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Best Campgrounds near College Park, MD

663 Reviews

Campgrounds near College Park, Maryland range from urban-adjacent to more secluded options within a short drive of Washington DC. Cherry Hill Park offers full-service camping with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations just minutes from the University of Maryland campus. Greenbelt Park Campground, located within Greenbelt National Park, provides a more natural setting with tent and RV sites but no hookups. Both locations serve as convenient bases for exploring the DC metropolitan area while still providing outdoor recreation opportunities.

Access to most campgrounds in the region remains consistent year-round, though seasonal considerations affect availability and comfort. Greenbelt Park Campground maintains year-round operations with basic amenities and no hookups, while Cherry Hill Park offers full-service camping with various accommodation types. "This is a fairly nice, bare bones NPS campground. If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it," noted one camper about Greenbelt Park. Weather patterns typically feature hot, humid summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Most campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons when visitors flock to Washington DC.

The camping experience near College Park balances urban proximity with natural settings. Cherry Hill Park receives consistently high ratings for its amenities and convenience to DC attractions, with shuttle service to public transportation. Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities but note the sites can be close together and road noise is sometimes noticeable. Greenbelt Park offers a more rustic experience with wooded sites and hiking trails, though reviews mention the sounds of urban life are still present. Several visitors highlighted the value of these campgrounds as affordable alternatives to expensive DC hotels. The region's mixed-use campgrounds typically feature clean bathrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings, with varying levels of privacy between sites depending on the specific campground and loop selected.

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Best Camping Sites Near College Park, Maryland (86)

    1. Cherry Hill Park

    42 Reviews
    Beltsville, MD
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 937-7116

    $282 - $999 / night

    "Full hookup, huge gated property, relatively close to D.C., pool, hot tub and sauna! They also offer shuttles services to D.C."

    "We had another great stay at Cherry Hill Park in College Park, MD. "

    2. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    32 Reviews
    Greenbelt, MD
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 344-3948

    $20 / night

    "If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."

    "GETTING TO DC: There’s normally a walking path from the campground to the metro station that takes you into DC (the green line takes you to the National Mall), but as of Oct 2023 the bridge is out due"

    3. Washington DC / Capitol KOA

    15 Reviews
    Millersville, MD
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 923-2771

    "They have a nice dog area for the dog to be able to run around and exercise which a lot of places we have been do not have a place for the dog to really exercise."

    "The location worked for my trip but not sure it’s that convenient to DC."

    4. Lake Fairfax Campground

    25 Reviews
    Reston, VA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 471-5414

    $30 - $70 / night

    "We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."

    "For tent camping I would suggests sites 30,33 or 35 these are tucked along the tree line. The bathroom facilities were the cleanest I have seen in a campground."

    5. Pohick Bay Campground

    39 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 339-6104

    $37 - $170 / night

    "We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids."

    "We enjoyed sitting around the campfire at night and walking the dogs down to the water. We were right next to a hiking trail that went down to the water and a beach area."

    6. Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area

    19 Reviews
    Catonsville, MD
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 461-5005

    $20 - $51 / night

    "Camp site(Tent camping)

    The camp site is what it is, just a camp site :)  It's one of the bigger state parks surrounded by forest in MD."

    "Another negative was after the storm for the next few days we heard trees falling nearby."

    7. Hollofield Area Campground

    19 Reviews
    Windsor Mill, MD
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 461-5005

    $19 - $27 / night

    "It has 8 recreation areas and we stayed at the Hollofield Area in April- one of our first experiences in a Maryland State Park. Beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking /multi use trails."

    "This campground is pleasant, but the sites are situated quite close to one another."

    8. Little Bennett Campground

    23 Reviews
    Clarksburg, MD
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 528-3430

    "Quiet woods in Maryland about 30 or 40 miles north of DC. Tenting, and RV spots partial to full service. Just of hiway 270. pricey ($66/night) for a state park, but nice."

    "PROS 

    Very nice small Montgomery County Park 

    No reservation fee to make on-line reservations 

    Reserved 137 days prior to arriving 

    Entrance gate required entry code Instructed by staff via gate phone"

    9. Adventure Bound Washington DC

    8 Reviews
    Upper Marlboro, MD
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (443) 607-8609

    "We had a fantastic time our 1st time at #AdventureBoundCampingResort in Lothian, Maryland."

    "This campground is conveniently located in the middle of the DC / Annapolis area and has a lot to offer! There are plenty of options, both for RV's and in general and the staff is super friendly!"

    10. Ramblin' Pines

    17 Reviews
    Woodbine, MD
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 795-5161

    $30 - $70 / night

    "We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick."

    "We love this home away from home ❤️"

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Recent Camping Photos near College Park, MD

252 Photos of 86 College Park Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near College Park, MD

663 Reviews of 86 College Park Campgrounds

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders

    Awesome views on the Potomac

    Very cool spot. Amazing sites right on the Potomac. There is a Ale House above the office that delivers for free to your site (2.5 miles away), just tip the driver

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Aquia Pines Campground

    Good stopover near the highway but hidden between the trees

    We where forced land-inwards because of tropical storm Erin (potential hurricane hitting the Outer Banks). So we decided to visit Washington DC and had a stopover here. It was conveniently located. Terrain is not flat but our spot was well levelled. There is a big dog (and an older gentleman) in the office to welcome you. Full hook up was oké and our spot was nicly secluded between the trees.

  • Sharon L.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Merry Meadows Recreation Farm

    Great getaway close to home!

    We totally loved our camping trip here! I was a little apprehensive because I read so many disappointing reviews about pretty much everything. People didn’t like this or that, but most of it seemed as if they weren’t happy with rules! Neither of us found anything that was so terrible in the rules and truthfully, if more campgrounds had them and enforced them, it would be nice for all.

    We loved the peace and quiet, the restrooms were clean and tidy, the usable sites all looked nice. They had a tornado come through at the beginning of the season that messed some areas up, but they are working it. The pool area seemed like the place to be. We just went to rest though. Honestly, we liked the campground so much that we would consider parking our camper over the summer! There are occasional whiffs of McCormick spices in the air that is very soothing. Prices aren’t horrible. One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I knows it’s not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us. The activities and store weren’t outrageous. Ready to go back!

  • Erin W.
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Lake Fairfax Campground

    Nice for a quick weekend

    This campground is nice for a quick weekend and does have pretty trails next to the campground. The sites are largely in more of a meadow and not many are very wooded. Our site, 41, was level and nicely spaced from other sites but many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant. There is a waterpark that is an extra cost which is fun for kids. Bathrooms are well maintained and huge.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Cherry Hill Park

    Can’t beat it

    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. We rode in all 4 days this way. Personalized, comfortable. Door to door. We saw tons of stuff. No one can say they saw everything. We took the train from Union station to Penn station. Saw the nationals, the orioles. So fun. The park itself has more than most. Mini golf, two pools, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early!! And late!!! Wow! Just can’t be beat. Great sites. So many other things in the park. Splash pad, paved roads for scootering. Just awesome!

  • Caleb S.
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area

    Tabolt island state park

    We had a nice stay overlooking the marsh. The small crabs were skittering around the campsite and birds perched in the marsh. The beach was nice and clean.

  • John B.
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA

    Overcrowded with upkeep

    I hate leaving bad reviews, but I think people should be aware of this campsite. First thing we noticed when we arrived at the campsite was that it was very tight. We had a pull through campsite, but on the camp side it was all dirt and grass that look like it hadn’t been mowed in over two weeks. With the heat and humidity we have been having for the last couple weeks, I knew this was gonna be a buggy site. Then the rains came and everything turned into mud. We had a rug laid down, but the mud and water worked its way through that. We couldn’t enter the RV without tracking mode through it. On days it was raining we spent a lot of time in the camper. That’s when we discovered another issue. On almost all occasions there was no Internet. We had a strong Wi-Fi signal, but no Internet. Upon talking to some of our neighbors who frequented this campsite, they said they had never seen it this bad. The other thing too, was that there was hardly any trash receptacles. Ending this on a good note, we loved how close it was to historical Harpers Ferry, and how convenient it was to be able to walk to the visitor center and catch a ferry. It really is a beautiful area. I would hope that the management of this KOA would address these issues, because I’m sure I’m not gonna be the only one to leave a negative review about this campground.

  • Josey F.
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Greenville Farm Family Campground

    Wonderful!

    We are repeat customers and come here with our troops. Nice mix of RV and tent campers. Quiet. Trails, creek, pool, fishing ponds (back end), batheooms, etc, great rates. No firewood- need to bring your own.

  • L
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Nice Little Campground

    Decent little campground! It was quiet aside from occasional air traffic noise, and while there wasn't much spacing between some camp sites everyone was respectful. My spot was a little difficult to find because the online park map was incorrect, and the spot was basically an extended shoulder of the road. Checking in was a breeze, though!

Guide to College Park

Camping near College Park, Maryland, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds have great hiking options. For instance, at Elk Neck State Park Campground, visitors enjoy beautiful trails and scenic views. One reviewer mentioned, "Great trails and great staff," highlighting the park's accessibility and natural beauty.
  • Fishing and Kayaking: If you love water activities, Tuckahoe State Park Campground is perfect for fishing and kayaking. A camper shared, "We had a picnic table, lantern pole, and fire ring in a spacious, wooded site," emphasizing the campground's amenities and access to water activities.
  • Exploring Nearby Attractions: Campgrounds like Cherry Hill Park are conveniently located for visiting Washington, D.C. A visitor noted, "Staff very helpful and really explained the Metro system very well," making it easy to explore the city without the hassle of driving.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. At Greenbrier State Park Campground, one reviewer said, "The bath houses & sites are always clean," which is a big plus for many families.
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Codorus State Park Campground mentioned, "Spacious, beautiful, clean, quiet," highlighting the generous space between sites.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Pohick Bay Campground are great for families. One parent shared, "The kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids," showing how the park caters to families over the years.

What you should know:

  • Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Elk Neck State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper noted, "NO alcohol allowed," so plan accordingly if you enjoy a drink by the fire.
  • Site Availability: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Greenbrier State Park Campground mentioned, "It stays booked because it is such a well maintained campground," so make reservations early.
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially near highways. A camper at Bull Run Regional Park complained, "This place is absolutely the most horrific noisy place," so check reviews for noise concerns.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for campgrounds that have playgrounds or kid-friendly activities. At Tuckahoe State Park Campground, one family enjoyed, "A lot of walking trails, and a pond to fish in," making it a great spot for kids.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A camper at Cherry Hill Park appreciated the "Nicely stocked store," which makes it easy to grab essentials.
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Make sure to have downtime for the kids. A parent at Pohick Bay Campground mentioned, "During the week was very quiet," which is perfect for families needing rest.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA noted, "The sites were so unlevel, close together," which can be a challenge for larger rigs.
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you prefer more amenities, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Westmoreland State Park Campground mentioned, "Water, electric and picnic bench at the site," which makes for a comfortable stay.
  • Be Prepared for Limited Wi-Fi: Many campgrounds have spotty internet. A visitor at Oak Ridge Campground said, "Verizon cell service was limited," so download maps and entertainment before you go.

Camping near College Park, Maryland, offers a mix of nature, family fun, and convenient access to local attractions. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free or low-cost camping areas near College Park?

Greenbelt Park Campground offers one of the most affordable camping options near College Park, with basic sites at budget-friendly rates. This National Park Service campground provides a no-frills experience with no hookups, making it ideal for tent campers looking to save money. Another economical option is Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite, which provides primitive camping along the C&O Canal with nearby parking for approximately 8 vehicles, perfect for those seeking an inexpensive outdoor experience close to the city.

Where can I find campgrounds near College Park, MD?

The closest campground to College Park is Prince William Forest RV Campground, offering clean facilities, a pool, and convenient access to Washington DC (less than an hour away). For those interested in historical sites, Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA serves as an excellent base for exploring both Harpers Ferry and nearby Maryland attractions. If you're looking for a family-friendly option with good amenities, Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area near Thurmont offers nice facilities and a playground for children.

What camping options are available within driving distance of College Park, Maryland?

Within driving distance of College Park, you'll find several diverse camping options. Cherry Hill Park offers a premium RV experience with full hookups, swimming pool, hot tub, and shuttle services to DC, making it ideal for those wanting amenities. Brunswick Family Campground provides a riverside camping experience that feels away from the city while still being accessible from College Park. For those willing to drive a bit further, Cedarville State Forest offers a more natural setting with family camping loops and clean facilities.

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