Camping options around Olney, Maryland are limited by suburban development, with most sites located within 30-45 minutes' drive. The region sits at modest elevations averaging 400-500 feet above sea level and experiences humid summers with temperatures reaching the 90s. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures frequently dropping below freezing between December and February, especially at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Trail riding options: For equestrian campers, Artillery Ridge Campground in Gettysburg allows horseback battlefield tours nearby. While not offering dedicated horse campgrounds near Olney, Maryland, riders can arrange rides as one visitor noted: "You can take guided tours of the battlefield on horseback. Nice catch and release pond in campground."
Disc golf courses: Pohick Bay Campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course that's popular with campers. A reviewer mentioned, "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," making it an excellent day activity between camp sessions.
Water activities: Several sites provide water access for canoes and kayaks. One camper at Cedarville State Forest shared: "The surrounding area provides several trail networks that connect to campgrounds" and another noted there's a "small creek/river you can explore" making it suitable for casual paddling.
What campers like
Quiet weekday stays: Many campgrounds near Olney experience reduced traffic Monday through Thursday. At Bull Run Regional Park, a visitor mentioned, "W arrived late at night and finding our site was easy. Very spacious sites and awesome views of the forest," highlighting the accessibility even for night arrivals.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to spot local fauna including deer and various bird species. As one camper at Pohick Bay Campground exclaimed, "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!"
Proximity to history: Several campgrounds provide access to historical sites. A visitor at Gettysburg Campground shared it's "Close to Gettysburg Battleground" and another noted it's "Not far to go anywhere walking," making it convenient for history enthusiasts without dedicated equestrian facilities.
What you should know
Security considerations: Camp Meade RV Park in Laurel provides exceptional security as it's on a military base. A camper noted, "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle 🤣. They reminded me."
Seasonal pest challenges: Ticks and mosquitoes are common in warmer months. One camper at Cedarville State Forest warned, "I'll say I have never been to a site where the firewood is padlocked, and you have to call someone to come unlock it so you can buy firewood," indicating limited after-hours services.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby facilities or transportation routes. A camper at Bull Run Regional Park observed, "Camp ground is nice. Check in was a breeze. The only drawback is that it is not quite [sic]. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away."
Tips for camping with families
Family programming: Cedarville State Forest offers organized activities for children during peak season. A visitor shared, "They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning."
Playgrounds and recreation: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. One reviewer at Bull Run Regional Park mentioned, "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish. This park has too many amenities to list. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides."
Bathroom facilities: For families with young children, bathroom quality matters. A camper at Bull Run noted, "They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had. Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located."
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Bull Run: For RVs needing level sites, carefully review the site map. A visitor at Gettysburg Campground advised, "The amenities of Gettysburg Campground are quite good: full hookups with cable, all working as expected. Level sites, friendly and efficient staff, decently sized sites long enough for my 32' coach and a toad."
Dump station details: Some facilities have unusual dump station setups. A camper at Cedarville State Forest explained, "They have a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower."
Winter camping options: Year-round camping is available at select sites. One RVer at Pohick Bay Campground shared, "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Took me 25-30m to get there so you are far away from bustle of city but not so far that going in to enjoy breakfast or the sights is a feat. Nice and quiet here during winter more so during week than weekends."
