c
cara S.
Scout
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.
Top-Rated Campgrounds near Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Campgrounds near Upper Marlboro, Maryland range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV parks with cabin options. Greenbelt Park Campground, located about 10 miles northwest of Upper Marlboro, provides tent and RV camping with amenities including drinking water, fire rings, and sanitary dump stations. Cherry Hill Park in College Park offers more extensive facilities with electric hookups, showers, and cabin accommodations. Cedarville State Forest, situated southwest of Upper Marlboro, features seasonal camping from April to October with both tent and RV sites available. The region includes several developed campgrounds operated by federal, state, and county agencies.
Camping in the Upper Marlboro area typically requires advance reservations, particularly during summer months when sites fill quickly. Most campgrounds maintain paved access roads suitable for standard vehicles, though some forest service roads may require higher clearance. Weather conditions remain mild through much of the camping season, with higher humidity during summer months. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with stronger coverage at campgrounds closer to urban areas. Permit requirements and stay limits vary by location, with most state parks limiting stays to 14 consecutive days. A visitor noted that "Greenbelt campground is a fairly nice, bare bones NPS campground. Rangers come around regularly to check on things and every one we interacted with was extremely friendly."
Several campgrounds in the area feature proximity to water recreation opportunities. Patuxent River access points provide fishing and kayaking options near some camping areas. Campers report high satisfaction with sites that balance natural settings with convenient access to Washington DC attractions. Louise F. Cosca Regional Park receives positive reviews for its clean facilities and water hookups at each site. According to one review, "This campground is about 25 sites. Only 5 sites have electric but all 25 sites have water hookup." Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with those closer to highways and urban areas experiencing more ambient sound. Wildlife sightings, particularly deer and various bird species, are commonly mentioned in reviews of the more wooded camping areas. Most developed campgrounds in the region maintain year-round or extended seasonal operations.
Best Camping Sites Near Upper Marlboro, Maryland (91)
1. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
32 ReviewsGreenbelt, MD14 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"
2. Cherry Hill Park
42 ReviewsBeltsville, MD18 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."
3. Cedarville State Forest
17 ReviewsBrandywine, MD12 milesWebsite+1 (301) 888-1410$30 / night
"We picked up the camping registration outside the office at the entrance, no need to speak with anyone. Then we just drove down to our campsite in the family camping loop."
"Forested campground with fairly lengthy but level (and thus beginner friendly) hiking just a short distance away from Washington, DC."
4. Adventure Bound Washington DC
9 ReviewsUpper Marlboro, MD3 milesWebsite+1 (443) 607-8609"We had a fantastic time our 1st time at #AdventureBoundCampingResort in Lothian, Maryland."
"This place is a good place to stay, the laundry room & showers are handy, the pool is large, & it's a 40 minute drive to the capital & the Smithsonian Mall or a 25 minute drive to the closest"
5. Pohick Bay Campground
37 ReviewsLorton, VA25 milesWebsite+1 (703) 339-6104$37 - $170 / night
"We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids."
"We enjoyed sitting around the campfire at night and walking the dogs down to the water. We were right next to a hiking trail that went down to the water and a beach area."
6. Washington DC / Capitol KOA
16 ReviewsMillersville, MD18 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."
"The location worked for my trip but not sure it’s that convenient to DC."
7. Louise F. Cosca Regional Park
4 ReviewsClinton, MD10 milesWebsite+1 (301) 868-1397$10 - $45 / night
"Site 24 and 25 are very close together but the other sites are at a distance however, 6 of the 25 sites are unleveled so tent camping is probably the only option."
"Close to town but far enough to enjoy yourself. Bathrooms are clean and have decent showers."
8. Lacy Oasis Campground
2 ReviewsChesapeake Beach, MD12 miles+1 (202) 270-5189$90 - $190 / night
"Whether you are an adult or a child, this place will have a positive effect on you. The owners are involved and designed this space with the visitors pleasure in mind."
10. Pine Tree Associates Nudist Club
2 ReviewsCrownsville, MD15 milesWebsite+1 (410) 841-6033$30 - $55 / night
"My wife and I were trying to find an RV location near the Annapolis city dock for a boat show and found Pine Tree Associates."
"Camping fees include access to a large outdoor pool, an indoor pool and a hot tub. There is room for tenting and campers."
Recent Camping Photos near Upper Marlboro, MD
200 Photos of 91 Upper Marlboro Campgrounds
Kristy R.
Adventure Bound Washington DC
Tye S.
Louise F. Cosca Regional Park
Joe C.
Cedarville State Forest
Candice N.
Lacy Oasis Campground
Roger W.
Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
Manager P.
Pinetree Associates
Vicki L.
Cherry Hill Park
Angie G.
Washington DC / Capitol KOA
Ally S.
Endeavor Point
Angie C.
Pohick Bay Campground
Emerson K.
Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway
Chrystal P.
Marsden Tract Group Campsite
Recent Reviews near Upper Marlboro, MD
597 Reviews of 91 Upper Marlboro Campgrounds
- 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
John M.
GuideMatoaka Beach Cottages
Fantastic location with winderful hosts
Private campground with cabins and tent sites. Tent sites are first come, first service so call ahead to ensure the space is available. The host family was very nice and easy to work with and talk to. Fire pits were at tent sites and past the office was beach access into Chesapeake Bay. There are trash bins and porta potty’s on sight that are all maintained and kept clean. Beautiful sights and plenty to do in the area with DC being roughly an 40-60 minutes away.
Beth B.
LegendPrince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park
Nice clean Campground
Stayed here for a week while working nearby. Easy to get to and set up. Office was closed when we arrived but arrival paperwork was posted outside office door. Even with busy road nearby, park was quiet and felt private. Sites were level and paved making setup easy. Sites had 1/2 site extra paved for vehicle with extra parking nearby. There was no litter in park, we observed a staff member daily making the rounds to keep everything clean. There was walking access into the park on wide private roads without traffic. With park access you are able to walk into national forest park from RV camp. National Forest visitor center close by, 1 exit away going south I95. Amenities in RV park included swimming pool, chess board with extra large pieces, playground and clean bath house. Firewood and ice on site.
- CCaitlin R.Scout
Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
Great Campground
Our family loved this campground. It was entirely wooded with plenty of shade, sites were close but separated enough to feel like you were in your own site. Our kids and others rode their bikes around the loop all weekend long. Bathrooms could have been a little cleaner and all the entrances except one were closed, but that’s what happens when you cut budgets for public lands.
Ashley T.TravelerGoose Bay Marina
Jeepers Creepers meets Catalina Wine Mixer
When we first arrived it was late (we are either late or not coming as always!) the cut down tobacco fields and long dark woods surrounded the entrance into this campground and marina… to be honest I was scared and cried and my husband thought I was ridiculous and reminded me I will love it tomorrow… welp he knows me! All the boat storage and walking around it so fun looking at all the boat names… they are remodeling the bathhouses now they look nice so far on the inside. Everyone is working really hard a staying busy tending to the boats or landscaping or docks… Vicki is super friendly she works practically everyday… but hopefully one day she will trust someone enough to delegate her duties to…
Thiru Moorthy G.ScoutBull Run Regional Park
⭐ 1-Star Review – Shockingly Rude, Misleading, and Embarrassing Experience
I am writing this review because what happened to me at Bull Run Regional Park Campground was not just inconvenient—it was humiliating, unprofessional, and completely avoidable.
I camp in my Tesla. I have already stayed at this exact campground before with no issue. Their online reservation system allowed me to book again—no warnings, no restrictions, nothing to indicate a problem. So I drove all the way from North Carolina to Virginia trusting that everything was fine.
When I arrived to check in, the office staff was literally handing me the paperwork. Out of nowhere, a ranger barged in and bluntly told me: “You cannot camp in a Tesla. You need a separate rig.”
His tone was rude, dismissive, and made me feel like I was doing something dirty or cheap. There was zero respect, zero empathy—just instant judgment. I felt like I was being treated as if I was trying to sneak in or break rules, even though they allowed the booking and accepted my reservation.
If they have such a rule, why wasn’t I notified during booking? Why was I allowed to stay the first time? Why let me drive for hours only to embarrass me at the check-in counter?
The office employee even tried to defend me, but he couldn’t convince the ranger. Instead, they told me I could not stay and promised an immediate refund.
After a long drive, being spoken to like that was extremely disappointing. I’ve camped all over North Carolina and never been treated with such disrespect. Camping in a Tesla is clean, quiet, zero-emission, and safe, yet I was made to feel like I didn’t belong.
To make matters worse, it has now been seven days and not a single dollar of the refund has appeared. When I called, the office representative didn’t even ask for my reservation details and seemed completely clueless. She first said she couldn’t do anything, then suddenly changed her story and said she would “leave a note.” When I asked to speak with someone who could actually help, she put me on hold and suddenly claimed the manager had “just refunded” me and that I would see the money in two business days.
After everything that happened, it felt like another layer of indifference and incompetence.
This entire experience—from the rude ranger to the unprofessional refund handling—left me feeling disrespected and upset. For a campground that charges over $75 a night after fees and taxes, the treatment I received was unacceptable.
Guests deserve honesty, clear communication, and basic respect.
- aamanda A.Scout
Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
Great Campsite!
The campground is well maintained. The facilities were clean, and the other campers were friendly. There was plenty of firewood (fallen tree limbs and branches on the ground to use. Overall we had a great time!
Vidalia S.LegendColes Point Marina
Marina on the Potomac
We kept our boat here, so it was no problem for us to park our van for free. But they do have lovely campsites, with toilets, showers, water, pump out, electric, and trash, right on the Potomac River. They allow tent, camping and RVs and have several cottages. Price varies depending on size and services. Tents are $20 a night. The only problem, or maybe it's an advantage, is that it is a long way to anything else. Small store onsight. Will recieve and hold packages. Great accommodating and friendly staff.
Guide to Upper Marlboro
Camping sites near Upper Marlboro, Maryland sit in the Atlantic coastal plain with elevations around 250 feet above sea level. The area has higher humidity during summer months with temperatures averaging 85-90°F from June through August. The camping season typically runs April through October at most sites, though several campgrounds operate year-round with limited winter amenities.
What to do
Trail exploration: Cedarville State Forest offers multiple trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "There are decent trails to hike here too. There is a sacrifice of space here- I'd like to see it expand a bit, as the campground can fill quickly," notes Bill G. The brown trail provides an accessible walking option for families.
Metro access to DC monuments: Greenbelt Park Campground serves as a practical base for visiting Washington DC. "The other great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods. Can't beat the close proximity to DC," says one reviewer. The green line metro from nearby stations takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the National Mall.
Water recreation: Patuxent River access points near Pohick Bay Campground provide boating options. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," notes Anne K. The campground maintains boat rental facilities a short walk from camping areas during peak season.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Louise F. Cosca Regional Park provides economical camping near urban areas. "This campground is about 25 sites. Only 5 sites have electric (2, 5, 18, 24, 25) but all 25 sites have water hookup," explains Tye S. Sites cost approximately $20 for non-residents, less for Maryland residents.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms rank high in camper satisfaction. "Clean place and very quiet," reports Erwin S. about Greenbelt Park. Another reviewer notes: "Sites were well-maintained, including lavatories. Plenty of tree cover."
Urban escape experience: Campers value the contrast between natural settings and proximity to metropolitan areas. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," reports Becky about Greenbelt. Many campers use sites as convenient bases for day trips to Washington DC, Baltimore, and Annapolis.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking through Recreation.gov or park-specific systems. "Reserve online - this is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online," advises Crystal C. about Greenbelt Park.
Campground rules vary significantly: Regulations differ between sites regarding alcohol, pets, and hanging items from trees. "No hanging things from trees. Even if you love a hammock you cannot hang them at this park on the trees," notes one Greenbelt Park reviewer.
Seasonal considerations: Cedarville State Forest operates only from April through October with specific pest concerns. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," advises Ben J. Mosquitos can be problematic during summer months, particularly after rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Cherry Hill Park offers extensive water recreation. "Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer, Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," notes Beth R. The splash pad provides an alternative to pool swimming for younger children.
Playground proximity: When booking sites, consider location relative to play areas. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," explains Ben G. about Pohick Bay. Sites backing to recreational areas benefit from convenience but may experience more noise.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule early morning or dusk walks for optimal wildlife sightings. "Every morning birds and squirrels," reports one camper. Deer sightings are common throughout the area, particularly at dawn and dusk in less developed camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds have tight turns and narrow roads. "Driveways are all very narrow. Most have too much tree cover for solar or starlink, but some sites are more open," notes Laura M. about Greenbelt Park.
Site selection considerations: Adventure Bound Washington DC offers varying site quality. "Sites vary in levelness, some are fairly level and some are on a mini hill," notes one reviewer. Calling ahead to request specific sites can improve your camping experience, especially for larger rigs.
Utility connections: "The water fill was a little annoying in that there's a handle you have to hold down the whole time, but we used a rock to prop the handle down," reports a Greenbelt Park visitor. Bringing connection adapters and stabilizing tools can help overcome common hookup challenges at older campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any RV parks or RV-friendly campgrounds in Upper Marlboro?
Are there any RV parks or RV-friendly campgrounds in Upper Marlboro?
Cherry Hill Park is a highly-rated RV park near Upper Marlboro with excellent amenities, clean facilities, and staff that provide orientation to Washington DC attractions. The park is conveniently located about 6 miles from the Metrorail station near the University of Maryland. Prince William Forest RV Campground offers a snug setting with clean bathrooms and a pool, located less than an hour from DC. For military personnel, Andrews AFB Military FamCamp provides big-rig-friendly sites. Washington DC/Capitol KOA near Millersville is another option with full hookups and accommodations for larger RVs.
What camping options are available in Upper Marlboro, Maryland?
What camping options are available in Upper Marlboro, Maryland?
The Upper Marlboro area offers several diverse camping options. Cedarville State Forest is a nearby public campground with family camping loops and mostly clean sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Louise F. Cosca Regional Park provides 25 campsites with water hookups at all sites and electric at 5 specific sites (2, 5, 18, 24, 25). For more private experiences, Button Farm offers two well-maintained sites that can accommodate up to 12 campers each with clean fire pit areas. Additional options in the broader region include Greenbelt Park Campground for basic NPS camping and Andrews AFB Military FamCamp for those with military access.
What are the best outdoor activities near Upper Marlboro campgrounds?
What are the best outdoor activities near Upper Marlboro campgrounds?
The Upper Marlboro area offers excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. At Fairfax County Burke Lake Park, you can enjoy fishing, boat rentals, a 5-mile paved walking path around the lake, frisbee golf, and a regular golf course. There's also a fantastic playground, carousel, and kiddy train. Tuckahoe State Park Campground on Maryland's Eastern Shore provides opportunities for kayaking on the lake and is close to the Chesapeake Bay for water activities. The region also features hiking along the C&O Canal towpath from Swains Lock, exploring the extensive trails at Patapsco Valley State Park, and accessing Washington DC's monuments and museums via nearby Metro stations.
Keep Exploring