Tent camping options near Kensington, Maryland extend well beyond the C&O Canal sites, with several additional primitive and established campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. The region sits at elevations between 200-400 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain from riverfront flatlands to wooded hillsides. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate conditions.
What to do
Water activities at Patapsco Valley State Park: Located within 30 minutes of Kensington, this park offers kayaking opportunities on the Patapsco River. According to one camper, "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 features multiple entrances with diverse trail options.
Historical exploration at Antietam Creek Campground: This campground provides easy access to nearby Antietam battlefield and historical sites. As one visitor noted, "It depends on what you're looking for—easy camping and proximity to Antietam and Harper's? Golden. Especially if you want to camp but also do site seeing and/or paddling in the area." The location serves as an excellent base for exploring Civil War history.
Aerial adventures near Sandy Spring: For active campers, The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring offers group camping combined with daytime challenges. A reviewer explains it's "Very convenient for before or after your time in the largest aerial challenge course in North America. Groups only- no individual campsites." Perfect for organized groups seeking both camping and daytime activities.
What campers like
Riverside camping experiences: The best tent camping near Kensington, Maryland often involves waterfront sites. At Antietam Creek Campground, one camper described their site: "I stayed at Site 11 which had its own path down to the Potomac River. It was quite steep for my bum knees and ankles, but I saw kids easily run up and down it. The Potomac is mostly flat with some 'swirlies' for experienced paddlers."
Multiple trail options: Campers appreciate the extensive trail networks near many campgrounds. At Patapsco Valley State Park, a visitor shared, "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."
Proximity to urban amenities: Tent campers value being close to towns while enjoying nature. One Antietam Creek visitor mentioned, "One can walk to Shepherdstown, WV for some fun. Antietam creek is very close by and is perfect for tubing or just enjoy the river & nature from your campsite!" This balance of wilderness and accessibility is a recurring theme in reviews.
What you should know
Site accessibility varies significantly: Many campgrounds require walking to reach your site. At Antietam Creek, "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." Plan accordingly with appropriate gear for transporting equipment.
Limited privacy at some locations: Several campgrounds feature open layouts. One camper at Antietam Creek observed, "This campground is not for those looking for silence and solitude. All the sites are very open and run along the multi-use trail. People are constantly walking, running, and biking by."
Seasonal crowds impact experience: Timing matters greatly for quality experiences. At Sandy Point State Park, reviewers warn, "Extremely over crowded in the summer. The park closes daily very early as it hits capacity. The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall." Consider off-season visits for more peaceful camping.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: Some parks offer excellent facilities for children. A visitor to Patapsco Valley State Park shared, "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." These amenities can keep younger campers engaged.
Consider cabin options for easier family trips: For families new to camping, cabins provide a comfortable introduction. At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, "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.'"
Weather preparation is essential: Rain can significantly impact camping conditions. One family noted, "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." Pack appropriate rain gear and consider site location.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near Kensington: True RV camping is restricted in the immediate area, with most sites being tent-only. The Marsden Tract Group Campsite specifically notes limitations: "Purchasers the camp site is beautiful secluded quiet wonderful if you're looking for that extreme outdoors a no civilization it's a good hike to get to the campsite there's no parking nearby no water no bathrooms or electricity."
Access constraints for larger vehicles: Roads to many campgrounds near Kensington have limited width and low clearance. Even at established sites like Patapsco Valley, reviewers mention "It's a bit odd getting here through a suburban neighborhood." Research routes carefully if bringing anything larger than a small trailer.
Consider day use with nearby full-hookup alternatives: Several reviewers suggest using parks for day activities while finding more accommodating overnight options. At Leesylvania State Park, a visitor noted, "Great day at the beach" while another suggested, "Good for a day use, parking is full most of the time but have a lot of space to park you may have to walk but you will find one spot."
