The Chesapeake Bay region near St. Leonard, Maryland sits at approximately 100 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate that creates ideal conditions for camping from spring through fall. The area features a mix of coastal wetlands and wooded terrain with average summer temperatures reaching 87°F during peak camping season. Water access points throughout the region connect to both the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers.
What to Do
Fossil hunting at beaches: Westmoreland State Park offers exceptional fossil hunting opportunities with 15-million-year-old shark teeth waiting to be discovered. "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... Beautiful and relaxing," shares Sara A. from Westmoreland State Park Campground.
Kayak water trails: Janes Island State Park features well-marked kayaking routes through marshlands and channels. "The park has well-marked kayaking trails... The water trails have a big variety from large channels to narrow marsh routes and bird watching is excellent. There's a beach that's an easy 1-mile paddle away with lots of room to spread out and have a private space to yourself," notes Sean F. from Janes Island.
Disc golf: Tuckahoe State Park offers a complete disc golf course as part of its recreational options. "There's very finely crushed rock on the non-electric loop. This includes the parking pad and tent pad," mentions Mary S. from Tuckahoe State Park Campground. "20 miles of hiking trails are also open for biking and horseback riding."
What Campers Like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campers appreciate the well-designed sites at Martinak State Park. "Campsites and bathrooms are clean. Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," shares Laura M. from Martinak State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Janes Island State Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Great kayaking to Jane's Island. Very clean bathrooms. Very family oriented. Rangers are nice and so are the camp hosts. Nice trails, wide and easy. Will definitely try to return," reports John Z. from Janes Island State Park Campground.
Waterfront access: Several parks offer direct water access for camping. "They have a few tent camping spots as well as cabins. Just call ahead. I just showed up and got a perfect camp spot with a view of the sunrise and access to the private beach," explains Michael from Matoaka Beach Cottages.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Most state parks in the area have specific operating seasons. "Jane's Island State Park is open from March 31 to November 26," according to their website information. Bugs can also be an issue during warmer months, as Sarah M. notes: "No-see-ums bite all day long, bug spray helps with these. Deer flies bite from the morning sun until it's dark and they are the worst at dusk."
Site selection matters: Research your specific site before booking. "Just got back from here for our first trip of 2020... We weren't a huge fan of our site, site 50, because it was difficult to get into and it backed up to the marina. We basically had to do a u-turn in reverse with our 30ft travel trailer which wasn't the easiest to get in the site," advises Michael G. from Janes Island.
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer electric but limited water or sewer connections. "We are at site 18, one of the ones with power. Check out your site before booking, some sites are steep but spacious. Close to town but far enough to enjoy yourself," reports Ben S. from Louise F. Cosca Regional Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Educational programs: Several parks offer structured activities for children. "We took out 1st trip to Tuckahoe over the 4th of July weekend. We really liked the park, but beware, the sites can be small," warns Buck P. from Tuckahoe State Park. The park offers junior ranger programs during summer months.
Playground access: Consider sites near playgrounds for easier entertainment. "For kids, there's a simple swingset in the loop and a larger, newer playground. Firewood available," notes Jean C. from Martinak State Park. Many parks strategically place play areas near camping loops.
Yurt camping for comfort: Families seeking yurt camping near St. Leonard, Maryland can find options at Solomons Navy Recreation Area. "Great military campground with spacious sites, and anything else you could want!" shares Sharon F. from Solomons Navy Recreation Area, which offers yurts as part of its diverse accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many parks have sites with varying degrees of levelness. "Not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," advises Robert P. from Pohick Bay Campground. When booking, call ahead to ask about site grades if traveling with larger rigs.
Dump station availability: Most parks offer dump stations even when full hookups aren't available. "Only draw back is no water or sewer hook ups, but dump and water station is clean and close," mentions John Z. about Janes Island State Park.
Electrical amperage options: Check for electrical capacity based on your needs. "This campground is about 25 sites. Only 5 sites have electric (2, 5, 18, 24, 25) but all 25 sites have water hookup," explains Tye S. from Louise F. Cosca Regional Park. Many sites in the region offer 30-amp service with limited 50-amp availability.
