Tent camping around Leonardtown, Maryland offers riverside and bay access in the Chesapeake region of Southern Maryland. The area sits at elevations typically under 100 feet above sea level with humid summers and mild winters. Fall camping season extends later than in more northern regions, with comfortable temperatures often lasting through October when water temperatures remain relatively warm in the Chesapeake Bay.
What to do
Fossil hunting at shorelines: Calvert Cliffs State Park provides opportunities to search for prehistoric shark teeth and fossils along the beach. "This park is awesome! I have been going here for years... Finally the beach is very beautiful even though every year it gets smaller and smaller. The park staff are very friendly, and are very informative on the many fossils you may find on your visit down there," reports Anthony S.
Fishing and crabbing from piers: Endeavor Point offers dedicated pier access for anglers. "The pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise," notes Ally S. Maryland fishing licenses are required, with limits varying by species and season.
Potomac River hiking: Caledon State Park Campground features trails leading to waterfront camping. "A few friends and myself went camping here. It was my first hike in primitive camping experience. We hiked for a few hours and finally got to our site which was right on the Potomac River," shares Katie T.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Matoaka Beach Cottages receives praise for secluded tent sites with water views. "We tent camped at Matoka Cabins and it was a beautiful Peaceful camping trip! Out spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves," writes Courtney K.
Well-maintained trails: Several campers note the quality of hiking paths to tent sites. "The trail now is very well marked, clean, and there are facilities down by the beach to use," explains Anthony S. about Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping. Most trails to primitive sites are under 3 miles and considered moderate difficulty.
Group facilities: Prince William Forest Park's cabin camps accommodate large groups. "PWFP has a number of large group cabin campgrounds available to rent, with capacities of 75 to 200... These camps were made by the CCC and even used by the then-CIA during WWII," explains Dan N. about Goodwill Cabin.
What you should know
Water availability challenges: Many primitive tent sites require carrying in your own water supply. "No water on site and no reasonable source to filter water from, so be prepared," warns Todd B. about Caledon State Park.
Limited tent pad locations: Some campgrounds restrict where tents can be placed. "You're not supposed to setup anything outside of the 'tent pads.' I had a hammock hung and three rangers saw but didn't say anything," notes Todd B.
Seasonal operation: Most tent camping options in the Leonardtown area operate from spring through fall, typically closing by late October. Calvert Cliffs specifically runs from March 31 to October 29, with other sites following similar schedules.
Honor system firewood: Several primitive sites use honor payment systems for firewood. "Wood for sale at the site for $4 honor system. Porta pottie right next to wood pile," explains a camper at Caledon State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities: Leesylvania State Park Campground provides family-friendly amenities. "This park is ALWAYS full of family's having picnics and enjoying time together! There's playground and a beach area for kids and family to all enjoy," writes Sarah F.
Educational opportunities: Fossil hunting engages children in natural history. "Such an amazing expieriance and brings right into the eyes of child with both adult and children searching for shark teeth," reports Sarah F. about Calvert Cliffs.
Plan for hiking: When camping with children at walk-in sites, prepare for trail distances. Most primitive sites require hikes between 1-3 miles on well-marked but sometimes challenging terrain. Pack light and bring only essential gear when children must help carry equipment.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "The park has a great play ground right off the main parking lot for kids to play on as well as a few bathrooms," notes Anthony S. about facilities at Calvert Cliffs.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Lacy Oasis Campground and similar small campgrounds may not accommodate larger rigs. "The rates are very economical for what is being provided on the space," notes Terrance D., though their 6 sites are better suited for smaller setups.
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Leonardtown offer minimal or no hookups. When available, electric service is typically 30-amp maximum with no sewer connections at most primitive sites.
Seasonal access considerations: Secondary roads to primitive camping areas may become difficult to navigate in wet conditions. Many campgrounds near Leonardtown close completely during winter months, with limited RV options available year-round.
