RV sites near Charlotte Hall, Maryland offer diverse options for campers exploring the coastal region where Maryland's western shore meets Virginia. The area sits at the convergence of the Potomac River watershed, with elevations ranging from near sea level to about 200 feet above. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: Westmoreland State Park Campground provides unique opportunities to search for prehistoric shark teeth. "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night," reports one visitor who enjoyed the fossil beaches.
Military history exploration: Located near Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, the region offers significant historical sites. "The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on," notes one camper about the military installation's outdoor amenities.
Seasonal activities: Bull Run Regional Park offers organized activities during peak seasons. "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," shared a visitor who appreciated the family programming.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Prince William Forest RV Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "This is a small facility that is well maintained. The staff is amazing. The showers are clean/hot and the playground is in very good condition," reports one camper who appreciated the upkeep standards.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe native species. "Eagle's nest were interesting," noted one visitor to Fort Belvoir, highlighting the natural attractions beyond standard camping amenities.
Winter camping options: Unlike facilities that close seasonally, some parks welcome off-season visitors. "Went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year. Bath houses are heated which is amazing," shared a winter camper at Westmoreland State Park Campground.
What you should know
Military access requirements: Several campgrounds near Charlotte Hall operate on military installations with restricted access. "This RV spot is fantastic. It's quite and is a bit secluded," notes a reviewer about Military Park Fort AP Hill Champs Camp RV Park, though visitors should remember "Access to DoD folks only."
Seasonal closures affect availability: Many RV sites close during colder months. "Nice campground with all the amenities. Pool, laundry, bath houses, FHU, 50 amp," writes one camper about Thousand Trails Harbor View, who also notes "Right down the road from George Washington's birthplace."
Site conditions vary with weather: Prepare for terrain changes after rain. "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," warns a camper who visited Thousand Trails Harbor View during wet conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, consider recreation area access. "Everybody was super friendly and we felt very comfortable letting our kids go over to the playground by themselves. There is a small pond on the property," notes a family who stayed at Thousand Trails Harbor View.
Structured activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events for younger visitors. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," recommends a Bull Run Regional Park visitor.
Swimming options: During summer months, pool access provides relief from heat. "The pool is a nice size and includes a kiddie pool. There is a playground with lots of picnic tables and a putt putt (small fee) that's is close," reports a family who appreciated these amenities at Thousand Trails Harbor View.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Working remotely requires planning for signal strength. "I work full-time remote and the Verizon service was perfect with our hotspot," shared an RVer at Thousand Trails Harbor View, while another camper at Bull Run Regional Park warned about inconsistent wifi, noting "If the campground had better wifi and cable it would get five stars."
Site leveling preparation: Bring adequate leveling equipment for uneven sites. "Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable," advises an RVer about Fort Belvoir, recommending "bring plenty of leveling blocks."
Spacing between sites: RV parks vary significantly in site density. "The sites are very shady, which certainly comes in handy in the Virginia heat. They are also very close together," notes a camper about the tight spacing at Thousand Trails Harbor View, contrasting with Bull Run where "your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone."
