Camping sites near Upper Marlboro, Maryland sit in the Atlantic coastal plain with elevations around 250 feet above sea level. The area has higher humidity during summer months with temperatures averaging 85-90°F from June through August. The camping season typically runs April through October at most sites, though several campgrounds operate year-round with limited winter amenities.
What to do
Trail exploration: Cedarville State Forest offers multiple trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "There are decent trails to hike here too. There is a sacrifice of space here- I'd like to see it expand a bit, as the campground can fill quickly," notes Bill G. The brown trail provides an accessible walking option for families.
Metro access to DC monuments: Greenbelt Park Campground serves as a practical base for visiting Washington DC. "The other great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods. Can't beat the close proximity to DC," says one reviewer. The green line metro from nearby stations takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the National Mall.
Water recreation: Patuxent River access points near Pohick Bay Campground provide boating options. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," notes Anne K. The campground maintains boat rental facilities a short walk from camping areas during peak season.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Louise F. Cosca Regional Park provides economical camping near urban areas. "This campground is about 25 sites. Only 5 sites have electric (2, 5, 18, 24, 25) but all 25 sites have water hookup," explains Tye S. Sites cost approximately $20 for non-residents, less for Maryland residents.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms rank high in camper satisfaction. "Clean place and very quiet," reports Erwin S. about Greenbelt Park. Another reviewer notes: "Sites were well-maintained, including lavatories. Plenty of tree cover."
Urban escape experience: Campers value the contrast between natural settings and proximity to metropolitan areas. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," reports Becky about Greenbelt. Many campers use sites as convenient bases for day trips to Washington DC, Baltimore, and Annapolis.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking through Recreation.gov or park-specific systems. "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. about Greenbelt Park.
Campground rules vary significantly: Regulations differ between sites regarding alcohol, pets, and hanging items from trees. "No hanging things from trees. Even if you love a hammock you cannot hang them at this park on the trees," notes one Greenbelt Park reviewer.
Seasonal considerations: Cedarville State Forest operates only from April through October with specific pest concerns. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," advises Ben J. Mosquitos can be problematic during summer months, particularly after rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Cherry Hill Park offers extensive water recreation. "Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer, Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," notes Beth R. The splash pad provides an alternative to pool swimming for younger children.
Playground proximity: When booking sites, consider location relative to play areas. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," explains Ben G. about Pohick Bay. Sites backing to recreational areas benefit from convenience but may experience more noise.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule early morning or dusk walks for optimal wildlife sightings. "Every morning birds and squirrels," reports one camper. Deer sightings are common throughout the area, particularly at dawn and dusk in less developed camping areas.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds have tight turns and narrow roads. "Driveways are all very narrow. Most have too much tree cover for solar or starlink, but some sites are more open," notes Laura M. about Greenbelt Park.
Site selection considerations: Adventure Bound Washington DC offers varying site quality. "Sites vary in levelness, some are fairly level and some are on a mini hill," notes one reviewer. Calling ahead to request specific sites can improve your camping experience, especially for larger rigs.
Utility connections: "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," reports a Greenbelt Park visitor. Bringing connection adapters and stabilizing tools can help overcome common hookup challenges at older campgrounds.
