Campgrounds near Ridgely, Maryland offer diverse outdoor experiences within a 30-mile radius of this Eastern Shore town. Most campgrounds in the region maintain seasonal operations from March through November, with limited winter availability. While the area doesn't feature dramatic elevation changes, campers find varied ecosystems from forested settings to waterfront locations along the Chesapeake Bay tributaries.
What to do
Kayaking and water sports: At Martinak State Park Campground, waterfront access provides excellent kayaking opportunities. "Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," notes Laura M. The park's river access supports various paddle craft without the crowds found at larger facilities.
Nature programs and education: Educational activities for children are available at several parks. Trap Pond State Park Campground offers structured environmental programs. "There is a small camper store/office that closed shortly after our arrival... If you have kiddos, try and get a site in Loop A – there is a nice and educational play area (plus a game I'd never heard of– Gaga ball). There is an additional playground in the day-use area, plus a volleyball net. There is also a nature center," shares Lee D.
Hiking and biking: Trails vary from short loops to more extensive systems. "Nice spread out camp sites with power hookup," mentions Perry A. about Tuckahoe State Park. At Trap Pond, one camper appreciated "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area offers excellent wildlife observation. "This is beautiful NRMA and has thick serene woods. Oftentimes people are found taking engagement, wedding, and graduation pictures in this beautiful landscape," reports Maya S. Bird watching opportunities are abundant throughout the region's waterways.
Quiet atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the peaceful environment at most area campgrounds. "Despite being booked for the Memorial Day weekend, this campground was quaint and very quiet. There was a creek behind our site, playgrounds, hiking trails, and boat rentals available within a short walk," shares Regina C. about her experience.
Spacious sites: Bay Shore Campground (formerly Ellendale) provides well-spaced sites with scenic views. "If you enjoy beautiful sunsets, seeing bald eagles every day, having a nice breeze, not too buggy, well kept campground this is the place to go," according to Lisa V. The campground's waterfront location creates natural separation between camping areas.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer months. For holiday weekends, plan even further ahead. "Tuckahoe offers two loops: a tent/cabin site, and an electric site for RVs. The sites are well maintained... Despite being booked for the Memorial Day weekend, this campground was quaint and very quiet," notes Regina C.
Bathhouse conditions: Facility quality varies considerably between parks. G & R Campground offers basic amenities. "The bathhouse had the same dirt on the floor for 3 days. There are many gorgeous lots available. Please ask to not be near the monthly campers. We did not use the pool but it was beautiful looking," advises Mary B. Other campers mention clean facilities at state parks.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. "Quiet state park with limited cell reception. Truly off the map camping," observes Regina C. Many campgrounds recommend downloading maps or information before arrival as service can be unreliable.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Consider site location relative to play areas. "The campground has a small store on site that sells general campground supplies. If you're looking for activities, there are 8 camper cabins, 4 on each loop. There are beds for 4 or 6 people, and the cabins have air conditioning, a ceiling fan and electricity," notes a visitor to Tuckahoe.
Water activities for children: Killens Pond State Park Campground includes additional water features. "My son absolutely loved this place. There's anything and everything you could think of available to keep everyone busy. A water park, volley ball field, playgrounds, amphitheater, nature center, nature trails, and boat rentals at the lake," shares Fransheska A.
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds feature regular ranger patrols. "Cell service (T-Mobile) was spotty at times, bathhouses were fine, and the ranger was on patrol regularly. We felt very safe!" notes Shanna S. about Martinak State Park. Parents appreciate the security at state-managed facilities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric services are standard at most area campgrounds, but full hookups are limited. "Campsites and bathrooms are clean. Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," explains Laura M. about Martinak State Park.
Pad and site considerations: RVers should confirm site dimensions before booking. "We took out 1st trip to Tuckahoe over the 4th of July weekend. We really liked the park, but beware, the sites can be small! I watched people with 25+ footers struggle to back into the sites," cautions Buck P.
Seasonal limitations: Water access points may close periodically for maintenance. "August 1, 2021, the boat ramp will close for a year; that will likely diminish the appeal of this park for those who want to get out on the river for fishing or boating," advises Jean C. about Martinak State Park. Many facilities undergo periodic renovations affecting specific amenities.
