Camping options near Callaway, Maryland extend across the Southern Maryland peninsula with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid subtropical climate with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Standing water concerns affect site selection, particularly in low-lying areas near the Patuxent River.
What to do
Fossil hunting excursions: Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping offers dedicated camping for organized youth groups with access to the park's fossil-rich beaches. "I was a TA on an optional field trip to Calvert Cliffs for an intro level class. I was a rainy day but we were able to go down to the shore and find fossils. What a great experience for (hopefully) future geologist," notes one visitor.
Waterfront activities: Westmoreland State Park Campground provides Potomac River access with multiple beach areas for swimming. "This state park is one of the best in VA. With access to the Potomac River, beaches, shark tooth island (!), what seems like endless beautiful hiking trails and the cleanest camp grounds I have ever seen I would recommend everyone to visit this park," shares a camper.
Fishing opportunities: Dennis Point Marina and Campground offers 120 campsites with boat launch facilities for anglers. "I went tent camping here and it was really really nice. Me and my family enjoyed ourselves. Staff was friendly and the bathrooms was very clean," reports a visitor who enjoyed the marina amenities.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Point Lookout State Park (temporarily closed for renovations) features secluded campsites with water views. "Site was very level, with a nice long driveway. Right on the water, with beautiful views. Surrounded by tall marsh grass and a few pine trees, so it felt very private," explains one camper.
Clean facilities: At Dennis Point Marina and Campground, bathrooms receive consistent praise. "Staff was friendly and the bathrooms was very clean. We will be going back very soon," notes a tent camper who appreciated the maintained facilities.
Fishing ponds: Take It Easy Campground provides fishing opportunities directly on the property. "Grounds were clean. We had a nice shaded lot. Fishing pond was close and kids had a blast fishing. Pool was small but kids liked it," reports a visitor who enjoyed the recreational amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal insect challenges: Warmer months bring significant mosquito issues at multiple campgrounds in the area. "The setting was very beautiful, but the bugs were killer. Luckily, there was a nice strong breeze blowing off the water during the vast majority of our stay. However, the second it stopped, the bugs descended on us," warns a Point Lookout camper.
Standing water concerns: Low elevation campsites often experience flooding issues. "I think we're in a swamp. I assume mosquitos get very nasty here pretty soon! There's standing water surrounding my site," reports one Point Lookout visitor regarding spring conditions.
Cell service limitations: Matoaka Beach Cottages and surrounding campsites may have limited connectivity. "It's a complete dead spot for Verizon anyway. Not good if you're working while camping," notes a camper regarding connectivity at Point Lookout, with similar conditions reported throughout the peninsula.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Take It Easy Campground offers play areas for children. "There is a large park area close to office with large trees and a playground," notes a visitor describing the family-friendly amenities.
Educational opportunities: Calvert Cliffs offers hands-on learning experiences. "Such an amazing expieriance and brings right into the eyes of child with both adult and children searching for shark teeth. Not only is searching for shark teeth a blast, but, the views are beautiful," shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Swimming options: Westmoreland State Park maintains a pool plus beach access. "With access to the Potomac River, beaches, shark tooth island (!), what seems like endless beautiful hiking trails and the cleanest camp grounds I have ever seen I would recommend everyone to visit this park," reports a camper who brought a large group.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Solomons Navy Recreation Area offers complete services for military personnel and their guests. "Great military campground with spacious sites, and anything else you could want!" reports a long-term military camper who appreciated the amenities.
Site privacy considerations: At Westmoreland State Park, select sites carefully for separation. "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," notes a regular visitor.
Weather preparedness: Low-lying sites throughout the region require proper equipment. "Tulip Loop has full hookups which was great, but the sites are basically in a swamp. It rained the day we arrived. There wasn't a lot of rocks down, so we had mud all weekend, it never dried up," advises a Point Lookout camper sharing seasonal challenges.
