Maryland's camping landscape features a mix of established campgrounds and more rustic options within state parks and forests. Assateague State Park Campground on the Atlantic Ocean and Rocky Gap State Park with its lake and mountain setting offer popular options for tent and RV campers. Green Ridge State Forest provides more primitive experiences in western Maryland, with spacious sites tucked into dense woodland. Elk Neck State Park and Tuckahoe State Park campgrounds accommodate a variety of camping styles including cabins and yurts, creating accessible options for different comfort levels.
Most Maryland campgrounds have seasonal operating schedules, with the fullest services available from April through October. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for waterfront sites and during summer weekends. One camper noted, "We stayed in cabin 170 in Fir loop and the site was incredibly spacious, heavily shaded, close to the bath house, path to the beach, and well distanced from other sites." Green Ridge State Forest offers year-round access but requires high-clearance vehicles for many sites, with no reservations available—campers must arrive early to secure spots. Cell service varies significantly across the state, with more remote areas in western Maryland offering limited connectivity.
The camping experience differs substantially between Maryland's coastal and mountain regions. Along the Atlantic shoreline, Assateague campgrounds provide beach access and opportunities to observe wild horses, though one visitor mentioned that "knee-high pricker-grass" has replaced the sandy sites at some locations. In contrast, western Maryland's camping areas offer forest immersion and solitude. A camper at Green Ridge noted, "The forest is beautiful, the campsites are large and very spaced out, firewood is bountiful, the area feels very remote." Many campgrounds provide amenities including clean bathhouses, picnic tables, and fire rings, but primitive sites typically offer only basic facilities. Mixed-use campgrounds with both tent and RV sites are common, allowing for various camping styles within the same area.
$28 - $39 / night
"and was well situated, with a nice open space between the edge of the site and the dunes."
"There is an outdoor shower and sink as well as several paths to the beach. The beach is beautiful and clean."
$21 - $55 / night
"I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.
The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. ""Surrounding area
There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."
$40 - $80 / night
"We enjoyed bike riding around the island, catching glimpses of the wild ponies and running around on the beach."
"Sites were not too close to one another. We had site 13 on ocean loop 1. Just a few steps, and you’re on the beach. Nice picnic table and fire pit."
$23 - $29 / night
"Rocky gap is one of my favorite parks to camp in Maryland! It is right along a great lake, where you can swim, fish, kayak or just lay about. The camp store is well stocked and the staff is friendly."
"The beach at the lake is not far away for any loop."
$999 / night
"Metrorail is about 6 miles from campground, near University of Maryland."
"Great camping amenities, soft cushioned sites, with power and water close by. DO NOT GET BASIC TENT SITES AS THEY ARE NEXT TO HIGHWAYS AND VERY NOISY!!! Premium tent sites would be a better choice."
$40 / night
"Wild horses, wide, clean stretches of beach, safe surroundings, close to town. This is the best beach camping in all of Maryland."
"You can also spend a day in Ocean City, Maryland or head down to Chincoteague for the best ice cream you'll ever have! Arguably the best camping trip I've ever been on."
$23 - $29 / night
"This park just is near enough to Baltimore and DC to allow for a quick getaway and offers a lot to do."
"Maryland has some great state parks and this is one of them. Decent sized sites, clean bath houses. Swimming lake is excellent. Only basic amenities, but dump station."
$21 - $70 / night
"Tuckahoe State Park is tucked away onto the Eastern Shore of Maryland, close to the Chesapeake Bay. It features every kind of camping you can imagine."
"Those can be found at the campground entrance. Each loop has a wood shed and clean, well-appointed bathhouse. There are water pumps along the road for refills."
$20 / night
"If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."
"The campsite is superb with walking trails, wildlife and the occasional overflying US Presidential Helicopter. Easily accessible from close by freeways, and charmingly peaceful"
$10 / night
"All are roadside, but plenty are tucked away so you feel alone in the woods. You can occupy a site as long as you register at the parks main office. $10/night."
"My family and I have gone camping all over Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania, but had never visited Green Ridge before this weekend. "
TravelerRight off the beach wild horses, deer, turkeys, and birds. Woke up and walked right out on the beach for some early morning beach combing, was a bit windy
LegendWe spent a week at Bay Shore Campground to explore Rock Hall, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. What stands out about this campground? The view!Â
For me, this is a 4-star campground because of the view and nice staff, but not 5-stars because of the sloped site packed in with the neighbors and no sewer connection.Â
THINGS I LIKED:
— Great view from our site of the Chesapeake Bay— especially for sunset each evening
— Friendly staff
— Nearby Rock Hall, Chestertown, and Eastern Neck Island Wildlife Refuge
— They offered a promo to pay for 6 nights, and the 7th was freeÂ
THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:
— Our site(Site B) had an amazing view of Chesapeake Bay, but the slope made it difficult to get even close to level— even with my front jacks fully extended. I had to buy additional leveling blocks from the camp store(at twice the price of Amazon) just so we didn’t feel like walking uphill to walk around our motorhome. I admit, I am spoiled but really appreciate the campgrounds that level their sites. I think it could be done in a few hours with a rented front loader at a couple nights’ cost.
— Our site(Site B) was tight. The neighbor’s awning was just inches from our motorhome. I understand the need for any business to maximize revenue, but this was unpleasantly close.
— There are no sewer hookups at the sites. They do have a couple of dump stations for your way out and provide a pump-out service once per week at$40 a pop. They were nice enough to pump me out a second time since I stayed 7 nights. Again, I know I’m spoiled, but a sewer connection is a necessity when you’re staying 8 days.Â
WOULD WE COME BACK?Â
Sure thing, but we’d stay at a different site.
GuideThis is such a perfect way to hang by the ocean. Some sites are close but tenting is key. Showers and outdoor showers are my favorite. There isn’t much to dislike if anything? Oh, ai know. Light pollution. There is no light pollution and we always bring our telescope and then rvs will keep their leds on, but unless that is enforced. There isn’t much that can be done. 🤷🏼‍♀️
TravelerMagical stay at Point Lookout — New Tulip Loop (Full Hook‑Up) and I’m already planning a return. The whole park feels peaceful and safe, the staff were genuinely friendly and helpful, and our site is clean and well‑maintained. The loop’s energy felt magical — quiet, restorative, and tucked into the trees so it felt private but not isolated. Full hookups were convenient and reliable; the site layout is roomy and pet‑friendly, with an easy walk to a beautiful dog beach so our pup had a blast. We walked to stunning beaches and spent afternoons watching water and sky at the tip of the peninsula — spectacular views where the Potomac meets the Chesapeake. The park’s Civil War history and lighthouse added fascinating, walkable sites to explore between beach time, giving the stay both recreation and depth. Clean facilities, helpful staff at the park office, and well-marked trails made everything low‑stress and enjoyable. If you want a peaceful, historic, pet‑friendly Class A spot with full hookups and gorgeous nearby beaches, Tulip Loop at Point Lookout is five stars from me.
ScoutThought the campsites were extremely close together. There were A LOT of kids and no quiet hours. Good for families. Not good for a camping camping experience.
ScoutNice campground had my 6 and 7 year old. The site was pretty private and had bathrooms close. I would definitely go again.
TravelerWe stayed one night here (didn't even unhook from the truck). Arrived in the rain and were leaving early the next morning, so I didn't want to disconnect. Our gravel pad was over 6" out of level, requiring me to use leveling pads and a leveling jack to get trailer level. All the short-term gravel sites looked like they needed some love!
Campground is about 80% seasonal, and apparently has no housekeeping restrictions on residents - some sites were pretty full of old dead golf carts and various debris. Not sure I would want to stay for a destination camping experience, but it was cheap and fine for a one night stay.
TravelerWe came up here in our Roadtrek campervan. Quiet woodsy forestland. Went for a walk in the morning, lots of birdsong. A bit of road noise from the nearby highways but didn’t hear anything at night.
GuideWe arrived on a beautiful mid April day. We were walk-ins and had the choice for a site on the beach or the inland campground. The inland sites were in a very open, treeless circle along the marshlands. Not particularly attractive or ugly, not private, but WARM compared to what we experienced mid April along the beach. Although beautiful and right on the beach, the wind nearly blew us over. Fires were impossible due to wind and damp wood purchased at a beach kiosk. No one could brave those winds for more than a short time. Showers are cold water. Pit toilets were good. That being said, what a unique experience with the horses and proximity to the beach.
Camping in Maryland offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, family-friendly activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in this state.
Camping in Maryland is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're with family or exploring solo. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful scenery!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping in Maryland?
True dispersed camping is limited in Maryland due to its densely populated nature. Your best option is Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, which offers a primitive camping experience with nearby parking. The site provides basic amenities while still offering a backcountry feel. For a more remote experience, western Maryland offers limited dispersed camping opportunities in Savage River State Forest and Green Ridge State Forest, where you can camp outside of designated campgrounds. Always check with the managing authority before setting up, as permits may be required and regulations can change seasonally.
What private campgrounds are available in Maryland?
Brunswick Family Campground is a popular private option situated between railroad tracks and the Potomac River. The campground offers mesmerizing river views and helpful staff, making it a convenient getaway for those from the DC metro area while still feeling like an escape. Assateague State Park Campground offers a unique private camping experience with oceanfront sites and the famous wild horses. Other private options include Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Western Maryland, Cherry Hill Park near College Park (convenient to DC), and Bar Harbor RV Park on the Eastern Shore. Most private campgrounds offer amenities like full hookups, WiFi, and organized activities that state parks typically don't provide.
Are there free camping options available in Maryland?
Free camping is scarce in Maryland, but there are a few options. Owens Creek Campground in Catoctin Mountain Park offers some of the most affordable camping in the state, though not entirely free. It's notably less crowded than nearby Cunningham Falls State Park and features peaceful creekside sites. Some hiker-biker campsites along the C&O Canal towpath are available for free or minimal cost to cyclists and hikers. Additionally, Big Run State Park Campground in Western Maryland has some of the most affordable sites in the state park system. Always verify current fees before your trip, as rates can change seasonally.
What are the best state park campgrounds in Maryland?
Rocky Gap State Park Campground consistently ranks among Maryland's best with its lakeside camping, well-maintained facilities, and activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking. The F and C loops are ideal for pet owners, and many sites are spacious enough for large family tents. Swallow Falls State Park Campground is another top choice, offering level tent sites in a true forest setting. The campground's proximity to multiple waterfalls makes it exceptionally scenic. Other excellent options include Deep Creek Lake for its beautiful forest setting and firefly displays in summer, and Big Run State Park for stream-side camping with excellent paddling access.
Keep Exploring
