Camping sites near Lexington Park, Maryland encompass a mix of federal, state, and privately-owned facilities across the northern Chesapeake Bay peninsula. The region maintains a humid subtropical climate with average summer highs around 87°F and winter lows near 29°F. Many campsites sit at elevations below 100 feet, creating marshy conditions that worsen during the region's 43 inches of annual rainfall.
What to do
Fossil hunting at Calvert Cliffs: The shoreline at Calvert Cliffs State Park offers prime spots for finding prehistoric shark teeth and other fossils. "It is a very nice walk about 2 miles to the beach where you can hunt for fossils. The beach has gotten smaller over the years however the trail has gotten much better," notes one visitor.
Historical exploration: Civil War sites and historical landmarks dot the region's shorelines. Near Westmoreland State Park, you can visit several preserved buildings. "The park used to be a prison for Confederate soldiers, so lots of cool exhibits and memorials for history buffs," explains a camper who visited in April.
Fishing and crabbing: Dedicated piers for both fishing and crabbing are available at several parks. "There are piers for fishing, separate piers for crabbing, and a fishing beach. There is also a full-service boat launch with a fish-cleaning station," reports a summer visitor.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers frequently mention the spaciousness of sites at Point Lookout State Park. "The sites were very large, lots of room," writes one camper, while another notes, "Site was very level, with a nice long driveway. Right on the water, with beautiful views."
Clean facilities: Many campers comment on well-maintained bathhouses. "Bath house was very clean and well-maintained. Looks like host cleaned it several times a day. Only two shower stalls, but they were nice and roomy with fairly hot water," shares a visitor from April.
Seasonal activities: Different seasons offer unique experiences at Westmoreland State Park Campground. "We took about 30 women camping here at the end of April and had the best time together. So thankful for state parks that are gorgeous and full of adventure!" A winter camper adds, "Went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year."
What you should know
Bug situation: Insects are a major consideration when camping in this region. A camper at Point Lookout warns, "The bugs were killer. Luckily, there was a nice strong breeze blowing off the water during the vast majority of our stay. However, the second it stopped, the bugs descended on us. Mosquitoes, gnats, biting flies, you name it."
Terrain challenges: The low-lying areas create drainage issues during rain. "You can see the mud in the picture," notes one camper, explaining, "It rained the day we arrived. There wasn't a lot of rocks down, so we had mud all weekend, it never dried up."
Sun exposure: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds and loops. "Not much shade in the sites here. The trail isn't shaded either," reports a spring visitor to Point Lookout, adding, "I think we're in a swamp. I assume mosquitos get very nasty here pretty soon!"
Cell service limitations: Digital connectivity is spotty throughout the area. One reviewer mentioned, "No internet access at the campsite, but could get it if you were a few feet away from the Loop. It's a complete dead spot for Verizon anyway. Not good if you're working while camping."
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Dennis Point Marina and Campground offers family-friendly tent sites with water access. "I went tent camping here and it was really really nice. Me and my family enjoyed ourselves. Staff was friendly and the bathrooms was very clean," shares a family camper.
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds feature play areas near main facilities. At Matoaka Beach Cottages, "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."
Educational programs: Nature centers and organized activities help keep children engaged. "There is also a great nature center which rents kayaks and canoes, and offers programs for the kids," notes a camper at Point Lookout.
Off-season visits: Consider spring or fall trips to avoid crowds and extreme heat. A camper reports, "This park offers tons of activities and amenities, such as a huge fishing pier, camp store, canoe/kayak rental, lighthouse, historical sites, swimming beach, etc. Most of those were still closed for the season, which was fine. Still beautiful to look at, and we didn't have to fight the summer crowds."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For the best RV experience at Take It Easy Campground, choose sites away from permanent residents. "The campground was quiet and had some full timers. Their campers were newer and looked nice. There is a pool but we were not able to use it due to COVID."
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds provide complete services for RVs. "Full hookups rock!" exclaims one RVer at Point Lookout, while another mentions, "This was our first trip in our first TT (33ft), we're complete rookies! We had site 68 which had plenty of space for the TT, truck and car to park."
Loop considerations: Different camping loops offer varied experiences. "Tulip Loop has full hookups which was great, but the sites are basically in a swamp," notes a summer visitor, contrasting with another camper's experience: "We were originally hoping for something in the B Loop, but we ended up being really happy in our spot because while the B Loop was beautiful with waterfront campsites, the bugs were awful and there was no shade anywhere."
Traveler
