K
Karen G.
Scout
ScoutElk Neck State Park Campground
Clean bathrooms and hot showers, great hiking and beautiful sites.
Best Dog-Friendly Camping in Maryland
Assateague State Park Campground and Rocky Gap State Park Campground both maintain strict pet leash policies while offering diverse accommodation options for campers with animals. Dogs must be attended at all times and properly leashed at Assateague's oceanside sites, where horses roam freely throughout the camping areas. Rocky Gap's campsites tucked into wooded areas provide more shade and privacy for pets sensitive to heat, with many sites spacious enough for both RVs and tents. Green Ridge State Forest offers more primitive camping options for those seeking seclusion with their pets, featuring widely spaced sites where neighboring campers are neither visible nor audible. The campground bathhouses are regularly cleaned and well-maintained despite high visitor numbers, especially during peak summer months.
The 5.3-mile trail around Lake Habeeb at Rocky Gap provides excellent exercise opportunities for dogs, though pets are not permitted on some waterfall trails in Maryland state parks. Campgrounds near water bodies require extra vigilance with pets, as Assateague specifically restricts dogs from beach swimming areas, and rangers actively enforce these regulations. The C&O Canal towpath offers accessible walking paths for dog owners staying at Green Ridge State Forest or nearby campgrounds. Summer visitors should be prepared for significant fly populations at waterfront campgrounds, which can make outdoor relaxation with pets challenging. Wildlife encounters are common throughout Maryland's campgrounds, with wild horses at Assateague requiring special caution when camping with dogs.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in Maryland (149)
1. Assateague State Park Campground
66 ReviewsBerlin, MDWebsite+1 (410) 641-2120$28 - $39 / night
"Pristine beach and easy access to Bay. The state park has immaculate bathhouses. The mosquitos are no joke. Bring your grill Some loops are pet friendly."
"There is an outdoor shower and sink as well as several paths to the beach. The beach is beautiful and clean."
2. Elk Neck State Park Campground
63 ReviewsPerryville, MDWebsite+1 (410) 287-5333$21 - $55 / night
"Accessible and pet friendly. Great trails and great staff"
"Our go to State Park for camping as it is pretty close to home. Standard State Park with all the amenities you need. We are tent campers/ non electric (no pets/ no kids)."
3. Rocky Gap State Park Campground
56 ReviewsFlintstone, MDWebsite+1 (301) 722-1480$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."
"Great location in Western Maryland. 10 min ride to Cumberland (larger town) 5 min ride to small town of Flintstone. Lots of well marked trails that range from beginner to advanced."
4. Bayside Assateague Campground — Assateague Island National Seashore
55 ReviewsGirdletree, MDWebsite+1 (410) 641-3030$40 - $80 / night
"I couldn't even start a campfire because the firepit was downwind and very close to my car and tent, and I didn't want them to go up in flames."
"Beach: The campsites are right behind the dunes from the beach, it’s a perfect spot and so convenient for spending the day on the beach but being able to run back to your site for supplies/bathroom etc"
5. Cherry Hill Park
44 ReviewsBeltsville, MDWebsite+1 (301) 937-7116$999 / night
"Though you are close to highways I don’t recall hearing and noise. I love that they have shuttles to DC., walking trails and a large dog park."
"Great location with access to all forms of transportation. Store fully stocked to include groceries. Two pools. Hot tub. Play areas to include a game room and miniature golf. "
6. Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground
43 ReviewsBerlin, MDWebsite+1 (410) 641-1441$40 / night
"Wild horses, wide, clean stretches of beach, safe surroundings, close to town. This is the best beach camping in all of Maryland."
"Do not feed or pet the horses!"
7. Greenbrier State Park Campground
42 ReviewsBoonsboro, MDWebsite+1 (888) 432-2267$23 - $29 / night
"My partner and our two dogs loved this campground! We were in the dogwood loop. Positives
* Big, immaculately groomed tent pads
* Mostly tent campers!"
"There are four loops; two with no hookups and no pets allowed, one with no hookups that allow pets and one with electric sites that allow pets."
8. Tuckahoe State Park Campground
32 ReviewsRidgely, MDWebsite+1 (410) 820-1668$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."
"Mini cabin D is pet friendly but one of the few. Bathrooms were pretty clean, although perpetually wet floors throughout. Nice washing station for doing dishes, which was a major plus."
9. Green Ridge State Forest
31 ReviewsLittle Orleans, MDWebsite+1 (301) 478-3124$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."
"We arrived on a Friday around 6 and found every campsite full. We ended up at an overflow site. Get there early if at all possible!"
10. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
33 ReviewsGreenbelt, MDWebsite+1 (301) 344-3948$20 / night
"The park is located away from the camping grounds. It has two play grounds, several picnic tables and a bathroom."
"If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos in Maryland
155 Photos of 149 Maryland Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews in Maryland
1396 Reviews of 149 Maryland Campgrounds
- EEmily M.
TravelerSwallow Falls State Park Campground
Beautiful area with a waterfall hike
Lovely little campground in a beautiful forest, with a great waterfall hike walkable to the campground. I stayed in Garrett in October and it was still packed full of people, which for me was nice because I like feeling like I'm in a community of campers. But the sites were super close together, basically right now the main drag, not very private, especially without leaf cover, and a little smaller than I expected. But well kept, in more forest than I was expecting, and I enjoyed myself. The canyon trail was mobbed, but it was a stunning weekend so that's not surprising. Bathrooms in the offseason could have used a bit more attention, but they weren't too bad.
Senona C.TravelerGreenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
Close to washington as we could get. Could also park our skoolie bus which was nice and had plenty of close by shower with bathrooms. Keep in mind only one shower per restroom house. We stayed at a pretty slow season so it wasn’t bad. Would recommend if visiting DC! They also have a dump station and water fill up.
- CChristopher P.Traveler
Big Run State Park Campground
Generous sized sites, quiet, beautiful area.
- Charlie Y.
GuideSavage River State Forest
Savage River Road State Campsites
There are numerous Md. State DNR Campsites along Savage River Road.. No hookups but water may be available at Big Run State Park. These campsites are remote and very private for the most part. Some may be able to accomodate trailers and RV's for dry camping. Check MD DNR WEBSITE for more info
Crystal M.ScoutGreen Ridge State Forest
Great primitive camping
Beautiful area. Very primitive, which is great. Roads were fairly decent to the campsite. Didn't stay near the water and no mountain view but still nice. Had a nice trail into the woods.
David B.ScoutCamp Meade RV Park
Camp Meade
Simple and friendly check in process. Clean and well-maintained site.
Jill S.ScoutFifteen Mile Campground — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Safe, clean, and beautiful!
The campground is a nice size with enough space between sites to feel as though you have some privacy.
We reserved site 4 online but someone had set up there when we arrived. Site 6 was open and it had a better view anyway and was farther away from the toilets, so we didn’t mind.
The boat launch is right there which we planned to paddle board in the morning, but got rained out. The river looks really nice and clean though.
Tables and fire pits are a great size. We saw some gorgeous stars as there isn’t any light pollution.
It’s only half hour from Berkeley Springs, so fill up your spring water for free there and then come enjoy the campsite!
Will definitely return.
- JJ S.Traveler
Green Ridge State Forest
Secluded Site
This was my second time staying at Greenridge in my twenty foot Dodge Ram RV van. This was a convenient first stop on my trip to Yellowstone NP. I arrived mid afternoon on a Saturday in August and there were plenty of sites available.
The sites are spaced apart and while I could see other sites were occupied as I drove to mine, I did not see or hear other people the entire length of my stay.
The dirt road leading to the site was well maintained and in good shape despite recent heavy rain.
The site was just few miles from the highway, making it easy for me to continue my journey the next morning.
Guide to Maryland
Maryland offers a variety of pet-friendly camping options, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry companions. From scenic beaches to serene forests, there’s something for every pet owner.
Tips for camping with dogs near Assateague Island
- The Assateague State Park Campground is known for its wild horses, so be sure to keep your dog leashed and away from them.
- At the Bayside Assateague Campground, you can enjoy beach access while your dog explores the sandy shores.
- The Oceanside Assateague Campground allows pets, making it a great spot for beach camping with your dog.
Pet-friendly campgrounds include Elk Neck State Park
- Elk Neck State Park Campground features well-maintained trails that are perfect for hiking with your dog.
- The Greenbrier State Park Campground has a dog-friendly loop, ensuring your pet can enjoy the outdoors alongside you.
- At Shad Landing Campground, pets are welcome, and the park offers plenty of activities for families and their furry friends.
Dog owners appreciate the amenities at Cherry Hill Park
- Cherry Hill Park provides a well-stocked camp store and clean facilities, making it convenient for pet owners.
- The Rocky Gap State Park Campground features a private beach area, perfect for a day of fun with your dog.
- Frontier Town RV Resort Campground offers a variety of activities, including a water park and playgrounds, ensuring a fun-filled stay for the whole family, pets included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find tent camping sites in Maryland that allow dogs?
Where can I find tent camping sites in Maryland that allow dogs?
New Germany State Park Campground offers tent camping in their Hemlock loop, which is specifically designated as pet-friendly. This loop is primarily designed for tent campers, though one site does offer electricity. For coastal camping with pets, Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground allows dogs in designated areas. Many Maryland state parks have specific pet-friendly loops, so be sure to check when making reservations as pet policies vary by location.
What are the pet policies at Maryland state parks like Greenbrier?
What are the pet policies at Maryland state parks like Greenbrier?
Maryland state parks typically designate specific camping loops as pet-friendly. At Shad Landing Campground in Pocomoke River State Park, there are clearly marked pet-friendly and non-pet-friendly loops. Similarly, at most Maryland state parks, pets must be kept on leashes no longer than 6 feet at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. While Greenbrier State Park is temporarily closed, the pet policies when operational are consistent with other Maryland state parks, requiring pets to stay in designated areas only and not allowing them on beaches or in buildings.
What are the best pet-friendly campgrounds in Maryland?
What are the best pet-friendly campgrounds in Maryland?
Ramblin' Pines stands out with its dedicated dog park in a peaceful, wooded setting. Campers praise the clean facilities and friendly atmosphere. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Williamsport MD is another excellent option featuring a dog park alongside numerous family-friendly amenities like a water park, playgrounds, mini golf, and more. Both campgrounds offer a balance of pet-friendly features and general camping amenities that make them popular choices for campers traveling with four-legged companions.
Are there pet-friendly campgrounds with electric hookups in Maryland?
Are there pet-friendly campgrounds with electric hookups in Maryland?
Sun Outdoors Ocean City offers full hookup sites with electricity in a pet-friendly environment. The campground features spacious sites that can accommodate large rigs up to 40 feet, making it ideal for RV campers with pets. Rocky Gap State Park Campground also provides electric hookups in select loops, with beautiful lakeside sites where pets are permitted. Many campers enjoy staying in the Dogwood loop which is known for being accommodating to pets while providing necessary amenities.
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