Camping opportunities near Temple Hills, Maryland include both established parks and military-affiliated facilities within a 30-mile radius. The area features hardwood forests interspersed with tributary streams of the Potomac River, creating natural corridors between developed suburban regions. Average summer temperatures reach 87°F with high humidity levels from June through August, requiring proper hydration and cooling measures for campers.
What to do
Historical exploration: Visit the General's Retreat House at Smallwood State Park, which offers walking paths and historical buildings for campers. "There is a playground, bathhouse, and historical buildings that are accessible to campers. There are hiking trials, but none are two extensive," notes Teresa K.
Boating and fishing: Access the Potomac River for water activities from several parks. "The marina at the day-use area was very nice, and seemed to be one of the main focuses of the park. Several docks for strolling and fishing, and saw quite a few boat slips available as well," shares Jen V. about Smallwood State Park.
Urban wildlife viewing: Observe local wildlife without leaving the metropolitan area. At Greenbelt Park Campground, campers report regular animal sightings. "I was so pleased by the quiet nature of the campground, the overall feeling of the outdoor space (every morning birds and squirrels)," reports Crystal C.
Metro access to Washington DC: Use public transportation for day trips into the capital. "The metro station that takes you into DC (the green line takes you to the National Mall), but as of Oct 2023 the bridge is out due to a storm," notes Laura M. from Greenbelt Park. "There are two stations very close to camp (Greenbelt and University Park)."
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained facilities throughout the region. At Bull Run Regional Park, Yvonne B. enthusiastically reports, "The best review I can give us of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had."
Spacious sites with shade: Several rv parks near Temple Hills offer tree coverage and adequate separation. At Cedarville State Forest, sites provide good privacy. "The sites for tents are big enough for a 4 person tent. There are clean bathrooms and the hosts, who I have spoken to many times, are friendly and knowledgeable about the area," notes Bill G.
Military-affiliated camping options: Multiple facilities cater to service members near Temple Hills, Maryland. "Spent several nights here while visiting Washington DC. You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river. Eagle's nest were interesting," shares Mike H. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Proximity to urban amenities: The convenience of camping while having access to services appeals to many visitors. "If you've forgotten anything you can pop on by the Target or Costco right outside the forest," mentions a Cedarville State Forest camper.
What you should know
Seasonal bug challenges: Prepare for insects during warmer months. "We tried fans, tiki torches, and many deet free or light deet products before having to buy 100% deet so we could be outside. These things are awful!" warns Kasey M. about mosquitos at Cedarville State Forest.
Noise considerations: Traffic and aircraft can affect the camping experience in this metropolitan region. At Thousand Trails Harbor View, "You can barely hear the traffic from the road outside the park," notes one reviewer. Another camper at Cedarville mentions, "It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking. At Greenbelt Park, "Reserve online - this is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online," advises Crystal C.
Site drainage issues: Weather can affect camping conditions. "The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," reports Stuart O. at Bull Run Regional Park after a rainstorm.
Tips for camping with families
Youth programs: Some parks offer organized activities for children. Bull Run Regional Park has family-oriented programming. "This campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares Bridget H.
Recreation amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "There is a small pond on the property. The harbor you can see is private property and not very nice to look at—better to drive out to Colonial Beach," notes Em M. about Thousand Trails Harbor View.
Educational opportunities: Prince William Forest RV Campground offers access to historical sites. "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," writes Kenneth H.
Safety considerations: Several campgrounds provide secure environments for families. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle. They reminded me," mentions Elvin J. about staying on a military facility.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Consider your rig size when booking at rv parks near Temple Hills. "We have a popup and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs. Site 5 or 7 wouldn't have that problem," advises a Cedarville State Forest camper.
Leveling challenges: Many campsites require preparation. "Sites vary in levelness, some are fairly level and some are on a mini hill. Driveways are all very narrow," notes Laura M. at Greenbelt Park. Another RVer mentions, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level" at Bull Run Regional Park.
Utility access: Cherry Hill Park offers comprehensive hook-ups. "50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer, Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride, Gated, On-site camp store, On-site bus shuttle," lists Beth R. about the amenities.
Dump station considerations: Know your options for waste disposal. "There is 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," shares Laura M. about the setup at Greenbelt Park.
