Tent camping options near Grasonville, Maryland include several seasonal parks within day trip distance of both the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic beaches. The coastal lowland terrain throughout this region features elevations under 100 feet above sea level, with camping areas predominantly situated in pine and hardwood forests. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 85°F with high humidity from June through September, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: Calvert Cliffs State Park provides a unique opportunity to search for prehistoric shark teeth along the shoreline. "It is a very nice walk about 2 miles to the beach where you can hunt for fossils. The beach has gotten smaller over the years however the trail has gotten much better," notes a regular visitor. The park features a fossil-rich beach accessible via clearly marked trails.
Fishing and crabbing: Endeavor Point offers direct water access for fishing enthusiasts. "The pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise," reports one camper. Maryland fishing licenses are required, with many campers targeting crabs and various fish species throughout summer months.
Trail hiking: Forest trails at Blackbird State Forest provide woodland hiking options with minimal elevation change. "There are plenty of hiking trails in the state forest, complete with mushrooms, and deer-hunting-stands," mentions one visitor. Most trails in the region are under 3 miles long and rated easy to moderate in difficulty.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Matoaka Beach Cottages offers tent sites with water views. "We tent camped at Matoka Cabins and it was a beautiful Peaceful camping trip! Our spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves," shares one camper. These sites provide direct beach access without crowds typical at larger campgrounds.
Family-friendly playgrounds: State parks in the region typically include recreational facilities for younger campers. "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," notes a visitor to Patapsco Valley State Park. Most playground areas include equipment suitable for children ages 2-12.
Well-maintained sites: Tent campers appreciate level spots with amenities. "Each site has a fire pit, a grill, and picnic table, plus one bundle of firewood," explains a camper at Blackbird State Forest. Campsites throughout the region typically measure 25-40 feet in diameter, providing adequate space for standard tent setups.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Waterfront areas become extremely busy during peak summer months. "This park is extremely crowded and very dirty during the summer season," warns a camper about Sandy Point State Park. Weekdays and shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer significantly reduced crowding at most locations.
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds offer only basic amenities. "There is no water, no electric, no bathroom. This is primitive camping/boondocking," explains a visitor to Redden State Forest Campground. Most tent-only areas in the region provide vault toilets rather than flush facilities.
Weather considerations: The Chesapeake region experiences frequent summer storms and humidity. "When it rains it really flushes through the grounds. We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm," reports a camper. Sites positioned on slight inclines typically drain better during wet weather.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Lacy Oasis Campground provides family-friendly spaces. "My agency took about 25 children there last week and they did not want to leave, neither did I," shares a group leader. Most family-oriented campgrounds include open field areas for games and activities.
Consider water access: Swimming areas provide cooling recreation during summer months. "August is the worst month to visit if you like the water. Jellyfish take over with a vengeance!" warns a regular visitor to Sandy Point State Park. Water shoes are recommended at most Chesapeake beaches due to shells and occasional debris.
Look for youth group options: Several parks offer designated youth camping areas with group sites. "This campground is very well taken care of, and seemed safe to me. There are wonderful views of the water and swimming at the beach, pavilions for social gatherings... but youth group camping only," notes a visitor. Youth group sites typically accommodate 15-30 campers and require advance reservations.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most tent-focused campgrounds limit RV length. "Travel trailers, pull behinds, motorhomes are not allowed. Tents, cars, overlander SUVs, minivans and small Class B camper vans are allowed. Nothing over 25 ft allowed," explains a visitor to Redden State Forest. Many campgrounds in the region prioritize tent camping with limited RV accommodations.
Limited hookups: Even RV-friendly campgrounds often provide minimal services. "Very spartan but great location. Not much to do in the campground and some long timers there. Dirt cheap," notes a visitor to the Military Park United States Naval Academy/Annapolis FamCamp. Most tent-focused campgrounds provide no electrical or water hookups at individual sites.