Camping sites near Perry Hall, Maryland sit within a transitional zone where the Piedmont meets the Coastal Plain, with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with humidity levels typically highest in summer months when temperatures average 85-90°F. Many campgrounds in the area feature clay or loam soil types which drain moderately well but can become muddy during the frequent summer thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Susquehanna State Park Campground offers varied fishing spots including a small pond and river access. "There is a little fishing pond there, which my husband and daughter enjoyed. We hiked back to the campground from here, which was a nice easy-to-moderate trail," shares a camper named Jen V. The park also features creek access with clear water where you can spot fish.
Trail exploration: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hollofield Area provides direct trail access from campsites. "We enjoyed hiking the trails directly from our campsite that led us down to the Patapsco River. There is a lot of history associated with the River and the area. You can even swim in this river," notes the Travyl Couple. Many trails are rated easy to moderate with some connecting to historic sites.
Water recreation: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina provides immediate water access. "Beautiful waterfront sites and good location right off 95. Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks," reports Casey L. Kayak rentals are available at some locations, and boating permits aren't required on many of the smaller bodies of water in the region.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Campers appreciate the well-designed sites at Ramblin' Pines. "Nice large sites with friendly staff. Lots of free activities for children and it's close to home," shares Christopher M. The campground features numerous mature trees providing natural shade and privacy barriers between many sites.
Access to urban amenities: Many campers value the convenient location of camping options. At Cherry Hill Park, visitors note the urban convenience: "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." The campground also offers "mini golf, two pools, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early and late."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Perry Hall maintain good standards for bathrooms and common areas. Codorus State Park Campground receives praise for its "Paved sites, modern, clean bathrooms" according to Mike C. Most public facilities undergo daily cleaning, with shower facilities typically available from 6am to 10pm at established campgrounds.
What you should know
Tent pad considerations: Many campgrounds have specific areas designated for tents that may present challenges. At Washington DC / Capitol KOA, one camper reported, "Camp site wasn't level at all. I was actually kind of worried that it would slide into the woods." Bringing extra padding and alternative staking methods is advisable as crushed stone is common.
Weather preparedness: Summer storms can develop quickly in the region. The Travyl Couple advises when camping at Patapsco Valley State Park, "Be sure to bring/download maps" as cell service can be spotty during storms. Flash flooding occurs occasionally in low-lying areas, so camping on higher ground is recommended during rainy seasons.
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. Some campgrounds have strict check-in policies as one visitor discovered at Patapsco Valley: "We arrived at 1am, hadn't made a reservation, and it was closed and the gates locked. No where on the website does it say it's closed."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers extensive activities for children. Brian S. mentions, "This campground has lots to offer they have upgraded any of the activities such as miniature golf and the pool area looks great." Many family-oriented campgrounds feature scheduled weekend activities during summer months.
Natural play areas: Some parks offer alternative play spaces beyond traditional playgrounds. Jennifer S. describes Patapsco Valley State Park: "There is a 'natural' playground in the loop, and then if you drive down further to the park entrance, there is a large playground for the kids. I've attached photos from the 'natural playground' aka, large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping near Perry Hall provides chances to observe local fauna. At Elk Neck State Park Campground, visitors report, "We saw bald eagles and great blue heron." Morning and evening hours (6-8am and 7-9pm) typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, with many campgrounds providing information on local species.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Elk Neck State Park Campground, RVers should "pay close attention to the lengths specified. The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped. Long rigs will have issues in a few of the sites," warns David G. Many campgrounds offer site-specific photos online to help with selection.
Utility considerations: Full hookups aren't universal at campgrounds near Perry Hall. Laure D. notes about Elk Neck, "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November." Winter campers should inquire about winterized water systems before booking.
Privacy factors: Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds. At Cherry Hill Park, one reviewer observed, "The sites are pretty close together but not right on top of each other." Most campgrounds with pull-through sites offer less privacy than back-in sites, which often back to trees or natural barriers.
