St. Leonard, Maryland camping sites sit along the Chesapeake Bay and Patuxent River, with most facilities located at elevations near sea level and elevations rarely exceeding 150 feet. The region experiences humid subtropical climate conditions with average summer temperatures between 75-90°F and mild winters. Sandy soil conditions at waterfront camping sites can present challenges for tent stakes and RV leveling, especially during the region's average 44 inches of annual rainfall.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: At Calvert Cliffs State Park, visitors can search for prehistoric shark teeth along the shoreline. "Such an amazing expieriance and brings right into the eyes of child with both adult and children searching for shark teeth. Not only is searching for shark teeth a blast, but, the views are beautiful and walkin thru the woofs Is very calming!" notes visitor Sarah F. about Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping.
Water activities on the Patuxent: Endeavor Point offers kayaking and canoeing through tidal marshlands. One camper shared: "the pier was perfect to fish or crab off of and the beach had great views of the sunrise. definitely would recommend!" according to Ally S. who stayed at Endeavor Point.
Historical exploration: Point Lookout State Park features Civil War sites and a lighthouse. A visitor mentioned, "Historic St. Mary's city nearby," noting the additional historical attractions within driving distance of the Point Lookout State Park.
What campers like
Private beachfront sites: Matoaka Beach Cottages offers secluded camping with water views. Camper Courtney K. states: "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." Many visitors appreciate the Matoaka Beach Cottages for their direct water access.
Clean facilities: Westmoreland State Park receives high marks for maintenance. "Bath houses are heated which is amazing. We had a large group so we rented B49 and B48," noted reviewer RL about winter camping at Westmoreland State Park Campground.
Accessible outdoor recreation: Cedarville State Forest offers trails within 60 minutes of Washington DC. A visitor reported: "Forested campground with fairly lengthy but level (and thus beginner friendly) hiking just a short distance away from Washington, DC. If you've forgotten anything you can pop on by the Target or Costco right outside the forest."
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Mosquitoes and biting insects become prevalent from late spring through summer. "We stayed here a few times just to get out for a bit. It's quiet, but not too dark, as the lights from DC interfere with the night sky here. The camping loop is small and is shared by tent and RV. I've never left this park without at least one tick," reports Bill G. about Cedarville State Forest.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "We have AT&T and had two bars pretty consistently," reported Nurse N. about Cedarville State Forest, while another camper noted, "It's a complete dead spot for Verizon" at Point Lookout State Park.
Weather considerations: Afternoon storms can develop quickly during summer months. "Dark clouds began rolling in and we paddled back to the boat launch, texting the Lee's to meet us for boat pick up. We had planned to hike and swim while at the park, but instead headed for our tent during the storm surges," shared Kelly M. about Final-Lee Here.
Tips for camping with families
Nature center programs: Several parks offer structured activities for children. "They do have a nice park for the kids by the entrance and a very well kept pond at the beginning of the hike to fish from," writes Anthony S. about Calvert Cliffs State Park.
Beach safety awareness: Water conditions can change rapidly with tides. "They have renovated the beach and per my friends, the fencing protecting the area is new, but needed," notes Heather about Breezy Point Beach, indicating safety improvements at the facility.
Off-season camping benefits: For fewer crowds and bugs, consider spring or fall trips. "We went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year," shares RL about Westmoreland State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose carefully based on campground layout. "We had site 68 which had plenty of space for the TT, truck and car to park. The sites have plenty of separation and the park was very quiet," explains Nick E. about Point Lookout State Park.
Ground conditions: Sandy soil can make stabilization difficult. "I had to mark it down for the loose-sandy sites; yes, I know it is a beach but they really need to firm-up the actual RV parking spots. Some are worse than others, but it can be a challenge leveling and stabilizers can't get a firm footing, be sure to have some wood or other platform for your stabilizers," advises William S. about Breezy Point Beach.
Limited pump-out services: Plan waste management carefully. "FYI there is no dumping station or site sewer connection. Apparently there is a twice weekly pump out service. That was not available to us on Sunday before departing," warns Scott T. about Breezy Point Beach.
