Camping spots near Riverdale, Maryland center around the confluence of the Patuxent and Anacostia watersheds, with elevations ranging from 50-150 feet above sea level. Campers access the area primarily from the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and Route 1 corridor, creating convenient gateways to both urban and natural experiences. Summer night temperatures typically fall to 65-70°F, offering comfortable sleeping conditions after daytime humidity peaks.
What to do
Explore riverside trails: At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, visitors find multiple water-based activities within a short drive from Riverdale. "We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm and it was very wet even after the rain died down... We found a small river and swimming hole at the bottom of the hill off to the side opposite the cabins/park," notes a camper who visited with family.
Visit historic sites: The region contains several preserved buildings and working historical demonstrations within 30 minutes of campgrounds. A visitor to Susquehanna State Park Campground remarked, "There is a historic area in the park, with a working grist mill, mansion and other little buildings to view. Not really my thing, but was pretty neat. The views of the river are really nice from here."
Attend ranger programs: Monthly educational sessions run at several parks, often at no additional cost to campers. "Rangers keep a close eye on things, and there are monthly programs at the campfire circle that I sometimes attend even when not camping here," mentions one Greenbelt Park Campground regular who lives nearby.
What campers like
Metro accessibility: Greenbelt Park Campground offers public transportation connections to Washington DC attractions. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. The other great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods. Can't beat the close proximity to DC," writes one visitor who appreciated the contrast.
Kid-friendly amenities: Cherry Hill Park provides extensive recreation options for families. A recent camper highlighted: "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. The park itself has more than most. Mini golf, two pools, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early!! And late!!!"
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds within 30 miles of Riverdale support significant wildlife populations. "I had a picnic table but no grill at this site, although others did have grills available. I set up my small cooker on the picnic table and while cooking dinner noticed a family of deer grazing close by, a great way to settle in for the evening," reports a tent camper at Greenbelt Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Riverdale have shifted to reservation-only systems. "I arrived later in the evening that I had expected and the booth was closed (something I learned is common practice since they have changed over from cash to reservations only for this site)," notes one camper about Hollofield Area Campground.
Site conditions vary: Tent campers should prepare for uneven ground at some locations. According to a visitor at Susquehanna State Park: "We had to use a paper plate to rake as many rocks and gravel from the site so we could put up our tent without ripping it."
Tree protection rules: Some parks prohibit hanging equipment from trees. "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 a recent Greenbelt Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Natural playgrounds: Susquehanna State Park Campground offers both developed and natural play areas. "Patapsco Valley offers 6 different entrances. Each one provides several different trail heads and experiences. For camping or just spending a day out on the trail with the kids we prefer the Hilton entrance. There are two huge playgrounds and a youth campground as well as a family campground," writes a family who frequently visits.
Campground selection: Sites close to playgrounds fill quickly but provide convenience. "The playground was fantastic, though, it was not shaded. It is also in the middle of the Acorn and Beechnut loop. This is great if you want to be away from the playground, as you can book one of the sites further off and not have kids running about," recommends a parent about campground layout planning.
Swimming options: Water recreation varies widely between locations. A Patapsco Valley visitor mentions: "You can also gain access to the Patapsco River by traveling down into the river valley along the Forest Glen Trail. This trail follows the Saw Mill Branch Stream and can connect with several trails to make for very interesting hiking adventures."
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Washington DC / Capitol KOA provides full hookups but requires careful arrival planning. "Camp site wasn't level at all. I was actually kind of worried that it would slide into the woods," notes one RV camper who found the terrain challenging.
Site selection strategy: End sites typically offer more privacy and space. "Look at the park map and try to get a site at the end of a row. 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," recommends an experienced RVer at Cherry Hill Park.
Bridge clearance: Some campgrounds have specific approach requirements. At Hollofield Area Campground, visitors note, "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.)" This detail is critical for larger motorhomes and fifth wheels.
