Campsites near Scotland, Maryland offer unique recreation opportunities at the junction of the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. The flat tidewater landscape creates expansive water views and excellent fishing access. Campgrounds in this region typically sit at elevations under 20 feet above sea level, creating distinctive coastal camping conditions with direct water access.
What to do
Crabbing and fishing: Dedicated piers for these activities are accessible at several campgrounds. At Janes Island State Park Campground, "You can go crabbing for blue crabs" according to reviewer Carrie N., who "really enjoyed kayaking through the water trails."
Beach activities: Swimming options range from protected swimming beaches to wade-in shorelines. At Belle Isle State Park Campground, "The water is shallow and warm in the summer. In fact, the water is so shallow that you can wade almost 400 meters out or more!" notes Lucille W.
Historical exploration: Civil War sites dot the region, offering educational opportunities. At Point Lookout State Park, "The park used to be a prison for Confederate soldiers, so lots of cool exhibits and memorials for history buffs," writes reviewer Jen V.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site seclusion varies significantly between campgrounds and loops. At Point Lookout State Park, "Site was very level, with a nice long driveway. Right on the water, with beautiful views. Surrounded by tall marsh grass and a few pine trees, so it felt very private," reports Jen V.
Water proximity: Waterfront sites are highly sought after for their direct access. At Westmoreland State Park Campground, campers appreciate the "shark tooth island" and "endless beautiful hiking trails" according to Katie T., making it "one of the best [state parks] in VA."
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. Belle Isle State Park offers "quiet and peaceful" conditions according to Ashley I., who appreciated "level sites, farmland all around" and the well-maintained grounds.
What you should know
Insect intensity: Bug populations can make or break a camping trip in this region. At Dennis Point Marina and Campground, "staff was friendly and the bathrooms was very clean," according to Hawanya R., but at other campgrounds in the area, bugs remain a major consideration.
Cell service: Reception varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Point Lookout State Park, "No internet access at the campsite, but could get it if you were a few feet away from the Loop. It's a complete dead spot for Verizon anyway. Not good if you're working while camping," warns Buck P.
Site drainage: Wet conditions can persist after rain. Goose Creek Recreation Area camper Joe C. notes, "Rained while we where there and the ground was very saturate so the puddles where quite large." Sites near marshland are especially prone to standing water.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Kid-friendly facilities provide recreation options beyond water activities. At Take It Easy Campground, "Grounds were clean. We had a nice shaded lot. Fishing pond was close and kids had a blast fishing. Pool was small but kids liked it," shares reviewer dj.
Educational programs: Nature centers offer structured activities. At Point Lookout, "This park offers tons of activities and amenities, such as a huge fishing pier, camp store, canoe/kayak rental, lighthouse, historical sites, swimming beach, etc," notes Jen V.
Site selection: Loop location matters for family comfort. At Janes Island State Park, "Loop 'A' has very public sites with roads, parking, day use areas (playground, store, observation tower, ramps and docks) all nearby," reports Sean F., making these sites more convenient for families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full service sites are limited but available. At Point Lookout, "Tulip Loop has full hookups which was great, but the sites are basically in a swamp," warns Buck P., highlighting the tradeoff between amenities and site quality.
Site sizing: Length and width varies substantially. At Point Lookout, Nick E. reports, "We had site 68 which had plenty of space for the TT [travel trailer], truck and car to park. The sites have plenty of separation."
Dump stations: Sanitary facilities may require a fee for non-campers. At Belle Isle, "Dump station was $10 for non-campers," according to Geo&Deb T., who also noted the campground's "shower/bathroom/laundry block that looks well taken care of" with "$1.25" washers and dryers.
Legend
