73 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Susquehanna State Park Campground welcomes dogs at most sites, with Acorn Loop and Beechnut Loop offering shaded campsites suitable for pets. All campgrounds near Joppa maintain standard pet policies requiring leashes no longer than 6 feet, proof of rabies vaccination, and proper waste disposal. Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina provides waterfront sites where dogs can accompany owners while fishing directly from their campsite. Bathhouse facilities remain clean and well-maintained throughout both parks. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm and Elk Neck State Park Campground also accommodate pets with various accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. The campgrounds implement quiet hours that apply to barking dogs, with enforcement varying by location and season.
Multiple hiking trails throughout Susquehanna State Park provide excellent dog walking opportunities with access to the Susquehanna River where pets can cool off. Sites at Bar Harbor are positioned just steps from the water, making them convenient for dogs that enjoy swimming. Several campsites contain roots and rocks that may damage pet bedding, requiring careful tent placement. Wildlife encounters are common in these areas, so keeping dogs leashed protects both local fauna and pets. Nearby amenities include a 7-11 convenience store and various pet-friendly restaurants in Havre de Grace, approximately 10 minutes from Susquehanna State Park. During summer months, flying insects can be problematic for both campers and their pets, particularly in spring when water bugs become prevalent near riverside campsites. Trail conditions vary seasonally, with some paths becoming overgrown during peak summer months.
"Accessible and pet friendly. Great trails and great staff"
"Our go to State Park for camping as it is pretty close to home. Standard State Park with all the amenities you need. We are tent campers/ non electric (no pets/ no kids)."
from $21 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Our site was really good and I love that it had it's own access to the bathrooms. Quite a few of the inner loop sites do. If you're a tent camper Acorn has some very private and secluded sites."
"The campsites are separated more widely than many other parks in Maryland (Cunningham Falls, Ft. Frederick, Pt. Lookout), and are quite secluded in comparison."
from $21 - $50 / night
Check Availability"The campground seemed to stress pet restrictions both in the rules section of their registration packet and signage around the grounds."
"This is close to us so it was an easy trip. Full hookup but we’re told to turn off and unhook water the night it dropped below freezing."
from $75 - $115 / night
Check Availability"Camp site(Tent camping)
The camp site is what it is, just a camp site :) It's one of the bigger state parks surrounded by forest in MD.""Another negative was after the storm for the next few days we heard trees falling nearby."
from $20 - $51 / night
Check Availability"Centrally located laundry facilities and airconditioned bath house. Playground, boat launch, beach volleyball court, disk golf, basketball court, and outdoor pool all within walking distance."
"Pet friendly. Very quiet. I only gave it 4 stars because the camp sites are too close together. Fire pits were well designed, bathrooms were relatively clean."
"It may be close to suburbia (a neighborhood right through the trees) and convenient to major highways (literal minutes to I95), but you will feel like you are truly secluded in the woods."
from $19 - $27 / night
Check Availability"Our dog was welcomed. Will definitely be going back. This was our first trip with our camper ever and everyone was helpful"
"It was a VERY dark walk to get to the bathhouse for showers. And the fire pit had no grill, so we ended up having to use the stoves of some RV camping friends for meals."
"We hiked the 7.5mile lake trail with our two pups. It was beautiful and along the way there were opportunities to kayak/sup, beach it, or even play on a ropes course."
"The site itself was set back some, and felt secluded while still being near the parking area. Walk to bathrooms and camp store was on the longer side."
from $29 - $51 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $50 - $60 / night
Check Availability"We got a spot for two nights in the pet area. We were shaded by trees, but the spots weren’t very private. Bathroom facilities are nice."
"The open field pet friendly sites are also large but provide no shade and it gets hot! You can feel the difference between these sites and the interior loop sites. "
from $24 - $280 / night
Check Availability
GuideThis park is top notch. The grounds are immaculate. The staff is friendly and helpful. They have a lovely gift shop. We were in the 400 sites and it was nice and shady. Though you are close to highways I don’t recall hearing and noise. I love that they have shuttles to DC., walking trails and a large dog park. This is my all time favorite park so far and I need to go back.
TravelerCampground sites are nice and spacious, bathrooms are good, and there’s plenty to do for everyone. We hiked the 7.5mile lake trail with our two pups. It was beautiful and along the way there were opportunities to kayak/sup, beach it, or even play on a ropes course. We always travel with our dogs and this place has the BEST dog park. Big open space with access to lots of water play. We definitely recommend this spot!
GuideI was able to book my site the day before the trip. The site itself was set back some, and felt secluded while still being near the parking area.
Walk to bathrooms and camp store was on the longer side. Firewood was $5 a bundle, but the register wasn't working and they could only take cash.
The hiking in the immediate area was beautiful, lots of fun trails and wildlife. Fishing, kayaking, zip lining, tons of great activities.
The firepits have grates over one half, so campfire cooking is a breeze. Cook up and use the provided picnic table for an easy dinner set up.
The park itself is very dog friendly and most sites had dogs. There is also an off leash dog park at Lum's pond and dog water dishes outside the camp store.
The showers and bathrooms were incredibly well kept with hot water and stocked supplies. If you didn't feel like walking so far, the tents had a spiget with running water near the parking areas.
Reception for Verizon was spotty, t mobile was pretty great. Wish there was an ATM on site though I don't think the cash only situation is a normal one for this campground.
All in all an amazing trip, and I'll be back as soon as possible.
TravelerThe staff and seasonal campers are all very friendly. The bathrooms are incredibly clean. We love all the games there are to play and the dog park is our favorite spot. Overall, it's peaceful and quiet in a nice, wooded setting.
TravelerOur first visit (March 2018) was just prior to peak season (lower rates) and we had a site literally 10 ft. from the water! Full hook ups and sites were a little close, but nice. There seemed to be a lot of long term/permanent residents, but most sites along the waterfront remained open. The campground seemed to stress pet restrictions both in the rules section of their registration packet and signage around the grounds. There was a pet exercise/walking area, but could use some sprucing up. However, no one really made an issue of walking your dog around the campground and as the weekend came around, more and more dogs were around.
You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution. Would like to try Bar Harbor again sometime.
RangerThis is a campers dream site. Everything you can think of is offered here. You have to check their website to see all. This is the closest site to Washington DC. Great location with access to all forms of transportation. Store fully stocked to include groceries. Two pools. Hot tub. Play areas to include a game room and miniature golf. Pets are pampered here. Even dog walking service available.
GuideWe do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations.
Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer. There are some equestrian and tent sites as well.
Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking. There’s an off leash dog park, equestrian center and boat ramp. Book early because it fills up fast!
LegendCherry Hill Park was easy to find and get to basically right off I-95. This was our first time RVing into the WA DC area and we were concerned about traffic getting to the campground(CG). As we arrived, traffic was heavy on I-95 but manageable. Cherry Hill’s and our RV GPS directions were spot on getting us to the park. We were very impressed with this CG from the moment we entered. We picked up our package outside the office(no contact check-in) and went to premium site 93 with FHUs. Back-in was easy. The wifi was very good but the CG was only about a 1/4 full. Cherry Hill has many different ways to stay; cottages, cabins, yurts, glamping pods, premium and regular tent sites in addition to the RV sites. As we looked around we found that all of the sites, regardless of amenities, were spaced about the same. There are a few sites in the CG on the end that will give you a little more yard space like 97(need to be a competent backer), 402, and 1723. We got 2 bars each on Verizon and AT&T. The CG’s cable provided a large selection of channels and worked well. We were impressed with the main laundry facility due to the amount of large washers and dryers, very fair pricing and very clean. The two off leash dog parks(in the same area) were nice plus there’s a well maintained walking trail that goes around this very large CG’s perimeter. We really liked how there are trash receptacles and dog poopy bag dispensers nicely placed all over the CG. Though we didn’t use it, they even have a dog walker service so you can spend a lot of time exploring the DC area without worrying about your pups. About the only draw back was the road noise from the interstate and highway pretty much 24/7, but considering the area that is to be expected. Sites 13-38 and 1500 sites near the premium tent area are the farthest away from the road noise. We would definitely stay here again.
LegendOur GPS wanted to take us to the main park entrance on Howell School Rd versus Red Lion Rd to the campground entrance on the other side of the pond. The gate and store were not open so we went directly to back-in site 26 with FHUs. Our reservation sheet and vehicle pass were on the post when we arrived. Back-in was okay with having to swing our F-450 and 39’ 5th wheel into the grass between sites across the street. Utilities were smartly placed at the middle of the pad. We had 2 to 3 bars on Verizon and 2 bars on AT&T. However, we had trouble with AT&T maintaining internet on our Weingard Connect. The CG is in two loops. Sites 1-30 make up the first loop and that is where most of the larger rigs camped. A rough estimate(double check site size online) is that sites 12- 18 will take larger rigs up to around 45’ but you’ll need to park your tow vehicle or toad angled in front of your rig. Our site was long enough for our 39’ fifth wheel but we had to park our truck at an angle as well. The second loop does have larger sites but is mainly suited for small rigs to include a tent area. Both loops have a large grass field in the middle that the sites back up to, which is great for playing outside games and without many trees so you could use satellite from almost all the sites. From a spaciousness point of view, the best site in the CG is 17, but it is near the walking trail. The shower house also contains a small laundry with 3 washers and 4 dryers that are reasonably priced, although one washer was out of service at the time. However, there was not a change machine. You could purchase firewood from one of the on duty camp hosts. A short drive from the campground to another Lum’s Pond State Park area there’s a really cool dog park where you can walk the dogs off leash down trails and with open play areas along the pond. One of the best features of this off-leash area is how secluded it is away from the main road. Supposedly this is known as a haunted campground, although we didn't see or hear anything out of the ordinary. If in the area, we would stay here again.
Dispersed camping options near Joppa, Maryland provide access to both wooded areas and water-based recreation along the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay. Located about 20 miles northeast of Baltimore at an elevation of 430 feet, this region experiences mild spring and fall seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak camping months. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities where temperatures typically range from 25-40°F.
Hiking forest trails: Multiple hiking options exist at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area where trails range from easy to moderate difficulty. "We hiked over a bridge and stream which was full of fish I could see! Turned around after I got to the Susquehanna itself. The river was running pretty high and fast, pretty cool to see," notes Anne L.
Fishing from campsites: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina that allow direct water access. "Some sites you are right on the waters edge. Bathroom was clean, pool was closed...not too many campers but it sure was a nice time," reports Janet P. who enjoyed kayaking directly from her site.
Visit historical sites: The region contains several preserved historical areas including working mills. "There is a historic area in the park, with a working grist mill, mansion and other little buildings to view. Not really my thing, but was pretty neat," shares Jen V. who stayed at Susquehanna State Park.
Boat rentals and launches: Lake activities are popular at Codorus State Park where "you can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina," according to Catherine H. The park offers pontoon rentals at the public boat launch for exploring the large lake.
Secluded tent sites: Tent campers seeking privacy can find secluded spots at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hollofield Area. "If you're a tent camper and don't need electric, the sites on the outer loop were quite nice and private," recommends Jen V., noting these sites provide a more woodsy experience.
Accessible playgrounds: Multiple campgrounds feature family-oriented facilities. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," notes Angel G.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers frequently encounter wildlife, especially along waterways. "Scared a bunch of deer (ok they scared me!!) and checked out the giant old growth trees," reports Anne L. who hiked at Susquehanna State Park.
Level campsites: Many reviewers appreciate well-maintained, level sites. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. We are here visiting family for the holidays and it's serving us well," reports Casey L. who enjoyed waterfront camping at Bar Harbor.
Bathroom availability varies: Facilities at most campgrounds include bathhouses, but maintenance and availability fluctuate. "Bath house was okay but ran out of toilet paper, so be sure to bring your own!" warns Jennifer R. who camped at Susquehanna despite rainy conditions.
Tent pad challenges: Several campgrounds have sites without proper tent pads. "About half—maybe more—don't have pads. I didn't get a chance to check out the Acorn Loop, other than a quick drive by," notes Jennifer S. at Susquehanna State Park Campground.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. regarding Lums Pond, where renovated sites include concrete pads and full hookups.
Firewood restrictions: State parks typically prohibit bringing outside firewood due to invasive species concerns. "No alcohol or firewood can be brought into the park. Firewood can only be purchased on site due to harmful insects. But the money goes toward the parks volunteer program," explains Sean M.
Natural playgrounds: Kids enjoy unstructured play areas at Hollofield Area Campground. "I've attached photos from the 'natural playground' aka, large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it," shares Jennifer S., though she mentions airport noise can disrupt sleep.
Swimming options: Plan accordingly for swimming facilities. At Codorus State Park, "there is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," explains Catherine H.
Kid-friendly activities: Organized events keep children entertained at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm. "We stayed here this past Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol. Wonderful experience for the whole family," reports Melissa E.
Pet policies for families with dogs: Most campgrounds permit pets but enforce specific rules. "We saw bald eagles and great blue heron," shares Kate J. about Elk Neck State Park, though she notes that "the pad for pitching tents seemed to have poured concrete a few inches down, making it tough to stake anything down."
Site angle challenges: RVers should check site descriptions carefully before booking. "Our site was uphill and at a difficult angle. Plenty of bigger TTs and 5th wheels were camping. The lovely camp host, Carol, kept the bathhouse spotless," shares Adam and Suzanne B. about their experience at Elk Neck.
Hookup locations: Some campgrounds have inconveniently placed utilities. "Sites are on top of each other. Water hookup access was on the ground. It was raining and the area was saturated with no where to drain," warns Elvira A. about one location.
Year-round accessibility: RVers seeking winter camping options should consider Lums Pond where "in February, about 1/4 of the sites were occupied. It was very quiet. The sites are large and well spaced," according to Adam and Suzanne B.
Driving considerations: Large rigs require careful planning when approaching certain parks. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," advises Craig Z. who appreciated waterfront sites despite access challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Joppa, MD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Joppa, MD is Elk Neck State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 62 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Joppa, MD?
TheDyrt.com has all 73 dog-friendly camping locations near Joppa, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
