Best Camping near Dowell, MD

Dowell is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Dowell. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Dowell, MD (60)

    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed

    1. Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed

    29 Reviews
    104 Photos
    226 Saves
    Scotland, Maryland

    The campground will be closed for the 2023 season due to water and sewer replacement.

    This park's peaceful surroundings on a peninsula between the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River in St. Mary's County belie its history as the location of a camp which imprisoned as many as 52,264 Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. A museum on site recounts this vivid history. A park map is available at park headquarters, the camp office, camp store and the Civil War Museum/Marshland Nature Center. The Point Lookout Lighthouse is currently closed for renovations.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $21 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest

    3. Cedarville State Forest

    17 Reviews
    56 Photos
    100 Saves
    Brandywine, Maryland

    The lat/long on The Dyrt were updated 5/5/2022 to reflect what the State Forest site says is the CORRECT way to get into this campground.

    Equestrian Camping

    Campsites are primitive and a bathhouse is located in the center of the equestrian/special events camping loop. Equestrian Camping is roughly $30.00 per night per campsite. Make a reservation by calling 1-888-432-2267 (M-F 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) or online during the camping season (April through October).​ A horse is required to stay in this campground.​ Youth Group Camping

    Youth group passes are honored. Youth group camping reservations can only be made by calling the Maryland Park Service Reservation Service at 1-888-432-2267 Make future reservations by calling 1-888-432-2267 or online. The Maryland Park Service reserves the right to restrict the maximum and minimum number of vehicles and individuals admitted under one youth group pass per visit.

    Check out a map of the youth group and special event loops.

    Family Camping

    Family camping is available from April to October. Walk-ins are not permitted in office; same day reservations are made by calling 1-888-432-2267 (M-F 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) or online (24/7). ​

    Check out a map of the Family Camping Area.​
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping

    4. Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping

    5 Reviews
    13 Photos
    60 Saves
    Lusby, Maryland

    Youth Group Camping

    There are five youth group camping sites available and reservations are required. Youth Group passes are honored.

    Access to pit toilets, fire ring, and one 12 foot picnic table are provided with each site. (Available April-October)

    You can make reservations through parkreservations.maryland.gov or by calling 1-888-432-2267.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground

    5. Pohick Bay Campground

    39 Reviews
    63 Photos
    304 Saves
    Lorton, Virginia

    Choose your next adventure at Pohick Bay Campground in Lorton, Virginia. Bring the kids for a day of splashing and sliding at Pirate’s Cove Waterpark, spend a day on the bay with our canoe, paddleboard, stand up paddleboard and kayak rentals; or bring your own boat to our public boat launch ramp. Make a day of it by renting a picnic shelter or stay a little longer and reserve one of our cabins or campsites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground

    6. Janes Island State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    119 Photos
    237 Saves
    Crisfield, Maryland

    The mainland portion of the park offers over 100 campsites, 49 of which are equipped with electrical hook-ups to accommodate tent or vehicle campers.

    Each site is equipped with a camping pad, picnic table, fire ring and lantern post.

    Three centrally located bath houses have hot water showers and flush toilets.

    Campers must arrive and check-in before quiet hours start at 10:00 PM. Campers who arrive after 10:00 PM will not be allowed into the park and will have to find other accommodations for the night.

    Backcountry Campsites and Permits The primitive backcountry campsites are equipped with tent platforms and boat landings. C​ampers at these environmentally sensitive sites must obtain a permit from the park and strictly follow Leave No Trace principles. Call the park at 410-968-1565 for more information about backcountry permits.

    Youth Group Camping The park offers a 30 person youth group site, featuring a shaded but open area with a stone fire pit, group grill and picnic tables.

    Full Service Cabins Four rustic waterfront cabins are available for rent year round. Each sleeps six persons and is equipped with three bedrooms, a common area, kitchen, bathroom, a screened porch with picnic table, air conditioning, heat, gas log fireplaces (available seasonally), an outdoor fire ring with a grill, a picnic table and ample parking. Cabin kitchens are equipped with an oven, stove, refrigerator, coffee pot, microwave, basic cooking utensils and service for six. Renters must provide their own towels and bedding (linens, pillows and blankets).

    Camper Cabins Four waterfront camper cabins that sleep four are available during the camping season. Each has a capacity of four persons and is equipped with air conditioning and heat, electric, a table and chairs, either two sets of bunk beds or a double bed and a set of bunk beds, ceiling fan, a picnic table and fire ring. Occupants must use the campground bathhouses.

    Located just outside of Crisfield on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Janes Island State P​ark offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauty and bounty of the Chesapeake Bay. Within the mainland portion of the park are the campground, with 103 campsites, rental cabins, a lodge, picnic areas, pavilions, and the boat ramp and marina.

    The island portion of the park – Janes Island – includes over 2,900 acres of saltmarsh, over 30 miles of water trails and miles of isolated pristine beaches. Although people have harvested the resources of the island for thousands of years, today the island is wild and seemingly untouched. A haven for birds, fish, crabs and other saltmarsh dwellers, Janes Island provides visitors a tranquil setting to explore the wildlife of the bay while enjoying the expansive vistas and stunningly beautiful sunsets. Whether fishing or crabbing, motor boating, paddling or simply relaxing, visitors to Janes Island will experience a world still ruled by the weather, the tides and the wildlife that first drew people to this very special place.

    The park offers ADA accessible restrooms and four accessible campsites. The park store, nature center, picnic pavilions, recreation area, fish cleaning station and dock area are also ADA accessible.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

    There is no fee to enter the park for day-use, but there is a fee to use the park's boat ramp. ($7.00 for Maryland residents. $9.00 for out of state residents.)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $21 - $87 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Breezy Point Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Breezy Point Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Breezy Point Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Breezy Point Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Breezy Point Beach
    Camper-submitted photo from Breezy Point Beach

    7. Breezy Point Beach

    5 Reviews
    10 Photos
    204 Saves
    Chesapeake Beach, Maryland

    Breezy Point Campground is closed for the 2023 season for both short-term and seasonal camping for the completion of an extensive shoreline restoration project on the camping beach area. This project will consist of erosion mitigation and beach revitalization.

    At Breezy Point Beach, there’s fun for the whole family. Our beach is a popular destination for fossil hunting, swimming in the bay and fishing. Because of the popularity of the beautiful beach, especially during summer weekends and holidays, the park often fills to capacity. We highly recommend you visit our Facebook page or call ahead of time to ensure the capacity status of the beach: https://www.facebook.com/breezypointbeachpark/

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $60 - $70 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Matoaka Beach Cottages
    Camper-submitted photo from Matoaka Beach Cottages
    Camper-submitted photo from Matoaka Beach Cottages
    Camper-submitted photo from Matoaka Beach Cottages
    Camper-submitted photo from Matoaka Beach Cottages
    Camper-submitted photo from Matoaka Beach Cottages

    8. Matoaka Beach Cottages

    2 Reviews
    6 Photos
    91 Saves
    St. Leonard, Maryland

    Matoaka is a privately owned and operated bay-front getaway in Calvert County, Maryland. The facility is nestled quietly on the west shore of the Chesapeake Bay with hundreds of feet of bay views and a one third of a mile private sandy beach for visitor access.

    The property's many acres are primarily wooded with fields and a winding dirt lane which brings visitors to the main grounds. The main grounds boast beautiful views of the bay, sunrises, and easy access to the beach. The cabins back up to a bamboo forest and overlook the bay.

    Cabin Rentals: April 15 to November 1

    Check in between 3-8pm - Check out by 11 am

    Dogs are not permitted

    All cabins have their own kitchen with fridge, propane stove, microwave & basket style coffeemaker.

    Bathrooms have stall showers, flush toilets and sink.

    Grills are for charcoal cooking only, no wood fires please.

    Cabins are not furnished with bedding, towels nor kitchen utencils, etc.

    Please remember to bring: Bedding, towels, kitchen items, paper products, soap and charcoal for the grill.

    Area Info:

    Grocery stores are located about 10 minute drive away in both Prince Frederick (north) and Lusby (south).

    Nearby Restaurants -

    Gateway Seafood Restaurant & Lounge, Port Republic, MD (Take out & Dine-in)

    Fredy's Woodfire Pizza, Prince Frederick, MD (Delivery Available)

    Happy Buddha, Saint Leonard, MD (Take out)

    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point

    9. Endeavor Point

    5 Reviews
    13 Photos
    56 Saves
    Patuxent River, Maryland

    NOTE: THERE IS A 2 NIGHT MINIMUM FOR HOLIDAY WEEKENDS.

    Great place for fishing, camping, kayaking, lazy days on the beach grilling and hanging out with family and friends. Book family events on the beach. Come and explore the historic Benedict village. Join us at our Endeavor Point to enjoy simplicity and remarkable views of the Patuxent river. The Endeavor Point is located at the end of Mill Creek Road, offering breathtaking views of the Patuxent river, overlooking Golden Beach and St. Mary's County shoreline. Far enough for a serene retreat and yet just a few minutes drive to shops and restaurants in Prince Frederick or Charlotte Hall. Endeavor Point is a diamond in the rough. Come play, fish, relax, and have fun! Whether you’re in Maryland for a day, weekend stop or a week of touring, Endeavor Point is the perfect spot for bird watching, fishing, kayaking, camping, stargazing, or just enjoying a serene evening by the fire. Enjoy breathtaking views from each one of our 3 comfortable accommodations or from any of the campsites. Spacious outdoor area, rustic beach, long pier. Explore the Patuxent river or Mill Creek with our kayaks or paddle board, available for rent on site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $55 - $95 / night

    • No image available

      10. Solomons Navy Recreation Area

      1 Review
      16 Saves
      Dowell, Maryland
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
    Showing results 1-10 of 60 campgrounds

    Pet-friendly camping near Dowell

    Recent Reviews in Dowell

    325 Reviews of 60 Dowell Campgrounds


    • Renee P.
      Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground
      Nov. 15, 2024

      Janes Island State Park Campground

      So beautiful!!

      Unfortunately, there was a fire ban and extremely windy conditions, which is out of the parks control so I didn't get to enjoy it as much. From what I have experienced, it was amazing! The hike trails are so beautiful and being by the water was a complete experience! I got to see the sunset for the first time in a long time. Park was clean and well maintained. Bathroom was clean and WARM! they also have showers. They sale firewood at the cabin store but the store is only opened Thursday- Sunday

    • TThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
      Nov. 12, 2024

      Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

      Great site - super accessible!

      Sites were well-maintained, including lavatories. Plenty of tree cover. NOTE: park service forbade tying lines or straps to the trees at the time of our visit (Autumn 2024), so if you favor hammock camping or deploying tarps/ridgelines, plan accordingly.

    • Heather The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Breezy Point Beach
      Oct. 18, 2024

      Breezy Point Beach

      Nice to be by the water & hear the waves

      They have renovated the beach and per my friends, the fencing protecting the area is new, but needed. The sites are too close to each to each other and people were blaring their music. The bathhouse needs updating. Not enough fire rings and if you don’t have one and the campground is full, you’re out of luck. Saw an otter one night!

    • dito S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
      Oct. 17, 2024

      Pohick Bay Campground

      Pohick Bay Campground

      Pohick Bay Campground in Virginia offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. It's an ideal spot for families and nature lovers. Don’t forget to register dito sim to stay connected during your visit!

    • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Martinak State Park Campground
      Oct. 2, 2024

      Martinak State Park Campground

      Beautiful campground with cozy bathroom

      I love this campground very much. I called the office book my reservation, the representative put me in Acorn loop.

      When I arrived by the late evening, there are only two camper in a huge site. Then I drove to Butterfly loop, this site have much more peoples, some camper tell me, the Ranger will coming soon; finally the ranger help me move my site into the Butterfly loop. From my experience, better book campsite by yourself online, then you have an idea this site how many occupancy.

    • Terrance D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Lacy Oasis Campground
      Jul. 30, 2024

      Lacy Oasis Campground

      Serenity, serenity, serenity!

      If you are a nature lover, a person who loves peace, serenity, and, tranquility, or just need some respite, Lacy Oasis is the place to be. Whether you are an adult or a child, this place will have a positive effect on you. The owners are involved and designed this space with the visitors pleasure in mind. This space is about healing and being grounded with yourself. My agency took about 25 children there last week and they did not want to leave, neither did I. The rates are very economical for what is being provided on the space. There is not enough I can say about this place. It was definitely more than I expected. But my agency has worked with the owner in the past on other community support initiatives and she has always been an overachiever. Please come and enjoy this space. You will not be disappointed. I cannot wait to return.

    • Trees F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
      Jul. 16, 2024

      Pohick Bay Campground

      Excellent spot

      We loved staying at Pohick. We were here to visit DC and it was an excellent spot to stay. It was extremely hot as it was July but the sites had a lot of shade. Site 46 where we stayed was close to the bathrooms and nice and flat. The bathrooms were cleaner than any other campground we have stayed in and they have laundry and a nice stainless sink and counter for washing dishes if needed. About a 40 minute drive into DC and definitely worth it. Also, campers get a discount at the water park which was a very reasonable 5 dollars per person. The weekend tends to be a bit louder but during the week was very quiet.

    • J
      Camper-submitted photo from Bethpage Camp-Resort
      Jun. 11, 2024

      Bethpage Camp-Resort

      Excellent-will definitely return

      Cottage 4 stars- clean but floors needed some attention, a bit cramped, somewhat outdated, large porch Campground 5 stars- bustling on weekends, quiet throughout weekdays, clean and well maintained Amenities 5 stars- great weekly activity schedule, great pool, putt putt etc. Staff 5 stars- Very friendly

    • Heather H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
      Jun. 11, 2024

      Westmoreland State Park Campground

      Great with the littles

      Stayed one night in our camper van, walked down to fossil beach which was the perfect amount of hiking for a two year old, great playground with plenty of other kids, camp store is well stocked and had decent hours. Our site was right next to bathrooms which was also great with the kids but we didnt hear or smell them. Cleanest campground bathrooms we've ever seen. Gravel parking and pebbles in the picnic table area, which my 2 year old enjoyed and my 9 month old tried his hardest to ingest. Loved it, would def go back.

    • AThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
      May. 29, 2024

      Pohick Bay Campground

      Good trip

      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. The waterpark is new and loud so we avoid but nice if you have young kids. Careful low bridge on Route 1 exit ramp little warning when taking ramp off I95. Go around to next exit. The check in at the cap store is crowded and narrow even with renovations but our 34 ft makes it okay. Bring bikes. Long bike trail along road. Farmers markets in Lorton and things to do in DC. Park at Huntington or Springfield metro. Short boat ride straight across from Ft Belvoir new family campground. Ice cream shop in season by water docks. Bathrooms clean always hot water three stalls each. Sink outside for dishes. Playground buts up against inner circle which are the only sewer sites. Others are electric water. Careful some near steep drop off. Stick to main road or inner circle or first circle if in big unit. Must go round circle to get to those spots which can be annoying. Two speed bumps. Camp store sells smores ingredients, limited candy, no eggs or bacon get those off Rte 1. Past entrance on Rte 1 is a Food Lion, McDonalds. Gas stations along Rte one are tight so fill up before exiting to campground. If you are desperate there is gas 7/11 at corner of Pohick and Rte 1 but its sketchy. Up the road off Rte 1 is Fort Belvoir Access w a drivers license however cant shop without military sponsored ID. Great bbq at Telegraph Rd and greek at Olympians family restaurant. Movie theater on Telegraph is nice. Springfield Mall close. Take Onville Rd which is a backroad by Pohick Church to shortcut to Rte 1. Pohick Rd past camping turn deadends into private neighborhood. Do not pass camp entrance. Hard to turn around if you do. Near End of Pohick is a small walk with overlook. See birds at point. Drive a car not RV. Park at lot on right before road split deadend. Gunston Hall on left can see from campground and water. Tours are nice.

    • Martin T.
      Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
      May. 28, 2024

      Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

      Depends on What You Are Looking For

      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. Helicopters and planes fly over regularly, and you can hear sirens from neighboring college park. The campsites are pretty close together, we could see probably about 10 or so other campsites from our campsite. And there is not a ton to do within the park itself -- there are a few picnic areas, a pretty unimpressive small playground, some nature/walking trails, and that's about it.

      But it is a pretty nice campground -- campsites and showers seem clean and well maintained, bathrooms are fine and you're never far away from one. Rangers come around regularly to check on things and every one we interacted with was extremely friendly. I don't think there's anything comparable so close to DC, so if you're in the DC area and just want someplace close by for a short camping trip, or are looking for an affordable outdoors-y option to stay while you're visiting DC from out of town, this probably fits the bill. As soon as you leave the park you are in College Park with Metro access close by, and very close to the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.

    • Mallory H.
      Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
      Apr. 2, 2024

      Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

      Quick one night stay

      Quick one night stop on our way south. While the sites are pretty exposed, it was a cold night so there were only a few other campers!

      The bathroom was clean and extremely warm which was much appreciated after a cold night.

    • Mallory H.
      Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
      Apr. 2, 2024

      Westmoreland State Park Campground

      Quick Stay

      While we only camped here for one night, we enjoyed the park from check in to checkout!

      Since we tent camp our site was dry and had no amenities but there were full hook up sites available. Our site was nestled in with the full hook up sites so it was as far away from the bathrooms as possible, not a big deal just something to note.

      Since we visited in March, the trees did not have much foliage so the sites were more exposed than I tend to prefer and lots of the campers around left their outside RV lights on all night.

      Being in campground A, we were only a short walk to the trail leading to fossil beach which was beautiful!

    • Lucy P.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground
      Mar. 24, 2024

      Janes Island State Park Campground

      Great time

      Did a fourth of July visit and it was such a blast! We stayed in camp loop C and we had plenty of space for our 10-person tent and we stayed up pretty late enjoying the weather, laughing, and eating lots of fun camp snacks. The Canoe trails are absolutely beautiful and the horizon seems to go on endlessly. When we were there the day's canoe outings were cancelled due to weather and storm forecasts. We were able to enjoy the state parks edu series on how to catch soft crabs and ofc went out and got soft crabs and ate them at a local restaurant before we left. There are also some modest walking trails - but the main attraction are the canoe trails of course that go all the way out to the ocean for those with that level of expertise.

    • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
      Camper-submitted photo from The Oasis at Lake Serenity
      Mar. 1, 2024

      The Oasis at Lake Serenity

      New to the Dyrt!

      Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

    • Sharon L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Martinak State Park Campground
      Feb. 19, 2024

      Martinak State Park Campground

      Nice weekend campground

      We go here when we want to just chill.  It's a good place to do that.  Site are nice and large and it's an enjoyable place to just go, burn wood and listen to nature.  Fairly quiet when we were there!

    • allison W.
      Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
      Feb. 3, 2024

      Endeavor Point

      Better as a day spot?

      We spent part of Labor Day weekend here, and there was almost nobody else there. The second night, one other pair of campers showed up. I found it super strange that more people didn’t take advantage of a campground on the river with availability. That said, there were a bunch of people who came in and used the cabins and invited large extended families during the day. They played loud music and had kids running all over the place, very festive atmosphere. It kind of felt like it was more appropriate for that kind of use. The camping areas were all on the lawn, and the owners were a bit uptight about which site we could choose (despite there being ample availability, and the person on the phone telling me that all sites were first come first serve). Just felt strange. We did enjoy taking evening walks through the town to the restaurant/bar on the water, but that was literally the only thing to do unless you have a fishing/crabbing license.

    • Jim L.
      Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
      Nov. 13, 2023

      Pohick Bay Campground

      Absolutely not

      This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7. Another absolutely insane noisy campground run by nova. Absolutely a rip off because of the noise just like all nova parks seem to be.   Insane

    • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
      Nov. 11, 2023

      Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

      Beautiful campground, and great for visiting DC

      Beautiful campground, fairly large with 4 separate loops. Loop A is for organized groups/youth/scouts, Loop B is for tents and RVs under 30 ft, Loop C is for tents, and Loop D is for tents and RVs under 35 ft. No hookups at any of the sites.

      There’s a dump station and drinking water fill in loop C (sorry tenters who wanted to avoid RVs). The water fill was a little annoying in that there’s a handle you have to hold down the whole time, but we used a rock to prop the handle down. 

      The bathhouses are ok, happy to have free showers with hot running water. Faucets allow you to control the temperature and there’s continuous running water (no button to push). There’s only one large shower per bath house, and you only have a curtain (no door and no lock). Sites vary in levelness, some are fairly level and some are on a mini hill. Driveways are all very narrow. Most have too much tree cover for solar or starlink, but some sites are more open and you might be able to make it work. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Cost is $20/night, must reserve on recreation.gov, and you can do that when you arrive and pick a site (no service fee for this site)

      Cell service is pretty good for Verizon and ATT. 

      No alcohol allowed in the park. 

      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 to a storm, and by the looks of it it’s been out a while and it doesn’t appear that it will be fixed soon. So what we did, since we don’t have a tow car, and just have our 26ft motorhome, is we packed up and drove to the Greenbelt station about 5 miles away, parked there for the day, and took the green line into town. The lot there is huge and open and free on weekends. Weekdays it’s about $5/day if you take the metro, and about $9 if you’re just parking there. The College Park station is closer but is apparently a parking garage (can’t confirm because we didn’t go to that station). This worked very well for us. You can pay for the metro with an app or get a card, either way it costs you $2 to buy the card, and then $2 each way on the train. Everyone over age 5 needs their own card, no sharing one card. The train ride from the Greenbelt station to the national mall is about 30 min. Get off at the Archives station to be in the center of all the sites.

    • patricia S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
      Sep. 17, 2023

      Endeavor Point

      No vengas aquí: Policía del parque hoy, policía de inmigración mañana

      Lo primero es lo primero: soy unávido pescador y cangrejero. Tengo licencias para DC, Md y Va. Llevo más de 4 años viniendo a Tide Mill Resort, ahora llamado Endeavor Point. Aquí no ha cambiado mucho, excepto el propietario. El muelle todavía necesita reparación o está en necesidad, muchos pierden tablas, grandes pilones están dañados y todavía no hay barandillas de seguridad, por mencionar algunos. Conocía al dueño anterior y ahora a los dueños actuales.¡Que diferencia! El propietario anterior también era unávido deportista acuático que sabía todo sobre pesca, pesca de cangrejos y cualquier deporte acuático relacionado. Los actuales propietarios son 100% lo contrario. No saben nada sobre pesca o pesca de cangrejos y esperan que"no quieran que pesques demasiados". El propietario anterior permitió a sus clientes/invitados que pagaban pescar y hacer cangrejos a voluntad(por supuesto, todo dentro de los límites legales). Los actuales propietarios intentan restringir e intimidar a sus clientes. Durante los años que llevo viniendo aquí, nunca me han dicho cuántos cangrejos o peces puedo conservar. Ahora, los propietarios actuales tienen un límite de dos docenas de cangrejos, independientemente de tener una licencia en Maryland que diga que se pueden pescar hasta un bushel. Para empeorar las cosas, se apresuran a llamar a la policía del parque o a los guardas de juegos de sus clientes si creen que usted ha excedido sus límites personales. Esto es una locura. Debido a que los propietarios ignoran las leyes que rigen la pesca y la pesca de cangrejos, se indignan cuando aquellos de nosotros que las conocemos intentamos educarlos. Para mí, este asunto se volvió personal. Uno de los dueños mintió y dijo que estaba pescando tantos cangrejos porque los estaba“vendiendo”. Esa fue una mentira descarada. Escuche, si pudiera comer cangrejos todos los días, lo haría. Los amo mucho y mi esposo también. Por cierto, la mayoría de la gente que viene aquí son españoles, asiáticos y negros. Seamos realistas, llaman a la policía del parque con tanta frecuencia que es sólo cuestión de tiempo antes de que estos“nuevos propietarios” comiencen a llamar también a la policía de inmigración.

    • patricia S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
      Sep. 17, 2023

      Endeavor Point

      Don't come here: Unreasonable, irrational, judgmental owners

      Don't Come Here: Park Police today, Immigration Police tomorrow

      First things first, I am an avid fisherman and crabber. I have licenses for DC, Md and Va. I’ve been coming to Tide Mill Resort, now called Endeavor Point for more than 4 years. Much hasn't changed here, except the owner. The pier is still  in need or repair, many lose boards, massive damaged pylons and still no security rails, to state a few. I knew the previous owner and now the present owners. What a difference! The past owner was also an avid watersport man who knew all about fishing, crabbing and any related water sport. The present owners are 100% the opposite. They know nothing about fishing or crabbing expect they“ don’t want you to catch too many.” The past owner allowed his paying customers/guest(s) to fish and crab at will,(of course all within legal limits). The present owners try to restrict and intimated their customers. Over the years of coming here, I’ve never been told how many crabs or fish I can keep. Now, the present owners have a 2-dozen limit on crabs regardless of having a license in Maryland that says you can catch up to a bushel. To make matters worse, they are quick to call the park police/games wardens on its customers if they believe you have exceeded their personal limits. This is insane. Because the owners are ignorant about the laws governing fishing and crabbing, they get incensed when those of us in the know, try to educate them. For me, this matter turned personal. One of the owners lied and said I was catching so many crabs because I was “selling” them. That was a blatant lie. Listen, If I could eat crabs everyday, I would. I love them that much and so does my husband. By the way, the majority of the people coming here are Spanish, Asian and Black. Let’s face it, they call the park police so frequently that  it’s only a matter of time before these “new owners” start calling the immigration police as well.

    • Shanna S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Janes Island State Park Campground
      Aug. 15, 2023

      Janes Island State Park Campground

      Wonderful getaway!

      We chose Janes Island for our first camping trip as a couple and we had such a beautiful weekend!

      The camp store employee was incredibly sweet and helpful. It was well stocked and even had a little wildlife museum.

      Our tent site was away the main loops, which was great for privacy and quiet, close to the bath house, and faced the canal. Made for a gorgeous sunset!!

      The bugs, mostly flies, were a bit much and I would expect that to be worse as the temperatures increases. I think that this is the experience of waterfront camping.

      Overall, the park is beautiful, peaceful and clean. We really enjoyed our time here and will come back!

    • Janet P.
      Camper-submitted photo from Seaside View Recreation Park
      Jul. 28, 2023

      Seaside View Recreation Park

      Not ready ..

      It’s a very small campground, looks like 99% of the people live here. Also, looks like they’re trying to do some very nice renovations. But they are really not up for customers. No pool, but they do have a pier that looks nice. We needed a place to stay for the night so we stayed. I don’t think they have any accommodations at all bathrooms or showers. Joy was very nice. 

    • Janet P.
      Camper-submitted photo from Take It Easy Campground
      Jul. 28, 2023

      Take It Easy Campground

      👎

      Campground is mostly people that live there,and what few sites they had you had to squeeze into our between people that have the Homestead set up. The office was nice but the campground was not and the people were not welcoming. The only thing I can say is it look like it had a nice pool. We drove around to pick a spot and fast decided we did not want to stay here. Sorry everyone have a good day. 

    • J
      Camper-submitted photo from Martinak State Park Campground
      Jul. 26, 2023

      Martinak State Park Campground

      Beautiful park, already planning a return

      This was our first visit to this park and we really loved it. We stayed in a tent site which included a fire ring and picnic table, and we had two tents and plenty of space for everything. While we were there, I believe all of the cabins were full and some other tent sites reserved, but the grounds were still very quiet and peaceful. The bathrooms and showers were modern and very clean and looked to be only a brief, flat walk from most of the sites/cabins in the loop. The loops were smaller than I expected, but that wasn't a bad thing. There is also a large sink on one side of the bathhouse which was nice for cleaning up after cooking. AT&T phone service was slow but available. While in the area, we also visited WorkHorse Farm for a tour, First Fruits Orchard for PYO blueberries, and Denton Station antique mall.



    Guide to Dowell

    Camping near Dowell, Maryland, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Explore Fossil Beach: Head to Westmoreland State Park Campground for a short hike to Fossil Beach. One camper mentioned, "The trail leading to fossil beach was beautiful!" It's a great spot for fossil hunting and enjoying the sandy shore.
    • Visit the Nature Center: At Cedarville State Forest, you can check out the nature center and enjoy the hiking trails. A visitor noted, "There are some really nice trails accessible from the loop."
    • Fishing and Crabbing: If you enjoy fishing, Endeavor Point has a pier perfect for casting a line. One reviewer said, "The pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers at Westmoreland State Park Campground rave about the cleanliness. One family shared, "Cleanest campground bathrooms we've ever seen."
    • Friendly Staff: Many visitors appreciate the helpful staff at Adventure Bound Washington DC. A camper mentioned, "The staff is super friendly! They worked with us on a wonky schedule."
    • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings at Roaring Point Waterfront Campground. One review stated, "Get up close to the water if you can. Clear beautiful nights you will see awesome star shows!"

    What you should know:

    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Cedarville State Forest, have limited amenities. A visitor noted, "There is no camp sink, which was a bummer."
    • Tight Campsites: At Thousand Trails Harbor View, the sites can feel cramped. One camper remarked, "The sites are extremely close."
    • Seasonal Closures: Be aware that some campgrounds, like Point Lookout State Park, may be temporarily closed for maintenance. A visitor shared, "We arrived and were told the campground was closed until probably 2023 for water line upgrades."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Westmoreland State Park Campground. One parent said, "Great playground with plenty of other kids."
    • Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks for the kids. A camper at Cedarville State Forest mentioned, "If you’ve forgotten anything you can pop on by the Target or Costco right outside the forest."
    • Plan for Bugs: Some areas can have bugs, especially in the warmer months. A visitor at Westmoreland State Park Campground advised, "Bring bug spray."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Adventure Bound Washington DC noted, "Full hookups at most sites."
    • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds near busy areas, like Cedarville State Forest, can have noise from planes. One camper mentioned, "Planes do occasionally fly over the area."
    • Bring Firewood: Many campgrounds have firewood available for purchase, but it's good to bring your own just in case. A visitor at Roaring Point Waterfront Campground said, "Management was very professional. Campground was clean and has beautiful views."

    Camping near Dowell, Maryland, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful getaway.

    Frequently Asked Questions