Camping options near Laytonsville, Maryland range from rustic tent sites to full-hookup RV spots within a 35-mile radius. This central Maryland location sits at approximately 500 feet elevation with moderate temperatures in spring and fall, while summer camping often brings humidity and temperatures above 85°F. Several campgrounds remain open year-round despite the region's occasional winter precipitation.
What to do
Hiking trails and natural areas: Little Bennett Campground features a network of hiking paths through wooded terrain. "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly," notes one visitor who stayed at Little Bennett Campground.
Disc golf courses: Pohick Bay Regional Park offers an 18-hole disc golf course as a free activity for campers. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," shares a regular visitor to Pohick Bay Campground.
Water activities: Many campgrounds provide water-based recreation during warmer months. "The Shenandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical Campground showers perfect for the campground life," remarks one repeat visitor to Brunswick Family Campground.
What campers like
Accessible location: Campgrounds near Laytonsville offer proximity to major attractions. "The park is close to Washington DC and offers a concierge service for tours and things to do," explains a camper at Cherry Hill Park.
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate the natural setting. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," notes a visitor at Little Bennett Campground.
Camp store convenience: On-site stores provide essentials without leaving camp. "Great campground. A bit pricey, but has a full hookup loop. Other loops are tent only. Wonderful bath house. Lots of stuff to do," shares a camper at Little Bennett.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "We reserved 137 days prior to arriving," mentions one camper at Little Bennett Campground.
Price variations: Expect higher rates for premium sites or out-of-state visitors. "Out-of-state campers pay higher camping fee than Maryland residents, $66/night," reports a visitor to Little Bennett.
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities close during off-season. "We had a premium site for seven nights. The site was perfectly level with a fire ring, grill, picnic table and table with three chairs," explains a camper at Cherry Hill Park.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service and wifi vary by location. "AT&T 5 MB/s w/o booster(1 bar), 8 MB/s with it(2 bars). There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy. OTA TV was descent using an external omni antenna. There is no WiFi," reports a camper at Little Bennett.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience. "My family loves this camp ground. It's conveniently located, it's quite, it's beautiful and there is plenty to do to keep the kids busy," shares a parent who stayed at Little Bennett Campground.
Activity planning: Research scheduled programs before arrival. "This campground is byfar one of the best I have ever stayed at. The price is a little steep, but with all the amenities you get, it is well worth it," notes a family who visited Ramblin' Pines.
Water attractions: Campgrounds with pools provide cooling options during hot months. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," advises a family who stayed at Washington DC Capitol KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back," notes an RVer who stayed at Little Bennett Campground.
Hookup locations: Check utility placement when reserving. "D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C & E are tents only," shares an RVer at Little Bennett.
Access restrictions: Some roads have size limitations for larger rigs. "We stayed at site D72 for 4 days. The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," reports an RV camper at Bull Run Regional Park.
