Glamping accommodations near Indian Head, Maryland offer upscale outdoor experiences within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, where elevations range from sea level to about 280 feet. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures typically reaching 85-90°F and mild winters with occasional snow. Most luxury camping sites operate year-round with seasonal adjustments to amenities during winter months when temperatures can drop to the 30s.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Pohick Bay Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course through wooded terrain. "Pohick Bay is my go-to weekend camping spot. Just a few miles outside DC, Pohick Bay is a hidden gem in the area. I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," shares Rachel L. from Pohick Bay Campground.
Winter wildlife viewing: During cooler months, Westmoreland State Park offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities along its trails. "The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year. Definitely gets windy near the river. Nothing a big pot of camp soup or chili can't help!" notes a camper who visited Westmoreland State Park in March.
Fossil hunting: Several sites offer opportunities to search for prehistoric shark teeth along shorelines. "I love the sharks' teeth display in the shop and when I was there they were working on putting bones together of a whale that was found!" writes a reviewer about their experience at Westmoreland State Park.
What campers like
Convenient DC access: Many glamping sites serve as ideal baselines for exploring the capital. "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Took me 25-30m to get there so you are far away from bustle of city but not so far that going in to enjoy breakfast or the sights is a feat," explains Josh J. about his winter stay at Pohick Bay Campground.
Family-oriented activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged throughout their stay. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares Bridget H. about her experience at Bull Run Regional Park.
Quality shower facilities: Many guests specifically mention bathroom cleanliness as a highlight. "I'll go again just for the showers. The best review I can give us of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," raves Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water conditions: Water quality can vary throughout the year at waterfront sites. "At the time of my visit a couple of weeks ago there was a bit of algae in the water that could cause irritation to stomach and skin, so just be mindful of this. I did hike down to fossil beach but definitely avoided the water," warns a visitor to Westmoreland State Park.
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise sources. "Camp ground is nice. Check in was a breeze. The only drawback is that it is not quite. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," notes Drew M. about Burke Lake Park.
Campsite leveling challenges: Not all premium sites are naturally level. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," shares a camper about Bull Run Regional Park. Check ahead about your specific site's terrain.
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Many parks offer organized events specifically for children. "They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning," explains Ben G. about Cosca Regional Park.
Choose sites strategically: Consider proximity to facilities when booking with children. "We got a site on thr inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," shares a Pohick Bay camper who visited with young children.
Water attractions: Several parks feature water recreation options that appeal to children. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer. Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K. about the family-friendly amenities available at Pohick Bay Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Luxury glamping sites typically offer various hookup options. "We had a premium site for seven nights. The site was perfectly level with a fire ring, grill, picnic table and table with three chairs," notes a visitor to Cherry Hill Park.
Site dimensions: Check specific site measurements before booking larger rigs. "The sites are pretty close together but on the ends at least you only have a neighbor on one side. The landscaping, trees and site placement does help the esthetics," advises Scott C. about Cherry Hill Park.
Surface conditions: RV pads vary in material and quality across glamping sites. "Gravel pad, expensive, spotty Wi-Fi," lists Beth R. in her balanced review of Cherry Hill Park, though she still rated it highly overall.
