Camping options near Reisterstown, Maryland include terrain that rises from 500 to over 700 feet in elevation throughout the area's rolling hills. Most campgrounds sit within the Piedmont region where deciduous forests provide shade during humid summer months when temperatures regularly reach the high 80s. Facilities typically open for the main season between mid-April and late October when overnight temperatures remain above 50°F, though several private campgrounds operate year-round.
What to do
Horseback battlefield tours: At Artillery Ridge Campground in Gettysburg, campers can access guided horseback tours through historic Civil War sites directly from the campground. "You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground," shares Zack in a 2021 review.
Disc golf courses: The lake areas at Codorus State Park Campground feature two separate 18-hole disc golf courses. "There are a lot of trails available for hiking, biking, or riding horses," notes Catherine H., who warns visitors to watch for poison ivy in some areas.
Hiking trails from campsites: Numerous campgrounds offer direct trail access from camping areas. "We enjoyed hiking the trails directly from our campsite that led us down to the Patapsco River. There is a lot of history associated with the River and the area," explains a visitor to Hollofield Area. Many trails follow waterways or connect multiple recreation areas within the larger parks.
What campers like
Natural playgrounds: Families appreciate the creative play spaces at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area. "There is a massive playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," writes Angel G., adding that "It's the perfect little getaway from the city for camping, fishing and hiking."
Swimming options: Most state parks maintain dedicated swimming areas during summer months. "There is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," notes Catherine H. about Codorus State Park. Some parks offer both pool and lake swimming, though a few prohibit swimming in their lakes.
Full amenity range: Private campgrounds like Cherry Hill Park offer extensive on-site features. "50 amp hook-up, water, sewer, playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court, snack bar on site, nightly hayride, gated, on-site camp store," lists Beth R., making these locations suitable for longer stays.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many state park campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. "You can only check in between 2 and 4! This might be off season though," notes Sean M. about Ramblin' Pines, highlighting the importance of confirming check-in procedures beforehand.
Site privacy varies: Campground layouts differ significantly in spacing and privacy. "Sites were well-maintained, including lavatories. Plenty of tree cover. NOTE: park service forbade tying lines or straps to the trees at the time of our visit (Autumn 2024), so if you favor hammock camping or deploying tarps/ridgelines, plan accordingly," advises Timothy C. about Greenbelt Campground.
Traffic noise levels: Despite wooded settings, some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways. "Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," explains a Greenbelt Campground reviewer. Sites deeper within camping loops generally offer better sound buffering from roads.
Payment policies: Some campgrounds maintain cash-only policies or require deposits. Several reviewers note these restrictions, with one camper at Merry Meadows explaining, "One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I knows it's not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us."
Tips for camping with families
Sensory trails: Little Bennett Campground offers specialized trails designed for children. "Nice grounds and tent pad. Ample camp site size," notes Stephen K., though he adds they're "Just right next to a neighborhood."
Plan for weather contingencies: The region experiences rapid weather changes in spring and summer. "When I went to leave on Sunday, as I was driving up an incline my trailer became unhitched from my tow vehicle. The whole hitch came off and the trailer was dragging by the chains! The owners husband kindly helped me get it jacked up," shares a camper who experienced strong storms at Merry Meadows.
Consider mini cabins: Several parks offer cabin options ideal for families new to camping. "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it,'" explains Sean M. about Patapsco Valley's Hilton Area.
Tips from RVers
Approach directions matter: Some campgrounds have height restrictions on approach roads. "ALSO- APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park)," warns a Travyl Couple about Hollofield Area Campground.
Urban access options: When visiting Washington DC, several campgrounds provide direct transportation. "No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!" explains Jason E. about Cherry Hill Park, which also offers "On-site bus shuttle" service to public transportation connections.
Site selection for privacy: Many RVers recommend requesting specific site numbers. "We were at site 430. It was a perfect spot tucked away from the others and a short walk to the restrooms," reports Andrea S. about her experience at Hollofield Area, noting the importance of site selection for privacy.
