Best Tent Camping near Crownsville, MD

State parks and public lands surrounding Crownsville, Maryland offer several tent camping options within a short drive. Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, located about 25 miles northwest in Catonsville, provides tent-only camping in a forested setting with non-electric sites. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park features multiple hiker-biker campsites along the towpath, including Swains Lock, which is accessible from nearby areas. Sandy Point State Park, just 10 miles east of Crownsville on the Chesapeake Bay, offers youth group tent camping with waterfront views. Marsden Tract Group Campsite provides a more secluded backcountry tent camping experience for those willing to hike in.

Tent sites at Patapsco Valley vary in terrain, with campers noting that lower sites in the valley can become very wet during rainstorms. The crushed stone tent pads require extra padding and alternative staking methods for comfortable tent setup. Most tent campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to bathhouses with showers. The C&O Canal hiker-biker sites are more primitive, with basic amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and chemical toilets. These walk-in tent sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are free to use. Campers must pack out all trash at these locations, as garbage service is not provided. Seasonal considerations include cold spring nights and potential for flooding in low-lying areas.

In early fall, Patapsco Valley State Park offers tent campers colorful foliage and fewer crowds. One visitor noted that despite being surrounded by major highways, the campground remains "quiet with just a hint of traffic noise." The tent-only section of the Hilton Area provides a more peaceful experience than mixed-use campgrounds. At Swains Lock along the C&O Canal, campers can enjoy river views and wildlife sightings, though the proximity to the busy towpath means less privacy during daylight hours. According to reviews, the sites are "flat and dispersed with most located adjacent to the river," making them ideal for tent camping. Tent campers frequently use these areas as bases for day hikes or longer adventures on connecting trail networks.

Best Tent Sites Near Crownsville, Maryland (17)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Crownsville, MD

532 Reviews of 17 Crownsville Campgrounds



Guide to Crownsville

Tent camping near Crownsville, Maryland offers a blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Local Attractions to Explore

Activities for Outdoor Enthusiasts

  • At Marsden Tract Group Campsite, you can enjoy hiking and immersing yourself in nature, though be prepared for a bit of a trek to reach the site.
  • Endeavor Point offers fishing and crabbing opportunities, making it a fun spot for those who love water activities.
  • The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring features an aerial challenge course, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to add some excitement to their camping trip.

Tent Camping Prices and Amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Crownsville, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Crownsville, MD is Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camping with a 3.3-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Crownsville, MD?

TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Crownsville, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.