RV campsites near Jessup, Maryland provide access to the Patapsco Valley region, with elevations ranging from 100-300 feet and a humid subtropical climate featuring distinct seasons. Most campgrounds in this area remain open year-round with peak visitation occurring during spring and fall when temperatures average between 60-75°F. Winter camping often requires additional preparation due to occasional snow and temperatures dropping to the 20-30°F range.
What to do
Hiking trail access: At Patapsco Valley State Park Hollofield Area, trails connect directly from the campsites to the Patapsco River. "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 camper. The park offers 70 miles of multi-use trails across its 32-mile stretch.
Historical exploration: Located near Fort Belvoir RV Camp, visitors can explore several Civil War sites within a 30-minute drive. According to one camper, "National Marine Corp Museum just around corner. DC just up the road. Civil War National Parks nearby." Many historical sites have interpretive displays explaining the region's military significance.
Nature programs: Multiple campgrounds run ranger-led programs focusing on local ecology. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," reports a visitor at Bull Run Regional Park, which also features a nature scavenger hunt where "you even get a prize when you finish."
What campers like
Proximity to metropolitan areas: Cherry Hill Park offers strategic positioning for DC exploration. "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments," explains one visitor. The park provides direct transportation options to popular attractions.
Water access opportunities: Several campgrounds provide waterfront opportunities not mentioned in the existing descriptions. At Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina, campers value the immediate water proximity: "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95... Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks."
Forested privacy: Despite being near urban areas, many sites maintain natural settings. "Nice wooded sites set far apart from each other in two concentric circles," describes one camper at Patapsco Valley State Park. Another notes, "You really are in the middle of the woods."
What you should know
Military campground restrictions: Camp Meade RV Park and other military facilities near Jessup require proper credentials. "You need military credentials," mentions one visitor at Fort Belvoir RV Camp. Military installations provide enhanced security but have specific protocols, as one camper humorously noted: "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle 🤣. They reminded me."
Check-in limitations: Several campgrounds enforce strict check-in windows. At Ramblin' Pines, "You can only check in between 2 and 4! This might be off season though." Planning arrival time is essential to avoid complications.
Drainage issues: During rainfall, some areas experience standing water. "The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," reports a visitor to Bull Run Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Bull Run Regional Park provides diverse play areas for different age groups. "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," shares one visitor. The natural playground features "large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it."
Activity scheduling: Many campgrounds host scheduled family programs, particularly on weekends. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon," mentions a Bull Run visitor. Scheduling your stay to align with these programs enhances the camping experience.
Bathroom proximity planning: Select sites based on bathroom locations if camping with small children. "Only drawback I think for us on this trip is we wished the bath houses were closer," notes one Ramblin' Pines camper. During busy periods, bathroom facilities can experience lines, especially in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Prince William Forest RV Campground, site topography affects leveling. "Caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level," warns one RVer. Another recommends: "Try and reserve row E if you need full hook up."
Urban noise considerations: Being near metropolitan areas means some noise intrusion. As one camper at Patapsco Valley noted, "The planes from the airport kept flying over, which made it hard to sleep." Sites deeper in wooded areas typically provide better sound barriers.
Water connection management: During colder months, water hookups may require special attention. At Bar Harbor RV Park, campers report: "We're told to turn off and unhook water the night it dropped below freezing." Bringing additional water containers as backup during winter camping is advisable.
