Camping options near Cheltenham, Maryland range from natural wooded settings to developed facilities with modern amenities. The region sits in Maryland's coastal plain where elevations rarely exceed 300 feet, creating accessible terrain for most campers. Summer humidity levels regularly reach 80-90% during peak camping season from May through September, with nighttime temperatures dropping to 50-60°F even during summer months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Prince William Forest RV Campground offers easy access to forested trails for day hikes. "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby," notes Kenneth H., highlighting the historical significance of the area.
Fishing access: Smallwood State Park provides multiple docks for anglers looking to catch local fish species. "There is a nice fishing pier and the Generals Trail which my son loved," reports Sean R., who visited with his young son. The park also grants boat launching access with camping reservations.
Water recreation: Burke Lake Park features a 5-mile gravel trail surrounding a lake where water activities are popular. "You are not supposed to swim in the lake but you can take out boats (there is a boat launch)," according to Sarah M., making this a good option for those wanting to spend time on the water without swimming.
What campers like
Private campsites: Smallwood State Park campers appreciate the spacing between sites. "The sites are well spaced, and while on the smaller side they're very private with woods between each one," writes Caitlin A. The park features only 15 sites in a single camping loop, providing a more intimate experience.
Clean facilities: Many RV parks and campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "Super clean, very well maintained," reports Katia G. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp. At Smallwood State Park, "Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. The other campers were all respectful and observed pet policy and quiet hours."
Accessible location: For campers wanting to explore Washington DC while RV camping near Cheltenham, Maryland, multiple options exist. "A very nice State Park campground... Very close to Washington DC. About 17 miles to the closest Rail station to bring you to the mall in Washington DC," explains Ken W. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from surrounding infrastructure. "The downside is that there are no trails accessible onsite and the campground is pretty close to main road," notes Laura G. about Prince William Forest RV Campground. At Bull Run Regional Park, "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," according to Drew M.
Tick precautions: Multiple campgrounds report tick issues during warmer months. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," warns Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest. Another camper noted, "Lots of trails but in June at least the ticks were waaaay too plentiful."
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling RVs. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," reports Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park. At Harbor View RV and Camping Resort, one camper noted they "had to put down boards to park our travel trailer because about a third of the pad had just turned into mud."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Cherry Hill Park offers multiple family-friendly features. "Playground, mini golf, swimming pool, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early!! And late!!! Wow! Just can't be beat," Jennifer H. enthusiastically reports, making this a solid choice for families.
Kid-friendly activities: Bull Run Regional Park provides organized activities for children. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," writes Bridget H. about their family weekend experience.
Pool facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming pools for summer visits. "Nice pool and bath house. Close to everything," notes Mary P. about Prince William Forest RV Campground. Cherry Hill Park has "a nice looking pool area" according to Joe R., though he mentions it was too cold during their visit.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, "Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable. You really need a toad since supplies are not very close to the camping area," advises Mike H., referring to the need for an additional vehicle when staying at this military facility.
Hookup details: Campers at Cedarville State Forest note specific limitations with utilities. "30 amp electric. No issues there. Lots of trails but in June at least the ticks were waaaay too plentiful," reports Joe C. Another reviewer mentions, "They have a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower."
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies between campgrounds. "I work full-time remote and the Verizon service was perfect with our hotspot," according to Ariel F. at Harbor View RV and Camping Resort. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, "ATT coverage is good," notes Kristen M., which is important for working campers.
