Military campgrounds and rv parks near Crownsville, Maryland provide options for visitors with camping-ready vehicles or tents. Located in central Maryland, Crownsville sits within Anne Arundel County at 90 feet above sea level with moderate humidity levels throughout summer camping season. Tent and RV camping availability varies by season, with most sites operating from April through October.
What to do
Kayaking and water activities: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers water access with kayaking opportunities. "Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the waters edge," notes Janet P. about Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina.
Hiking trails: Multiple trails accessible from campsites at Hollofield Area Campground. "Took a fairly easy hike down to the river and even went for a swim. Loved it so much, I stopped on the way back home again!" reports Diana S. about her experience at Hollofield Area Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterfront sites enable fishing directly from your campsite. "Peace & Tranquility, waterfront. Fish from your camp site," says Lisa T., noting you can "catch them and steam them in my camper (a MD thing)."
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Sites along the water provide scenic views and direct access. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95... Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks," shares Casey L.
Natural settings: Even in urban-adjacent locations, campers appreciate wooded areas. "There is plenty of space between camp site clusters. The park itself is safe, quiet, permitting some nice treks through the woods," notes one camper at Greenbelt Park Campground.
Convenient city access: Several campgrounds offer proximity to major attractions. "It is not free but very reasonable considering the area. The other great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods."
Sunsets and wildlife viewing: Bayfront locations feature spectacular evening views. "If you enjoy beautiful sunsets, seeing bald eagles every day, having a nice breeze, not too buggy, well kept campground this is the place to go," writes Lisa V. about Bay Shore Campground.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Some rv campgrounds near Crownsville have limited space between sites. "The sites are close but there were all sizes of RVs there, even large class A. Many sites are on the water," notes Laure D.
Military-only campgrounds: Several camping facilities require military credentials. "Military campground. Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap," explains Ginny L. about Military Park United States Naval Academy/Annapolis Naval Station Annapolis FamCamp.
Seasonal considerations: Water hookups may need winterization in colder months. "Weekend was cold but the park was pretty full. This is close to us so it was an easy trip. Full hookup but we're told to turn off and unhook water the night it dropped below freezing."
Bridge clearance limitations: When approaching some campgrounds, be aware of height restrictions. "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)"
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some Crownsville area rv parks offer dedicated play areas. "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," shares Jennifer S. about Hollofield Area Campground.
Swimming options: Pools provide recreation during hot months. "Cherry Hill Park has so much to offer. We loved it... Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," explains Beth R. at Cherry Hill Park.
Urban exploration options: Easy public transportation access from some campgrounds. "GETTING TO DC: There's normally a walking path from the campground to the metro station that takes you into the National Mall. The train ride from the Greenbelt station to the national mall is about 30 min."
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup availability: Options for water, electric, and sewer connections vary by campground. "This is part of a super large park that runs 32 miles along the Patapsco River. There is only 20/30amp electricity and NO water or sewer- although there was a dump and a place to fill your water tank," notes Travyl Couple at Hollofield Area.
Maneuvering considerations: Some RV parks near Crownsville require careful navigation. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," warns Craig Z.
Year-round options: Several campgrounds remain open through winter months. "Camp Meade RV Park" operates "All year," making it suitable for off-season camping near Crownsville, though amenities may be limited.
Camping with security: Military installations provide enhanced security. "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. about Camp Meade RV Park.
