Tent camping near Brooklandville, Maryland involves mostly small to mid-sized campgrounds within reasonable driving distance. The area sits in the Piedmont Plateau region where summer temperatures typically range 75-90°F with moderate humidity. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with most campgrounds in the region operating seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Hiking and water exploration: At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, campers can access multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels. One visitor noted, "There are a lot of easy, but beautiful hikes" while another mentioned finding "a small river and swimming hole at the bottom of the hill off to the side opposite the cabins/park."
Family activities: The nature-focused amenities at The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring complement tent camping trips. As one reviewer explained, it's "Very convenient for before or after your time in the largest aerial challenge course in North America."
Biking opportunities: Susquehannock State Park offers dedicated cycling routes with connections to regional attractions. A camper reports, "There's a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles. There are amazing wildflowers on that trail. You can bike to the trail from the campground. All downhill. So be ready for the climb back up."
What campers like
Natural settings: The secluded environment at Marsden Tract Group Campsite appeals to those seeking quiet surroundings. A camper described it as "beautiful secluded quiet wonderful if you're looking for that extreme outdoors a no civilization."
Kid-friendly amenities: Patapsco Valley State Park offers extensive children's facilities beyond standard camping. A reviewer observed, "It seem like this area is, possibly unintentionally, geared toward children. There is a massive playground, nature play space, sensory trail, and a small nature center."
Water access: Hart-Miller Island State Park provides boat-in camping from May through September with beach access. The island location requires watercraft for access but rewards campers with direct shoreline proximity and relative seclusion compared to mainland options.
What you should know
Site conditions: Many tent campgrounds feature crushed stone surfaces rather than soil. At Patapsco Valley, one camper advised, "The crushed stone at the sites isn't comfortable for tents, and they won't let you pitch it on the ground, so bring extra pads and alternative ways to secure the tent to the ground."
Reservation timing: The Military Park FamCamp at United States Naval Academy requires Department of Defense ID for entry but offers affordable rates near Annapolis. A visitor confirmed it's "Dirt cheap" though noting it has "Very spartan but great location."
Weather considerations: Many campgrounds in the region experience significant runoff during heavy rains. Sites on lower elevations or at the bottom of loops may become saturated quickly, affecting tent placement and comfort.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sensory experiences: Sandy Point State Park youth group camping area offers educational opportunities beyond standard camping. A visitor mentioned, "Our favorite thing to do is to fossil hunt for sharks teeth. In the summer it can get pretty crowded, so we prefer to visit in late spring while school is still in session."
Plan for park entrances: Navigation to some campgrounds can be challenging. At Patapsco Valley, campers reported, "Getting in to the park was a little difficult. We missed the entrance and had to turn around. Friends who were camping with us had the same problem."
Consider cabins: For families new to outdoor experiences, cabin options provide compromise. A Patapsco Valley visitor explained, "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.'"
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Brooklandville offer minimal RV amenities. When available, electric hookups are typically 30-amp service with some locations offering water connections but rarely full sewer service at individual sites.
Site sizes: RV camping in this region generally accommodates smaller to medium-sized rigs only. Most campgrounds aren't designed for larger motorhomes or fifth wheels, with narrow access roads and limited turning radius at many locations.
Check seasonal regulations: Campground policies may change based on season, particularly regarding water availability. Water systems are typically winterized from late October through March, so self-contained water supplies become necessary during shoulder seasons.
