The Chesapeake Bay region surrounding Sparrows Point, Maryland rises only about 10 feet above sea level, creating ideal terrain for shoreline camping. Most campgrounds in this area feature water access and electrical hookups with gravel pads. Seasonal considerations impact campsite availability, with most parks experiencing peak occupancy from May through September when temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers direct water access for boaters and kayakers. "If you like boating, kayaking or canoeing, this is the place! Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away," notes Janet P. The park includes a boat dock where campers can launch small watercraft.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems run through Patapsco Valley State Park with access directly from campsites. "We enjoyed hiking the trails directly from our campsite that led us down to the Patapsco River. There is a lot of history associated with the River and the area," writes one camper. The park maintains 70 miles of multi-use trails across 8 recreation areas.
Wildlife viewing: Eastern Neck Wildlife Sanctuary sits just minutes from regional camping areas. "We spent one morning walking the various trails at the Eastern Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, which is only 7 minutes away," reports Helen O. Bald eagle sightings occur regularly at several waterfront camping locations throughout the region.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate shoreline camping options. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks," describes Casey L. about Bar Harbor RV Park.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds feature fishing piers or shoreline fishing opportunities. "Beautiful family owned campground. Fishing piers, (I love to crab) catch them and steam them in my camper (a MD thing :-) Only bait at the camp store or with 25 miles is night crawlers," explains Lisa T.
Transportation options: Cherry Hill Park provides direct transit options to regional attractions. "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," explains Jennifer H.
What you should know
Seasonal occupancy: Regional rv parks near Sparrows Point fill quickly during prime months. "Weekend was cold but the park was pretty full. This is close to us so it was an easy trip," notes Laure D. about a winter visit to Elk Neck State Park.
Site sizing: Many parks have limited space between sites. "The sites are close but there were all sizes of RVs there, even large class A. Many sites are on the water," reports one camper. Site dimensions vary significantly between parks, with state parks typically offering more space than private campgrounds.
Navigation challenges: Several campgrounds require driving through residential neighborhoods. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," warns Craig Z. Most regional camping spots sit within 5-10 minutes of major highways but require navigation through local roads.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a natural playground in the loop, and then if you drive down further to the park entrance, there is a large playground for the kids," Jennifer S. notes about Hollofield Area Campground.
Pool access: Some rv parks Sparrows Point area maintain swimming pools for summer use. "They have a nice looking pool area, but it was too cold. The shop was cute and staff nice. Sites were pretty level," Joe R. mentions about Cherry Hill Park.
Connectivity considerations: Cell coverage varies significantly across the region. "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect. I absolutely love it!" shares Megan S. about Elk Neck State Park. Most camping areas within 30 minutes of Sparrows Point maintain at least minimal coverage for emergency calls.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variability: Electric service ranges from 20-50 amp depending on location. "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November," notes Laure D. about Elk Neck State Park Campground.
Level sites: Site preparation varies significantly. "The site was nice and level, but a bit small, with a short driveway. We actually brought 2 vehicles this time, and it was really tight," reports Jen V. about Hollofield. RVers should check specific site details when booking.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round. "Bathhouses were open with hot water. Nice clean bathhouses. Sites were level, spacious, spaced apart, with packed gravel surface. Back in and pull through sites available," explains a winter visitor to Camp Meade RV Park.
