Equestrian camping near Hanover, Maryland typically requires traveling 30-60 minutes from the city center due to limited dedicated facilities in the immediate vicinity. The region experiences humid summers with average temperatures ranging from 85-95°F and moderate tick activity from May through September. Most camping options provide basic amenities while specialized equestrian facilities require advance planning and often booking weekdays for better site selection.
What to do
Trail riding along river systems: At Tuckahoe State Park Campground, riders can access 20 miles of trails open for biking and horseback riding. "Nearby is the Chesapeake bay with all its amenities... and access to the Tuckahoe River for fishing and kayaking," notes reviewer Bill G., who also mentions the opportunity "to see a great night sky if the clouds stay away."
Wildlife observation: Morning rides provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. According to Ben J. at Cedarville State Forest, "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates." The forest features "equestrian trails [that] go deep into the woods if you want a longer trail."
Battlefield exploration: Historical sites accessible by horseback exist within an hour's drive. The Artillery Ridge Campground offers guided tours on horseback. One visitor shared, "You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback," and another noted the campground "connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Many area campgrounds provide good tree coverage and separation between sites. At Cedarville State Forest, a camper reported, "Moderate privacy and space, especially considering how close it is to DC. There are some abandon camp loops around the open campground which makes for some cool walks with your dog."
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance at most facilities within driving distance of Hanover. "Bathrooms are located in the middle of each loop, and there are spigots on the loops with potable water," according to Mary S. at Tuckahoe State Park. Another reviewer at the same park noted, "The bathroom/showers are the cleanest I've ever seen, especially since we stayed in the hottest time of the year."
Water activities: Many campgrounds near Hanover offer fishing and non-motorized boating options. At Pohick Bay Campground, campers appreciate the diverse water recreation: "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K., while another visitor shared, "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!"
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Bring proper repellent and check daily, especially May through September. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," warns a camper at Cedarville State Forest. Another visitor at Tuckahoe noted, "We tend to use Tuckahoe as a way station while camping our way up and down the Bay."
Site limitations: Many campgrounds have size restrictions for larger rigs and trailers. Buck P. at Tuckahoe warned, "The web site does not say site 21 is extremely small. We have a 25' camper, and it barely fit, length and width were an issue. The firepit was about 3-4 feet from our door."
Seasonal concerns: Summer heat and humidity affect comfort levels at most locations. At Bull Run Regional Park, visitors report varied experiences: "Beautiful and quiet... very spacious sites and awesome views of the forest," while another noted, "State run park with many amenities. Park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds."
Tips for camping with families
Family programming: Several parks offer organized activities for children. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon... miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shared Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience but consider noise implications. At Pohick Bay Campground, a visitor mentioned, "This is definitely a family campground. So my activities for kids and places to run around. Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer."
Multiple bathhouse locations: Camp Meade RV Park offers clean facilities with convenient access. "Nice clean restrooms and showers. Friendly hostess and we had a nice shady spot, what was great with a heat of 94F," reported Rick V.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: Check amperage availability when booking. According to Nurse N. at Cedarville, "Site 6 was good but not for larger rigs. We have a pop up and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs. Site 5 or 7 wouldn't have that problem."
Leveling challenges: Many sites in the area require significant leveling equipment. A visitor at Camp Winery noted it's a "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too," providing a good base for exploration despite more rustic facilities.
Dump station features: Most campgrounds provide basic dump facilities with varying amenities. "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," shared Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest.
