Camping options near Fulton, Maryland span from primitive tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds with diverse amenities. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with temperatures in the 60-70°F range. Several campgrounds remain open year-round, providing water and electric hookups during winter months when nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails with historical significance: At Prince William Forest RV Campground, visitors can access Prince William Forest National Park for day hikes. "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," notes Kenneth H.
Water activities along riverfront sites: Campers at Harpers Ferry Campground enjoy direct river access. "The campground offers adventures like rafting, biking, tubing and zip lining to name a few. If you would like to do some exploring, then you can walk the trail right next to the campground into the historical town of Harper's Ferry," reports Maggie A. Some sites allow fishing directly from your campsite.
Gettysburg historical tours: Drummer Boy Camping Resort serves as a convenient base for exploring Gettysburg. "It's literally like a mile from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," writes David G. The campground's proximity makes it ideal for multiple battlefield visits without long drives.
What campers like
Direct water access for fishing: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers waterfront sites with fishing access. "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," mentions Casey L. Multiple campers note the convenience of fishing directly from their sites.
Proximity to Washington DC: Cherry Hill Park provides convenient access to the capital. "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5," reports Jennifer H. The park offers transportation options to avoid city driving and parking challenges.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom cleanliness as a priority. "The sites are clean and spacious. The bathrooms are also clean and have hot showers," notes one reviewer at Bull Run Regional Park. At Cherry Hill Park, "Everything was extremely clean and well maintained. We loved the brick patio with patio furniture," reports John A.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience rail traffic noise. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "There is a train which was 12 feet up a hill across the road from the site. Only had a couple come through the night our 1 yr old slept perfectly through it so it isn't too bothersome," reports Mikala S. Other campers recommend earplugs for light sleepers.
Military campground restrictions: Camp Meade RV Park and Fort Belvoir Travel Camp require military credentials for access. These sites typically offer lower rates but with specific entrance requirements. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle. They reminded me," notes Elvin J.
Weather-related site conditions: Some campgrounds have drainage issues during rain. At Bull Run Regional Park, after a moderate rainfall, "The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," reports Stuart O.
Tips for camping with families
Look for multiple recreational amenities: Cherry Hill Park offers extensive family facilities. "Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," lists Beth R. These diverse activities keep children engaged without leaving the campground.
Consider seasonal camping events: Bull Run Regional Park offers organized family activities. "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," shares Bridget H. Seasonal events often include hayrides and campfire programs.
Check playground locations and conditions: Some campgrounds have limited playground facilities. At Bull Run, one camper notes "Only drawback is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located." At other facilities, playground equipment may need maintenance or be distant from camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several RV campgrounds require additional leveling equipment. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, "Sites were mostly level," according to Bille W., while at Bull Run Regional Park, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," shares Drew M.
Navigation through residential areas: Bar Harbor RV Park requires careful driving through neighborhoods. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," advises Craig Z. Several reviewers mention tight turns and narrow access roads at various rv campgrounds near Fulton, Maryland.
Electrical service reliability: Power outages occur at some campgrounds during peak usage. At Round Top Campground, one camper reported, "Electric went out 3 times, once for over 24 hrs. It was in the high 90°." Having backup power options is recommended during summer months when air conditioning demand is high.
