The Patuxent River area in southern Maryland sits at the confluence of the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay, with an average elevation of just 10 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while winters are mild but can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region operate from spring through fall, with several military installations offering secure camping options for those with appropriate credentials.
What to do
Hiking at Prince William Forest: The park adjacent to Prince William Forest RV Campground offers extensive trails for day hikes. "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," notes Kenneth H.
Fossil hunting: Visit the beach near Harbor View for a unique outdoor activity. "We also loved going to Westmoreland park which was practically next door to Harbor View. Great trails and fossil beach was fun," shares Ariel F., highlighting an educational outing suitable for all ages.
Water activities: Several campgrounds provide water access for kayaking and fishing. At 1 Acre Campground, you'll find "a unique spot near the river and boat launch that offers 50AMP and sewer hookups," according to Jake C., making it convenient for boaters wanting riverside camping.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses at Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp. "Very clean and great Potomac River views. This campground is abord Fort Belvoir, an US Army base in Northern, VA," writes Jack R., adding that "the base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river."
Security of military campgrounds: The controlled access at Fort AP Hill appeals to many visitors. "Clean, quiet little park on A.P. Hill base. RV hookups, great wifi, showers and laundry are spotless," says MH, noting that it's only accessible to Department of Defense personnel.
Nature viewing opportunities: Wildlife observation points are available at several locations. At Bull Run Regional Park, "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," according to Roberta K., creating a more natural camping experience despite being near urban areas.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connectivity can be limited at certain campgrounds. "Limited cell service (StarLink or similar is your best option)," reports James P. about Fort AP Hill, though he adds that "showers and bathrooms are super clean; laundry facility is clean."
Reservation requirements: Most rv sites near Patuxent River, Maryland require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Military Park United States Naval Academy/Annapolis Naval Station Annapolis FamCamp, you'll find "cheap and close to Annapolis. Very spartan but great location," according to Ginny L., but planning ahead is essential.
Military installation access: Several campgrounds require military identification. At Champs Camp, "DoD ID required," states James P., so verify requirements before booking if considering military campgrounds near Patuxent River.
Weather considerations: Spring camping may involve dealing with significant pollen. "If you have allergies, avoid spring. EVERYTHING outside was covered in a light haze of pollen," warns Ariel F. about Harbor View, noting she "had to wipe my computer off a couple times a day."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer better play areas than others. At Bull Run Regional Park, one camper notes "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," though another camper mentions "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located."
Organized activities: Look for campgrounds with structured programs. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon... They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," shares Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Space between sites: Site spacing affects family comfort levels. At Thousand Trails Harbor View, "Everybody was super friendly and we felt very comfortable letting our kids go over to the playground by themselves," according to Em M., though she cautions that sites are "very close together—our slide was almost touching our neighbor's slide."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites near Patuxent River require additional equipment for leveling. "The site next to ours had perfect hammock trees too!" shares Ariel F. about Harbor View, but at Bull Run Regional Park, another camper notes "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Hookup variations: Water and electric configurations differ between parks. At Goose Creek Recreation Area, Joe C. reports it's "Part of Patuxent River Naval Air Station. Pretty remote," noting that heavy rain can create "quite large" puddles, so prepare accordingly for varying site conditions.
Site selection strategy: At Prince William Forest RV Campground, Cheryl D. advises, "caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level," and suggests "Try and reserve row E if you need full hook up." This specific guidance helps larger RVs avoid problematic sites.
