Camping options near Glenwood, Maryland span throughout Montgomery and Howard counties with elevations ranging from 300 to 400 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winters dropping to the 30s. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, with a few offering year-round access on select sites.
What to do
Hiking trail networks: Little Bennett Campground maintains miles of trails with varying terrain through mature forests. "The park is quiet, the spaces are big. Lost of nature trails," notes Ron H., who appreciates the natural setting.
Disc golf course: Pohick Bay Regional Park offers an 18-hole disc golf course among its recreational amenities. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests Rachel L., who calls Pohick Bay her "go-to weekend camping spot."
Water recreation: Many campgrounds feature water activities during warmer months. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," notes Anne K. about the options at Pohick Bay Regional Park. Lake Fairfax Campground visitors can enjoy the on-site water park for an additional fee.
Seasonal programming: Bull Run Regional Park hosts organized activities throughout camping season. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon... They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," reports Bridget H., highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.
What campers like
Proximity to DC attractions: Greenbelt Park Campground provides urban camping with easy metro access. "Take the METRO if you are going into the District. There are two stations very close to camp. Rides vary depending on how far you are going but on average I spent about $10 per day on METRO versus $20-$40 on parking," advises Crystal C.
Spacious, wooded sites: Campers repeatedly mention site privacy as a key benefit. "Lots of vegetation between sites providing privacy from neighbors," notes a Napunani about Little Bennett Campground. At Bull Run Regional Park, "your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone," according to Roberta K.
Clean facilities: Lake Fairfax Campground earns praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms are well maintained and huge," mentions Erin W., who visited with her family. Bull Run Regional Park visitors particularly appreciate the shower facilities, with Yvonne B. commenting, "They're worth staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Best camping showers I've ever had."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to spot native wildlife. At Cherry Hill Park, one camper reported, "While cooking dinner noticed a family of deer grazing close by, a great way to settle in for the evening." Pohick Bay campers often spot eagles, with Kathie M. noting it's an "Eagle haven! Eagles everywhere!"
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially on weekends. At Burke Lake Park Campground, sites fill quickly due to limited availability in just "2 small loops where I think maybe 40 sites are available," according to Tom C.
Site limitations: Some campgrounds restrict activities or have specific rules. At Greenbelt Park, "park service forbade tying lines or straps to the trees at the time of our visit, so if you favor hammock camping or deploying tarps/ridgelines, plan accordingly," warns Timothy C.
Noise considerations: Urban-adjacent campgrounds may experience traffic or aviation noise. At Burke Lake, one visitor noted, "this place can be noise at night with all the cars zooming by." Bull Run Regional Park campers mention, "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," according to Drew M.
Site levelness varies: Check site specifics when booking. "My site was a little difficult to find because the online park map was incorrect, and the spot was basically an extended shoulder of the road," reports Lauren S. about her Greenbelt Park experience. At Bull Run, Drew M. noted, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Cherry Hill Park offers multiple water recreation options. "They have so much to offer. Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Splash pad, paved roads for scootering," reports Jennifer H. Lake Fairfax Campground features a water park that is "fun for kids," according to Glen W.
Scheduled activities: Many campgrounds run regular family events. At Cherry Hill Park, Beth R. mentions they offer a "nightly hayride" among other amenities. Bull Run Regional Park provides a "nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," according to Bridget H.
Playgrounds and recreation: On-site play areas give children space to burn energy. Cherry Hill Park includes "playground, mini golf, basketball court," according to Beth R. Burke Lake Park offers additional attractions with "train, carousel, fishing," that Glen W. notes are "good for kids."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds provide learning experiences. At Greenbelt Park, "there are monthly programs at the campfire circle," reports Becky, who sometimes attends "even when not camping here."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites with water, electric, and sewer connections are limited. Little Bennett Campground has designated loops with "site#D69 gravel parking pad" and full hookups according to Napunani, while other loops are tent-only.
Site access considerations: Some campgrounds have restricted vehicle access. Cherry Hill Park offers premium sites with more space, and Jason E. calls it "the best park in the DC area! Very nice grounds, clean, and amenities galore!"
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. At Marsden Tract Group Campsite, Chrystal P. warns it's "not for the faint of heart" as "it's a good hike to get to the campsite there's no parking nearby no water no bathrooms or electricity but all in all it's beautiful."
Dump station access: Some campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities even without full hookups. At Greenbelt Park, "there is a dump station and water available at spickets throughout the campground," notes Becky, making it suitable for self-contained units.
Legend
