Tent camping Davidsonville, Maryland offers access to the Chesapeake Bay watershed's unique ecosystems within a 30-minute drive. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions between 50-75°F. The region receives about 43 inches of rainfall annually, making waterproof gear essential for overnight stays.
What to do
Fossil hunting along beaches: Calvert Cliffs State Park provides a unique activity where campers search for prehistoric shark teeth and fossils. "Such an amazing expieriance and brings right into the eyes of child with both adult and children searching for shark teeth. Not only is searching for shark teeth a blast, but, the views are beautiful and walkin thru the woofs Is very calming!" notes Sarah F. about Calvert Cliffs State Park.
Fishing and crabbing: Many campsites offer access to prime fishing spots along the Chesapeake Bay. At Endeavor Point, the pier provides excellent access. "The pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise," reports Ally S., who visited during a holiday weekend.
Hiking woodland trails: The region features various trail systems through deciduous forests. "Patapsco Valley offers 6 different entrances. Each one provides several different trail heads and experiences... The trails we have been on are all pretty moderate to hard but offer beautiful waterfalls and river views," shares Angel G. about their exploration of the area's hiking options.
What campers like
Private beach access: Some campgrounds offer direct water access with fewer crowds than public beaches. At Matoaka Beach Cottages, campers appreciate the secluded setting. "We tent camped at Matoka Cabins and it was a beautiful Peaceful camping trip! Out spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves," writes Courtney K. about Matoaka Beach Cottages.
Seasonal timing flexibility: Off-season camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. "Extremely over crowded in the summer. The park closes daily very early as it hits capacity. The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall," advises Tony P. about Sandy Point State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The marshy areas near many campgrounds provide habitat for crabs, birds, and other wildlife. "We had a nice stay overlooking the marsh. The small crabs were skittering around the campsite and birds perched in the marsh," shares Caleb S. about their experience at Patapsco Valley State Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain can significantly impact certain campsites in the region. "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 and it was very wet even after the rain died down," reports Alexandra T. about her experience at Patapsco Valley.
Tent pad specifications: Some campgrounds have specific tent setup requirements. "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 the Hilton area.
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds enforce strict check-in policies. "This was also the first time we have ever had to wait till exactly 3pm to check in. So if you arrive early expect to wait until 3," notes Gabrielle E. about Marsden Tract Group Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and nature activities: Multiple campgrounds feature child-focused amenities. "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," recommends Angel G.
Day trip flexibility: Some locations work better as activity centers than overnight stays. "We spent part of Labor Day weekend here, and there was almost nobody else there... That said, there were a bunch of people who came in and used the cabins and invited large extended families during the day," notes allison W. about Endeavor Point.
Community programming: Some sites offer organized activities for children. "One of the owners has always been an overachiever. My agency took about 25 children there last week and they did not want to leave, neither did I," shares Terrance D. about Lacy Oasis Campground.
Tips from RVers
Military discount options: Active and retired military personnel have special camping access near Davidsonville. "Military campground. Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap," reports Ginny L. about the Naval Academy/Annapolis Naval Station FamCamp.
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Davidsonville offer minimal RV services. "There is no camping. There are two main beaches and there are picnic tables all over the park. There's a popular boat launch and small marina/bait store," explains David G. about Sandy Point State Park's limitations.
Cabin alternatives: For RVers seeking more comfort, cabin options exist. "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it,'" suggests Sean M.
