Sandy Spring, Maryland sits at approximately 500 feet elevation within Montgomery County's rolling Piedmont plateau. The area experiences warm, humid summers with average July temperatures around 87°F, while winters remain relatively mild with January averages near 27°F. Most nearby campgrounds operate from April through October, though several offer year-round accommodations with varying levels of amenities during colder months.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Bull Run Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course perfect for beginners and experienced players. "The park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds," notes Tom C., highlighting the variety of activities beyond traditional camping.
Boating excursions: At Pohick Bay Campground, watercraft options range from kayaks to motorboats on the Potomac River tributaries. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K., while Rachel L. adds, "Pohick Bay is a hidden gem in the area. I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course."
Nature scavenger hunts: Family-friendly activities abound at the wooded sites, particularly for children. "The gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares Bridget H. from Bull Run, where organized outdoor activities keep young campers engaged and connected to the natural surroundings.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Little Bennett Campground receives praise for spacious sites with natural separation. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," explains Ray & Terri F., who appreciated the balance of amenities and nature during their 4-day stay.
Clean facilities: Consistent maintenance stands out in visitor feedback. "Very nice night sky viewing as no lights what so ever in camping loops except for toilet/shower buildings," notes Napunani in their Little Bennett review, while another visitor at Bull Run Regional Park raved, "I'll go again just for the showers... Locking doors, individual stalls... Best camping showers I've ever had."
Regional park access: Many campers appreciate the proximity to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "Nice quiet clean campground 30-40m from DC. Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Took me 25-30m to get there," shares Josh J. about Pohick Bay, highlighting the practical balance of seclusion and accessibility.
What you should know
Campground terrain: Some campgrounds feature challenging terrain requiring preparation. At Codorus State Park Campground, Catherine H. points out, "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park."
Seasonal availability: Yurt camping near Sandy Spring, Maryland typically runs from April through October at most locations. According to the campground information, Little Bennett Campground operates from "April 1 to October 30," while others like Ramblin' Pines and Cherry Hill Park remain "open all year."
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, especially summer weekends, advance booking becomes essential. "Out-of-state campers pay higher camping fee than Maryland residents, $66/night," notes Napunani about Little Bennett, adding there's "No senior or veteran discount," which impacts budget planning for travelers.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Ramblin' Pines offers comprehensive family amenities within walking distance of campsites. "There's a pond for fishing, a pool for swimming and a little general store for all your needs, the kids loved the bounce pillow," shares Michelle L., describing the family-oriented infrastructure that keeps children entertained.
Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, consider location relative to play areas. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," explains Ben G. from Pohick Bay, illustrating how strategic site selection enhances the family camping experience.
Weather preparation: The Maryland region experiences sudden afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. Pack extra tarps and rain gear even during clear forecasts. "We stayed at site D72 for 4 days. The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded," notes Ray & Terri F., describing the tree cover that provides some weather protection at Little Bennett.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Washington DC/Capitol KOA receives mixed reviews regarding site conditions. "Camp site wasn't level at all. I was actually kind of worried that it would slide into the woods," reports Guerrmo, highlighting the importance of bringing extra leveling blocks for certain sites.
Hookup reliability: Most developed campgrounds near Sandy Spring offer full hookup sites, but water pressure can vary. "Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," writes Matt S., noting the importance of site selection for larger rigs.
Space considerations: Many campgrounds feature tight spacing between sites. "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," advises Elise M. about Washington DC/Capitol KOA, providing insight on selecting sites that maximize personal space for larger rigs and slide-outs.
