MsTrailBlazer 🏔.
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GuideCodorus State Park Campground
Top Tier
I love this place. The tent sites are super, rustic but superior. Showers are a walk. Tent Sites are very private huge and I love that.
Best Campgrounds near Columbia, MD
Columbia, Maryland offers a mix of camping options within a short drive of the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area. Patapsco Valley State Park, located about 10 miles from Columbia, provides developed campsites for tent and RV camping across multiple areas including the Hollofield Area Campground. Cherry Hill Park in nearby College Park offers full-service RV sites, cabins, and glamping accommodations with amenities like showers, hookups, and WiFi. Other notable options include Greenbelt Park Campground, which provides a more rustic camping experience within easy access to Washington DC, and Little Bennett Campground with its variety of accommodation types including yurts.
Most campgrounds in the region require reservations, particularly during the peak season from April through October. Maryland state parks like Patapsco Valley and Greenbrier typically operate seasonally, closing for camping between late October and April. Developed campgrounds provide varying levels of amenities, with some offering full hookups for RVs while others provide only basic facilities. Many sites have electric hookups, though water and sewer connections are less common at state park campgrounds. Cell coverage is generally good throughout the area, making these campgrounds suitable for those needing to stay connected. According to one visitor at Hollofield Area Campground, "This is part of a super large park that runs 32 miles along the Patapsco River. There is only 20/30amp electricity and NO water or sewer, although there was a dump and a place to fill your water tank."
Campers consistently highlight the convenience of these campgrounds to major metropolitan areas while still providing a natural setting. Patapsco Valley State Park receives praise for its extensive trail system, with one reviewer noting it has "70 miles of hiking/biking/multi use trails" with parks on both sides of the river. Greenbelt Park stands out as an affordable camping option minutes from Washington DC, though reviews mention regular aircraft noise. Several campgrounds feature water proximity as a key attraction, with access to lakes, rivers, or ponds. Family-friendly amenities are common at many sites, with playgrounds, swimming areas, and ranger programs available seasonally. A review of Cherry Hill Park emphasized its orientation services, noting that "a lady with the staff gives visitors a lengthy orientation to Washington, tours, restaurants, Metrorail, parking, museums, and monuments."
Campground Showdown near Columbia, MD
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
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Round 1 of 5
Best Camping Sites Near Columbia, Maryland (104)
1. Cherry Hill Park
42 ReviewsBeltsville, MD12 milesWebsite+1 (301) 937-7116$999 / night
"Metrorail is about 6 miles from campground, near University of Maryland."
"Great camping amenities, soft cushioned sites, with power and water close by. DO NOT GET BASIC TENT SITES AS THEY ARE NEXT TO HIGHWAYS AND VERY NOISY!!! Premium tent sites would be a better choice."
2. Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area
20 ReviewsCatonsville, MD9 milesWebsite+1 (410) 461-5005$20 - $51 / night
"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."
3. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
32 ReviewsGreenbelt, MD15 milesWebsite+1 (301) 344-3948$20 / night
"If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."
"The campsite is superb with walking trails, wildlife and the occasional overflying US Presidential Helicopter. Easily accessible from close by freeways, and charmingly peaceful"
4. Hollofield Area Campground
18 ReviewsWindsor Mill, MD8 milesWebsite+1 (410) 461-5005$19 - $27 / night
"It has 8 recreation areas and we stayed at the Hollofield Area in April- one of our first experiences in a Maryland State Park. Beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking /multi use trails."
"This campground is pleasant, but the sites are situated quite close to one another."
5. Ramblin' Pines
17 ReviewsWoodbine, MD14 milesWebsite+1 (410) 795-5161$30 - $70 / night
"We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick."
"We love this home away from home ❤️"
6. Washington DC / Capitol KOA
16 ReviewsMillersville, MD15 milesWebsite+1 (410) 923-2771"They have a nice dog area for the dog to be able to run around and exercise which a lot of places we have been do not have a place for the dog to really exercise."
"We had a site near the pool, outdoor chess set, jumping pillow and gaga ball pit. Our kids (9, 10 and 14) all had fun and made friends. The staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful."
7. Little Bennett Campground
23 ReviewsClarksburg, MD23 milesWebsite+1 (301) 528-3430"Quiet woods in Maryland about 30 or 40 miles north of DC. Tenting, and RV spots partial to full service. Just of hiway 270. pricey ($66/night) for a state park, but nice."
"PROS Very nice small Montgomery County Park
No reservation fee to make on-line reservations
Reserved 137 days prior to arriving
Entrance gate required entry code Instructed by staff via gate phone"
8. Camp Meade RV Park
2 ReviewsOdenton, MD10 milesWebsite+1 (888) 722-42379. The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
1 ReviewSandy Spring, MD10 milesWebsite+1 (240) 389-4386$150 - $200 / night
10. Lake Fairfax Campground
25 ReviewsReston, VA29 milesWebsite+1 (703) 471-5414$30 - $70 / night
"We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."
"For tent camping I would suggests sites 30,33 or 35 these are tucked along the tree line. The bathroom facilities were the cleanest I have seen in a campground."
Recent Camping Photos near Columbia, MD
347 Photos of 104 Columbia Campgrounds
Richard B.
Hollofield Area Campground
Jennifer S.
Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area
Evelyn T.
Cherry Hill Park
Nancy W.
Ramblin' Pines
Becky
Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
Angie G.
Washington DC / Capitol KOA
Manager P.
Pinetree Associates
James W.
The Garden
Ch. A.
Little Bennett Campground
Shari G.
Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Chrystal P.
Marsden Tract Group Campsite
Emerson K.
Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway
Recent Reviews near Columbia, MD
907 Reviews of 104 Columbia Campgrounds
- MMaybe I.Guide
Codorus State Park Campground
Excellent campground!
The sites offer plenty of space and privacy, making it easy to relax and enjoy nature. The campground is conveniently located near the lake, with beautiful views and easy access to the water. There is also a nice swimming pool, which is a great bonus. We enjoyed kayaking on the lake and spending time outdoors. Overall, it's a wonderful place to unwind, relax, and enjoy a peaceful getaway. We would definitely come back!
Matt S.
LegendBay Shore Campground
What stands out about this campground? The view!
We spent a week at Bay Shore Campground to explore Rock Hall, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. What stands out about this campground? The view!
For me, this is a 4-star campground because of the view and nice staff, but not 5-stars because of the sloped site packed in with the neighbors and no sewer connection.
THINGS I LIKED:
— Great view from our site of the Chesapeake Bay— especially for sunset each evening
— Friendly staff
— Nearby Rock Hall, Chestertown, and Eastern Neck Island Wildlife Refuge
— They offered a promo to pay for 6 nights, and the 7th was free
THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:
— Our site(Site B) had an amazing view of Chesapeake Bay, but the slope made it difficult to get even close to level— even with my front jacks fully extended. I had to buy additional leveling blocks from the camp store(at twice the price of Amazon) just so we didn’t feel like walking uphill to walk around our motorhome. I admit, I am spoiled but really appreciate the campgrounds that level their sites. I think it could be done in a few hours with a rented front loader at a couple nights’ cost.
— Our site(Site B) was tight. The neighbor’s awning was just inches from our motorhome. I understand the need for any business to maximize revenue, but this was unpleasantly close.
— There are no sewer hookups at the sites. They do have a couple of dump stations for your way out and provide a pump-out service once per week at$40 a pop. They were nice enough to pump me out a second time since I stayed 7 nights. Again, I know I’m spoiled, but a sewer connection is a necessity when you’re staying 8 days.
WOULD WE COME BACK?
Sure thing, but we’d stay at a different site.
Phillip H.GuideHarpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA
Harper’s Ferry KOA
The sites are close together. The park was not full Mother’s Day weekend. It is a very nice park. The bathhouses were clean. The amenities were good although we didn’t utilize them. The national historic site was very close and we walked over day 1 rode our bikes day 2. The C&O canal is accessible but you must walk your bike across the lower town bridge and carry it down the stairs. This section of the trail was very good and we completed 38 miles.
- ccara S.
ScoutPatapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area
Hilton area
Thought the campsites were extremely close together. There were A LOT of kids and no quiet hours. Good for families. Not good for a camping camping experience.
MBOLScoutSusquehanna State Park Campground
Great time with kids
Nice campground had my 6 and 7 year old. The site was pretty private and had bathrooms close. I would definitely go again.
- FFredrick K.
TravelerMarble Quarry Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Great place to get some peace and quiet
If youre looking for fun and people, go to the south campground. But if youre looking for true quiet and have a tent, check out the dispersed campsites. Good shower and bathroom setup that i bet would fare well in a tornado, its got that solid storm shelter feel. Next to a quiet airport, plenty of free firewood to gather
- DDebbie W.Scout
Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA
Not as advertised on website. Loose dogs. Sites not as advertised.
Less amenities than advertised. We usually camp in more rustic locations and planned this trip simply for the fun of the amenities. Their website claims that the pool is seasonal but doesn't list anything else as seasonal. There was supposed to be mini golf, a giant bounce pillow, indoor basketball, an arcade with air hockey and a pool table. Mini golf was fine. The bounce pillow was deflated and full of water. The arcade/pool table/air hockey building was locked and the maintenance guy(who locks it up) was outside smoking before leaving early for the day. The employee at the camp store said it was supposed to be open until the store closed but that he probably just closed it early.
The rules state that dogs need to be on a leash at all times and, in the two hours we actually stayed, we saw four that weren't. One was staying near us and started chasing us when we rode our bikes by. One was wandering about 4 campsites down from it's owner. We mentioned it to the person at the camp store before we were chased and she just shrugged it off.
The map is incorrect. It lists site numbers that don't exist and doesn't list some sites that supposedly do. We spent a fifteen minutes trying to find a non-existent site before going back to the camp office and getting assigned a new site. They acted like it was a new thing caused by maintenance but we just looked and saw a review from ten months ago saying the map was messed up then.
The description of the site we paid for was non electric tent with a sand tent pad. The site we got was on a hill(no actual flat spot) overgrown with weeds, no tent pad, a slanted picnic table, and no actual parking spot. You had to drive over a drainage ditch and park on the hill. If our car didn't have high clearance we wouldn't have made it. There was also a hole in the middle of the site. And the map showed that number site on the corner where another unmarked site was. Our originally assigned site was supposedly in the same group of sites, so it would've been similar. Also don't believe the claim that they're"large sites." Most of them are crammed together. There are a few that look decent sized and flat, but they want you to pay an extra$30 to pick your own site.
We didn't even look in the bathrooms.
We left after two hours. Definitely a waste of$60+ dollars.
Next time we'll go over to the Brunswick Family campground. Their owners are lovely people who care about their customers.
Adam and Suzanne B.GuideGreenbrier State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Beautiful setting
It is NOT closed for 2026! Spent the weekend here as it is only an hour from home. There are 4 large camping loops. Only loop C- cedar has electric. None of the loops have water hookups but all have spigots to fill your rig. There are also 3 fill stations at check in (which we missed). The campground is on a hill and the loop roads are narrow, hilly, and winding. We had no trouble with our 23 ft TT and saw some bigger rigs. There are some tight angles to get into a few sites. But, once you are in, the sites are spacious and mostly private. It is wooded without feeling overgrown. Loop D has some sites that are good buddy campsites. There are many hiking trails and a lovely lake. The only bad thing are the dated bathhouses. Mostly clean but there are only 2 showers for each fenced for each loop and they were yucky enough that we showered at our rig. It was busy but pretty quiet. It’s close to I-70
Guide to Columbia
Camping opportunities around Columbia, Maryland span from natural state parks to full-service private campgrounds within 35 miles of the city. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with average temperatures between 50-75°F. Weekend campgrounds typically reach capacity between May and September, requiring reservations weeks in advance.
What to do
Hiking options: At Little Bennett Campground, extensive nature trails run throughout the park for all skill levels. One camper noted, "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly."
Fishing access: Ramblin' Pines offers on-site fishing in their well-stocked pond. As one visitor mentioned, "The place was nice, lots for kids to do, plenty of shaded spots! Nice pool... they even allowed us to store the camper while we took a cruise out of Baltimore!"
Water activities: At Lake Fairfax Campground, families can enjoy multiple water-based activities beyond just the campground. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too); wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat), skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground, fishing, & canoeing)," shares one reviewer.
Outdoor playgrounds: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area features both traditional and natural playgrounds for children. A reviewer explains, "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. I've attached photos from the 'natural playground' aka, large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it."
What campers like
Urban escape proximity: Greenbelt Park Campground provides a forested retreat while being minutes from DC. A camper noted, "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground... There is a dump station and water available at spickets throughout the campground."
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the separation between sites at Little Bennett Campground. A reviewer highlighted, "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup. D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C& E are tents only."
Year-round options: Unlike seasonal state parks, Ramblin' Pines remains open throughout the winter months. One visitor simply stated, "Open all year" and "Clean," making it a reliable option when state parks close for the season.
Shower facilities: Clean bathhouses are consistently mentioned in reviews of the Washington DC/Capitol KOA. A visitor reported, "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. We loved it," highlighting amenities including "50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer, Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially on weekends. At Cherry Hill Park, a reviewer advised, "Expensive... Gravel pad." But they also praised the "On-site camp store, On-site bus shuttle, Gated" security.
Aircraft noise: Several campgrounds in the region experience regular airplane noise due to proximity to major airports. At Greenbelt Park, one camper mentioned, "You can barely hear the traffic from the road outside the park," though others note the air traffic is more noticeable.
Site leveling challenges: At Lake Fairfax Campground, site selection matters for equipment setup. A camper warned, "The outer loop campsites are easily more level than the center loop. If leveling perfectly is a concern you may want to call ahead and ask before committing to the inner loop."
Limited hookups: State parks typically offer fewer amenities than private campgrounds. At Hollofield Area Campground, a visitor explained, "There is only 20/30amp electricity and NO water or sewer- although there was a dump and a place to fill your water tank. No washer or dryers."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule extra time for on-site activities at family-oriented campgrounds. At Washington DC/Capitol KOA, a reviewer recommended, "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."
Nature programs: Some campgrounds offer ranger-led activities. At Patapsco Valley State Park, campers mention seasonal programs, with one noting, "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."
Splash zones: During summer months, water features provide cooling recreation. One visitor to Lake Fairfax mentioned, "We enjoyed the water park immensely. Ten of us in total with kids ranging from 18 months old to 13 years old. Everyone enjoyed the water park and the time we spent there. Additional fee for access to the water park."
Tips from RVers
Limited connections: At Hollofield Area Campground, RVers should prepare for partial hookups. A reviewer detailed, "The inner circle has electric but no water or sewer. The outer circle is primitive. There is a dump station."
Metro accessibility: Washington DC/Capitol KOA makes sightseeing convenient without driving into the city. A camper suggested, "The best park in the DC area! Very nice grounds, clean, and amenities galore! Plan and reserve you DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!"
Bridge clearance: RVs approaching some campgrounds must be mindful of height restrictions. For Hollofield Area Campground, a reviewer warned, "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)"
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any lakeside camping options near Columbia?
Are there any lakeside camping options near Columbia?
Yes, there are several lakeside camping options near Columbia that offer water recreation opportunities. Greenbrier State Park features a beautiful lake where you can paddle, fish, and swim. The park is close enough to Baltimore and DC for a quick getaway while offering lakeside camping with access to hiking and biking trails. Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area is another excellent option near Thurmont with lake access and family-friendly amenities including a playground for children. Though not directly on a lake, Brunswick Family Campground offers mesmerizing riverside camping with welcoming staff.
What are the best campgrounds near Columbia, MD?
What are the best campgrounds near Columbia, MD?
Columbia, MD offers access to several excellent camping options within a short drive. Greenbelt Park Campground provides a convenient escape with basic National Park Service amenities and is perfect for a quick getaway. For those seeking more natural surroundings, Patapsco Valley State Park Hollofield Area offers 70+ miles of hiking and biking trails along the Patapsco River. The park features multiple recreation areas, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Other notable options include Cedarville State Forest and Cherry Hill Park, each offering different amenities and environments for various camping preferences.
Where can I find spacious camping sites around Columbia?
Where can I find spacious camping sites around Columbia?
Owens Creek Campground in Catoctin Mountain Park offers peaceful, private sites with plenty of space between neighbors. Many sites back up to the creek and are nestled in full shade, providing a cool retreat even during hot summer months. Site #14 is particularly spacious with good privacy while remaining close to facilities. Cedarville State Forest also provides roomy sites in its family camping loop, with clean, well-maintained grounds and plenty of space for setting up camp. For RV campers seeking larger sites, Washington DC/Capitol KOA and Lake Fairfax Campground both offer big-rig friendly spaces with full hookups.
What cabin camping accommodations are available near Columbia, MD?
What cabin camping accommodations are available near Columbia, MD?
For cabin camping near Columbia, Ramblin' Pines in Woodbine offers cabin rentals with modern amenities in a wooded setting. The campground provides water hookups and is reservable in advance. Another excellent option is Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA, which features cabin accommodations within an hour's drive from Columbia. This KOA serves as an ideal base for exploring historic sites in the region while enjoying comfortable lodging. For those willing to travel a bit farther, Prince William Forest Park offers cabin options in a natural setting with clean facilities and access to Washington, DC less than an hour away.
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