Camping options near Fort Howard, Maryland include sites within a 25-mile radius across the upper Chesapeake Bay region. The area sits at the confluence of the Patapsco River and Chesapeake Bay, with elevations typically below 100 feet. Summer temperatures average 80-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate conditions. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from April through October.
What to do
Water activities at Bay Shore Campground: Located in Rock Hall, this campground offers direct access to Chesapeake Bay waters. "If you enjoy beautiful sunsets, seeing bald eagles every day, having a nice breeze, not too buggy, well kept campground this is the place to go," notes camper Lisa V. Kayak from your site or enjoy fishing from the property's edge.
Hiking at Elk Neck State Park Campground: Offers multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "We enjoyed hiking the Beaver Marsh Trail. From our campsite we had to drive to a trail head but there were a few sights that had direct access. Also the lighthouse trail is a must," shares Jalissa Y. The Turkey Point Lighthouse trail is approximately 1.9 miles round-trip with scenic bay overlooks.
Fishing opportunities: The Bush River at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers shoreline fishing access directly from waterfront campsites. "Fish from your chair. Kayak rentals, boat slips," mentions Lisa T. Campers report catching catfish, perch and occasionally striped bass depending on the season.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campers appreciate the scenic water views available at certain sites. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks," writes Casey L. about Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina.
Hot tubs and pools: Some campgrounds offer water amenities beyond the bay. At Pine Tree Associates, "Camping fees include access to a large outdoor pool, an indoor pool and a hot tub," explains brian R., though note this is a nudist club campground with corresponding expectations.
Proximity to Baltimore and DC: The strategic location allows for urban day trips. "The best park in the DC area! Plan and reserve you DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park," shares Jason E. about Cherry Hill Park, which is approximately 40 minutes from both DC and Baltimore.
What you should know
Service quality varies widely: Cell service fluctuates significantly between campgrounds in the region. "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect," notes Megan S. about Elk Neck State Park, which some campers appreciate for family time.
Military-only facilities: Several campgrounds near Fort Howard restrict access to military personnel. "Military campground. Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap," advises Ginny L. about the Annapolis FamCamp.
Reservation requirements: Most area campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for premium waterfront sites. "Before purchasing Wifi, check your coverage. We have AT&T and had plenty of service," suggests Helen O. from Bay Shore Campground, highlighting the importance of checking all amenities before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Cherry Hill Park offers extensive family amenities. "Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," lists Beth R., making it a good option for families with children needing entertainment.
Natural play areas: Some parks incorporate nature into play spaces. "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," explains Jennifer S. about Hollofield Area Campground, describing the "natural playground" as "large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it."
Swimming options: Not all waterfront campgrounds permit swimming. "There's a camp store, boat ramp, swimming, fishing and lots of great hiking," notes David G. about Elk Neck State Park, one of the few campgrounds where swimming is permitted in designated areas.
Tips from RVers
RV site conditions: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are level, spacious, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," reports one camper about Cherry Hill Park, which features premium RV sites with concrete pads.
Access challenges: Several campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," warns Craig Z. The narrow access roads can be problematic for larger motorhomes over 35 feet.
Full hookup availability: Only select campgrounds offer complete services. "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November," reports Laure D. about Elk Neck State Park, one of the few state parks offering full hookup sites year-round.
