RV parks near Upper Marlboro, Maryland span terrain from forested campgrounds to military installations, providing varied camping experiences within 30 miles of the area. Campgrounds in this region frequently experience seasonal closures between November and March, with some sites remaining operational year-round. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F, requiring adequate shade and cooling options for comfortable camping.
What to do
Hiking trails and forest access: Prince William Forest offers extensive hiking opportunities close to campgrounds. "Prince William Forest which is a fantastic National Parks forest," notes one camper at Prince William Forest RV Campground. The forest includes trails suitable for day hikes and nature walks.
Historical site exploration: Multiple military and historical sites surround Upper Marlboro camping areas. At Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, one visitor mentioned, "The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on."
Water activities: Several campgrounds provide river and waterfront access. "American Discovery Trail (ADT) passes through the park," notes a camper at Greenbelt Park Campground, referencing the long-distance trail system connecting recreation areas.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Tree cover provides relief during hot summer months. A visitor to Bull Run Regional Park observed, "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower and bathroom facilities receive frequent positive mentions. At Bull Run Regional Park, one reviewer specifically noted, "I'll go again just for the showers... Best camping showers I've ever had. Locking doors, individual stalls."
Public transportation access: Several RV parks near Upper Marlboro provide connections to Washington DC transit. A Greenbelt Park Campground visitor advised, "Take the METRO if you are going into the District. There are two stations very close to camp. Rides vary depending on how far you are going but on average I spent about $10 per day on METRO versus $20-$40 on parking."
What you should know
Space limitations: Many campgrounds in this area feature tight spacing between sites. At Harbor View RV and Camping Resort, one camper reported, "They are also very close together--our slide was almost touching our neighbor's slide."
Reservation requirements: Advance booking becomes essential during peak seasons, with weekend availability particularly limited. A reviewer at Cherry Hill Park noted, "It wasn't crowded either way, especially given on a weekend."
Cell service and connectivity: Connectivity varies significantly between parks. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, a visitor reported, "I can confirm Verizon and Google fi have great service. I would imagine any other carrier would work just as well."
Weather impacts: Drainage issues affect some campgrounds during rain events. A Bull Run Regional Park visitor warned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Multiple parks offer family-focused amenities. A Cedarville State Forest visitor mentioned, "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."
Wildlife viewing: Local forests provide wildlife observation opportunities. At Cedarville State Forest, a camper reported, "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates."
Educational programs: Seasonal ranger-led activities occur at several parks. A Bull Run Regional Park visitor shared, "The 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."
Site selection: For families with children, specific sites offer better experiences. One visitor at Bull Run advised, "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campers report needing leveling equipment at area RV parks. At Bull Run Regional Park, a visitor warned, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Water access planning: Water hookup availability varies between parks. A Greenbelt Park visitor advised, "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."
Military credentials: Several facilities require military identification. At Camp Meade RV Park, a visitor noted, "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle. They reminded me."
Traffic and noise considerations: Highway proximity affects camping experience. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, a visitor cautioned, "I was only stopping for single night. I could not access water as the spigot was broken. Was not informed next door there was a outdoor concert that went until 10pm extremely loud."
