Most RV campgrounds near Prince Frederick, Maryland operate seasonally, with full summer access from April through October. The area sits within 30 miles of both the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay, offering campers varied waterfront access options. Winter camping options are limited with several parks closing completely during colder months.
What to do
Fossil hunting and beach access: At Thousand Trails Harbor View, campers can explore nearby fossil beaches. "Nearby Colonial Beach is a cute area that has nice waterfront access. We also loved going to Westmoreland park which was practically next door to Harbor View. Great trails and fossil beach was fun," notes one reviewer.
Military history exploration: The Prince William Forest RV Campground provides proximity to significant historical sites. "National Marine Corp Museum just around corner. DC just up the road," reports a visitor. The campground serves as a convenient base for day trips to civil war battlefields.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for anglers. A camper at Fort Belvoir notes, "There is a pier out into the river to fish on. The outdoor recreation center has bait, snacks, and drinks." Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased at local sporting goods stores.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Many campgrounds feature tree cover that campers appreciate during summer heat. At Cedarville State Forest, "All the sites are very shady, which certainly comes in handy in the Virginia heat," according to one reviewer. The forest setting provides natural cooling during peak summer temperatures.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in camper satisfaction. "Restrooms were clean, closed daily for cleaning between 1 pm - 3 pm. Two showers were included," reported a visitor to Cedarville State Forest. Most campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules for bathhouses.
Cell service reliability: Remote workers appreciate the strong connectivity at several parks. A camper at Thousand Trails Harbor View shared, "I work full-time remote and the Verizon service was perfect with our hotspot." This allows campers to extend stays while maintaining work commitments.
What you should know
Site spacing varies dramatically: While some parks offer privacy, others place rigs close together. At Harbor View RV and Camping Resort, a reviewer cautioned, "The sites are extremely close. Tent campers are an absolute afterthought here, as the sites are in the back and the bathhouse is in the front."
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings beauty but also pollen challenges. "If you have allergies, avoid spring. EVERYTHING outside was covered in a light haze of pollen. I worked outside several days and had to wipe my computer off a couple times a day," advised one Harbor View camper.
Military base access requirements: For parks located on military installations like Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, credentials are required. "You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system," explained a visitor. Civilian access is restricted without proper documentation.
Site maintenance varies: Ground conditions can be problematic at some locations. "Gravel site pad could definitely use some maintenance and fresh material added. Had to put down boards to park our travel trailer because about a third of the pad had just turned into mud," reported a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. At Cherry Hill Park, families enjoy extensive water features. "50 amp hook-up, water, sewer, playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court, snack bar on site, nightly hayride," lists one satisfied family.
Playground accessibility: Look for campgrounds with play structures within walking distance of sites. Prince William Forest RV Campground offers "Nice pool and bath house. Small, well stocked camp store. Propane and 2 easy dump stations," with a reviewer noting the "playground is in very good condition."
Activity scheduling: Many parks offer organized activities during summer months. "Nightly hayride" at Cherry Hill Park provides entertainment without leaving the campground. Weekend activities are most abundant during peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds present leveling challenges. At Fort Belvoir, a camper advised, "Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable. You really need a toad since supplies are not very close to the camping area."
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend researching specific site characteristics before booking. "We stayed in site #18. Which is next to one of the water spigots. The idea is to use it to fill up tanks. Ranger let us know not to stay hooked up to it," shared a visitor to Cedarville State Forest.
Access restrictions: Some RV campgrounds near Prince Frederick have size limitations. "The sites are small and you sit very close to the camp loop road," noted one RV camper. Always confirm that your specific rig length can be accommodated before making reservations.
