Tent camping near New Windsor, Maryland offers access to several sites within the Appalachian Mountains foothills, with elevations reaching 1,700 feet at some backcountry locations. The region experiences typical mid-Atlantic seasonal patterns with camping primarily available from April through October when average temperatures range between 55-85°F. Campsites in this area typically sit on either crushed stone pads or natural ground surfaces depending on the established or primitive nature of the facilities.
What to do
Hiking along historical trails: The Appalachian National Scenic Trail passes through the region, offering moderate-difficulty day hikes. "About a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private. No camp fires allowed. Short walk to cold natural spring for water. Short walk to Annapolis rock. Rock climbing available," notes CHRISTOPHER B.
Water recreation at Patapsco Valley: Patapsco Valley State Park offers kayaking opportunities on multiple water bodies. "Roland Lake in Baltimore County is a great place to kayak on the Patapsco River. Tons of wildlife, facilities, and amenities for you and your family. The park was clean and it had knowledgable staff," shares Anthony S.
Camping along river systems: The Antietam Creek Campground provides water-based recreation along the Potomac. "This is such a nice little spot right along the Potomac River. All sites are walk-in only, which means you park on the street, cross the bridge over the C&O and towpath, and then down a little hill to your site," explains Michelle N. "The Potomac is mostly flat with some 'swirlies' for experienced paddlers. I also saw some people tubing."
What campers like
Multiple park entrances: Patapsco Valley State Park's diverse access points appeal to campers seeking variety. "Patapsco Valley offers 6 different entrances. Each one provides several different trail heads and experiences. The trails we have been on are all pretty moderate to hard but offer beautiful waterfalls and river views," reports Angel G.
Backpacker-friendly facilities: Dahlgren Backpacker Campground provides welcome amenities for hikers. "This is a stop on the AT open only to multi-day backpackers. I've heard it is sometimes enforced. There is a basic, but clean, bathroom with showers. There is also a year-round water source (the bathroom closes in winter)," explains Sean M.
Nature encounters: Tent camping in the New Windsor area often includes wildlife viewing opportunities. "We had a nice stay overlooking the marsh. The small crabs were skittering around the campsite and birds perched in the marsh. The beach was nice and clean," shares Caleb S. about his Patapsco Valley experience.
What you should know
Tent pad challenges: Tent sites often have specific surface limitations. "The crushed stone at the sites isn't comfortable for tents, and they won't let you pitch it on the ground, so bring extra pads and alternative ways to secure the tent to the ground," advises Sean M. about Patapsco Valley.
Variable weather conditions: Rain can significantly impact your camping experience. "One negative was that when it rains it really flushes through the grounds. We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm and it was very wet even after the rain died down," reports Alexandra T.
Wildlife awareness: Some camping areas have potentially hazardous wildlife. "The view is great but you can't have a campfire due to restorations. Also, be careful for the copperheads that come warm up on the rocky overlook," warns Sy A. about Annapolis Rock Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Gathland State Park Campground and surrounding parks offer child-friendly amenities. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," notes Angel G.
Trail difficulty considerations: Assess trail conditions before bringing children. "The hike I did was not very long but was well worth it. The trail was well marked but there was some confusion at one point on where we were suppose to go. Luckily I had an app that kept me on trail," shares Anthony S.
Distance from vehicle: Many sites require walking from parking areas. "You have to park on the road and walk about 75 feet to your site. Not much traffic on that road and a trail with many cyclists and runners. It's great being on the water," explains Nick C. about Antietam Creek.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: For those seeking amenities between tent camping and RVs, consider cabin options. "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it,'" explains Sean M. about Patapsco Valley.
Park navigation challenges: Larger vehicles may find access difficult in some areas. "Very short drive in to Baltimore—around 30 minutes. Getting in to the park was a little difficult. We missed the entrance and had to turn around. Friends who were camping with us had the same problem," shares Gayle B.
Check-in timing: Be aware of strict timing rules at some parks. "This was also the first time we have ever had to wait till exactly 3pm to check in. So if you arrive early expect to wait until 3," advises Gabrielle E.
