Patapsco Valley State Park sits along the rolling hills of central Maryland at elevations between 150-300 feet above sea level. The park's multiple camping areas near Pikesville feature diverse terrain with notable exposed rock formations along trail systems connecting the campsites. Winter camping remains available at several nearby campgrounds when Patapsco's seasonal sites close from November through March.
What to do
Fishing spots: Try the fishing pond at Ramblin' Pines, located about 30 minutes from Pikesville. "We took a nice hike out to the susquehanna and spent a few hours fishing in the pond. Lots of wildlife," notes a visitor who appreciated the accessible fishing options.
Historic exploration: Visit the working grist mill at Susquehanna State Park, approximately 45 minutes northeast of Pikesville. "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," shares one camper who discovered the park's historical features.
Lighthouse hiking: Take the Turkey Point Lighthouse trail at Elk Neck State Park for panoramic Chesapeake Bay views. "The lighthouse trail is a must. It is about a five minute drive to get to the trail though, but is worth it!" according to a camper who highlights this unique coastal feature.
What campers like
Natural play areas: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area offers creative playground options for children. "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," explains a camper who enjoyed these unique features.
Multiple entrances: The park's various access points provide different experiences. "Patapsco Valley offers 6 different entrances. Each one provides several different trail heads and experiences. For camping or just spending a day out on the trail with the kids we prefer the Hilton entrance," notes a frequent visitor who appreciates the variety.
Urban accessibility: Greenbelt Park Campground offers pet-friendly camping near Pikesville with surprising seclusion despite urban proximity. "There is plenty of space between camp site clusters. The park itself is safe, quiet, permitting some nice treks through the woods. The other great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods," explains a camper who valued this balance.
What you should know
Campsite terrain challenges: At Hollofield Area Campground, sites vary significantly in quality. "The site was nice and level, but a bit small, with a short driveway. We actually brought 2 vehicles this time, and it was really tight. Fair amount of trees surrounding our site, but since there are still very few leaves, it felt way closer and less private," reports a spring visitor.
Campground layouts: Electric and non-electric sites have different spacing. "The inner loop was completely full, and the sites were just too closely spaced for my preferences. There were a few sites with a little extra room and privacy (419 and 420 caught my eye), but for the most part they were packed in pretty tightly. If you're a tent camper and don't need electric, the sites on the outer loop were quite nice and private," advises a camper who preferred the non-electric sites.
Storm effects: Some campgrounds may have trail closures after severe weather. "There's normally a walking path from the campground to the metro station that takes you into DC, but as of Oct 2023 the bridge is out due to a storm, and by the looks of it it's been out a while and it doesn't appear that it will be fixed soon," reports a recent visitor at Greenbelt Park.
Tips for camping with families
Sensory trails: Patapsco Valley's Hilton area offers specialized trails for children. "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," shares a family camper who enjoyed these accessible features.
Pool restrictions: Cherry Hill Park has specific swimming policies for young children. "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 trying to explain to a 2-3 year old that they aren't allowed to go swimming," cautions a family with mixed age children.
Playground locations: Consider campsite proximity to play areas when booking. "For kids, the playground was fantastic, though, it was not shaded. It is also in the middle of the Acorn and Beechnut loop. This is great if you want to be away from the playground, as you can book one of the sites further off and not have kids running about," advises a camper from Susquehanna State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Pay attention to driveway slopes when booking full hookup sites. "In the full hook up loop 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 an RVer at Elk Neck State Park.
Electric-only sites: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Pikesville offer electric without water hookups. "There is only 20/30amp electricity and NO water or sewer- although there was a dump and a place to fill your water tank. No washer or dryers," notes an RVer at Hollofield Area, highlighting the need to arrive with fresh water.
Bridge clearance: Pay attention to height restrictions when approaching campgrounds. "ALSO- 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.)" cautions an RVer about a crucial access limitation at Hollofield Area Campground.
