Elkridge-area campers can access multiple parks along the Patapsco River watershed within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F and mild winters with occasional snowfall affecting campground access. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 200-400 feet with several positioned near waterways that can experience flooding during heavy rain events.
What to do
Water activities: Fish, kayak, and swim at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina, where waterfront sites provide direct river access. "We had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the water's edge," notes Janet P., who camped at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina.
Military history exploration: Visit nearby Fort Belvoir for historical sites and Potomac River access. "The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on," reports Jack R. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Urban attractions: Use campgrounds as base for city visits to Baltimore and Washington DC. Cherry Hill Park provides convenient metro access for exploring the capital. "Plan and reserve your DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park," explains Jason E. from Cherry Hill Park.
Hiking trails: Access woodland paths directly from camping areas at Patapsco Valley State Park. "We enjoyed hiking the trails directly from our campsite that led us down to the Patapsco River. There is a lot of history associated with the River and the area," shares a reviewer from Hollofield Area Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: Direct river access for fishing and relaxation is highly rated. "The daily waterfront sites are pricy but right on the water with great views. Some of the trailer sites are a tough back in but worth the trouble," reports George L. about Bar Harbor RV Park.
Convenient base location: Near major attractions without feeling urban. Despite proximity to Baltimore, Hollofield Area campers report feeling secluded. "You can camp and want to visit the city, this is a budget conscious way to do so. And, when you are at your campsite, you really are in the middle of the woods," notes Rebecca C.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Multiple shower houses receive positive reviews at Round Top Campground. "Off-season so not crowded. Pool was clean and quite good sized, had it to ourselves due to season. Did laundry while here, ample laundry room," shares John L.
Military base camping: Secure environment for RVers with military credentials. "Spent several nights here while visiting Washington DC. You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river. Eagle's nests were interesting," reports Mike H. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly across area campgrounds. "The sites are pretty close together in the 'electric' loop and some face a neighborhood that probably couldn't be seen if the trees had regained all their foliage," notes a reviewer about Hollofield Area.
Seasonal operation affects availability at several campgrounds. Most campgrounds fill quickly on weekends, especially during peak travel periods. "Winter travelers should check for seasonal closures, particularly at campgrounds like Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Water/sewer limitations: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "There is only 20/30amp electricity and NO water or sewer, although there was a dump and a place to fill your water tank," reports one camper about Patapsco Valley State Park.
Reservation requirements: Plan ahead for weekend stays, especially at Bull Run Regional Park. "The park also offer cabin rentals if you don't want to camp... I like to take new families that have not camped before to this campsite, its close to home and if anyone decides to bail out there is a hotel 5 min away," explains Tom C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for convenience with children. "There is a 'natural' playground in the loop, and then if you drive down further to the park entrance, there is a large playground for the kids," notes Jennifer S. about Hollofield Area Campground.
Recreational amenities: Choose campgrounds with pools during summer months. "Pool, playgrounds, game room, camp store, pavilions, everything!" exclaims a reviewer about Cherry Hill Park, while another adds "The pool with the slide was very clean" at Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Camping alternatives: Consider cabins for first-time families. "Our family stayed here in a cabin on a long weekend trip to DC. This campground was full of stuff to do and we didn't even get to do a lot of it. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," shares Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Activity scheduling: Check event calendars at larger campgrounds. "They have themed weekend events, live music, bingo, golf cart parades, and potluck," notes a visitor to Drummer Boy Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Low clearance warning: Approach from west when accessing certain campgrounds with large vehicles. "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 a camper about Hollofield Area.
Site selection strategies: Request end-of-row sites when possible for additional space. "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 Scott C. from Cherry Hill Park.
Dump station timing: Avoid weekends for less wait time at disposal facilities. Several campgrounds offer dump stations, though availability and fees vary across the region.
Access to essentials: Note nearby services for longer stays. "You really need a toad since supplies are not very close to the camping area," notes Mike H. about Fort Belvoir, while another camper mentions "7-11 at the neighborhood entrance" near Bar Harbor RV Park.
