Camping options near Laurel, Maryland are positioned within the Patuxent River watershed at elevations ranging from 150 to 300 feet above sea level. The region typically experiences humid subtropical weather with four distinct seasons, allowing for year-round camping with spring and fall offering the most moderate temperatures. Most campgrounds remain accessible despite winter closures at select state parks, with the proximity to both Baltimore and Washington DC creating higher demand during summer tourist season.
What to do
Trail exploration: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area offers extensive hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. "The hike I did was not very long but was well worth it. The trail was well marked but there was some confusion at one point on where we were suppose to go. Luckily I had an app that kept me on trail. There are some pretty cool Bridges, old houses, and a water fall," notes a visitor. The park contains multiple trail systems suitable for day hikes directly from campsites.
Urban tourism and monument visits: Campers frequently use these campgrounds as bases for exploring Washington DC. "We took the METRO if you are going into the District. There are two stations very close to camp (Greenbelt and University Park). Rides vary depending on how far you are going but on average I spent about $10 per day on METRO versus $20-$40 on parking in the district," explains a camper at Greenbelt Park Campground. The train ride from Greenbelt station to the national mall takes approximately 30 minutes.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds provide access to swimming and water activities during warmer months. "The lake is beautiful!" remarks one visitor to Lake Fairfax Campground, which features both a lake and water park with additional admission fees. For river-based recreation, campers can access the Patapsco River via Forest Glen Trail at Patapsco Valley State Park.
What campers like
Urban escape settings: Despite proximity to metropolitan areas, many campgrounds maintain natural surroundings. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," notes a camper at Greenbelt Park Campground. Several visitors mention the contrast between suburban locations and forest settings as a highlight.
Transportation options: The ability to access public transit from campgrounds ranks high among visitor priorities. One camper at Washington DC Capitol KOA reported, "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5."
Campsite privacy: The spacing between sites varies significantly between campgrounds in the area. At Little Bennett Campground, a visitor noted, "Lots of vegetation between sites providing privacy from neighbors," while another mentioned "very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup." Many campgrounds feature wooded settings that create natural separation despite relatively close site placement.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require advance booking, particularly during peak season. "You can pay for the metro with an app or get a card, either way it costs you $2 to buy the card, and then $2 each way on the train. Everyone over age 5 needs their own card, no sharing one card," explains a visitor to Greenbelt Park Campground.
Noise considerations: Due to urban proximity, some campgrounds experience transportation noise. "Decent little campground! It was quiet aside from occasional air traffic noise," mentions one camper at Greenbelt Park. Sites farther from main roads typically offer the quietest camping experience.
Seasonal variations: Availability and amenities change throughout the year. "Being just barely off the beaten path, I wasn't expecting all too much from the one night stay over planned heading from New Jersey to Shenandoah in Virginia. I was surprised at the quiet, understated beauty of the forestry around the perfectly level campsite," notes a visitor to Hollofield Area Campground, which operates seasonally from April through October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park. The nature center was closed when we visited, but the kids still enjoyed the sensory trail and playground," reports one family. The campground's facilities specifically cater to children with nature-focused activities.
Camp activities: Various organized programs exist for younger campers. "The park was nice and level, but a bit small, with a short driveway. Nice playground for the kids. Some nice scenic areas - great for pictures. Lots of picnic areas," comments a visitor to Patapsco Valley State Park. Many campgrounds offer weekend programming during summer months.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers and interpretive trails provide learning experiences. "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," notes a camper, highlighting the value for families seeking educational content alongside recreation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: RV campers should research site specifications before booking. At Washington DC / Capitol KOA, a visitor advises, "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy." Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility.
Hookup considerations: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary by campground. "Site#D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back. Site#D69 gravel parking pad," reports an RVer at Little Bennett Campground, noting the importance of bringing leveling equipment.
Navigational challenges: Some campgrounds have access limitations. One camper at Hollofield Area Campground cautions, "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 type of specific information can prevent significant problems for larger rigs attempting to access camping areas.
