Best Campgrounds near Fulton, MD
The area surrounding Fulton, Maryland features a mix of established campgrounds and natural areas within an hour's drive, making it a convenient base for exploring the Baltimore-Washington corridor. Patapsco Valley State Park, located about 20 minutes northwest, offers tent and RV camping with electric hookups in its Hilton and Hollofield areas. Cherry Hill Park in nearby College Park provides full-service amenities including water and sewer hookups, along with glamping options and yurts. Greenbelt Park Campground, managed by the National Park Service, offers a more rustic experience with tent and RV sites but limited hookups. Most campgrounds in this region maintain well-developed facilities while providing access to hiking trails and water recreation.
Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the Fulton area, particularly during summer weekends when sites fill quickly. The primary camping season runs from April through October, with some facilities like Ramblin' Pines and Cherry Hill Park remaining open year-round. Many Maryland state parks prohibit alcohol consumption, a regulation worth noting when planning trips. As one camper at Greenbelt Park noted, "If you're in the DC area and just want someplace close by for a short camping trip, this probably fits the bill. As soon as you leave the park you are in College Park with Metro access close by." Urban noise is common at campgrounds closer to the metropolitan areas, with aircraft and traffic sounds frequently mentioned in reviews.
Campers frequently highlight the convenience of these locations for accessing Washington DC attractions. Several campgrounds, including Cherry Hill Park, offer orientation sessions about navigating the metro system and visiting monuments. The proximity to urban amenities doesn't completely sacrifice natural experiences. Patapsco Valley State Park receives praise for its extensive trail network, with one visitor noting, "This is where this campground shines. It has access to many trails and the Patapsco River." Summer heat and humidity can be challenging, with shaded sites being particularly valuable. Sites at most campgrounds tend to be relatively close together, with privacy varying significantly between locations and specific site numbers.
