Equestrian camping near Crofton, Maryland is limited, with most sites lacking dedicated horse facilities. Crofton sits in the Chesapeake Bay watershed at approximately 157 feet above sea level. The area experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, creating a camping season that typically runs from March through October, with higher tick populations during warmer months.
What to Do
Trail riding at Pohick Bay Regional Park: Located about 40 minutes from Crofton, this park offers a family-friendly environment with various activities. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" according to Kathie M. at Pohick Bay Campground.
Disc golf courses: Bull Run Regional Park has courses suitable for beginners and experienced players. "The park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds," notes Tom C. who uses this park to introduce new campers to outdoor experiences.
Kayaking opportunities: Tuckahoe State Park offers water activities for horse owners looking for alternative recreation. "Nice pads, even with rain none were flooded. The wooded area makes you feel a little more secluded from any neighbors," writes Kasey M. at Tuckahoe State Park Campground, who appreciated the "commercial-sized washing sink for your dishes."
What Campers Like
Spacious sites with good separation: Cedarville State Forest campsites offer more privacy than typical in the region. "Moderate privacy and space, especially considering how close it is to DC. There are some abandon camp loops around the open campground which makes for some cool walks with your dog," notes Ben J. at Cedarville State Forest.
Clean facilities: Martinak State Park maintains well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Bath houses are kept clean. They have quite a few playgrounds throughout the park, which was a major plus for us," says Bill F. who visited with young children. "Bathrooms were like brand new. Water and electric on our loop."
Wildlife viewing: Horse enthusiasts often appreciate natural surroundings. "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," reports a camper at Cedarville State Forest, which offers diverse wildlife despite its proximity to urban areas.
What You Should Know
Tick prevention essential: Ticks are prevalent in the Crofton area, especially in wooded campgrounds. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," advises a camper at Cedarville State Forest.
Site selection important for larger rigs: Many campgrounds have size limitations. "Site 6 was good but not for larger rigs. We have a pop up and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs," notes a visitor at Martinak State Park Campground.
Weather impacts: The Chesapeake region experiences sudden storms. "I took my girlfriend car camping in Cedarville State Forest. The camping trip turned more into a stay in the tent the whole trip... only to be hit by a tornado watch in the area," reports Justin G., highlighting the need for weather preparedness.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Martinak State Park offers multiple play areas for children. "They have lots of easily walked trails. Bath houses are kept clean. They have quite a few playgrounds throughout the park, which was a major plus for us," notes Bill F.
Scheduled activities: Look for parks with organized programs. "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. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Water features: When traveling with horses isn't practical, water recreation provides alternative entertainment. "Campsites and bathrooms are clean. Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," reports Laura M. about Martinak State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "30 amp electric. No issues there. Lots of trails but in June at least the ticks were waaaay too plentiful," notes Joe C. about Cedarville State Forest's limitations.
Military facilities option: Camp Meade RV Park offers secure facilities for eligible military personnel and their families. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle 🤣. They reminded me," shares Elvin J. at Camp Meade RV Park.
Dump station quality: Important for those traveling with horses and RVs. "Good dump station and potable water fill. Spigots throughout the campground," notes a camper at Tuckahoe State Park, though adding that "They have a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower."
