Point Lookout State Park sits at the southern tip of St. Mary's County where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay. The park features over 1,000 acres of marshland, forest, and waterfront areas at an elevation near sea level. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity levels from June through September, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with temperatures between 60-75°F.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: A 2-mile hike at Calvert Cliffs State Park leads to fossil-rich shores. "This park is awesome! I have been going here for years... the beach is very beautiful even though every year it gets smaller and smaller. The park staff are very friendly, and are very informative on the many fossils you may find on your visit down there," writes Anthony S.
Kayaking through water trails: Janes Island State Park offers marked kayaking trails through marsh channels. "The park has well-marked kayaking trails. Normally you can rent kayaks from the park... The water trails have a big variety from large channels to narrow marsh routes and bird watching is excellent. There's a beach that's an easy 1-mile paddle away with lots of room to spread out," notes Sean F.
Historical exploration: Visit Civil War sites and the Point Lookout Lighthouse. "The park used to be a prison for Confederate soldiers, so lots of cool exhibits and memorials for history buffs," explains Jen V.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Some campers prefer the waterfront views at Point Lookout. "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," shares Jen V.
Fall and winter camping: Cooler seasons offer fewer insects and unique experiences at Westmoreland State Park. "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. Definitely gets windy near the river. Nothing a big pot of camp soup or chili can't help! Bath houses are heated which is amazing," reports RL.
Quiet environment: Many appreciate the secluded nature of the area. "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. We talked to several fellow campers and all were very welcoming and helpful," writes Nick E.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Bug activity increases dramatically in summer months. "If they were this bad in April, I can only imagine how awful they would be in the middle of summer," notes Jen V. about Point Lookout. Similarly at Janes Island: "Deer flies bite from the morning sun until it's dark and they are the worst at dusk. Fire smoke doesn't keep them away and Bug spray does not help keep these flies from biting."
Water levels and flooding: Low-lying sites can experience standing water. At Dennis Point Marina and Campground, campers find higher ground preferable after rain. "We're in a swamp. I assume mosquitos get very nasty here pretty soon! There's standing water surrounding my site," reports Buck P. about Point Lookout's Tulip Loop.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. "No internet access at the campsite... It's a complete dead spot for Verizon anyway. Not good if you're working while camping," explains Buck P.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. At Belle Isle State Park, "There are a couple playgrounds, swing sets, and tons of open areas for children to enjoy. The trails are nice and fairly well kept. The little sandy beach is by far my favorite part of the park though!" explains Lucille W.
Halloween camping events: Fall camping offers special activities at several parks. "We rescheduled to this weekend after our original reservation weekend was flooded out 2 weeks ago. This weekend was Halloween weekend. It was quiet with a couple activities planned. We only had 2 trick or treaters," shares Laure D. about Point Lookout.
Water exploration for kids: Shallow water areas provide safe spaces for younger children. "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! There are often crabs, small fish, and sometimes jellyfish floating about," writes Lucille W.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: The Tulip Loop at Point Lookout provides complete utilities. "Tulip Loop has full hookups which was great, but the sites are basically in a swamp. I think we were there before the mosquitos. I'm sure with all the standing water they'd be everywhere!!" advises Buck P.
Site selection strategy: Choose higher ground when possible, especially in spring and after rain. At Take It Easy Campground, "The 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," reports DJ.
Loop selection considerations: Different loops offer varied experiences. "A loop has very public sites with roads, parking, day use areas (playground, store, observation tower, ramps and docks) all nearby. B loop is fully electrified so popular with trailers and RVs, though the sites are nice and very usable for tents as well," explains Sean F. about Janes Island.