Recreational camping options near Chesapeake Beach, Maryland extend across several counties within a 30-mile radius, offering varied terrain from waterfront locations along the Chesapeake Bay to forested settings inland. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with temperatures between 55-75°F. Most campgrounds in this region sit at low elevations under 200 feet above sea level, creating flat, accessible terrain for camping setups.
What to do
Water activities at Point Lookout: 1 Acre campground offers convenient access to kayaking with its own launch point. "The 1 Acre Campground is a unique spot near the river and boat launch that offers 50AMP and sewer hookups for a convenient stay," notes a visitor.
Historic site exploration: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp provides access to numerous historical attractions. "This campground is abord Fort Belvoir, an US Army base in Northern, VA. It is very clean and there are many amenities close by. The outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river," explains one camper.
Nature hikes and wildlife viewing: Cedarville State Forest offers multiple trail options for day hiking. "We hiked the brown trail and it was a nice walk," reports one visitor. Another notes, "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates... Equestrian trails go deep into the woods if you want a longer trail."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Prince William Forest RV Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "This is a small facility that is well maintained. The staff is amazing. The showers are clean/hot and the playground is in very good condition," shares one reviewer.
Proximity to DC: Cherry Hill Park offers exceptional access to Washington DC. "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5," explains one camper. Another adds, "No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!"
Natural setting despite urban location: Many rv parks near Chesapeake Beach, Maryland offer surprising seclusion. "Very pretty area with lots of trails and overgrown roads to walk," notes a Cedarville visitor. Another camper appreciates the "Moderate privacy and space, especially considering how close it is to DC."
What you should know
Military campground access: Several options require credentials. "You need military credentials," notes a reviewer about Fort Belvoir. Similarly, Annapolis FamCamp is described as a "Military campground. Very spartan but great location."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds experience high humidity and insect activity during summer months. "Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it!" warns a Cedarville visitor. Another cautions, "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain affects several campgrounds. A Fort Belvoir visitor notes, "Good site, secure location, decent facilities with solid WiFi. Pier within walking distance. Good location, tho our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Thousand Trails Harbor View offers numerous family activities. "The pool is a nice size and includes a kiddie pool. There is a playground with lots of picnic tables and a putt putt (small fee) that's is close. There is a basketball court and nice paved roads to ride bikes on."
Educational opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide learning experiences. "DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," mentions a Fort Belvoir camper. Another visitor notes proximity to "George Washington's birthplace" near Harbor View.
Safety considerations: Several campgrounds offer secure environments. "Everybody was super friendly and we felt very comfortable letting our kids go over to the playground by themselves," reports a Harbor View visitor. Cherry Hill Park is described as "gated" by another camper, adding to family security.
Tips from RVers
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies significantly between rv parks in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland and surrounding areas. "I work full-time remote and the Verizon service was perfect with our hotspot," explains a Harbor View visitor. Prince William Forest campers report: "Att coverage is good" from one visitor, while another notes "I can confirm Verizon and Google fi have great service."
Site selection strategy: Many campgrounds have specific sites worth requesting. At Harbor View, "The site next to ours had perfect hammock trees too!" 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."
Utility hookups: Electric service varies between locations. Camp Meade RV Park provides year-round sites with 50-amp electrical service, while some campgrounds offer limited services. At Harbor View, "Would give it 4 stars for the hookups and friendly staff but we were welcomed to our site with pile of dog poop that had been left there. Gravel site pad could definitely use some maintenance."
