgelines, plan accordingly."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. "Sites were pretty level but a bit small, with a short driveway," notes Jen V. about Hollofield Area Campground, while at Lake Fairfax, Erin W. observed "many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant."
Traffic noise factors: Highway proximity affects sleep quality at some locations. At Washington DC Capitol KOA, Joe R. advises visitors to "Be weary of decent highway noise, but easily drowned out with the AC," while at Adventure Bound Washington DC, Cynthia D. noted "Nearby road was very busy with a lot of traffic noise especially early in the morning."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water parks and splash pads: Pohick Bay Regional Park offers aquatic attractions for children. "They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning," shares Ben G., adding that "This was music to our ears as we camp with our 3 and 1 year old."
Natural play spaces: Several parks feature creative play areas beyond traditional playgrounds. At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, Jennifer S. described "a 'natural' playground in the loop... aka, large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it."
Family-focused activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged at many campgrounds. At Ramblin Pines, facilities include "a pool, jump pillow, mini golf, fishing pond, barnyard with goats, and multiple playgrounds," according to Sean M., who appreciates the shade from numerous trees throughout the property.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: At Little Bennett Campground, RVers recommend specific loops for better separation. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup. D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C & E are tents only," advises Ray & Terri F., who measured internet speeds of "AT&T 5 MB/s w/o booster(1 bar), 8 MB/s with it(2 bars)."
Leveling requirements: RVers should prepare for significant leveling at some sites. At Little Bennett Campground, one reviewer noted "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back."
Dump station locations: Facilities for waste disposal are inconsistently located across regional campgrounds. At Hollofield Area Campground, "Water fill & Dump Station on the beach side of the bathhouse," notes Corey B., while at Little Bennett, a reviewer pointed out "No toilet/shower facility in FHU loop so had to hike to facilities in Loops B & E."
