Cherry Hill Park's strategic location provides pet owners with convenient access to Washington DC monuments while enjoying a gated, pet-friendly environment. The campground lies on gently rolling terrain at approximately 150 feet elevation with mature tree coverage creating varied shade patterns throughout the property. Many nearby parks operate year-round despite Maryland's seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 90°F and comfortable spring and fall camping conditions.
What to do
Disc golf courses nearby: Lake Fairfax Park offers an 18-hole disc golf course just a short drive from Beltsville. "Pohick Bay is my go-to weekend camping spot. Just a few miles outside DC, Pohick Bay is a hidden gem in the area. I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," writes Rachel L. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Trail systems with water access: Patapsco Valley State Park features multiple river access points via well-marked trails. "There are a lot of easy, but beautiful hikes. The trails we have been on are all pretty moderate to hard but offer beautiful waterfalls and river views," notes Angel G. about Patapsco Valley State Park. The park's river access provides cooling options during summer months.
Urban exploration without driving: Access Washington DC monuments via public transportation from several dog-friendly campgrounds near Beltsville. "You can also ride the metro from University Park. Rides vary depending on how far you are going but on average I spent about $10 per day on METRO versus $20-$40 on parking in the district area," explains Crystal C. about Greenbelt Park Campground.
What campers like
Well-maintained bathhouses: Campground cleanliness remains consistent throughout the region. "Five stars for the restroom facilities. Bright, large, clean and very well maintained," says Tana S. about Lake Fairfax Campground. Many campgrounds update their facilities regularly despite high seasonal usage.
Level RV pads: Hollofield Area Campground provides properly graded sites for easier setup. "Being just barely off the beaten path, I wasn't expecting all too much from the one night stay over planned heading from New Jersey to Shenandoah in Virginia. I was surprised at the quiet, understated beauty of the forestry around the perfectly level campsite," notes Diana S. about her experience at Hollofield Area Campground.
Nature immersion despite urban proximity: Multiple reviewers mention the surprising quietness of campgrounds near major cities. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," writes Becky about Greenbelt Park Campground. The region's forests create effective sound barriers against nearby highways.
What you should know
Seasonal water park access: Several campgrounds offer water recreation during summer months. "We did not take our dog this time with us but would seriously consider it next time. 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," explains Stephanie H. about Washington DC Capitol KOA.
Varying site privacy levels: Campsite spacing differs significantly between loops at the same campground. "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," notes Elise M. about Washington DC Capitol KOA. Research specific loops when booking dog-friendly campgrounds near Beltsville.
Tree canopy impacts: Heavy tree coverage affects satellite reception but provides cooling shade. "There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy. OTA TV was descent using an external omni antenna," reports Ray & Terri F. about Little Bennett Campground. Trees also create natural separation between sites at many parks.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Kid-friendly amenities extend beyond basic playgrounds at several parks. "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park. The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground," shares Angel G. about Patapsco Valley State Park.
Weekend programming: Scheduled activities provide structure for family camping trips. "They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning," Ben G. explains about Pohick Bay Campground.
Water recreation variety: Beyond swimming pools, many parks offer multiple water options. "We stopped at the DC KOA as a base to visit the Capitol. This is not a site for nature lovers but is perfect for kids. We had a site near the pool, outdoor chess set, jumping pillow and gaga ball pit," shares Liz F. about her family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Site topography varies significantly between campground loops. "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," notes Napunani about Little Bennett Regional Park. Always bring extra leveling blocks when visiting dog-friendly campgrounds near Beltsville.
Utilities available: Electric service ranges from basic to full hookups. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup. D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C& E are tents only," explains Ray & Terri F. about Little Bennett Campground. Most RV loops accommodate larger units despite wooded settings.
Campground navigation: Some parks have challenging entry points for larger rigs. "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)" warns Travyl Couple about Hollofield Area Campground. Research specific directions before arrival with larger RVs.
