Best Tent Camping near Idlewylde, MD
State parks and public lands surrounding Idlewylde, Maryland offer several tent camping options within a short drive. Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, located in Catonsville about 10 miles west of Idlewylde, provides tent-only camping in a forested setting from April 1 to October 30. This smaller campground specifically prohibits RVs at its tent sites, making it ideal for tent campers seeking a more traditional camping experience. The C&O Canal National Historical Park also offers primitive tent camping at several hiker-biker campsites along the Potomac River, including Swains Lock, which provides walk-in tent sites with river views.
Tent campsites at Patapsco Valley feature crushed stone pads that require extra padding and alternative tent-securing methods, as pitching directly on the ground is not permitted. One camper noted that sites on the lower end of the loop can become very wet during rainstorms, making setup challenging. Most tent sites include fire rings with cooking grates and picnic tables. Firewood must be purchased on-site to prevent the spread of invasive insects. The walk-in tent sites along the C&O Canal are first-come, first-served with basic amenities including fire rings and pit toilets. These backcountry tent camping areas typically require campers to pack out all trash and bring their own water or use iodine-treated pump water.
In early fall, Patapsco Valley State Park offers tent campers pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. According to reviews, the campground remains surprisingly quiet despite its proximity to major highways, with only "a hint of traffic noise." The park provides access to numerous hiking trails, with the Saw Mill Trail recommended for family hikes. Tent campers frequently use the sites as a base for exploring the Patapsco River, where a small swimming hole can be found at the bottom of the hill. The C&O Canal sites provide more primitive tent camping experiences with riverside views. One visitor reported that watching "the sun burn off the lazy fog on the river" made the basic accommodations worthwhile, though the sites can become busy with day hikers and cyclists.
