Tent campsites near Kingsville, Maryland offer several primitive camping alternatives beyond established state park campgrounds. The area lies within the Chesapeake Bay watershed at elevations averaging 300 feet above sea level. Late summer temperatures average 85°F, with typical overnight lows in the 60s during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Water activities at Blackbird State Forest: Before its closure, this campground provided a unique forested camping environment. "Each campsite features a picnic table or two, and a fire pit, plus one bundle of firewood. The ground is dirt covered with woodchips and sometimes evergreen needles -- pretty easy to sleep in a tent," notes reviewer D R.
Hiking at Susquehannock State Park: Located about 40 minutes north of Kingsville in Pennsylvania, this park offers scenic trails with river views. "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River. There's a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles," according to David G.
Family recreation at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area: This park includes specialized amenities for children. "It seem like this area is, possibly unintentionally, geared toward children. There is a massive playground, nature play space, sensory trail, and a small nature center. There are a lot of easy, but beautiful hikes," explains reviewer Sean M.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Blackbird State Forest Campground. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return! No running water- only port a potties but they were clean," says Sarah M.
Wildlife viewing: Susquehannock State Park Campground provides excellent opportunities for bird watching. The park's trails offer "amazing wildflowers" according to David G., who also notes it's "a great place to see lots of eagles."
Water sounds: The tent sites at Mill Creek Camping Area feature proximity to moving water. As Meagan J. describes, "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Lower elevation sites at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area can 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," notes Alexandra T.
Limited facilities: Many campsites within 45 minutes of Kingsville offer only basic amenities. At Blackbird, "There are a couple portapotties in the camping area, which are a few feet from one campsite, or a few blocks from another. There is one water pump," explains D R.
Trail crossings: Some campgrounds have hiking trails that intersect with camping areas. At Mill Creek Camping Area, Sakina P. reports: "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for playground time: Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camping provides structured group camping experiences with recreational facilities. "This campground is very well taken care of, and seemed safe to me. There are wonderful views of the water and swimming at the beach, pavilions for social gatherings," notes Rachel S.
Check reservation times: Some parks have strict check-in policies. At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, one reviewer cautions: "This was also the first time we have ever had to wait till exactly 3pm to check in. So if you arrive early expect to wait until 3."
Consider weather timing: Seasonal conditions affect camping experiences. For Sandy Point, Angel G. advises: "In the summer it can get pretty crowded, so we prefer to visit in late spring while school is still in session. August is the worst month to visit if you like the water. Jellyfish take over with a vengeance!"
Tips from RVers
Surface considerations: At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, tent sites have specific surface requirements. "The crushed stone at the sites isn't comfortable for tents, and they won't let you pitch it on the ground, so bring extra pads and alternative ways to secure the tent to the ground," advises Sean M.
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent campgrounds near Kingsville have minimal RV facilities. Blackbird State Forest specifically noted that "RV camping is not encouraged," according to D R.'s review.
Alternative cabin options: For those seeking more comfort, Patapsco Valley offers cabin alternatives. "The best part of this campground are the neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it,'" writes Sean M.
