Best Campgrounds near Gaithersburg, MD
Campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of Gaithersburg, Maryland provide multiple accommodation styles ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities. Little Bennett Campground in Clarksburg offers tent, RV, cabin, and yurt options with spacious, shaded sites and is open seasonally from April through October. Several additional established campgrounds, including Cherry Hill Park and Greenbelt Park, provide varying levels of amenities while maintaining proximity to Washington DC and surrounding natural areas.
Many campgrounds in this region require reservations, especially during peak seasons from late spring through early fall. The proximity to major metropolitan areas means weekend sites fill quickly, particularly at campgrounds with full amenities. Little Bennett, the closest established campground to Gaithersburg, features multiple camping loops with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. Several hiker-biker campsites are also available along the C&O Canal, including Swains Lock, which offers primitive camping with limited facilities. As one camper noted, "If I lived in Washington DC, this is where I would ride my bike to every weekend. Bring the family, bring the fishing poles and forget that there is a hyper uptight city just a few miles away."
Developed campgrounds in the region typically provide drinking water, restrooms, and fire rings, while some offer full hookups for RVs and additional amenities. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park features several hiker-biker campsites that provide free, primitive camping options within striking distance of urban areas. These sites generally include basic fire rings and picnic tables, with limited toilet facilities. Reviews indicate mixed experiences with site conditions and maintenance. One visitor to Swains Lock explained, "There are at least 6 separate campsites with their own picnic table and fire ring. Though with the increase in cars, comes a proportional increase in people and their trash." Family-friendly amenities are common at the larger established campgrounds, with Little Bennett offering activities such as a jumping pillow, pedal carts, and scheduled events during summer months.
