Campgrounds near Stevenson, Maryland offer access to the Mid-Atlantic's unique forest ecosystems with elevations ranging from 300-500 feet. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions in the 60-75°F range. Most campgrounds in this region sit along the Patapsco River valley with a mix of deciduous forest and riverside terrain.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, families can enjoy both challenging and accessible paths. "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park. The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground," notes Angel G., who recommends the park for its variety of experiences.
Water activities on local waterways: The Patapsco River offers fishing and seasonal swimming options. "The lake was running pretty high and fast, pretty cool to see," reports Anne L. after hiking at Susquehanna State Park Campground. For those interested in boating, Codorus State Park allows "gas boats or rent one from their marina. There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," according to Catherine H.
Educational opportunities: Several parks feature historical elements within a short drive. The working grist mill at Susquehanna State Park provides a glimpse into the region's industrial past. "There is a historic area in the park, with a working grist mill, mansion and other little buildings to view. Not really my thing, but was pretty neat," mentions Jen V. who appreciated these educational options.
What campers like
Unexpected privacy in wooded sites: Despite urban proximity, many campgrounds maintain secluded camping spots. "The site was pretty even but did have some rocks in the area where my pad would be so I had to do a little clearing," notes Crystal C. about Greenbelt Park Campground, adding that "after staying here for a week I was so pleased by the quiet nature of the campground, the overall feeling of the outdoor space (every morning birds and squirrels)."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance at most area campgrounds. At Elk Neck State Park, "the camp host were very friendly and were actually in charge of keeping the bathrooms clean (which they did excellent at)! The bathrooms were nothing fancy but I was impressed with the cleanness," reports Jalissa Y.
Family-friendly activities: Most of the best places to camp near Stevenson include dedicated children's areas. According to Sean M. at Ramblin' Pines, "It has a pool, jump pillow, mini golf, fishing pond, barnyard with goats, and multiple playgrounds. I really like all the trees." Many campgrounds offer structured weekend activities during summer months.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Stevenson require advance bookings, especially during summer. Lauren S. notes about Greenbelt Park that "checking in was a breeze," but also mentions "the online park map was incorrect, and the spot was basically an extended shoulder of the road."
Varied site conditions: Tent campers should research pad types before booking. E K. reports about Susquehanna State Park: "Our specific site was supposed to have a tent pad but there wasn't a spot cleared for our tent and we had to move the heavy picnic table so we weren't putting up our tent on top of the fire ring."
Seasonal operations: Most state park facilities close completely or limit access during winter months. The full-hookup loop at Elk Neck State Park Campground offers extended season camping where "water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water," according to Laure D., making it one of the few year-round options.
Noise considerations: While campgrounds aim to provide a natural experience, some urban noise is inevitable. At Greenbelt Park, "you can barely hear the traffic from the road outside the park," reports Miranda M., though weekends tend to draw larger crowds with more ambient noise.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access for children: Select sites near recreational facilities to minimize walking. Sean M. recommends Cherry Hill Park for families noting, "This campground has so much to offer. We loved it." The reviewer lists numerous child-friendly amenities including "playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court, snack bar on site, nightly hayride."
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, several parks offer cabin accommodations. Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area includes "neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it'," according to Sean M.
Check trail difficulty: Not all hiking paths accommodate strollers or young children. Angel G. mentions that at Patapsco Valley State Park, "Neither the hiking trails or playground are stroller friendly," an important consideration for families with infants.
Pack extra supplies: Bathroom facilities occasionally run low on essentials. Jennifer S. noted that at Susquehanna State Park, "on Sunday morning, I found that there was no toilet paper in the ladies bathroom," though it was restocked within two hours.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: When staying at Codorus State Park Campground, J K. advises: "Pay close attention to the site you get. We think the site we got was the best one in the park. We were in 132, which was huge and had nice open flat areas."
Hookup availability: Most state parks offer electric-only hookups with shared water spigots. David G. notes that at Elk Neck State Park, "There's a ton of camping, including a loop with full hook ups. In the full hook up loop pay close attention to the lengths specified. The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped."
Water fill and dump stations: Plan water management for longer stays. Laura M. explains about Greenbelt Park that "there's a dump station and drinking water fill in loop C. The water fill was a little annoying in that there's a handle you have to hold down the whole time, but we used a rock to prop the handle down."
Leveling requirements: Many campsites in the region require leveling equipment. Alexandra T. recommends bringing leveling blocks when camping at Patapsco, noting "We had a site on the lower end of the loop and our site was hard to set up as we arrived during a storm and it was very wet even after the rain died down."
