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Campgrounds near Towson, Maryland range from state parks to private facilities, with most options located within a 30-mile radius. Patapsco Valley State Park offers multiple camping areas including the Hilton Area and Hollofield Area, both providing tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with electric hookups and basic amenities. Several private campgrounds like Cherry Hill Park and Ramblin' Pines feature more extensive facilities including full hookups, while state parks such as Elk Neck State Park and Susquehanna State Park provide a balance of natural settings with moderate amenities.
The camping season for most state parks in the region typically runs from April through October, with limited year-round options available at private campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when facilities reach capacity quickly. Many campgrounds feature water access points to the Patapsco River or other waterways, though swimming is restricted in some areas. The terrain throughout the region includes rolling hills and wooded areas that can experience significant runoff during heavy rains. A visitor noted, "When it rains it really flushes through the grounds. 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."
Campers consistently highlight the accessibility of these areas despite their proximity to urban centers. Patapsco Valley State Park receives praise for its extensive trail system and natural setting while remaining close to Baltimore. "This is where this camp ground shines. It has access to many trails and the Patapsco River," explained one reviewer. The Hollofield Area Campground offers "nice size gravel sites" though some are positioned close together in the electric loop. Family-friendly amenities appear frequently in reviews, with several campgrounds featuring playgrounds, nature centers, and recreational facilities. Most developed campgrounds provide clean bathhouses, though their quality and maintenance vary by location. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, making these campgrounds suitable for those needing to stay connected.
"Camp site(Tent camping)
The camp site is what it is, just a camp site :) It's one of the bigger state parks surrounded by forest in MD.""Another negative was after the storm for the next few days we heard trees falling nearby."
from $20 - $51 / night
Check Availability"It has 8 recreation areas and we stayed at the Hollofield Area in April- one of our first experiences in a Maryland State Park. Beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking /multi use trails."
"This campground is pleasant, but the sites are situated quite close to one another."
from $19 - $27 / night
Check Availability"It was a VERY dark walk to get to the bathhouse for showers. And the fire pit had no grill, so we ended up having to use the stoves of some RV camping friends for meals."
"Large campground with some good trails. Will definitely return!"
"We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick."
"We love this home away from home ❤️"
from $30 - $70 / night
Check Availability"Metrorail is about 6 miles from campground, near University of Maryland."
"Great camping amenities, soft cushioned sites, with power and water close by. DO NOT GET BASIC TENT SITES AS THEY ARE NEXT TO HIGHWAYS AND VERY NOISY!!! Premium tent sites would be a better choice."
from $999 / night
Check Availability"They have a nice dog area for the dog to be able to run around and exercise which a lot of places we have been do not have a place for the dog to really exercise."
"The location worked for my trip but not sure it’s that convenient to DC."
"I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.
The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. ""Surrounding area
There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."
from $21 - $55 / night
Check Availability"This campground isn't too far from our home in Maryland, so if they have room and we want to go spur of the moment, this one is a good choice. "
"The trails from Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail. The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some. "
from $20 - $195 / night
Check Availability"The campsites are separated more widely than many other parks in Maryland (Cunningham Falls, Ft. Frederick, Pt. Lookout), and are quite secluded in comparison."
"I was a walk-up with no reservation and since it was a weekday the ranger gave me a great rundown of the best spots in the camp and let me drive through to check them out before going back with my decision"
from $21 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn’t but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the waters edge."
"This is close to us so it was an easy trip. Full hookup but we’re told to turn off and unhook water the night it dropped below freezing."
from $75 - $115 / night
Check Availability
ScoutThe campground is in excellent condition. The facilities are top notch. The excellence and care of the campground is evident. The 4 stars is only due to the road noise and many of the sites are on top of each other. You feel like your neighbor is at your camp fire.
RangerWe stayed at Redemption Springs to get relatively close to Baltimore without bringing our 30ft travel trailer into the city. Seth and the other gentlemen I spoke with were all extremely accommodating. Enjoyed learning about their approach to restorative farming and purchasing a variety of treats at the farm store. Beef, pork, chicken, seasonings, baked goods, and more. We booked on Hipcamp and recommend following his driving instructions. Our rig fit fine by tuhe main barn and they kept an eye on us going in and out to make sure we didn't have issues making any of the turns. Lots of farm life!
RangerWe stayed at Little Bennett starting on Labor Day Monday and left before the weekend, so it is hard to say how this looks when the campground is full of life. They had quite a few activities for families and a pavilion capable of concerts and such, but there was minimal activity during our stay. My biggest complaint is that the gate code changed and we didn't get any notice--so after a long day and a dinner out near Baltimore (nearly an hour away), I had to call the police to get back to my camper. Otherwise, the campsite was relatively spacious and quiet. The bugs were a little rough. Lots of whitetail running around.
GuideIf you want to be near Annapolis, right on the Severn River...this is it. About 15 RV spots nestled in the woods...with full hook ups. A couple of primitive spots as well. Just a quick 5 min walk to the river...right across from the Academy. NEX, gas within 10 min walk, and 15 min drive to downtown Annapolis. Staff is always great here, and the park is clean....for a park on the woods.
TravelerBased on my stay 3 nights and what I read of Greenbelt Park (the other closeby to Washington campground) I would say this has to be much better and I will stay here again on a future visit. Campground sits inside of a much larger park with great trails, amenities and well maintained. Campground is quiet, lots of trees, forest and yet each space is very large with good spacing and privacy to adjacent sites. High tree canopy at your site so lots of room to spread out. Sites themselves are a little rustic - a mix of grass, gravel and dirt, but not muddy (it rained a good bit prior to my stay) - but in good condition. Shower/toilet block is clean and good hot water and good water pressure. Most sites are flat or near flat and the ones that aren't need minimal levelling blocks. Campground apparently is never full and there was only 1 other when I was there - really hard to believe. There is a neighborhood road up by the sites near the shower block but it is low speed and lightly travelled and I had no disturbance from it. Nice surrounding neighborhood. No signs of vagrants. Park police patrolled multiple times per day and report very little non-camper entry to ther facilities. I felt very safe.Easy access to Eashington - bus stop outside the campground to metro or just drive to the metro (free parking weekend, $6 midweek) and then train (about 8 per hour) into the sites - an hour or less total to get there. For more local people, this seems like a good escape "to the woods" without travelling forever.
ScoutFirst time at this campground really like it a lot will be returning. The bathrooms are always clean. The grounds are always kept up. Just a really nice place to stay. Most of the sites have some kind of shade.
TravelerThis campground is a great place to bring kids. The spots are a little tight but we were able to get our 46’ toy hauler in the spot with very little effort. Because the sites are back-in, we can’t use our rear patio but that is ok. The pool is very nice and the farm atmosphere makes it very fun for kids.
TravelerOne of our favorite places. Very well kept. No bathhouse so bring your own. A lot of shady sites. Great views of Chesapeake bay. Flat roads in the area for cycling.
GuideA beautiful, well maintained park with lots to do, great bathroom facilities and extremely nice people. The electric sites aren't all together, so you don't have RV's lined up but maybe annoying for folks who are tent camping. Avoid the locations in the mid-30's by the dumpster, both staff and campers start shaking the lid around 6:30. Between 5 AM and noon staff were driving big trucks and ATV's around with loud reverse horns, and slamming the fire pit grills, which they store sideways. Overall I had a really wonderful time, but that's largely down to good sound reduction inside the van. Almost zero cell service. I was able to get a couple of text messages in and out, but seemed to be a fluke.
Camping sites near Towson, Maryland range from wooded state parks to full-service private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The area features rolling Piedmont terrain with elevations between 300-500 feet and a humid subtropical climate that creates ideal camping conditions from late April through October. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with moderate rainfall, making waterproof gear essential even during dry spells.
Kayaking opportunities: At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, water activities provide a refreshing break from hiking. "Roland Lake in Baltimore County is a great place to kayak on the Patapsco River. Tons of wildlife, facilities, and amenities for you and your family," notes one visitor who appreciated the clean park and knowledgeable staff.
Lighthouse hiking: The Turkey Point Lighthouse trail at Elk Neck State Park offers panoramic Chesapeake Bay views. "There's a ton of camping at Elk Neck, including a loop with full hook ups... Definitely drive to, and then hike to the lighthouse (open most weekends) the lighthouse and the view are definitely worth it," advises a camper who visited multiple times.
Wildlife observation: Nature enthusiasts can spot native species at Susquehanna State Park. "We scared a bunch of deer (ok they scared me!!) and checked out the giant old growth trees, hiked over a bridge and stream which was full of fish I could see," recounts a visitor who found unexpected hiking opportunities during their stay.
Proximity to DC attractions: Cherry Hill Park serves as an excellent base for exploring 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," explains a visitor who appreciated the transportation options.
Private waterfront sites: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers direct water access that many campers value. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. We are here visiting family for the holidays and it's serving us well... Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks," describes a winter visitor who found the waterfront location convenient.
Swimming options: Unlike some camping areas that restrict swimming, Codorus State Park provides aquatic recreation. "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 a frequent camper who appreciates the included amenities that make it "perfect for families."
Seasonal considerations: Most state parks in the area operate from April through October with limited facilities in off-season. At Elk Neck State Park, one camper noted their "water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water. Nice clean bathhouses," which makes it suitable for late season camping when many other parks shut down water systems.
Site selection strategies: When booking at Hollofield Area Campground, understand the layout differences. "Campsites are nice size gravel sites, some are a bit close to each other in the 'electric' loop and some face a neighborhood that probably couldn't be seen if the trees had regained all their foliage," notes a camper who recommends tenters will be happier with "smaller sites that were more secluded and had great views of the woods."
Cash requirements: Some campgrounds have specific payment policies. At Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, one visitor explained, "One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I knows it's not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us."
Playground accessibility: The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley State Park offers excellent recreational facilities. "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," shares a parent who recommends being aware that "neither the hiking trails or playground are stroller friendly."
Activities during inclement weather: For rainy days, Ramblin' Pines provides indoor options. "This is our local campground and our second time here and we really like it. It has a pool, jump pillow, mini golf, fishing pond, barnyard with goats, and multiple playgrounds," explains a visitor who appreciates the variety available regardless of weather conditions.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to camping, mini cabins can provide comfort. "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 a parent who found them reasonably priced at Patapsco Valley State Park.
Bridge clearance awareness: When approaching campgrounds, pay attention to height restrictions. At Hollofield Area Campground, RVers should note: "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.)" This crucial information can prevent serious issues for larger vehicles.
Campsite angle considerations: At Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina, be prepared for challenging parking. "Some of the trailer sites are a tough back in but worth the trouble. WiFi is good washrooms are modern and adequate," notes an experienced RVer who found the waterfront views compensated for the difficult approach angles.
Off-season availability: Cherry Hill Park remains open year-round with full services. "This is a small gem of a state park campground, one of only two is the massive Patapsco Valley State Park. It's a bit odd getting here through a suburban neighborhood, but the Hilton area is great," comments a visitor who appreciates having reliable winter camping options close to Baltimore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the closest campgrounds to Towson, MD?
Several excellent campgrounds are located within an hour's drive of Towson. Patapsco Valley State Park-Hollofield Area is one of the closest options, offering beautiful riverside camping with 70+ miles of hiking and biking trails. Greenbelt Park Campground provides a convenient camping location with basic amenities, though you may hear some urban noise. Other nearby options include Louise F. Cosca Regional Park and Button Farm for those seeking smaller, quieter campgrounds with varying amenities.
Are there any public parks in Towson with camping facilities?
Towson itself doesn't have parks with camping facilities within town limits. For camping in public parks near Towson, consider Cherry Hill Park, which offers numerous amenities including guided orientation to Washington DC attractions and public transportation access. Louise F. Cosca Regional Park is another public option with 25 campsites, 5 with electrical hookups, and water available at all sites. While not directly in Towson, these parks provide the closest public camping options to the area.
Where can I rent an RV in Towson, Maryland?
While there aren't dedicated RV rental facilities in Towson itself, several nearby campgrounds cater to RV campers and may offer rental information. Ramblin' Pines near Woodbine and Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina near Abingdon are RV-friendly destinations that might provide rental recommendations. Many campers in the area use online peer-to-peer RV rental platforms or regional RV dealers in the greater Baltimore area that offer rental services. Call ahead to check availability and reservation requirements.
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