Camping spots near Parkville, Maryland primarily concentrate along the Patapsco River valley, with elevation changes from 100-400 feet creating varied camping terrain. Many campsites sit on gentle slopes with hardwood forest cover that provides shade during summer months when temperatures commonly reach 85-90°F. Most campgrounds in the region maintain a rural character despite proximity to urban centers.
What to do
Explore historic structures: At Susquehanna State Park Campground, campers can visit a working grist mill and other historic buildings within the park. "There is a historic area in the park, with a working grist mill, mansion and other little buildings to view. Not really my thing, but was pretty neat. The views of the river are really nice from here," notes a visitor.
Kayak on local waterways: The region offers multiple paddling opportunities. "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," reports a camper from Patapsco Valley State Park.
Visit Turkey Point Lighthouse: Elk Neck State Park Campground offers access to this historic landmark. "Definitely drive to, and then hike to the lighthouse (open most weekends) the lighthouse and the view are definitely worth it," recommends a camper who found the experience worthwhile.
Explore Korean markets: Some campers venture to unique local shopping. From Hollofield Area Campground, "We really loved road biking to the nearby H Mart to have fun shopping and browsing their unique selection. This is a super large Korean store packed with fruits, vegetables, seafood and other food stuff that could put an American grocery store to shame."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers premium sites along the Bush River. "The daily waterfront sites are pricy but right on the water with great views. Some of the trailer sites are a tough back in but worth the trouble," reports a recent visitor who appreciated the setting.
Natural play spaces: Many campgrounds feature creative playgrounds. "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," writes a camper who visited with children.
Urban proximity with woodland feel: Campers appreciate the contrast between location and atmosphere. A reviewer at Hollofield Area Campground noted, "Being just barely off the beaten path, I wasn't expecting all too much from the one night stay over planned heading from New Jersey to Shenandoah in Virginia. I was surprised at the quiet, understated beauty of the forestry around."
Access to transportation: Some campgrounds offer direct transit access to nearby cities. "This is a budget conscious way to do so. And, when you are at your campsite, you really are in the middle of the woods," mentions a camper describing the convenience of visiting Baltimore from their campsite.
What you should know
Site drainage varies: Campground elevation affects drainage during storms. "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 a camper from Patapsco Valley State Park.
Tent pad availability: Susquehanna State Park Campground sites can present challenges for tent setup. "Our specific site was supposed to have a tent pad but there wasnt a spot cleared for our tent and we had to move the heavy picnic table so we weren't putting up our tent on top of the fire ring. We also had to use a paper plate to rake as many rocks and gravel from the site."
Seasonal bathroom maintenance: Facilities generally remain clean but can experience issues during peak times. A camper noted, "Bathhouse is clean but ran out of toilet paper often; they supposedly clean 3 times a day since COVID but we didn't see that happening on a regular schedule."
Check-in procedures vary: Some campgrounds maintain strict policies. A camper at Patapsco Valley State Park mentioned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cherry Hill Park offers extensive recreation options for children. "They have a pool, jump pillow, mini golf, fishing pond, barnyard with goats, and multiple playgrounds. I really like all the trees," notes a family who found plenty of activities.
Site selection for kid safety: Families should consider campground layout when booking. A camper at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm observed, "The pool through RV sites are in the centerfield and kind of exposed to the elements but you are right across from the pool and right across from an amazing playground."
Nature programs: Some parks offer educational activities for children. "The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground. It's the perfect little getaway from the city for camping, fishing and hiking," writes a parent who found activities suitable for their children.
Age restrictions: Some facilities have unexpected policies. A visitor to Ramblin' Pines observed, "I didnt like that non potty trained kids are not allowed to swim in their pool. Luckily we only have a 9 month old currently that isn't potty trained so she didn't care if she was in the pool or not but I could see where it would be a problem."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: Washington DC / Capitol KOA provides full-service sites for RVers. "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. We loved it. Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer," notes an RV camper who found the amenities worth the cost.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Parkville region require leveling equipment. "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 a camper at Elk Neck State Park.
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds remain open year-round. "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. Bathhouses were open with hot water," reports a late-season camper who appreciated the extended season.
Bridge height restrictions: Some campgrounds have access limitations. A visitor to Hollofield Area Campground cautions, "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)"
