Camping locations near Gaithersburg provide access to the rolling Piedmont region of Maryland, with elevations ranging from 300 to 800 feet and moderate seasonal temperatures. The area features mature deciduous forests with oak, maple and hickory trees that provide ample shade for summer camping. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from early spring through late fall, with several offering year-round availability for campers seeking outdoor recreation within 30 miles of Washington DC.
What to do
Explore waterfront activities: At Lake Fairfax Campground, campers have access to multiple water features including a lake for fishing and cooling off during summer months. One visitor noted, "This campground is nice for a quick weekend and does have pretty trails next to the campground. There is a waterpark that is an extra cost which is fun for kids."
Discover hiking trails: The region offers numerous wooded paths through mature forest. According to a camper at Little Bennett Campground, "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly." The natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing with minimal highway noise.
Visit Washington DC: Many campgrounds serve as affordable bases for exploring the nation's capital. A reviewer at Greenbelt Park Campground explained the transportation options: "There's normally a walking path from the campground to the metro station that takes you into DC (the green line takes you to the National Mall), but as of Oct 2023 the bridge is out due to a storm... we packed up and drove to the Greenbelt station about 5 miles away, parked there for the day, and took the green line into town."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many pet friendly campgrounds near Gaithersburg feature well-designed layouts that maintain separation between campsites. A reviewer at Bull Run Regional Park appreciated that "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone."
Clean facilities: The campgrounds maintain high standards for bathroom and shower buildings. One camper at Bull Run Regional Park was particularly impressed: "The best review I can give is of the bathrooms. They're worth staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Best camping showers I've ever had."
Convenient location: The proximity to urban amenities while still providing a natural setting appeals to many campers. A visitor to Cherry Hill Park commented on this balance: "Surprisingly nice campground in a city. Lots of things for kids to do and access to bike trails outside of the complex."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Greenbelt Park Campground, a camper noted: "Reserve online - this is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online."
Weather considerations: The region experiences humid summers and moderate winters. Several campgrounds offer excellent drainage systems. As one Little Bennett visitor commented, "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup."
Transportation options: For DC visitors, public transit access varies by campground. Cherry Hill Park offers convenient transport: "They have a bus stop for metro service to the city, but we took the 20 minute drive. Be weary of decent highway noise, but easily drowned out with the AC."
Cell service reliability: Signal strength varies by location and provider. A Little Bennett camper reported: "AT&T 5 MB/s without booster (1 bar), 8 MB/s with it (2 bars). There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy. OTA TV was decent using an external omni antenna."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities: Ramblin' Pines offers numerous on-site amenities for children. One family mentioned, "This place offers everything from live music on weekends to a beautiful pool, pond and many children activity areas. They even have an arcade and laundromat on the premises."
Multiple recreation options: Several dog friendly campgrounds around Gaithersburg provide varied activities beyond hiking. At Ramblin' Pines, a visitor noted, "There's a pond for fishing, a pool for swimming and a little general store for all your needs, the kids loved the bounce pillow."
Schedule flexibility: Some campgrounds offer structured activities during specific times. A Little Bennett visitor mentioned, "This is a good regional campground with activities for kids on special days. Took our grand daughter there for her first camping trip and she loved the bouncing strawberry and the hikes."
Budget planning: Campgrounds near urban areas often charge premium rates compared to more remote locations. A Cherry Hill Park camper advised, "The price is a little steep, but with all the amenities you get, it is well worth it."
