Camping options around Garrett Park, Maryland range from urban-adjacent sites to more secluded woodland settings. The area sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level within the Piedmont region, characterized by rolling hills and mixed deciduous forests. Winter camping remains viable at several year-round facilities, though temperatures typically drop to the 30s December through February.
What to do
Trail exploration: 5-mile lake circuit. At Burke Lake Park Campground, visitors can enjoy a complete lake loop on gravel trails. "The trail around the lake is a bit under 5 miles, but it's all trail. There is almost no elevation gain, and it is not very technically rigorous," notes Daniel P.
Water activities: kayaking and fishing. Several campgrounds offer water access for anglers and paddlers. "There's a pond for fishing, a pool for swimming and a little general store for all your needs," reports Michelle L. about Ramblin' Pines, making it practical for visitors wanting water-based recreation without traveling far from camp.
Metro access for DC exploration. Campgrounds near transit make city exploration practical. "Getting to DC: 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)," explains Laura M. about Greenbelt Park Campground. This allows campers to avoid parking challenges in the city.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites. Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. "Lots of vegetation between sites providing privacy from neighbors," notes a Napunani about Little Bennett Campground. This vegetation creates natural boundaries that contribute to a more secluded camping experience.
Clean facilities despite urban proximity. Despite being near developed areas, campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "Bath houses are ok, happy to have free showers with hot running water. Faucets allow you to control the temperature and there's continuous running water," observes Laura M. about Greenbelt Park Campground.
Surprising wildlife encounters. Even in these suburban locations, wildlife remains active. "Every morning birds and squirrels," notes Crystal C., while another camper mentions "a family of deer grazing close by, a great way to settle in for the evening" at Greenbelt Park Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements. Most campgrounds require advance booking with no cash payment options. "This is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online," explains Crystal C. about Greenbelt Park Campground.
Site levelness varies significantly. Many reviews mention challenges with uneven terrain. "The sites are pretty close together but on the ends at least you only have a neighbor on one side," notes Scott C. about Cherry Hill Park, while others mention having to "greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back."
Noise considerations. Highway and air traffic noise affects some campgrounds. "Be weary of decent highway noise, but easily drowned out with the AC," advises Joe R. about Cherry Hill Park. At Bull Run Regional Park, one camper notes: "The only drawback is that it is not quiet. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away."
Tips for camping with families
Adventure amenities: Many campgrounds offer specialized recreation for children. "They had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning," shares Ben G. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Transportation options for DC visits: When planning trips into the city, multiple options exist. "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.
Space considerations for play: Look for sites with adequate room for kids to move. "Sites were well-maintained, including lavatories. Plenty of tree cover," notes Timothy C. about Marsden Tract, while another camper mentions campgrounds have "paved roads for scootering" and splash pads.
Tips from RVers
RV site selection strategy: For larger rigs, consider loop placement. "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. We loved it. Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer," states Beth R. about Cherry Hill Park.
Dump station and water fill locations: Some campgrounds have inconveniently placed utilities. "There's a dump station and drinking water fill in loop C. The water fill was a little annoying in that there's a handle you have to hold down the whole time, but we used a rock to prop the handle down," explains Laura M.
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites require significant adjustments. "Sites vary in levelness, some are fairly level and some are on a mini hill. Driveways are all very narrow," notes one camper, while another mentions "Our site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
