Pax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds
04 reviewsnull
Quick Facts
Price
$20 - $30/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Season opens on Janu...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$20 - $30/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
10 campsites
Season
Season opens on Janu...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsPax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds
$20.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season nightly rates for campsites are $20 for Tent Only Nonelectric sites and $30 for Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric sites. Additional fees...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$50.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider301.342.3573na
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 4 reviews
8 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietcleanwater
"User reviews are mixed, averaging 3.75 specifically for campgrounds. Positive feedback highlights the quiet, clean, and scenic environment, while criticisms focus on site-specific issues such as inadequate facilities at certain sites and poorly maintained roads."
Fees & Passes at Pax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds
$20 - $30/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled any time before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official MWR Pax River website.
Best Time to Camp at Pax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds
Spring transforms Paradise Grove into an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with crystal-clear skies and comfortable temperatures that invite exploration from dawn to dusk. The gentle breezes carry the fresh scent of blooming wildflowers, while dry conditions ensure perfect camping weather. When winter arrives, the campground takes on a quieter charm—occasional dustings of snow paint the landscape in pristine white, and overcast days create a cozy atmosphere that encourages gathering around the campfire with fellow veterans and service members.
Best
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Season opens on January 1, 2025, and closes on December 31, 2025.
- Current Alerts: null
About Pax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds
Nestled within the secure grounds of Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Paradise Grove Campgrounds beckons to those who've served and continue to serve our nation. This hidden gem offers an authentic tent-only camping experience beneath a canopy of mature trees, where the gentle rustling of leaves provides nature's soundtrack. Reserved exclusively for Active Duty, Reservists, Retired Military, Veterans, and Department of Defense employees, this tranquil woodland retreat combines the serenity of primitive camping with the unique privilege of staying on an active military installation.
The Pax River Paradise Grove Campground caters to a limited audience due to military base restrictions. It primarily offers tent-only camping options, including individual and group sites. The campground does not accommodate RVs, cabin-style lodging, or glamping setups.
Historical SignificanceEvery path through Paradise Grove whispers stories of naval aviation history, as campers find themselves on the very grounds where America's finest pilots have trained and served. Just beyond the tree line lies the fascinating Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, where vintage aircraft tell tales of courage and innovation. A short drive reveals the living history of Historic St. Mary's City, Maryland's first capital, where costumed interpreters bring the 17th century to life. This unique camping experience connects visitors not just to nature, but to centuries of American heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSpring transforms Paradise Grove into an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with crystal-clear skies and comfortable temperatures that invite exploration from dawn to dusk. The gentle breezes carry the fresh scent of blooming wildflowers, while dry conditions ensure perfect camping weather. When winter arrives, the campground takes on a quieter charm—occasional dustings of snow paint the landscape in pristine white, and overcast days create a cozy atmosphere that encourages gathering around the campfire with fellow veterans and service members.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryWhere the mighty Patuxent River embraces the Chesapeake Bay, Paradise Grove offers front-row seats to nature's daily spectacle. Dawn breaks in brilliant oranges and pinks across the water, while evenings paint the sky in deep purples and gold. The campground's old-growth forest creates intimate camping spots, where towering oaks and maples form natural cathedrals overhead. Wildlife abounds in this convergence of river, bay, and woodland—herons wade in the shallows, eagles soar overhead, and deer occasionally wander through the peaceful grove at twilight.
Geological RegionParadise Grove sits at one of Southern Maryland's most spectacular natural crossroads, where the historic Patuxent River completes its journey by joining the legendary Chesapeake Bay. This unique geographical position creates a diverse ecosystem where freshwater meets brackish tides, supporting an incredible variety of plant and animal life. The campground's elevated woodland perch provides breathtaking vantage points for witnessing the interplay of water and sky, while the rich alluvial soils beneath your tent have nurtured forests here for countless generations, creating the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with the natural world.
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Campsite details
Sites SizeSome sites are massive with great views, while others, like G06, are small and inadequately spaced.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary significantly between sites. Some offer good seclusion, while others, like G06, are very close to neighboring sites.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site G06 unless also reserving G05, as G06 lacks essential facilities and space. Choose larger sites for better views and water access.
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group tent areas are nonelectric, with a nightly rate of $30. Specific details about capacity or other features are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops, including the Paradise Grove section. Some sites are sloped, and parking is limited at certain spots.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens on January 1, 2025, and closes on December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations will also forfeit the first night's recreational use fee. Changes to reservations cost $10 if switching dates entirely. Same-day modifications depend on facility rules.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a mix of water and land-based activities. Water activities include kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, fishing, and crabbing. "Water lovers will find that NAS Patuxent River stretches across approximately 12 miles of shoreline offering locations to launch kayaks, stand up paddleboards, motor and sail boats, and places for fishing and crabbing." Land-based activities include a 10-mile paved biking loop, designated trails, and access to a golf course, outdoor pool, and marina inside the installation. However, activities like swimming and beach-related activities are not explicitly detailed for this campground.
Hiking
A 10-mile paved biking loop and designated biking trails within the installation are confirmed. Hiking trails are not explicitly detailed but may overlap with biking paths.Fishing
Fishing is allowed with a license. Reviews affirm that the area provides good access to fishing spots.Biking
The campground features a 10-mile paved biking loop and designated bike trails within the installation.Boating
Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at the marina and can be delivered to the campsite. Sites have easy water access for launching watercraft.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular water sports at the campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings are available at designated sites. Specific fire policies were not detailed.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsSome campsites are on slopes, making pitching tents difficult. Roads within the campground are unmaintained, and bugs can occasionally be an issue but are generally manageable.
Active alertsnull
Weather at Pax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds
39
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely available via NAS Patuxent River facilities, but detailed proximity information is not specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are plentiful throughout the campground, as noted by user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresNAS Patuxent River stretches across approximately 12 miles of shoreline, providing ample opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and beach access.
Common complaintsUser reviews indicate dissatisfaction with certain campsites, particularly G06, due to inadequate facilities. Complaints include unmaintained roads and the limited restroom facilities (porta-potties).
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Washington D.C: Take 295 S towards I-95/495, merge onto I-495 S, take exit 7A toward MD 5 S/ Branch Ave, turn left on to Mattawoman Beantown Road, turn left onto MD 5 S/Leonardtown Road, continue on MD 235 to NAS Patuxent River Gate 1, cedar point road.
The campground is located within the NAS Patuxent River military installation, requiring eligible visitors (Active Duty, Reservists, Retired Military, Veterans, and Department of Defense employees) to have proper credentials. Nonaffiliated guests must be sponsored and submit packages 14 days prior to arrival. Roads within the base include unmaintained sections and newly installed speed bumps.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
4 reviews
Pax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, averaging 3.75 specifically for campgrounds. Positive feedback highlights the quiet, clean, and scenic environment, while criticisms focus on site-specific issues such as inadequate facilities at certain sites and poorly maintained roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
"Quiet, clean, and safe campsite," "Right on the water," "100% enjoyable," "porta-potties...serviced very recently," and "plenty of trash cans around the site."
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
"Site G06 is a totally inadequate site" (lacking a fire ring and proper picnic table placement), poor road maintenance, and "porta-potties, which aren't ideal."
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Future campers are advised to bring their own water as potable water is unavailable. Reviewers recommend avoiding site G06 unless booking with G05 for extra space. Watercraft enthusiasts are...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open year-round, but weather conditions vary. Winters may bring temperatures as low as 34°F with moderate rain and snow chances. Summers offer better conditions for kayaking and...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Quiet, clean, and safe campsite. Right on the water...Fishing permitted with license." (Jerry Miranda) "Site G06 is a totally inadequate site...barely a spot for a tent...roads are not maintained...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site G06: "Totally inadequate...no fire ring, picnic table was basically in the neighboring G05 site, which was ridiculously close." Site F1: "Great campsite! Porta-potties are in G section."
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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