Camping options near Crownsville, Maryland range from secluded woodland sites to family-friendly facilities with modern amenities. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 100-300 feet above sea level, experiencing humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F in July and August. Peak camping season runs from late April through October, when nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F.
What to do
Hiking trails with water access: Patapsco Valley State Park offers multiple trail systems connecting directly to campsites. As one visitor noted, "There is a 'natural' playground in the loop, and then if you drive down further to the park entrance, there is a large playground for the kids. Easy to walk trails are right off the loop and there are tall trees with a little opening to see the stars" at Hollofield Area Campground.
Metro access to DC monuments: Cherry Hill Park provides convenient transportation to Washington DC. A camper reports, "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from $20-45 for a family of 5. So $4-9 per person." The park also offers on-site shuttle service to public transportation.
Swimming and beach access: Sandy Point State Park features swimming areas along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline. "Great day at the beach," notes one visitor, while another mentions the park is "best in the off-season" as "the park closes daily very early as it hits capacity" during summer months. Winter visitors can enjoy the "Lights on the Bay" Christmas light display.
What campers like
Clean facilities with family amenities: Cherry Hill Park receives high marks for its maintained grounds and amenities. A recent visitor shared: "This campground is byfar one of the best I have ever stayed at. The price is a little steep, but with all the amenities you get, it is well worth it." The park offers both a splash pad and swimming pools, making it popular with families.
Urban accessibility with natural surroundings: Greenbelt Park Campground offers an unexpected natural retreat near urban centers. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," writes one regular visitor who adds, "Rangers keep a close eye on things, and there are monthly programs at the campfire circle."
Playground and recreational options: Washington DC/Capitol KOA features extensive recreation facilities. According to a visitor, "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy."
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Many campgrounds have mixed terrain and site quality. At Adventure Bound Washington DC, campers report "Sites were very close. The site was part Gravel and mostly mud/grass. There was trash on site." However, the campground is making improvements, with a more recent visitor noting "They are clearly making improvements and moving up."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, with Greenbelt Park Campground being entirely reservation-based. "This is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online," advises a camper.
Seasonal considerations: Water activities are affected by jellyfish populations in late summer. A visitor to Sandy Point State Park cautions: "August is the worst month to visit if you like the water. Jellyfish take over with a vengeance!" The optimal swimming period is from late spring through mid-July.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds for kids: Patapsco Valley State Park offers unique play areas. A visitor explains, "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park. The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground."
Mini-cabins for beginner campers: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area provides camping alternatives for families new to outdoor stays. "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it,'" according to a recent visitor.
Off-peak visits for better experiences: Visiting on weekdays provides a more relaxed experience. "Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground. Living nearby but storing my popup camper elsewhere, I often park my camper here for a few days while I pack it for a trip," notes a regular at Greenbelt Park, adding that this approach creates a "getaway feeling without being too far from home."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: At Washington DC/Capitol KOA, RV site placement affects the camping experience. A visitor advises, "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy." Many reviewers recommend requesting sites at the ends of rows for additional space.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional preparation. One RVer at Washington DC/Capitol KOA noted, "Camp site wasn't level at all. I was actually kind of worried that it would slide into the woods." Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended, particularly for larger rigs.
Military camping options: For eligible military personnel, Camp Meade RV Park offers secure camping with full hookups. A visitor mentioned it was "great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post," though they humorously added, "I forgot all about revielle. They reminded me."
