Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area

Visiting family and friends in the area and this state park exceeded our expectations. You’d think it would be noisy with all the traffic through-ways surrounding it. But, was quiet with just a “hint” of traffic noise. Stayed 7 nights on the inside electric loop with 30amp hookup. Easy access to Route 40, 29, and I70.

Camping here is for youth groups only but there is a great playground for kids. Worth a visit for a picnic.

The Hilton area campground is unique because, unlike the Hollofield area of the park, it doesn't allow RVs and its tent sites are non-electric. However, a tiny cabin experience with electricity is available... within the same loop as non-electric tent camping. My non-electric tent campsite was surrounded by brightly lit cabins, even unoccupied all of their porch lights stay on all night. It doesn't make the upper half of the campground ideal for stargazing. The other reviewers are correct that the lower half of the loop is situated lower in the valley which will make any rain you get more difficult, so avoid booking a site at the very bottom. Overall the campground and state park deserve 4 stars because from what I could see tent pads were level, firepits had grill gates, showers were hot, and staff were cleaning and maintaining the grounds everyday. But be safe; prepare detailed offline navigation if you use the trails surrounding the camp. I definitely got lost relying on blazes for what I thought was supposed to be the Charcoal Trail.