Camping near Gwynn Oak, Maryland offers options from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks, all within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at elevations ranging from 300 to 700 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain with drainage patterns that campers should consider when choosing sites. Summer temperatures average 85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons experience temperature fluctuations of 25-30 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Hiking on marked trails: Greenbelt Park Campground offers over 10 miles of hiking paths through deciduous forest. "There are plenty of green space for walking and running. There is no shoulder so you share the road space with those enjoying this space so be careful," notes a visitor who appreciated the urban escape.
Fishing opportunities: Ramblin' Pines features a stocked fishing pond that's popular with families. "There's a pond for fishing, a pool for swimming and a little general store for all your needs, the kids loved the bounce pillow," according to one camper who found plenty of activities on-site.
Visit historical sites: Susquehanna State Park Campground includes a working grist mill and historic buildings. "There is a historic area in the park, with a working grist mill, mansion and other little buildings to view. Not really my thing, but was pretty neat," shares one visitor who found educational value during their stay.
Explore DC landmarks: For those wanting urban attractions, camping can be a budget-friendly base. "If you camp and want to visit the city, this is a budget conscious way to do so. And, when you are at your campsite, you really are in the middle of the woods," explains a camper about combining nature with city exploration.
What campers like
Natural playgrounds: Beyond typical equipment, some parks create unique play spaces. "There is a 'natural' playground in the loop, and then if you drive down further to the park entrance, there is a large playground for the kids. I've attached photos from the 'natural playground' aka, large rocks and overturned trees. The kids loved it," shares a Hollofield Area Campground visitor.
Varied site privacy levels: Campgrounds offer different spacing between sites. "The outer circle is primitive. There is a dump station. There is a decent bathhouse but it does get buggy. Powerful fan keeps it comfortable on all but the hottest days," notes one camper about site layout options.
Unexpected wildlife viewing: Despite proximity to urban areas, wildlife sightings are common. "I noticed a family of deer grazing close by, a great way to settle in for the evening," reports a Greenbelt camper who was pleasantly surprised by nature so close to DC.
Responsive maintenance: Many campers appreciate staff who quickly address issues. "I had trouble with my electric and Lenny the maintenance man was on the job within 15 minutes and had it fixed in the rain at that," commented a Merry Meadows Recreation Farm visitor who valued the service.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking with no cash accepted on arrival. "This is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online," warns one Greenbelt Park camper.
Tree restrictions: Several parks prohibit hammocks or hanging equipment. "NOTE: park service forbade tying lines or straps to the trees at the time of our visit, so if you favor hammock camping or deploying tarps/ridgelines, plan accordingly," advises a recent visitor.
Site conditions vary dramatically: Elk Neck State Park Campground offers varying levels of privacy and terrain. "In the full hook up loop pay close attention to the lengths specified. The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped. Long rigs will have issues in a few of the sites," notes a camper who found site selection important.
Weather vulnerability: Many sites experience drainage issues. "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 and it was very wet even after the rain died down," shares one camper about challenging conditions during rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sensory activities: Some parks feature special trails designed for children with different abilities. "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," recommends a parent.
Choose sites strategically: Families should consider bathroom proximity. "We loved that our site had a path directly to the bathhouse. This meant there wasn't any foot traffic from people wanting to shower or use the restrooms," shares a Cherry Hill Park visitor with practical advice.
Pack for temperature shifts: Seasonal camping requires preparation for weather changes. "You can definitely bike/drive to nearby Ellicott city which has a charming downtown area," suggests a camper who appreciated having nearby towns for unexpected supply runs.
Consider pool restrictions: Some campgrounds have specific rules about young children. "I didn't like that non-potty trained kids are not allowed to swim in their pool. Luckily we only have a 9 month old currently that isn't potty trained," warns a family about planning activities around pool policies.
Tips from RVers
Height restrictions matter: Some campgrounds have low clearance access points. "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)," cautions a camper at Hollofield Area about potential access issues.
Full hookup availability varies: Washington DC / Capitol KOA offers complete services, which is uncommon in state parks. "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," notes a visitor about the tradeoff between convenience and seclusion at private campgrounds.
Consider seasonal water availability: Winter camping may mean limited services. "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November," shares a late-season camper pleased with extended utility access.
