Camping options near Kensington, Maryland span across several counties, with elevations ranging from 300-500 feet above sea level. The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, including hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through August. The campgrounds within a 35-mile radius offer varying levels of shade coverage, with some riverside locations providing natural cooling during summer months.
What to do
Fishing access: Brunswick Family Campground provides direct Potomac River access with a boat ramp and dock for fishing. "The campground is adjacent to a very large, very busy train yard. The campground is also right on the Potomac, easy to get to, reasonably priced, and the sites are spacious," notes Dale Y.
Hiking trails: Greenbelt Park Campground offers wooded hiking paths within the campground boundaries. "The park itself is safe, quiet, permitting some nice treks through the woods. The other great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods," according to one camper.
Water activities: Harpers Ferry Campground features tubing, rafting, and kayaking opportunities on the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. "There's a water park, paddle boats, playgrounds, trails, skate park, sports fields, and the bathrooms are the nicest I've ever seen," reports Brittany V. about recreational options in the area.
What campers like
Proximity to DC attractions: Cherry Hill Park is valued for its location and transport options to Washington DC. "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5," shares Jennifer H.
Clean facilities: Lake Fairfax Campground receives praise for its well-maintained amenities. "Five stars for the restroom facilities. Bright, large, clean and very well maintained. It's very convenient and plenty of activities for the kids," mentions Tana S.
Outdoor recreation variety: Campgrounds in the area offer diverse activities beyond typical camping. "The park is nice, but if youre looking for fishing don't go here, but you can in fact kayak down the creek," notes Jonny D. about Bull Run Regional Park.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train tracks near some campgrounds create regular noise disturbances. "CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will," reports Sherri C.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "I wanted to add to my original review I absolutely love this campground I live in Baltimore so it's only an hour and 10 minutes for me I am planning my third trip next month," mentions Brian S. about Brunswick Family Campground's popularity.
Military access: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp requires military credentials for entry. "Spent several nights here while visiting Washington DC. You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river," explains Mike H.
Tips for camping with families
Waterpark options: Several campgrounds feature water parks with additional fees. "We enjoyed the water park immensely. Ten of us in total with kids ranging from 18 months old to 13 years old. Everyone enjoyed the water park and the time we spent there. Additional fee for access to the water park," shares Corey B.
Playground facilities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas for children. "The outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on," mentions Jack R. about amenities at Fort Belvoir.
Educational opportunities: Utilize proximity to historical sites for educational day trips. "Register any visitors!! Clean, reasonable rates & quiet. Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," advises Kenneth H.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many rv sites near Kensington, Maryland require leveling blocks. "Site was not level and infested with black flies. Restrooms were beyond disgusting, dumpsters overflowing and dump station was muddy," warns Robin about Brunswick Family Campground, highlighting the importance of preparation.
Site selection: End sites generally offer more space than middle locations. "The outer loop campsites are easily more level than the center loop. If leveling perfectly is a concern you may want to call ahead and ask before commiting to the inner loop," recommends Corey B.
Drainage issues: Consider weather forecasts when booking camping near Kensington. "While we were here, there was a fairly heavy day of rain. Couple inches, I suppose, but nothing Biblical. The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow," reports Stuart O. about Bull Run Regional Park.
