Camping sites near Sykesville, Maryland offer varied terrain, from riverside locations to densely wooded settings within a 45-minute drive from town. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions in the 60-70°F range. Most campgrounds in the area maintain reasonable cell service coverage even in wooded areas, though signal strength varies by carrier.
What to do
Paddle the lake at Codorus State Park Campground: Located about 30 miles from Sykesville, this park offers excellent boating opportunities. "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) 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," explains Catherine H.
Explore hiking trails from camp: The Hollofield Area Campground provides direct trail access to the Patapsco River. "I 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. You can even swim in this river," notes Diana S., who adds, "Loved it so much, I stopped on the way back home again!"
Visit Washington DC from camp: The Cherry Hill Park campground makes DC exploration convenient. "Plan and reserve your DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!" shares Jason E. For budget-conscious travelers, "You can ride the metro from Union station to Penn station. Saw the nationals, the orioles. So fun," adds Jennifer H.
What campers like
Wooded sites with privacy: Many campsites at Little Bennett Campground offer natural separation. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," reports Ray & Terri F. The tree coverage also creates a sense of seclusion, as "there is a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly."
Clean facilities: Restrooms and showers at most campgrounds receive regular maintenance. At Greenbelt Park Campground, campers appreciate the upkeep. "Beautiful campground, fairly large with 4 separate loops. The bathhouses are ok, happy to have free showers with hot running water. Faucets allow you to control the temperature and there's continuous running water (no button to push)," notes Laura M.
Family activities: Many campgrounds offer structured recreation for children. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," says Angel G. "It's the perfect little getaway from the city for camping, fishing and hiking."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most state park campgrounds in the area operate April through October. During peak summer weekends, reservations are essential. "This is our local campground and our second time here and we really like it. The keycard entry system is pretty inconvenient though ($40 cash only deposit!) and the hours are inconvenient as well. You can only check in between 2 and 4!" warns Sean M. about Ramblin' Pines.
Varying site privacy: Sites at some campgrounds can feel cramped, particularly in more developed areas. "The inner loop was completely full, and the sites were just too closely spaced for my preferences. If you're a tent camper and don't need electric, the sites on the outer loop were quite nice and private," advises Jen V. about Hollofield Area Campground.
Noise considerations: Despite wooded settings, some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or air traffic. One camper at Greenbelt Park Campground noted: "Pretty chill campsite. You can hear some traffic noise. Perhaps from the highways or just in the park. Overall very nice and convenient."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid activities: Select campgrounds with built-in entertainment. At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, "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," says Angel G.
Mini cabins for first-timers: Patapsco Valley's Hilton Area offers cabin camping for those new to outdoor stays. "The best part of this campground are the 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,'" explains Sean M.
Swimming options: Pools provide a welcome activity on hot summer days. At Codorus State Park, "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," notes Catherine H.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups only: Many state park campgrounds offer electric but no water or sewer at individual sites. "The inner circle has electric but no water or sewer. The outer circle is primitive. There is a dump station," explains Rebecca C. about Hollofield Area Campground. Plan water usage accordingly.
Tree clearance concerns: Tall trees can impact satellite reception and solar charging. At Little Bennett Campground, "There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy. OTA TV was decent using an external omni antenna," reports Ray & Terri F.
Site access limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV size or challenging access roads. At Hollofield Area, campers are warned, "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)"
