Patuxent River, Maryland camping options sit along the state's largest tributary of the Chesapeake Bay, where tidal waters create unique shoreline habitats. The region experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers averaging 85-90°F and mild winters rarely dropping below freezing. Camping facilities throughout the area range from basic tent sites to full-service camping with modern amenities.
What to do
Fossil hunting excursions: Westmoreland State Park Campground provides access to shorelines where visitors can search for prehistoric shark teeth. "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night. We only have a small tent and some snacks. Lol but we are having an amazing time," reports Sara A. The park features a designated Fossil Beach where prehistoric remnants wash up regularly.
Outdoor water activities: At Pohick Bay Campground, campers can enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing. "Great regional park with lots to do - trails, biking, boating. Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure)," notes Kristen M. The campground provides access to water recreation without requiring lengthy travel to reach activity areas.
Nature trails exploration: Bull Run Regional Park offers extensive hiking opportunities through wooded areas. A camper mentioned, "We stayed at Bull Run Regional Campground on our visit to Washington DC. It was fall and the colors were gorgeous. The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground." The park maintains several miles of marked trails suitable for all ability levels.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Westmoreland State Park receives consistent praise for its waterfront locations. According to RL, "I LOVE this park. The tent sites are awesome and mine have always been pretty private feeling despite being somewhat near others. Bathhouses are always SO clean and heated in the winter." Sites along the water typically book months in advance during summer season.
Clean facilities: Cherry Hill Park maintains exceptionally clean restrooms and shower facilities. "Very nice grounds, clean, and amenities galore! The staff are nice here," says Jason E. The park employs daily cleaning protocols for all public facilities regardless of season.
Family-friendly activities: Bull Run Regional Park provides organized activities for children. One visitor shared, "Our family stayed here in a cabin on a long weekend trip to DC. This campground was full of stuff to do and we didn't even get to do a lot of it. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides." Most scheduled activities occur on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer camping near Patuxent River brings high humidity and temperatures. RL from Westmoreland State Park advises, "Oh - and check for ticks and bring your bug spray. Gotta love humid Virginia summers!" Afternoon thunderstorms occur regularly during summer months, requiring secure tent setups.
Site variations: Matoaka Beach Cottages offers both cabin rentals and tent sites with varying views. "We tent camped at Matoka Cabins and it was a beautiful Peaceful camping trip! Out spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves," notes Courtney K. Site selection significantly impacts the camping experience based on proximity to water.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, particularly for yurt camping near Patuxent River. "This is definitely a family campground. So my activities for kids and places to run around," mentions Anne K. about Pohick Bay. Weekend reservations often fill 2-3 months in advance during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Outdoor play spaces: Campgrounds like Cherry Hill Park provide designated play areas. Beth R. reports, "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. We loved it. Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride." Most facilities maintain play equipment suitable for ages 5-12.
Educational programs: Westmoreland State Park Campground offers ranger-led activities. "They did have great trails, a lot of scheduled events for all ages, a pool and boat rentals and competitive prices," writes Rachel A. Program schedules typically appear at visitor centers or campground offices upon arrival.
Accommodation variety: Patuxent River yurt camping provides alternatives to traditional tents. At Westmoreland State Park, one visitor mentioned, "We took about 30 women camping here at the end of April and had the best time together. So thankful for state parks that are gorgeous and full of adventure!" Yurt accommodations typically include beds, electricity, and climate control systems.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Louise F. Cosca Regional Park offers variable site conditions. According to Tye S., "This campground is about 25 sites. Only 5 sites have electric (2, 5, 18, 24, 25) but all 25 sites have water hookup. 6 of the 25 sites are unleveled so tent camping is probably the only option." Researching specific site characteristics before booking improves the camping experience.
Hookup availability: Cherry Hill Park provides comprehensive RV services. "50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer," Beth R. notes in her review. The park accommodates larger RVs with pull-through sites and full hookups at most locations.
Driving access: Some campgrounds have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Cosca Regional Park, a reviewer cautions, "This is not big rig friendly but there are pull through sites but the roads are very narrow and there is only 1 way in and 1 way out." RVers should confirm road conditions and site dimensions when making reservations.
