Best Campgrounds near Patuxent River, MD

State parks and forests surrounding the Patuxent River in Maryland provide a mix of camping experiences within proximity to both natural attractions and urban amenities. Cedarville State Forest offers tent and RV sites with electric hookups from April through October, featuring wooded surroundings and maintained trails. Smaller private campgrounds like Final-Lee Here and Lacy Oasis provide more intimate settings with just 3-6 sites each, often including amenities like fire rings and picnic tables. Westmoreland State Park Campground, though across the Virginia border, remains a popular option with full-hookup sites and access to the Potomac River. Most campgrounds in the region maintain a balance between natural settings and accessibility to Washington DC, making them practical bases for both outdoor recreation and urban exploration.

Camping conditions vary significantly with the seasons, with many campgrounds experiencing drainage issues during wet periods. As one camper at Goose Creek Recreation Area noted, "Rained while we were there and the ground was very saturate so the puddles were quite large." Mosquitoes present a serious challenge in summer months, particularly at sites near standing water. A visitor to Cedarville State Forest reported, "We tried fans, tiki torches, and many deet-free or light deet products before having to buy 100% deet so we could be outside." Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically closing from late fall through early spring. Reservations are essential during summer weekends, especially for sites with hookups. Aircraft noise from nearby military installations is commonly mentioned in reviews, affecting the wilderness experience at otherwise peaceful locations.

Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the Patuxent River area, with fishing opportunities available at several locations. Boat-in camping is possible at Endeavor Point and several other sites, allowing for unique water-based approaches. Many campgrounds feature proximity to trails for hiking and biking, though trail conditions can deteriorate after rainfall. Families appreciate the playgrounds and recreational facilities at larger campgrounds, while those seeking solitude might prefer smaller, less developed options. The region's camping experience is characterized by its dual nature: natural settings with water access and wooded sites, yet proximity to urban areas and occasional aircraft noise. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, making these campgrounds suitable for those needing to stay connected.

Best Camping Sites Near Patuxent River, Maryland (78)

    1. Cedarville State Forest

    17 Reviews
    Brandywine, MD
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 888-1410

    $30 / night

    "We picked up the camping registration outside the office at the entrance, no need to speak with anyone. Then we just drove down to our campsite in the family camping loop."

    "Forested campground with fairly lengthy but level (and thus beginner friendly) hiking just a short distance away from Washington, DC."

    2. Endeavor Point

    5 Reviews
    Patuxent River, MD
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (443) 684-7666

    $55 - $95 / night

    3. Westmoreland State Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Montross, VA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (804) 493-8821

    "The sites we have stayed at have all been super clean and close to bathrooms and water. They include a fire ring, picnic table and a hook for your trash. The bathrooms are clean and have hot showers."

    "The park is well off the beaten path, but has plenty of historic and other attractions near by."

    4. Breezy Point Beach

    5 Reviews
    Chesapeake Beach, MD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 535-0259

    $60 - $70 / night

    "There is additional space behind each site leading onto the beach that houses a table and fire ring. It feels like each site has loads of room out to the beach."

    5. Matoaka Beach Cottages

    2 Reviews
    St. Leonard, MD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 586-0269

    "I just showed up and got a perfect camp spot with a view of the sunrise and access to the private beach."

    6. Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping

    5 Reviews
    Lusby, MD
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 432-2267

    "It is a very nice walk about 2 miles to the beach where you can hunt for fossils. The beach has gotten smaller over the years however the trail has gotten much better."

    "Also right off the parking lot is a little fishing pond which leads you to the main trail to get down to the beach which is about a mile - a mile and 1/2."

    7. Final-Lee Here

    1 Review
    Huntingtown, MD
    9 miles
    +1 (410) 414-3100

    $40 / night

    "CAMPGROUND REVIEW: Nestled within the beautiful greenery of Huntingtown, Maryland, this campground offers heart, scenery, and access to numerous adventures."

    8. Pohick Bay Campground

    39 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 339-6104

    $37 - $170 / night

    "We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids."

    "We enjoyed sitting around the campfire at night and walking the dogs down to the water. We were right next to a hiking trail that went down to the water and a beach area."

    9. Lacy Oasis Campground

    2 Reviews
    Chesapeake Beach, MD
    13 miles
    +1 (202) 270-5189

    $90 - $190 / night

    "Whether you are an adult or a child, this place will have a positive effect on you. The owners are involved and designed this space with the visitors pleasure in mind."

    10. Patuxent Camp Sites

    1 Review
    Broomes Island, MD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 586-9880
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Showing results 1-10 of 78 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Patuxent River, MD

491 Reviews of 78 Patuxent River Campgrounds



Guide to Patuxent River

Camping near the Patuxent River, Maryland, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore Fossil Beach: A short hike from Westmoreland State Park Campground leads you to a beach known for fossil hunting. One visitor shared, "It is a very nice walk about 2 miles to the beach where you can hunt for fossils."
  • Visit Historical Sites: The area is rich in history. Campers at Point Lookout State Park can explore nearby attractions like the Civil War Museum. A reviewer noted, "There’s a civil war museum and nature center nearby."
  • Enjoy Water Activities: Many campgrounds, like Smallwood State Park Campground, offer access to boating and fishing. One camper mentioned, "Had a great time...with camping you were granted boat launching access."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground remarked, "The bathrooms were cleaner than any other campground we have stayed in."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A reviewer at Adventure Bound Washington DC said, "The staff is super friendly!"
  • Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views. One visitor at Leesylvania State Park Campground described it as "so pretty...directly on Potomac River."

What you should know

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at Cedarville State Forest mentioned, "Planes do occasionally fly over the area," which might be bothersome for light sleepers.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Greenbelt Park Campground noted, "There’s not a ton to do within the park itself."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Harbor View RV and Camping Resort advised, "Do not try and come in after dark."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds. One family at Westmoreland State Park Campground enjoyed, "Great playground with plenty of other kids."
  • Plan for Nature Walks: Many campgrounds have trails suitable for young children. A visitor at Calvert Cliffs State Park said, "The trail now is very well marked, clean."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy during hikes. A camper at Cedarville State Forest suggested, "Bring your own starters and kindling."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. A reviewer at Greenbelt Park Campground noted, "The driveways are all very narrow."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A camper at Adventure Bound Washington DC appreciated, "Full hookups at most sites."
  • Arrive Early: To avoid crowds, try to get there early. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground mentioned, "The check-in at the camp store is crowded."

Camping near the Patuxent River, Maryland, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Patuxent River, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Patuxent River, MD is Cedarville State Forest with a 3.8-star rating from 17 reviews.

What parks are near Patuxent River, MD?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Patuxent River, MD that allow camping, notably Fort Washington Park and George Washington Memorial Parkway.