Glamping near Ellicott City, Maryland offers year-round options with some campgrounds providing full hookups even during colder months. Located in the Piedmont region where elevations range from 200-300 feet, the area experiences moderate seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows around 25°F. Most glamping sites require reservations 3-6 months in advance, especially for premium accommodations.
What to do
Hiking trails: 30+ miles available at Little Bennett Campground, with well-maintained paths suitable for various skill levels. "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly," notes one camper. The trails feature diverse terrain through woods and creek crossings.
Fishing: Multiple stocked ponds within 20 minutes of Ellicott City provide year-round access. "We took a nice hike out to the susquehanna and spent a few hours fishing in the pond. Lots of wildlife," shares a visitor at Susquehanna State Park Campground.
Historical sites: Self-guided tours available at several locations, including working grist mills and Civil War landmarks. "The park has a lot that you can do or just relax by the fire. Perfect for families," according to a Susquehanna State Park visitor.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Cherry Hill Park offers strategically placed landscaping that creates separation. "The landscaping, trees and site placement does help the esthetics... try to get a site at the end of a row," recommends a camper. Sites at ends of rows provide neighbors on only one side.
Winter camping options: Several sites remain open year-round with reduced rates from November through March. "Clean, nice people, and nice sites," mentions a winter visitor to Ramblin' Pines, which maintains seasonal activities even during colder months.
Proximity to urban attractions: Quick access to major cities without sacrificing camping experience. "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Took me 25-30m to get there so you are far away from bustle of city but not so far that going in to enjoy breakfast or the sights is a feat," shares a visitor at Pohick Bay Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing is critical: Premium glamping sites book 4-6 months in advance, especially for summer weekends. "We reserved 137 days prior to arriving," notes a visitor to Little Bennett Campground, highlighting the need for advance planning.
Site selection varies significantly: Glamping accommodations differ widely in privacy, amenities, and access to facilities. "Not all of the sites had path to the bathhouse, and the path that they did have was also very rocky and covered in roots," advises a Susquehanna State Park camper.
Utility service can be inconsistent: Power outages occasionally affect some campgrounds during storms. "Trees falling on Park power lines caused power outage for hours," reports a Little Bennett visitor. Many glamping units offer backup power options.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds available: Washington DC Capitol KOA offers extensive kid-friendly facilities. "We had a site near the pool, outdoor chess set, jumping pillow and gaga ball pit. Our kids (9, 10 and 14) all had fun and made friends," shares a visitor. Most playgrounds operate from 9am-8pm.
Scheduled kids activities: Many glamping sites offer organized programs on weekends. "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," reports a family who stayed at Bull Run Regional Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks provide nature-focused learning activities. "My gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," mentions a Bull Run visitor. Most activities run April through October.
Tips from RVers
Level sites can be challenging: Some glamping areas require additional equipment to level RVs. "Site #D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," advises a Little Bennett camper.
Camp store hours vary seasonally: Winter months see reduced hours at most locations. "Honor system with it available to you after the campstore hours. This is great so that you don't have to time things around when the campstore is open," notes a visitor about firewood availability at Susquehanna State Park.
Premium sites book quickly: Reserve specific sites 3-6 months ahead for electrical and water hookups. "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. 50 amp hook-up, water, sewer, playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court," explains a Cherry Hill Park reviewer.
