Campsites near Lothian, Maryland range from primitive tent sites to full-facility RV parks within a 20-mile radius. The region sits along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay watershed at elevations generally under 200 feet, creating relatively flat terrain for camping. Most campgrounds stay open through October with a few year-round options, though summer humidity levels regularly exceed 80 percent from June through August.
What to do
Fossil hunting on beaches: The Chesapeake Bay shoreline offers prime shark tooth collecting opportunities at Breezy Point Beach. According to one visitor, "I collected shark teeth... 178 shark teeth to be exact 🦈" making it a popular activity for families.
Metro access to Washington DC: Greenbelt Park Campground provides convenient access to national attractions. "Take the METRO if you are going into the District. There are two stations very close to camp (Greenbelt and University Park). Rides vary depending on how far you are going but on average I spent about $10 per day on METRO versus $20-$40 on parking," advises one camper.
Hiking woodland trails: Cedarville State Forest offers several trail options through mixed hardwood forest. "There are decent trails to hike here too... There are some abandon camp loops around the open campground which makes for some cool walks with your dog. Equestrian trails go deep into the woods if you want a longer trail," notes one visitor.
What campers like
Urban forest escapes: Greenbelt Park Campground provides natural settings despite urban proximity. One camper explains, "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground... there are monthly programs at the campfire circle that I sometimes attend even when not camping here."
Waterfront camping access: Breezy Point Beach offers sites directly on the Chesapeake Bay. "The sites are backed right to the Chesapeake Bay and the view and access are priceless. The day-use folks are not allowed on the camping side of the beach... so, there's plenty of beach space and water space for campers," explains one visitor.
Small, secluded options: Lacy Oasis Campground provides a more intimate camping experience with just six primitive sites. A camper notes, "If you are a nature lover, a person who loves peace, serenity, and, tranquility, or just need some respite, Lacy Oasis is the place to be."
What you should know
Worker-oriented campgrounds: Several campgrounds near Lothian primarily serve as housing for working professionals. At Adventure Bound Washington DC, "People working in DC using the campground as their residence, leaving 5ish because of traffic to be encountered. Well hopped up diesel pickups, non-baffled Harley exhausts... 60% were long term residents of the campground."
Tick prevalence: Wooded campgrounds in the area require tick prevention measures. At Cedarville State Forest, "Lots and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Capacity limitations: Sandy Point State Park fills quickly during summer weekends. "The park closes daily very early as it hits capacity. The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall," according to one reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Washington DC / Capitol KOA provides extensive recreation options. "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."
Beach access with children: Breezy Point Beach offers protected swimming areas. "They have renovated the beach and per my friends, the fencing protecting the area is new, but needed."
Children's programming: Several campgrounds offer organized activities. At Greenbelt Park, "Rangers keep a close eye on things, and there are monthly programs at the campfire circle."
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Most RV sites in the region are developed but closely spaced. At Cherry Hill Park, "Sites are close and need service. Sandy dirt covered. They could add gravel or grass and a plant or two near the sewer pipes to help."
Navigation challenges: Tight turns and narrow roads can create access issues. At Adventure Bound Washington DC, one camper advised "Do not try and come in after dark. Very tight and very dark."
Leveling requirements: Cherry Hill Park provides premium sites with better leveling. "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."
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