Tuckahoe State Park Campground is located on Maryland's Eastern Shore, just 15 miles from Pasadena. The park spans 3,800 acres of diverse terrain with primarily flat, sandy soil typical of the region. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder conditions in the 60-75°F range with reduced insect activity.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Tuckahoe State Park Campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course that winds through wooded areas. "Nice pads, even with rain none were flooded. The wooded area makes you feel a little more secluded from any neighbors," notes Kasey M. about Tuckahoe State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The creeks and lake at Tuckahoe State Park provide year-round fishing access. "Small by some State Park standards, Tuckahoe offers two loops: a tent/cabin site, and an electric site for RVs... And access to the Tuckahoe River for fishing and kayaking," shares Bill G.
Boat rentals: For water-based recreation at Martinak State Park Campground, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks. "Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," reports Laura M. The park offers direct river access with rental equipment available on-site.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: The camping areas provide good separation between sites. "We stayed here on a Thursday when the campground was almost empty, but there was a reservations list that showed the campground would be full for the Columbus Day weekend," says Mary S. about Tuckahoe State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "The bathhouse is very clean. If you stay on the tent side there is a kayak launch. The sites are laid out in a circle with the bathhouse in the center," explains Jessica K. The commercial-sized washing stations for dishes are particularly appreciated.
Equestrian options: For those seeking horse campgrounds near Pasadena, Maryland, Pohick Bay Campground offers trails accessible within about an hour's drive. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" writes Kathie M. While the campground doesn't have dedicated horse corrals, the surrounding trails accommodate riders.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Pasadena region operate March through November. "We tend to use Tuckahoe as a way station while camping our way up and down the Bay. I wish it had more to offer," mentions Bill G. Winter camping options are limited in this area.
Bathroom closures: Some facilities have scheduled cleaning times. "Restrooms were clean, closed daily for cleaning between 1 pm - 3 pm," reports Nurse N. about Cedarville State Forest. Plan bathroom visits accordingly during these times.
Tick precautions: The wooded areas in Maryland state forests require tick protection. "I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," advises Ben J. Tick repellent is essential when hiking trails or during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Some parks organize family-friendly events throughout camping season. "They gave us a great intro to the park as we were first timers. They informed us that 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.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment near camping loops. "For kids, there's a simple swingset in the loop and a larger, newer playground," notes Jean C. about Martinak State Park Campground. These areas provide recreation options directly in the camping area.
Site selection for horse camping: When planning equestrian camping near Pasadena, Maryland, choose sites carefully. "We booked site 21, blind. The web site does not say site 21 is extremely small. We have a 25' camper, and it barely fit, length and with were an issue," warns Buck P. about Tuckahoe State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups only. "The campground is wooded and only has electric hookups available. The sites are well spaced. The bathhouse is dated and was clean enough to use," explains Adam and Suzanne B. about Camp Meade RV Park. Water access points are typically shared between multiple sites.
Dump station protocols: Many campgrounds provide dump stations at the entrance/exit. "Good dump station and potable water fill. Spigots throughout the campground," notes Adam and Suzanne B. Plan to use these facilities during non-peak times to avoid waiting.
