Camping in Edgewater, Maryland provides access to the Chesapeake Bay watershed with elevations generally below 100 feet and mild mid-Atlantic weather conditions. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 85°F and moderate winters, though some RV sites maintain water hookups year-round. Campgrounds within 30 miles offer varying degrees of waterfront access, forested settings, and proximity to both Washington DC and Baltimore.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Patapsco Valley State Park campers can access over 70 miles of multi-use trails directly from their sites. "Took a fairly easy hike down to the river and even went for a swim. Loved it so much, I stopped on the way back home again!" notes one visitor who found the wooded trails accessible for all skill levels.
Wildlife viewing: Eastern Neck Wildlife Sanctuary is just 7 minutes from Bay Shore Campground, offering multiple trail systems for bird watching. "If you enjoy beautiful sunsets, seeing bald eagles every day, having a nice breeze, not too buggy, well kept campground this is the place to go," shares a visitor who appreciated the natural setting and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Water activities: Many waterfront campgrounds offer kayaking, fishing, and boating access. "Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the waters edge," remarks a visitor to Bar Harbor RV Park, highlighting the convenient water access available to campers.
What campers like
Waterfront settings: Numerous campsites near Edgewater feature direct water access, particularly appealing during summer months. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. We are here visiting family for the holidays and it's serving us well," notes a visitor at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina, commenting on the scenic waterfront options that remain accessible year-round.
Military facilities: For qualified military personnel, installations near Edgewater provide secure camping options with base amenities. "Military campground. Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap," reports a visitor to the Annapolis FamCamp, noting the cost advantage for eligible campers despite basic facilities.
Swimming pools: Summer heat makes pool access especially valuable at rv sites near Edgewater, Maryland. "Campground is close (ish) to the DC area. It is easy and convenient to get to. Almost all sites are pull through and are close together. Playground is nice," mentions a camper at Prince William Forest RV Campground, appreciating the recreational amenities during warm months.
What you should know
Tick prevention: Several forested campgrounds report significant tick issues, particularly in spring and early summer. "We arrived on a Sunday. Very quiet, many open RV spots around us. We had site 18. Which is next to one of the water spigots. Lots of trails but in June at least the ticks were waaaay too plentiful," warns a visitor at Cedarville State Forest, suggesting thorough tick checks and repellent use.
Cellular service: Coverage varies by carrier, with most established campgrounds maintaining adequate signals. "Cell service is good. I can confirm Verizon and Google fi have great service. I would imagine any other carrier would work just as well," shares a visitor at Prince William Forest RV Campground regarding connectivity options.
Noise considerations: Urban-adjacent camping locations may experience aircraft noise due to proximity to airports or military installations. "It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times," mentions a Cedarville State Forest camper, highlighting background noise present at some locations closer to DC.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cherry Hill Park offers multiple family-friendly recreation options beyond their sites. "We loved it. Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer, Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride, Gated, On-site camp store," details a family visitor appreciating the structured activities available for children.
Bathroom facilities: Clean, accessible facilities matter significantly for family camping trips. "Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located. My spot was in the back row and I didn't mind the walk," notes a Prince William Forest RV camper, highlighting the well-maintained facilities.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to historical or environmental learning experiences. "DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," mentions a camper at Prince William Forest, pointing out the educational destinations within driving distance for family day trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp offers military members varying site qualities. "Spent several nights here while visiting Washington DC. You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river. Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable," advises an RVer who stayed at the military facility.
Winter preparations: RV campers should verify water hookup availability during colder months. "Weekend was cold but the park was pretty full. This is close to us so it was an easy trip. Full hookup but we're told to turn off and unhook water the night it dropped below freezing," reports a Bar Harbor RV Park visitor detailing seasonal considerations.
Site spacing: Consider how close neighboring sites are when booking rv sites near Edgewater. "Tight spots but very big and clean park. Great for camping if u want to go into Washington DC," notes a Cherry Hill Park visitor, highlighting the trade-off between proximity to attractions and site spaciousness.
