Camping options near Elkridge, Maryland provide easy access to nature within 30 miles of Baltimore and Washington DC. The region experiences moderate seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F and winter lows around 25-30°F. Fall camping season typically extends through mid-November with colorful foliage displays throughout the area's deciduous forests.
What to do
Hiking trails throughout Bull Run Regional Park: Bull Run offers extensive hiking trails through wooded areas with historical significance. "The park is nice, but if you're looking for fishing don't go here, but you can in fact kayak down the creek," notes Jonny D. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Water activities at Codorus State Park: Located within driving distance of Elkridge, Codorus State Park provides lake activities beyond standard swimming. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains Catherine H. about Codorus State Park Campground.
Disc golf courses for active campers: Several parks near Elkridge feature disc golf options for campers looking for recreational activities. "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," shares Rachel L. about Pohick Bay Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to metropolitan attractions: Campers appreciate the ability to combine outdoor experiences with urban exploration. "This trip we spent most of our time in DC and only went to Annapolis one night. But there is a ton to do around the cities with or without kids," notes Stephanie H. about Washington DC Capitol KOA.
Seasonal activities for varied interests: The camping areas near Elkridge offer activities that change throughout the seasons. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," says Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park's organized events.
Pet-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds cater to those traveling with dogs. "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," mentions Stephanie H. about Washington DC Capitol KOA's dedicated pet spaces.
What you should know
Varied site privacy levels: Site selection can significantly impact your camping experience in this region. "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.
Alternative accommodation options: Beyond traditional tent camping, luxurious glamping in Elkridge, Maryland area includes cabin options with varying amenities. "We stayed in a cabin for 2 nights and had a great time. The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon," reports Bridget H. about Bull Run's cabin accommodations.
Reservation timing considerations: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Reserved 137 days prior to arriving," notes Napunani about their Little Bennett Campground experience, highlighting the need for advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Choose sites strategically when camping with children. "The pool through RV sites are in the centerfield and kind of exposed to the elements but you are right across from the pool and right across from an amazing playground," advises Brian S. about Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.
Educational activities: Many parks offer programs specifically designed for children. "We really love this Campground! There is a wide variety of sites so finding one that you like should not be difficult. My gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares Bridget H.
Bathroom proximity: When camping with small children, consider bathroom locations. "I loved that our site had a path directly to the bathhouse. This meant there wasn't any foot traffic from people wanting to shower or use the restrooms," notes E K. about Susquehanna State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for variable site conditions. "My site was very level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," explains Napunani about Little Bennett Campground's RV accommodations.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. "AT&T 5 MB/s w/o booster(1 bar), 8 MB/s with it(2 bars). There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy. OTA TV was descent using an external omni antenna. There is no WiFi," notes Ray & Terri F. about connectivity at Little Bennett.
Power outage preparedness: Some campgrounds experience occasional power disruptions. "Power outage at a lot of the campground Friday night due to a tree down on the power lines. My section kept power, so I was happy," reports Peggy T. about her experience at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm.
