Equestrian camping near Marbury, Maryland requires advance planning as dedicated facilities are limited. The area sits within the Chesapeake Bay watershed at elevations ranging from 100-250 feet above sea level. Seasonal considerations are important, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and high humidity making spring and fall more comfortable for outdoor activities.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: While dedicated equestrian camping is scarce, several parks in the broader region offer day-use horse trails. Cedarville State Forest has multiple trails including equestrian-friendly paths. A visitor notes, "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."
Disc golf: Pohick Bay Campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course about 15 miles from Marbury. One reviewer recommends, "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course."
Waterfront activities: The region offers multiple water recreation options during summer months. At Pohick Bay Campground, "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" is available according to campers.
Nature observation: The area supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at Pohick Bay noted, "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites." Cedarville State Forest visitors report seeing "a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates."
What campers like
Proximity to DC: Bull Run Regional Park provides camping options within commuting distance to the capital. One camper shared, "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Took me 25-30m to get there so you are far away from bustle of city but not so far that going in to enjoy the sights is a feat."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. A Cedarville State Forest visitor commented, "Bathrooms were clean, closed daily for cleaning between 1 pm - 3 pm. Two showers were included but didn't use it so not sure about pressure or heat."
Ranger services: On-site staff often provide additional assistance at area campgrounds. At Cedarville State Forest, "The ranger delivers firewood to your site within about 10-15 min of calling, which was very convenient. Cost was $5 for 8 logs."
Security: Military installations like Andrews AFB Military FamCamp offer secure camping environments. A camper noted the benefit of "not having to really worry about anything because you are securely on post."
What you should know
Bug preparation essential: Ticks and mosquitoes are prevalent in the region. A Cedarville State Forest camper warned, "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Limited availability: Campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. At Bull Run Regional Park, reservations are recommended and may require minimum stays. One camper noted, "Bull Run manages to goose you even more. There are occupancy AND transaction fees that really add up if you're only there a few nights. But the real kicker is a 2-night minimum stay. Even mid-week."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby facilities or transportation routes. At Cedarville, "It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times."
Weather preparedness: Summer storms can develop quickly in the region. One camper recounted, "We set up camp and ate dinner only to be hit by a tornado watch in the area. I spent most of the trip adjusting the water proofing so we stayed dry."
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Camp Meade RV Park and other regional campgrounds offer structured programs. At Bull Run, a family found "a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground."
Playground access: Consider campsite proximity to play areas. One Bull Run camper mentioned, "There's only one playground that's awkwardly located."
Water features: Many families appreciate water recreation options. A Pohick Bay visitor noted, "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," while another mentioned, "Water park is great."
Nature programs: Look for campgrounds offering educational activities. One Bull Run visitor described, "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Assess campsite terrain before setup. A Bull Run camper observed, "Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that."
Size limitations: Carefully match RV size to appropriate campgrounds. A Cedarville visitor cautioned, "The small loop here accommodates both tent and RVs, which is fine but some of these damn things are so huge, I have trouble believing they could wedge themselves here."
Dump station considerations: Evaluate facilities before arrival. At Cedarville, "They have a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower."
Military installation options: For those with access, bases provide alternatives. Camp Meade RV Park offers "nice clean restrooms and showers," but visitors must have military ID and reservations to access these facilities.
