Tent campsites near Damascus, Maryland range from primitive backcountry sites to more developed camping areas with amenities. The region sits within the Piedmont plateau, where elevations average 500-800 feet above sea level with moderate summer temperatures in the 75-85°F range. Rainfall patterns create seasonal springs that feed local waterways, making water access better in spring and early summer months.
What to do
Hike the Appalachian Trail: The AT runs through Maryland with access to several tent camping spots. Annapolis Rock Campground offers tent sites after a 2+ mile moderate hike from Route 40. "Backpacking campground just off the AT. Moderate difficulty 2+ mile hike from Route 40. Spring and compost outhouse. Great views. Been camping there for decades," notes camper Bob S.
Visit historic sites: Camp near Antietam Battlefield and other Civil War sites. Antietam Creek Campground provides riverside tent sites with historical connections. "One can walk to Shepherdstown, WV for some fun. Antietam creek is very close by and is perfect for tubing or just enjoy the river & nature from your campsite!" shares Shawn W.
Rock climbing: Several camping areas provide access to local climbing spots. "The best part is the Annapolis Rock cliffs. They offer beautiful views and all kinds of single pitch rock climbing! There are also two bear poles," reports Cory D. about the Annapolis Rock area.
What campers like
Riverside settings: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites. "Small campground with a pit toilet right on the Potomac river picnic table and fire ring with a few nice trees throughout the camp area. Easy to get to and not far from the towns," explains Kevin D. about Antietam Creek.
Kid-friendly amenities: Patapsco Valley State Park stands out for family activities. "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," notes Angel G.
Trail connectivity: Most tent campsites connect to walking or hiking trails. "It's a bit odd getting here through a suburban neighborhood, but the Hilton area is great. It seems like this area is, possibly unintentionally, geared toward children. There is a massive playground, nature play space, sensory trail, and a small nature center. There are a lot of easy, but beautiful hikes," writes Sean M. about Patapsco Valley.
What you should know
Parking considerations: Many sites require walk-in access from parking areas. "You have to park on the road and walk about 75 feet to your site. Not much traffic on that road and a trail with many cyclists and runners," explains Nick C. about camping at Antietam Creek.
Primitive facilities: Dahlgren Backpacker Campground offers basic amenities. "This is a stop on the AT open only to multi-day backpackers. I've heard it is sometimes enforced. It's a bit different than most AT stops, as there are no real sites, just a large grassy area to pitch tents," says Sean M.
Site availability: Most backcountry sites fill quickly on weekends from April through October. "This is a small gem of a state park campground, one of only two in the massive Patapsco Valley State Park. The campground is on the smaller side. You get a fire pit and cooking crate, and a picnic table," notes a Patapsco Valley camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed campgrounds: Sites with amenities work better for younger children. "The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground. It's the perfect little getaway from the city for camping, fishing and hiking. Be aware that neither the hiking trails or playground are stroller friendly," advises Angel G.
Consider water access: The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring offers group camping with activities. "Very convenient for before or after your time in the largest aerial challenge course in North America. Groups only - no individual campsites," explains Elizabeth R.
Pack for wet conditions: Many tent sites retain water after rain. "Nice small campsite in MD not too far from DC. One negative was that when it rains it really flushes through the grounds. We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm," shares Alexandra T. about Patapsco Valley.
Tips from RVers
Stick to designated areas: Most tent campsites near Damascus cannot accommodate RVs. "The crushed stone at the sites isn't comfortable for tents, and they won't let you pitch it on the ground, so bring extra pads and alternative ways to secure the tent to the ground," advises Sean M. about Patapsco Valley State Park, one of the few sites with some RV options.
Reserve early: Marsden Tract Group Campsite requires advance booking. "Purchasers the camp site is beautiful secluded quiet wonderful if you're looking for that extreme outdoors a no civilization it's a good hike to get to the campsite there's no parking nearby no water no bathrooms or electricity but all in all it's beautiful," notes Chrystal P.
Consider seasonal closures: "Remember: no alcohol or firewood can be brought into the park. Firewood can only be purchased on site due to harmful insects. But the money goes toward the parks volunteer program," mentions a Patapsco Valley camper about important regulations.
