Camping options near Callaway include both waterfront and wooded sites with varied terrain along the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often reaching the 90s, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional rain. Standing water can be common after rainfall, creating muddy conditions at many campgrounds in the low-lying areas.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: Calvert Cliffs State Park features a 1.8-mile trail leading to a beach known for prehistoric fossils. "The trail now is very well marked, clean, and there are facilities down by the beach to use. They do have a nice park for the kids by the entrance and a very well kept pond at the beginning of the hike to fish from," notes Anthony S. from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping.
Fishing from piers: Multiple locations offer dedicated fishing areas. At Dennis Point Marina and Campground, you can fish directly from their piers with easy water access. A camper mentioned, "I went tent camping here and it was really really nice. Me and my family enjoyed ourselves. Staff was friendly and the bathrooms was very clean."
Historic site exploration: Point Lookout has Civil War history with museum exhibits. "The park used to be a prison for Confederate soldiers, so lots of cool exhibits and memorials for history buffs," shares Jen V. from Point Lookout State Park.
What campers like
Private, shaded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural barriers. At Westmoreland State Park, "The tent sites are awesome and mine have always been pretty private feeling despite being somewhat near others. Bathhouses are always SO clean and heated in the winter," reports RL from Westmoreland State Park Campground.
Winter camping options: Some locations remain open year-round with heated facilities. "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night. We only have a small tent and some snacks. Lol but we are having an amazing time. Beautiful and relaxing," shares Sara A. about her off-season visit.
Swimming opportunities: Both beaches and pools are available depending on the season. Westmoreland offers "access to the Potomac River, beaches, shark tooth island (!), what seems like endless beautiful hiking trails and the cleanest camp grounds I have ever seen," according to Katie T.
What you should know
Insect considerations: Many campgrounds report significant bug populations, especially in summer months. "Again, the setting was very beautiful, but the bugs were killer. Luckily, there was a nice strong breeze blowing off the water during the vast majority of our stay. However, the second it stopped, the bugs descended on us," warns a visitor to Point Lookout.
Weather impacts: Rain can create standing water at many sites. One camper at Goose Creek Recreation Area noted: "Rained while we where there and the ground was very saturate so the puddles where quite large."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies widely between campgrounds. A visitor to Point Lookout mentioned: "No internet access at the campsite, but could get it if you were a few feet away from the Loop. It's a complete dead spot for Verizon anyway. Not good if you're working while camping."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. James P. mentions that Point Lookout has "large picnic areas and pavilions, nice bathrooms and showers" and suggests that families should "get an excellent Italian sub from Ridge Market" nearby.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer nature programs for children. "The park has a sad history and is probably haunted, but it's got ocean bay views, fishing, and historical recreations to visit," notes Lori about Solomons Navy Recreation Area, which offers "spacious sites, and anything else you could want!"
Site selection strategies: Some loops are better suited for families than others. "We originally hoping for something in the B Loop, but we ended up being really happy in our spot because while the B Loop was beautiful with waterfront campsites, the bugs were awful and there was no shade anywhere," advises Tara S.
Tips from RVers
Loop characteristics: Different camping areas offer varied experiences. "Tulip Loop has full hookups which was great, but the sites are basically in a swamp. I think we were there before the mosquitos. I'm sure with all the standing water they'd be everywhere!" shares Buck P. about Point Lookout.
Site spacing considerations: Some dog friendly campgrounds near Callaway offer more separation than others. "The sites have plenty of separation and the park was very quiet. We talked to several fellow campers and all were very welcoming and helpful," notes Nick E. about his 33-foot travel trailer experience.
Hookup availability: Power options vary between locations. At Take It Easy Campground, "Grounds were clean. We had a nice shaded lot. Fishing pond was close and kids had a blast fishing. Pool was small but kids liked it," though the "Community bath house left something to be desired," according to one reviewer.