Campsites near Churchton, Maryland span from sandy Chesapeake Bay beaches to forested inland areas across southern Maryland. Most camping options require a 20-40 minute drive from Churchton, with the closest sites located along the Bay's western shore. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions and fewer jellyfish in Bay waters.
What to do
Fossil hunting on Bay beaches: At Breezy Point Beach, visitors can search for prehistoric shark teeth along the shoreline. A camper noted, "I collected shark teeth... 178 shark teeth to be exact" during their stay.
Hiking woodland trails: Cedarville State Forest offers multiple hiking paths through Maryland woodlands. "We hiked the brown trail and it was a nice walk. Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it!" advises one visitor.
Metro access to DC attractions: Campgrounds provide convenient bases for exploring Washington DC. "This is an urban oasis. The American Discovery Trail passes through the park," mentions a Greenbelt Park Campground visitor, who adds, "Camping fees include access to public transportation."
Swimming and beach activities: Several waterfront campgrounds offer swimming in the Chesapeake. "There are two main beaches and there are picnic tables all over the park," notes a Sandy Point visitor, though they caution "August is the worst month to visit if you like the water. Jellyfish take over with a vengeance!"
What campers like
Bay views and sounds: Waterfront sites provide direct Chesapeake access. "The sites are backed right to the Chesapeake Bay and the view and access are priceless," says a camper at Breezy Point Beach, who appreciated that "day-use folks are not allowed on the camping side of the beach."
Urban accessibility with nature: Campers value locations combining nature with city proximity. A Greenbelt visitor explains, "It's quiet, but not too dark, as the lights from DC interfere with the night sky here. Living nearby but storing my popup camper elsewhere, I often park my camper here for a few days."
Recreation facilities: Many campgrounds offer activities beyond basic camping. "This campground has so much to offer. We loved the 50 amp hook-up, water, sewer, playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court, snack bar on site, nightly hayride," says a Cherry Hill Park visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Natural surroundings provide animal sightings. "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," reports a Cedarville State Forest camper, while another mentions, "Saw an otter one night!" at Breezy Point.
What you should know
Long-term residents: Many campgrounds host extended-stay campers. "Many staying at the campground are working in the area, but all seem to be great folks," notes a visitor at Adventure Bound Washington DC, while another observed, "60% were long term residents of the campground."
Tick prevention: Forested sites require insect precautions. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," warns a Cedarville State Forest camper, with another calling it "Tickville."
Beach crowding: Waterfront areas become congested during summer months. "The park closes daily very early as it hits capacity. The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall," suggests a Sandy Point camper.
Site conditions vary: Terrain differs across campgrounds. "Sites were very close. The site was part gravel and mostly mud/grass. There was trash on site," reports an Adventure Bound visitor, while at Breezy Point, "the loose-sandy sites can be a challenge leveling and stabilizers can't get a firm footing."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Washington DC Capitol KOA offers many child-friendly amenities. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). We would come again," shares a family camper.
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences. "This place is a good place to stay. It's a 40 minute drive to the capital and the Smithsonian Mall or a 25 minute drive to the closest Metro station," notes an Adventure Bound Washington DC visitor.
Private beach access: Waterfront camping provides exclusive areas. "The day-use folks are not allowed on the camping side of the beach... so, there's plenty of beach space and water space for campers," reports a Breezy Point camper.
Age restrictions for amenities: Check pool policies before visiting with young children. One KOA visitor noted, "I didnt like that non potty trained kids are not allowed to swim in their pool. Luckily we only have a 9 month old that isn't potty trained."
Tips from RVers
Limited dump stations: Plan waste management carefully. "There is no dump station and the pump-out option is only offered a couple days per week," warns a Lacy Oasis Campground visitor.
Site selection for privacy: End sites provide more seclusion. "Look at the park map and try to get a site at the end of a row. The sites are pretty close together but on the ends at least you only have a neighbor on one side," advises a Cherry Hill Park camper.
Arrival timing: "Do not try and come in after dark. Very tight and very dark," cautions an Adventure Bound Washington DC camper, noting that navigation can be difficult in low light conditions.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain. "Camp site wasn't level at all. I was actually kind of worried that it would slide into the woods," reports a KOA visitor, recommending additional blocks or leveling equipment.
