Best Campgrounds near Germantown, MD

Germantown, Maryland campers have several good options within driving distance. Oak Ridge Campground has plenty of trees that keep sites shaded and cool during Maryland's humid summers. Sites are spread out enough to give you some space from neighbors. About 30 minutes away, Pohick Bay Campground has clean bathrooms and hot showers that work well for longer stays. Kids usually like this campground because they can hike during the day and fish in the bay. You'll probably see deer wandering through both campgrounds, along with lots of birds, so hang your food at night or keep it in your car. You should book ahead for both places, especially if you're planning a weekend trip between May and September. During dry spells, rangers sometimes ban campfires, so check the rules before you go. Neither campground lets you stay longer than two weeks at a time. Both Oak Ridge and Pohick Bay have decent cell service if you need to stay connected. Pack out all your trash when you leave since these areas get heavy use. The campgrounds work for both tent and RV camping, and you're still close enough to Germantown to make a quick run for supplies if needed.

Best Camping Sites Near Germantown, Maryland (124)

    1. Little Bennett Campground

    23 Reviews
    Clarksburg, MD
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 528-3430

    "Quiet woods in Maryland about 30 or 40 miles north of DC. Tenting, and RV spots partial to full service. Just of hiway 270. pricey ($66/night) for a state park, but nice."

    "PROS 

    Very nice small Montgomery County Park 

    No reservation fee to make on-line reservations 

    Reserved 137 days prior to arriving 

    Entrance gate required entry code Instructed by staff via gate phone"

    2. Lake Fairfax Campground

    25 Reviews
    Reston, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 471-5414

    $30 - $70 / night

    "We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."

    "For tent camping I would suggests sites 30,33 or 35 these are tucked along the tree line. The bathroom facilities were the cleanest I have seen in a campground."

    3. Cherry Hill Park

    42 Reviews
    Beltsville, MD
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 937-7116

    $282 - $999 / night

    "Metrorail is about 6 miles from campground, near University of Maryland."

    "Great camping amenities, soft cushioned sites, with power and water close by. DO NOT GET BASIC TENT SITES AS THEY ARE NEXT TO HIGHWAYS AND VERY NOISY!!! Premium tent sites would be a better choice."

    4. Ramblin' Pines

    17 Reviews
    Woodbine, MD
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 795-5161

    $30 - $70 / night

    "We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick."

    "We love this home away from home ❤️"

    5. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    32 Reviews
    Greenbelt, MD
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 344-3948

    $20 / night

    "If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."

    "The campsite is superb with walking trails, wildlife and the occasional overflying US Presidential Helicopter.

    Easily accessible from close by freeways, and charmingly peaceful"

    6. Bull Run Regional Park

    42 Reviews
    Iron Gate, VA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 631-0550

    $39 - $100 / night

    "History buffs will like to explore the park surrounding the campground. Fun little water park within walking distance of all campsites that was great for kids."

    "We booked site 136 due to proximity of the playground (traveling with a 5 & 10 yr old). The site was great except the weird parking stops on every site but the pull throughs."

    7. The Garden

    2 Reviews
    Damascus, MD
    9 miles
    +1 (240) 654-7056

    $15 - $55 / night

    8. Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA

    39 Reviews
    Harpers Ferry, WV
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 535-6895

    $40 - $80 / night

    "We set up camp at Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday as our launchpad to visit the historic sites in and around Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Frederick, Maryland. "

    "It’s very close to Harper’s Ferry (almost worth the hike into town rather than the difficulty finding parking in a town with one parking lot)."

    9. Button Farm

    1 Review
    Poolesville, MD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (240) 579-5112

    $30 / night

    "You are able to drive right up to the camp area and we kept our car right next to our tent. There are nearby chickens, geese and pigs. "

    10. Camping by the Creek in Woods

    2 Reviews
    Great Falls, MD
    7 miles
    +1 (240) 595-5000

    $45 - $55 / night

    "Awesome site tucked away in mature woods. Quiet. Easy paved access. Near C&O Canal, biking, hiking across street in Block House Park. Lovely attentive host."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 124 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Germantown, MD

1021 Reviews of 124 Germantown Campgrounds


  • Marcandpatti B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Gettysburg Campground

    Good spot for Gettysburg, a bit spendy.

    We stayed here mid-week in September so it was very quiet. There was a bit of road noise as our site was close to the entrance. Host was super friendly. They have a bunch of things going on with groups that stay here; next group is quilters with vintage trailers, sorry to miss that. All of the utilities worked just fine. Sites re a bit close to each other, not a lot of foliage between sites.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Great location and friendly staff

    We have a motorhome with no additional vehicle and two dogs, and this site couldn’t have been more perfect for us. A dog park, walking distance to most everything we wanted to see. The national park is mostly dog friendly. My husband caught a fish first day in the pond behind our site. The staff was super friendly and welcoming.

  • p
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Artillery Ridge Campground

    Rv stay

    Site and bathrooms clean. Activities provided free each day. Food trucks in park. Close to museum and battleground sites.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    Better than OK

    Stayed for 2 days while passing through from FL to NH. Off-season so not crowded. Pool was clean and quite good sized, had it to ourselves due to season. Did laundry while here, ample laundry room. On-site extras include food-truck restaurant and small country goods vendor during our stay. Office staff did ok. Sites have reasonable spacing with gravel pads, mostly level. Trees between sites with sloping hills , not just a big open field. It’s a corporate site so automated web-based reservation system was finicky so we had to verify reservation went through. Tried to book 2 nights but system only set us up for 1. Phone call to help line easily resolved the issue. Quiet and no spotlights on all night.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders

    Awesome views on the Potomac

    Very cool spot. Amazing sites right on the Potomac. There is a Ale House above the office that delivers for free to your site (2.5 miles away), just tip the driver

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Aquia Pines Campground

    Good stopover near the highway but hidden between the trees

    We where forced land-inwards because of tropical storm Erin (potential hurricane hitting the Outer Banks). So we decided to visit Washington DC and had a stopover here. It was conveniently located. Terrain is not flat but our spot was well levelled. There is a big dog (and an older gentleman) in the office to welcome you. Full hook up was oké and our spot was nicly secluded between the trees.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    I camped and worked here.

    I’m a shamanic energy healer and health enthusiast exploring a new life and hunting for healthy. While this campground has some nice features. This certainly is not a health conscious facility. Lots of smoking, drinking and unhealthy food. There was also evidence of mice in the main store and definitely issues with the water.

  • Sharon L.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Merry Meadows Recreation Farm

    Great getaway close to home!

    We totally loved our camping trip here! I was a little apprehensive because I read so many disappointing reviews about pretty much everything. People didn’t like this or that, but most of it seemed as if they weren’t happy with rules! Neither of us found anything that was so terrible in the rules and truthfully, if more campgrounds had them and enforced them, it would be nice for all.

    We loved the peace and quiet, the restrooms were clean and tidy, the usable sites all looked nice. They had a tornado come through at the beginning of the season that messed some areas up, but they are working it. The pool area seemed like the place to be. We just went to rest though. Honestly, we liked the campground so much that we would consider parking our camper over the summer! There are occasional whiffs of McCormick spices in the air that is very soothing. Prices aren’t horrible. One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I knows it’s not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us. The activities and store weren’t outrageous. Ready to go back!

  • Erin W.
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Lake Fairfax Campground

    Nice for a quick weekend

    This campground is nice for a quick weekend and does have pretty trails next to the campground. The sites are largely in more of a meadow and not many are very wooded. Our site, 41, was level and nicely spaced from other sites but many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant. There is a waterpark that is an extra cost which is fun for kids. Bathrooms are well maintained and huge.


Guide to Germantown

Camping near Germantown, Maryland, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds nearby, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature and make lasting memories.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Catoctin Mountain Park. One reviewer mentioned, "Catoctin Mountain Park has 25 miles of hiking trails," making it a fantastic place for both beginners and experienced hikers.
  • Fishing: Head to Codorus State Park Campground for some fishing. A visitor shared, "There’s a lot to do in the area. Tons of hiking, exploring along the lake," which makes it a great spot for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Visiting Historical Sites: Check out the nearby historical sites like Gettysburg. One camper noted, "We went to a winery and an ice cream place as well as did some other fun things," highlighting the area's rich history and attractions.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A review for Greenbrier State Park Campground stated, "The bath houses & sites are always clean," which is a big plus for families.
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Cherry Hill Park said, "Staff very helpful and really explained the Metro system very well," making it easier for newcomers to navigate.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of places like Pohick Bay Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "During the week was very quiet," which is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

What you should know

  • No Wi-Fi at Some Campgrounds: If you need internet access, be aware that some campgrounds, like Oak Ridge Campground, have limited cell service and no Wi-Fi. One visitor noted, "Didn’t find WiFi and Verizon cell service was limited."
  • Site Size and Spacing: Some campgrounds have close sites. A camper at Harpers Ferry KOA mentioned, "The sites were so unlevel, close together," which might be a concern for larger groups.
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Owens Creek Campground have basic amenities. A review stated, "The sites are very clean but close to each other," so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for campgrounds that have playgrounds or kid-friendly activities. One parent at Bull Run Regional Park said, "The playground and trails were nice, kids really enjoyed the chance to take in nature."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A camper at Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "Nicely stocked store, great cafe onsite," which is a great option for quick bites.
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Make sure to respect quiet hours, especially in family-friendly campgrounds. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground noted, "The weekend tends to be a bit louder," so be prepared for that.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Compatibility: Before booking, ensure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry KOA said, "If the person across from your site is already parked, good luck having enough room to back into your site."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you prefer more amenities, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Codorus State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are fairly large and they do have some full hookup sites which is nice."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground shared, "This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7," so consider that when planning your stay.

Camping near Germantown, MD, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a fun family adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fishing opportunities are available at campsites near Germantown?

Several campgrounds near Germantown offer good fishing opportunities. Brunswick Family Campground provides direct access to the Potomac River, where campers can fish right from the shoreline. Greenbrier State Park features a 42-acre man-made lake ideal for fishing, with species including trout, bass, and bluegill. Both locations offer a pleasant combination of camping and fishing experiences, though you'll need a Maryland fishing license. The parks typically provide fishing access year-round, with seasonal variations in catch rates.

What amenities like showers are available at Germantown area campgrounds?

Campgrounds around Germantown offer varying levels of amenities. Owens Creek Campground in Catoctin Mountain Park provides clean bath houses with showers, set in a peaceful, shaded environment. For more luxurious facilities, Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA offers full-service bathrooms with hot showers, along with amenities like a pool and laundry facilities. Most developed campgrounds in the area provide at minimum flush toilets and drinking water, though amenities tend to be more basic at primitive sites like those along the C&O Canal.

Where can I find camping spots near Germantown, MD?

Several excellent campgrounds are located within a short drive from Germantown. Greenbelt Park Campground offers a convenient bare-bones National Park Service option with tent sites just 25 miles away, making it perfect for quick getaways. For families seeking a more private setting, Little Bennett Regional Park provides wooded sites with good privacy. Other solid options within reasonable driving distance include Cedarville State Forest and Swains Lock on the C&O Canal for those preferring something more rustic and natural.

Is Little Bennett Regional Park a good camping option near Germantown?

Yes, Little Bennett Regional Park is an excellent camping option near Germantown, offering one of the closest developed campgrounds to the area. As part of Montgomery County's park system, it features wooded campsites with good privacy, hiking trails, and family-friendly amenities. The campground is typically open April through November, making it a convenient option for Germantown residents looking for a quick camping getaway without traveling far. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer weekends and holidays.