Tent camping opportunities near Ridgely, Maryland extend throughout Maryland's Eastern Shore and into Delaware, with several locations within 40 miles of town. Most tent camping areas in this region sit at elevations between 10-50 feet above sea level, placing campers in the coastal plain's characteristic mix of pine forests and wetland areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions better suited for tent camping.
What to do
Fossil hunting along Chesapeake shores: At Calvert Cliffs State Park, a 1.8-mile trail leads to a fossil-rich beach area. "It is a very nice walk about 2 miles to the beach where you can hunt for fossils. The trail now is very well marked, clean, and there are facilities down by the beach," notes Anthony S.
Beach swimming and recreation: Sandy Point State Park offers water activities during cooler seasons. "The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall. Lights on the Bay is a great Christmas light drive thru that's over a mile long," shares Tony P. Visitors should note: "In the summer it can get pretty crowded, so we prefer to visit in late spring while school is still in session."
Hiking pine forest trails: Explore marked paths through regional forests like those at Redden State Forest Campground. The site features multiple hiking options, though as Evan C. notes, "There are trails to hike, but they weren't marked well enough for this first timer so I didn't explore much."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between tent sites in the area's forests. At Blackbird State Forest Campground (currently closed), Blind notes, "The camp sites are spaced out a good amount so each site has good privacy." Similarly, John C. mentions "spacious campsite, grill, picnic table, firepit, parking for 2-3 cars plus overflow parking."
Waterfront camping views: Waterfront locations provide unique camping experiences. At Matoaka Beach Cottages, Courtney K. describes, "We tent camped at Matoka Cabins and it was a beautiful Peaceful camping trip! Out spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves."
Community-focused camping areas: Some newer tent camping areas focus on creating welcoming environments. Terrance D. writes of Lacy Oasis Campground, "If you are a nature lover, a person who loves peace, serenity, and, tranquility, or just need some respite, Lacy Oasis is the place to be. Whether you are an adult or a child, this place will have a positive effect on you."
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Weather considerations affect the best tent camping near Ridgely. Regarding Sandy Point, Angel G. warns, "August is the worst month to visit if you like the water. Jellyfish take over with a vengeance!"
Reservation requirements vary: While some sites remain first-come, first-served, others now require advance planning. Redden State Forest previously operated as walk-up only but has changed its system: "This is no longer a first come, first served campground. Reservations must be made in advance at bookyoursite.com, only 3 days consecutive allowed," explains BA K.
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas near Ridgely offer basic amenities. As BA K. explains about Redden, "There is no water, no electric, no bathroom. This is primitive camping/boondocking. This is a 'leave no trace, carry in/carry out' facility."
Weekend crowding concerns: Popular sites fill quickly, especially in peak season. David G. notes about Sandy Point, "Get there early on weekends and holidays. The line to get in can be a mile long!"
Tips for camping with families
Youth-only camping options: Some parks cater specifically to youth groups rather than general tent camping. Rachel S. describes Sandy Point: "This campground is very well taken care of, and seemed safe to me. There are wonderful views of the water and swimming at the beach, pavilions for social gatherings, showers and bathrooms that are kept pretty very clean, and room for backpacking, hiking, picnicking, but youth group camping only."
Kid-friendly activities: Choose sites with amenities designed for children. Anthony S. mentions about Calvert Cliffs: "The park has a great play ground right off the main parking lot for kids to play on as well as a few bathrooms. Also right off the parking lot is a little fishing pond which leads you to the main trail."
Safety considerations: For families camping alone, choose sites known for security. At Redden State Forest, Tiffany M. reports, "I camped alone and felt very safe. The campsites are small and close together. A total of 7 campsites."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Many tent camping areas near Ridgely restrict larger vehicles. At Redden State Forest, BA K. warns, "Travel trailers, pull behinds, motorhomes are not allowed. Tents, cars, overlander SUVs, minivans and small Class B camper vans are allowed. Nothing over 25 ft allowed."
Ground surface considerations: Tent sites have various surfaces affecting stake placement. Evan C. notes at Redden, "Another note about the gravel - can't get stakes in. Plus, it's a pine forest and I didn't want to get sap on my tent so I didn't tent adjacent to the pad amidst the pine needles."
Self-service camping procedures: Many sites have minimal staffing. Andrew advises about Redden, "After going past the office you will take a right to get to a closed yellow gate which you will open and close behind you yourself. After going through the gate hang right at the Y and all the sites are down there."