Camping options near Hanover, Maryland include several public and private facilities within a 30-mile radius. Most campgrounds maintain standard operating hours from April through October, though Ramblin' Pines remains open year-round. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F, and mild spring and fall seasons ideal for outdoor activities. Overnight temperatures can drop significantly in spring and fall, requiring adequate bedding even during warmer months.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Patapsco Valley State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities directly accessible from campsites. "We enjoyed hiking the trails directly from our campsite that led us down to the Patapsco River. There is a lot of history associated with the River and the area. You can even swim in this river," notes a visitor to Hollofield Area Campground.
Visit water features: The Patapsco River provides recreation opportunities throughout the park system. "Roland Lake in Baltimore County is a great place to kayak on the Patapsco River. Tons of wildlife, facilities, and amenities for you and your family," reports a camper who visited Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area.
Ride the Metro into DC: Greenbelt Park Campground offers convenient urban 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 in the district," explains a visitor who appreciates the transportation convenience.
What campers like
Clean, accessible facilities: Washington DC/Capitol KOA maintains well-kept amenities for families. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," reports one visitor to Washington DC/Capitol KOA.
Nature encounters close to urban areas: Despite suburban surroundings, wildlife viewing opportunities exist. "I noticed a family of deer grazing close by, a great way to settle in for the evening," describes a camper at Greenbelt Park Campground, adding that "every morning birds and squirrels" create a natural experience despite proximity to the city.
Family activities: Ramblin' Pines provides numerous recreation options. "This campground offers a lot for the money. There's a pond for fishing, a pool for swimming and a little general store for all your needs, the kids loved the bounce pillow," notes a reviewer who discovered Ramblin' Pines describes it as a "hidden gem."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Sandy Point State Park experiences heavy visitation during summer months. "Extremely over crowded in the summer. The park closes daily very early as it hits capacity. The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall," advises a regular visitor.
Drainage issues: Some campgrounds experience water problems during rain events. "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," cautions a camper at Patapsco Valley State Park.
Limited amenities at state parks: Facilities vary significantly between private and public campgrounds. "There is only 20/30amp electricity and NO water or sewer, although there was a dump and a place to fill your water tank. No washer or dryers," notes a visitor to Little Bennett Campground who found the park otherwise enjoyable.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Patapsco Valley offers unique play areas beyond traditional equipment. "There is a 'natural' playground in the loop, and then if you drive down further to the park entrance, there is a large playground for the kids. I've attached photos from the 'natural playground' aka, large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it," reports a visitor to Hollofield Area.
Camp stores for supplies: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Hanover maintain on-site shopping options. "On site are pools, splash pad, RV supplies and repair parts, a snack bar and lots more," explains a camper at Cherry Hill Park, providing backup options when supplies run low.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide an easier entry point. "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it,'" suggests a reviewer at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Position within campgrounds significantly impacts experience. "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," advises an RVer at Washington DC/Capitol KOA, highlighting the trade-off between convenience and seclusion.
Limited big rig access: Several campgrounds have restrictions for larger vehicles. "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)" warns a visitor to Little Bennett Campground, preventing potential access issues.
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some sites. "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," notes an RVer at Little Bennett who found the campground otherwise satisfactory with its "very quiet" environment.
