Patapsco Valley State Park sits within Maryland's Piedmont Plateau, an area of rolling hills and forested valleys surrounding the Patapsco River. The park spans over 14,000 acres with elevations ranging from 100 to 300 feet above sea level. During summer months, temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with moderate humidity, while fall camping offers cooler 50-70°F days ideal for hiking with pets.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Codorus State Park Campground, the 1,275-acre Pinchot Lake provides excellent shoreline fishing. "We caught a handful of bass and an absurd amount of bluegill from shore," shares Danielle V., who found both the Conewago and Quaker Race day use areas great for accessing fishing spots.
Trail exploration: The extensive network at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area offers varied terrain options for hiking with dogs. "There are a lot of easy, but beautiful hikes," notes Sean M., while Anthony S. adds, "The trail was well marked but there was some confusion at one point on where we were supposed to go."
Historical excursions: Civil War sites near pet-friendly campgrounds provide educational day trips. "Artillery Ridge is close to the battlefields and has all the fun of larger campgrounds," explains Cathy D., emphasizing how this campground offers "direct access to battlefield trails right there" while welcoming pets.
Swimming options: Several parks provide designated swimming areas during summer months. Catherine H. notes that at Codorus State Park, "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."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Little Bennett Campground offers room to spread out with your pets. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," reports Ray & Terri F., who appreciated the privacy between camping spots.
Proximity to urban amenities: Many campers value the convenient location of Cherry Hill Park for day trips. "This is a great stop to take the kids to visit the city. Easy access and well laid out sites. They have a bus stop for metro service to the city, but we took the 20 minute drive," writes Joe R.
Natural surroundings: Wooded sites create a sense of seclusion despite suburban proximity. Diana S. at Hollofield Area Campground was "surprised at the quiet, understated beauty of the forestry around the perfectly level campsite," adding that she "loved it so much, I stopped on the way back home again!"
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses and amenities. Mike C. describes Codorus State Park as having "Paved sites, modern, clean bathrooms," while at Merry Meadows, Sharon L. notes, "The restrooms were clean and tidy, the usable sites all looked nice."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Reisterstown require advance booking. At Greenbelt Park Campground, Crystal C. advises, "Reserve online - this is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online."
Weather impacts: Low-lying sites can become problematic after rain. Alexandra T. shares her experience at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area: "We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm and it was very wet even after the rain died down."
Seasonal limitations: Many parks have restricted operating seasons. Hollofield Area Campground operates from April 1 to October 30, while Codorus State Park Campground runs from the second Friday in April until November 1.
Alcohol regulations: Parks have varying policies regarding alcohol. Alcohol is prohibited at Patapsco Valley State Park unless inside an RV, while Ramblin' Pines and Cherry Hill Park allow alcohol throughout their grounds.
Outside firewood restrictions: Many parks prohibit bringing outside firewood due to pest concerns. Hollofield Area Campground sells firewood through camp hosts, with proceeds supporting volunteer programs.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers multiple play areas for children of different ages. "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," notes Brian S.
Nature programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities for children. Angel G. highlights Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area: "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park."
Swimming facilities: Pools provide safe water recreation for families with pets. At Cherry Hill Park, Beth R. lists among the pros: "Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride."
Hiking difficulty levels: Consider trail ratings when planning with children. Angel G. notes, "The trails we have been on are all pretty moderate to hard but offer beautiful waterfalls and river views," suggesting parents research options for younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Hollofield Area Campground, Jen V. advises: "The inner circle has electric but no water or sewer. The outer circle is primitive." She also suggests specific sites: "There were a few sites with a little extra room and privacy (419 and 420 caught my eye)."
Hookup limitations: Know what utilities are available. Danielle V. observes at Gifford Pinchot State Park that the electric sites along the shore are near the beach but lack full hookups.
Access restrictions: Watch for height limitations when approaching in large rigs. Travyl Couple warns about Hollofield Area: "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.)"
Camp host assistance: Many parks have on-site hosts to help with issues. At Ramblin' Pines, Peggy T. recounts, "When I went to leave on Sunday, as I was driving up an incline my trailer became unhitched from my tow vehicle... The owners husband kindly helped me get it jacked up."
