Camping options near Hanover, Maryland include state parks, regional facilities, and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Seasonal considerations impact availability, with most campgrounds operating at reduced capacity between November and March due to Maryland's average winter temperatures in the 30-40°F range. Several campgrounds in the region can't accommodate RVs larger than 40 feet on certain loops due to tight turning radiuses and low-hanging branches.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 3-acre pond at Ramblin' Pines with catch-and-release areas for bass and bluegill. "The creek was really nice. Sites were good size and ours had a patio," notes a camper who enjoyed the water access. The pond is stocked seasonally and doesn't require a Maryland fishing license.
Hiking trails: Over 15 miles of marked paths at Little Bennett Campground ranging from easy 1-mile loops to more challenging 5-mile routes. "There is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly," mentions one visitor. Trail maps are available at the entrance station for $1.
Water activities: Boat rentals at Susquehanna State Park from April through October, including kayaks ($15/hour) and canoes ($20/hour). A camper shares: "We hiked over a bridge and stream which was full of fish I could see! Turned around after I got to the Susquehanna itself. The river was running pretty high and fast, pretty cool to see."
Historical sites: Civil War landmarks near Bull Run Regional Park including preserved battlefield areas within 20 minutes of the campground. "There are miles of trails and my grandkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," notes a visitor who took advantage of the historical programs.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites at Codorus State Park Campground offer substantial spacing. "We got in 132, which was huge and had nice open flat areas for the tent, there were actually three spots that we could have put it on, and lots of trees to hang our hammocks," explains a satisfied camper. Sites in the wooded sections provide the most seclusion.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathhouses at Pohick Bay Campground with hot showers and flushing toilets. "The bathhouse is standard but also has laundry and an outdoor dish washing station. The campground was quiet which is nice," reports a visitor. Most bathhouses are cleaned twice daily during peak season.
Family-friendly amenities: Dedicated children's activities at Camp Meade RV Park with structured weekend programs. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post," mentions a military family who stayed there.
Natural surroundings: Mature forest setting with wildlife viewing opportunities at Washington DC/Capitol KOA. "We only spent three nights there. Staff was friendly and helpful with any information we needed. Nice play ground for the kids. They also really enjoyed the jumping pillow," shares a camper describing the environment.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds within 30 miles of Hanover require bookings 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends. At Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, "advance reservations are a must — this place books up fast!" according to a regular visitor.
Seasonal operations: Limited winter camping options with Susquehanna State Park closed from November through March. "This park has a lot that you can do or just relax by the fire. Perfect for families," mentions a camper who visited during peak season.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience periodic noise from nearby highways or facilities. At Bull Run Regional Park, one camper notes: "The only drawback is that it is not quiet. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I-66 is not that far away."
Fee structures: Additional charges beyond base camping rates at several parks. A Codorus State Park visitor observed: "It was a shock we had to pay to swim when we camped there," highlighting the separate fee for pool access. Most campgrounds charge between $5-15 for firewood bundles.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near play areas at Cherry Hill Park for convenience with young children. "We stayed at site #3, it had a nice huge concrete pad and fire ring. We set-up our new tree tent behind the actual campsite and it worked perfectly," shares a family who found the arrangement ideal for keeping an eye on kids.
Swimming options: Dedicated children's splash areas at Washington DC/Capitol KOA with zero-entry sections for younger swimmers. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc)," notes a parent. Most water features operate 10am-7pm during summer.
Educational activities: Nature programs at Little Bennett Campground with weekend ranger talks designed for children ages 5-12. "They have a bouncing strawberry and the hikes. She was 3 or 4 at the time," remembers a grandparent who took their grandchild camping.
Weather contingencies: Indoor recreation halls at several campgrounds provide rainy-day alternatives. "We tent camped there with 2 other families memorial day weekend. It rained the entire time but we still had a blast," shares a Bull Run camper who didn't let weather ruin their trip.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bring additional leveling blocks for certain campgrounds near Hanover. A visitor to Bull Run notes: "Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that."
Utility connections: Full hookup availability varies significantly between campgrounds. At Codorus State Park, an RVer explains: "No water but the bath house was close and very clean," indicating the need to plan for water usage.
Maneuverability considerations: Some camping areas have tight access roads that challenge larger rigs. "Only came through for a weekend but the sites were well maintained, and felt separated enough to have some privacy," mentions a Little Bennett camper who appreciated the spacious layout despite navigation challenges.
Glamping close to Hanover, Maryland: For those seeking luxury camping experiences beyond standard RV setups, Pohick Bay Regional Park offers equipped sites. "We stayed in a cabin for 2 nights and had a great time," explains a visitor who chose premium accommodations over traditional camping.
