Best Campgrounds near Lothian, MD

Camping near Lothian, Maryland, offers a mix of outdoor fun and easy access to the city. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Explore the C&O Canal: The Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite is right along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. Campers love the scenic views and the chance to hike or bike along the towpath. One reviewer said, "If I lived in Washington DC, this is where I would ride my bike to every weekend."
• Visit Historic Sites: The Smallwood State Park Campground is close to historical landmarks. A visitor mentioned, "There are nice trails, water sports available, and historic landmarks."
• Fishing and Boating: At Smallwood State Park, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper shared, "There was a nice fishing pier and the Generals Trail which my son loved."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers. A reviewer at Pohick Bay Campground noted, "The bathrooms were cleaner than any other campground we have stayed in."
• Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. One visitor at the Washington DC / Capitol KOA said, "The staff was very friendly, the grounds were clean and well maintained."
• Community Feel: Campers enjoy the sense of community at places like Cherry Hill Park. A reviewer remarked, "There is a generally good sense of community, which is lucky because of how close together the sites are."

What you should know

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or activities. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground mentioned, "This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7."
• Site Proximity: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Hollofield Area Campground noted, "The sites are situated quite close to one another."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Greenbelt Park Campground, have fewer amenities. A reviewer said, "There is not a ton to do within the park itself."

Tips for camping with families

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. At Cherry Hill Park, one parent mentioned, "There is also plenty to do for the kids, like Tractor Ride through the Campground."
• Plan for Noise: If your family is sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds that are further from busy roads. A camper at Patapsco Valley State Park said, "You’d think it would be noisy with all the traffic through-ways surrounding it. But, was quiet with just a hint of traffic noise."
• Bring Bikes: Many campgrounds have bike trails. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground suggested, "Bring bikes. Long bike trail along road."

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "We visited Cherry Hill Park Campground in a Class A Motorhome and while it was tight, we fit no problem."
• Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Adventure Bound Washington DC offer full hookups, which many RVers appreciate. One camper noted, "Full hookups at most sites."
• Avoid Late Arrivals: Arriving after dark can be tricky. A visitor at Adventure Bound Washington DC warned, "Do not try and come in after dark. Very tight and very dark."

Camping near Lothian, Maryland, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a cozy spot.