Greenbelt Park Ranger Station

Mason Neck State Park

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Where the historic C&O Canal meets the rushing Potomac at Mile 16.6, Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience just minutes from civilization. This cherished primitive campground draws outdoor enthusiasts with its chemical toilets, sturdy picnic tables, fire grills, and access to untreated water—though seasoned visitors recommend bringing a filter. Free and first-come, first-served, this popular spot fills quickly on weekends as cyclists, hikers, and paddlers converge, drawn by its proximity to the spectacular Great Falls and the limited parking that keeps crowds naturally in check.

6501 Pohick Bay Drive, Lorton, Virginia, 22079, United States

Nestled along the shores of the Potomac River, Pohick Bay Regional Park invites adventurers to discover a perfect blend of outdoor excitement and serene natural beauty. Whether you're perfecting your putt at the scenic mini golf course, paddling through calm waters with rental boats, or watching kids splash with joy at Pirate's Cove Waterpark, this versatile campground transforms every stay into an unforgettable experience. Winding trails beckon hikers through lush forests, while families gather for lakeside picnics as the sun sets over the water.

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

Greenbelt Park

Rock Creek Park

Fort Dupont Park

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Escape the bustle of the nation's capital at Marsden Tract Group Campsite, where six spacious woodland sites welcome groups of up to 30 adventurers each. Just minutes from Washington D.C., this riverside retreat serves as your basecamp for conquering the legendary Billy Goat Trail, casting lines into the historic Potomac, and discovering the dramatic geological wonders that define the Great Falls region. Here, ancient rock formations tell stories millions of years in the making, while the forest canopy provides a peaceful sanctuary for memorable group gatherings.

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

George Washington Memorial Parkway

6565 Greenbelt Road

Escape the hustle of the nation's capital at Greenbelt Campground, where towering trees and tranquil trails await just 10 miles from downtown Washington, D.C. This National Park Service gem seamlessly blends the convenience of urban proximity with the serenity of a woodland retreat. Modern amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and a convenient dump station ensure comfort during your stay, while easy Metro access opens the door to endless adventures. Whether you're here to explore the capital's monuments or simply unwind beneath the canopy, this affordable sanctuary offers the perfect basecamp for both nature lovers and city explorers.

Fort Washington Park

6565 Greenbelt Road

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Greenbelt Park

Rock Creek Park

Fort Dupont Park

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Fort Washington Park

George Washington Memorial Parkway

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

46970 Bauhof Road, Patuxent River, MD, 20670

Discover a hidden gem where military heritage meets natural beauty at Pax River Hog Point Campgrounds. Tucked within the prestigious Naval Air Station Patuxent River, this exclusive retreat welcomes those who've served and continue to serve our nation—Active Duty personnel, Reservists, Retired Military, Veterans, and Department of Defense employees. Here, the rhythm of naval aviation mingles with the gentle lapping of tidal waters, creating a unique camping experience that honors both service and serenity.

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Nestled at Mile 82.7 along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal towpath, Big Woods Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite serves as a welcome respite for adventurous souls traversing this storied waterway. This thoughtfully designed campground caters exclusively to hikers and cyclists exploring the canal's scenic route, offering essential amenities in a pristine natural setting. Best of all, this hidden gem comes with no price tag and no reservation hassles—simply arrive, set up camp, and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

15882 Foxville-Deerfield Rd., Sabillasville, MD 21780

Nestled within the verdant embrace of Catoctin Mountain Park, Owens Creek Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience across 48 primitive tent sites. This cherished retreat beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of accessibility and untamed nature, where families gather under towering canopies and solo adventurers find solace in the rhythmic babble of mountain streams. As your basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails, this rustic haven strips away modern distractions, inviting you to reconnect with the simple pleasures of campfire conversations and starlit nights.

14764 Park Central Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788

Step back in time at Camp Misty Mount, where rustic stone and wood cabins from 1937 beckon modern adventurers seeking an authentic mountain retreat. Nestled within the lush Eastern deciduous forests of Catoctin Mountain Park, these historic structures offer a unique blend of heritage charm and natural beauty, inviting guests to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms.

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

Maryland State Parks, Maryland

7206 NATIONAL SEASHORE LN

Where wild horses roam free and ocean waves kiss pristine shores, Assateague Island National Seashore Campground beckons adventurers to experience one of the East Coast's most enchanting barrier islands. This remarkable destination seamlessly blends tent and RV camping with unparalleled natural beauty, offering campers the rare opportunity to fall asleep to the rhythmic sounds of the Atlantic while knowing that legendary wild horses might graze just beyond their campsite. Whether you choose the dramatic oceanside sites or the tranquil bayside locations, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where coastal wilderness meets accessible adventure, with winding nature trails and historic attractions waiting just beyond the dunes.