Cabin camping near Riverdale, Maryland offers overnight options within 40-60 minutes of Washington DC. Most facilities operate from early spring through late fall, with limited winter availability at select locations. Cabin accommodations range from rustic one-room structures to deluxe units with multiple bedrooms, typically situated in wooded settings with convenient access to hiking trails, fishing areas, and other recreational amenities.
What to do
Hiking to historic sites: Patapsco Valley State Park provides access to numerous trails with historic points of interest. "A nice place to kayak on the Patapsco River. Tons of wildlife, facilities, and amenities for you and your family," notes one visitor. The park connects to several trail systems, offering both short and extended hiking options.
Fishing opportunities: At Susquehanna State Park Campground, campers can access multiple fishing areas. According to a visitor, "There is a little fishing pond there, which my husband and daughter enjoyed." The Susquehanna River provides additional fishing spots, particularly popular during spring and fall seasons.
Stargazing sessions: Several campgrounds offer good night sky viewing conditions. A Tuckahoe State Park camper mentioned, "There is opportunity to see a great night sky if the clouds stay away." Most cabin areas have minimal light pollution compared to suburban settings, making them suitable for casual stargazing.
Nature exploration: Many cabins provide direct access to nature programs and wildlife viewing areas. One camper at Patapsco Valley noted, "They have a massive playground, nature play space, sensory trail, and a small nature center." Some locations offer scheduled ranger-led programs during peak season.
What campers like
Private locations: Tuckahoe State Park Campground offers more secluded cabins. "The wooded area makes you feel a little more secluded from any neighbors," explains one reviewer. Another mentions, "Small by some State Park standards, Tuckahoe offers two loops: a tent/cabin site, and an electric site for RVs."
Dishwashing facilities: Several parks provide dedicated areas for cleaning cooking equipment. "I LOVE the commercial-sized washing sink for your dishes, since you don't have full hookups it's a BIG deal," writes a Tuckahoe visitor. These stations typically include hot water and are located near bathhouses.
Cabin comfort levels: Cherry Hill Park cabins receive high marks for comfort. "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. We loved it," states one reviewer. Their cabins include air conditioning and heating systems for year-round comfort.
Accessibility features: Some locations offer ADA-compliant cabin options. A Washington DC/Capitol KOA visitor noted, "Clean sites in a beautiful wooded area. It is all it's cracked up to be!" Many parks maintain accessible pathways connecting cabins to main facilities.
What you should know
Reservation windows: Booking early is essential, especially for holiday weekends. A visitor to Elk Neck State Park Campground advises, "Our site was a level full hook up. The road on the FHU loop is narrow and hilly." Most parks open reservations 6-12 months in advance.
Weather considerations: Cabin camping experiences vary significantly by season. "We stayed here for a somewhat rainy Memorial Day weekend. Despite the rain, we enjoyed ourselves and even did a hike," reports a Susquehanna State Park visitor. Spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable temperatures.
Pet policies: Pet allowances vary between locations and specific cabin units. An Elk Neck State Park camper states, "It's dog and family friendly, close to resources, but far enough that it's quiet and feels remote!" Always confirm pet policies when booking.
Supply necessities: Most cabins require guests to bring their own linens and cooking equipment. A camper at Cherry Hill Park explains, "50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer, Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site." Prepare a detailed packing list based on the specific cabin's amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking, check cabin locations relative to play areas. A visitor at Ramblin' Pines reports, "It has a pool, jump pillow, mini golf, fishing pond, barnyard with goats, and multiple playgrounds." Some cabins offer direct views of playgrounds for easier supervision.
Activity planning: Family-friendly campgrounds often schedule weekend events. "The campground is very family friendly. We saw so many children running around having a great time!" notes an Elk Neck State Park visitor. These may include movie nights, crafts, or guided nature walks.
Kid-friendly cabin features: Some locations offer specific family accommodations. A Patapsco Valley camper shares, "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park." Look for cabins with bunk bed options for children.
Food preparation: Most cabin sites include outdoor cooking facilities. "The site had a fire ring, grill and picnic table," reports a Ramblin' Pines visitor. Plan meals that can be prepared using available cooking methods, which typically include fire rings with cooking grates.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: When bringing an RV to a cabin campground, verify space limitations. A visitor to Washington DC/Capitol KOA warns, "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy." Many parks have specific loops designated for RVs with cabins.
Utility connections: Check available hookups before arrival. "Drinking water, electric-hookups, fifty-amp-hookups, fires-allowed, firewood, market, pets-allowed, picnic-table, reservable, sanitary-dump, sewer-hookups, showers, toilets, trash, water-hookups," lists one Washington DC/Capitol KOA visitor. Most cabin areas share utilities with RV sections.
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires additional preparation. A Ramblin' Pines reviewer notes they're "open all year" with "clean" facilities, making them suitable for off-season trips. Check road conditions and winterization status of water systems during colder months.
Leveling requirements: Some cabin and RV sites require leveling equipment. An Elk Neck camper notes, "Sites were level, spacious, spaced apart, with packed gravel surface. Back in and pull through sites available." Prepare appropriate blocks or levelers if bringing an RV.
