The Ultimate Guide to RV Camping in Maryland

By Chelsea Gonzales

Last updated August 17th, 2023

State Travel Guides

Beautiful view of water and bird while RV camping in Maryland

Heading out RV camping in Maryland? You’re going to have an amazing time. While this might not be the most talked about state in the country, it is chock-full of things to see and do, making it a hidden gem of sorts. Whether you prefer outdoor recreations, museums, amusement parks, or historic sites, there is something for you in this amazing state.

All that said, there are some things you should know before you go RV camping in Maryland. That’s where this article comes into play. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan an amazing Maryland RV camping trip.

Preparing for RV Camping

First things first, you need to do a bit of prep work. Pull your RV out of storage or snag a Maryland RV rental. Once that’s done, be sure to pack the rig full of all the things you need to make RV camping in Maryland safe, comfortable, and a heck of a good time.

Choosing the Right RV for Your Needs

Wondering how to go about choosing the best rental RV? There are several factors to consider. For instance, you might want to start by asking yourself whether or not you want to drive an RV. If you don’t, a delivery RV might be best for you. If you do, make sure your vehicle can handle towing a trailer or choose a motorhome and leave the vehicle at home.

The number of sleeping spaces is also important, as you want the RV to comfortably accommodate your entire travel party. Another important one? The size of the RV. Make sure the rig you choose can fit in your desired campsite while also being big enough to be comfy.

Finally, you will want to look at the amenities provided with the RVs you’re considering. Finding one that provides things like linens and dishes can make packing a whole lot easier.

Packing Essentials for a Successful Trip

Speaking of packing, you might want a little help figuring out what exactly to pack. Obviously, if something is included with your rental, you won’t need to grab it. Otherwise, you can use this list as a good starting point.

Clothes
Toiletries
Medications
First aid kit
Bug spray and sunscreen
Tools
Entertainment (books, games, movies, toys for kids)
Outdoor recreation gear
Electronics and chargers
Pots, pans, and dishes
Paper towels
Groceries
Flashlights
Folding chairs
Bed sheets
Pillows
Blankets
Pet gear
RV leveling blocks
Sewer hose and adapter
Freshwater hose
RV surge protector

Thinking you might need a few more things? Be sure to check out this RV packing list.

Road you might drive while RV camping in Maryland

Considerations for Camping in Maryland

Every state has its own set of laws surrounding RVing. Fortunately, these don’t change too drastically from one state to the next, but it’s still good to check them before you head out just in case.

In Maryland, the length of your rig should not exceed 55 feet unless you’re a travel trailer, in which case it should not exceed 65 feet. Trails should never be more than 35 feet long and motorhomes should be 40 feet or less. No rig should exceed 8.5 feet wide and 13.5 feet high.

Triple towing is not allowed in the state of Maryland, but overnight parking is allowed in some state rest areas. Look for signage to be sure.

Finding Campgrounds

Next you’ll need to find someplace to stay during your visit to Maryland. Fortunately, there are a number of great options to choose from. Whether you prefer state park camping in natural areas, urban camping in the middle of the city, or luxury camping with all the amenities, there is something for you.

Exploring Public Campgrounds in Maryland

We’ll start by exploring the public campgrounds in the state. These are found in the most beautiful natural areas in the state, making them ideal spots for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature. They also tend to be pretty budget-friendly.

National Park Camping

While Maryland is not home to any full-fledged national parks, it does have several national park sites that are well worth visiting. These include Assateague Island National Seashore and Greenbelt Park, both which offer amazing camping opportunities.

In Greenbelt Park, you are camped right outside of Washington DC and can easily take a train into the city. There are no hookups in this park, but clean bathrooms with hot showers are available, as are trash bins.

Assateague Island National Seashore offers campsites right on the water and wild horses often wander through the sites. None of their sites have RV hookups, but all do have a fire ring and picnic table. Additionally, the campgrounds have porta potties, potable water, and cold water showers available.

State Park Camping

Of course, there’s also the option of camping in one of Maryland’s beautiful state parks. These parks offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other types of outdoor recreation, as well as plenty of places to park your rV.

Assateague State Park sits near the national seashore and offers its own set of campsites. Some of these sites offer electric hookups, something that sends campers to the state park rather than the NPS campgrounds fairly regularly.

Rocky Gap is another fun state park in Maryland and is unique because it actually boasts an onsite casino. If you’ve ever dreamt of spending your days hiking, mountain biking, and swimming and your nights gambling, this is the state park for you.

Exploring Private Campgrounds and RV Parks

For more Maryland camping options, turn to the selection of private campgrounds in the state. Many of these campgrounds are meticulously maintained with amazing amenities such as laundry rooms, pools, playgrounds, and of course, dump stations. Some even go so far as to offer glamping opportunities with all the bells and whistles.

Cherry Hill RV Park is one of our favorite campgrounds in the state. This one is located in College Park, just outside of DC. It features two fabulous pools that are perfect for families as well as a hot tub, sauna, mini golf course, and even an outdoor theater!

Another Maryland favorite? Castaways RV Resort and Campground. This one is located in Ocean City, meaning easy access to attractions such as Ocean City Boardwalk, Ocean City Beach, amusement parks, and more. The park itself features an onsite cafe, a dog beach and park, a hot tub, a Tiki Bar, and live music performances.

Boondocking in Maryland

Need to save a bit of money? Want to see Maryland’s wild side? In both cases, Maryland boondocking might be just the ticket.

While boondocking options are limited in Maryland, there are some really good ones out there. E.A. Vaughn Wildlife Management Area is one excellent pick for dry camping. We also love Deal Island Wildlife Management Area and the little camping area on Fifteenmile Creek.

Researching Campground Options and Making Reservations

The options above are all top notch, but they are far from the only camping options in Maryland. For even more great picks, try visiting The Dyrt, Campspot, RoverPass, or BookOutdoors. There, you can research and book a huge number of campsites.

Don’t see anything there? Hipcamp and Harvest Hosts provide more unique camping experiences that you might enjoy.

Planning Your Itinerary

Okay, now it’s time to start planning your itinerary. Luckily, there is a lot to pick from. Whether you’re visiting a big city like Baltimore or exploring the natural areas throughout the state, we’re betting you find something amazing that you’d like to see or do.

Features and Attractions in Maryland

Why not start with one of Maryland’s scenic byways? The state boasts a few great ones, and this is an excellent way to take in all the beauty it has to offer. One of our favorites is the Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway, but any that you choose will be wonderful.

Landmarks are also well worth adding to your itinerary. We recommend checking out the historic beauty of the Colonial Annapolis Historic District and making a stop at Washington Monument State Park.

Of course, there are also all those national park sites to see as well. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is a good one, as is the Thomas Stone National Historic Site. Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail is interesting to see, and we highly recommend Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park.

Festivals, Fairs, and Events in Maryland

Looking to add more excitement to your trip? Why not throw an event into the mix? This is sure to make the trip more memorable for everyone in your group.

Some of our favorite annual events in Maryland include Renaissance Festival in Crownsville in the summer, Artscape in Baltimore in July, Greenstreet Gardens Fall Festival in Lothian in September, White Marlin Open in Ocean City in August, and Maryland Wine Festival in Westminster in September.

Exploring Outdoor Activities

Obviously, you will want to spend at least some of your time RV camping in Maryland in the great outdoors. There are so many amazing outdoor areas to explore, you’re sure to find something near you, and the outdoor recreation opportunities are nearly endless.

Hiking, Biking and Nature Trails

We’ll start by discussing the trails that wind their way across the state. There are trails for strolling, trails for hiking, and even trails for cycling. No matter what kind of trail you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Maryland.

If you’re a hiker, check out the trails below.

Annapolis Rock via Appalachian Trail in South Mountain State Park
Great Falls Overlook via Billy Goat and Canal Trail in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Sugarloaf Mountain and Northern Peaks Trail in Sugarloaf Mountain Natural Area
Weverton Cliffs in South Mountain State Park
Wolf Rock and Chimney Rock Trail in Catoctin Mountain Park

Planning on cycling? The trails below are for you.

Cascade Falls Loop in Patapsco Valley State Park
McKeldin Switchback Trail in Patapsco Valley State Park
Clopper Lake in Seneca Creek State Park
Wincopin Green, Red, and Yellow Trail Loop in Savage Park
Black Locust Trail in Gambrill State Park

Still looking for something that suits your fancy? Head over to AllTrails and run a search using their handy filters. We’re betting you find something great in no time at all.

Fishing, Boating, and Water Activities

Water based activities are another way to have a great time outside while visiting Maryland. From fishing spots to swimming beaches, you’re sure to find some way to have a great time in the water.

One of our favorite fishing spots in Maryland is Deep Creek Lake. This is the largest body of water in the state and boasts bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, and more. We also love fishing on the Potomac River. This beautiful river offers anglers access to bluegill, blue catfish, carp, and a number of other species.

As far as Maryland beaches go, there are really too many awesome ones to list. The aforementioned Assateague National Seashore would have to be our top pick, followed by Ocean City Beach. We also love Cherry Beach on the Nanticoke River and Calvert Cliffs State Park on Chesapeake Bay.

Hoping to see a waterfall while exploring Maryland? You’re in luck because the state has a few good ones. Swallow Falls, Muddy Creek Falls, and Toliver Falls are all located in Swallow Falls State Park and are all worth seeing. We also recommend Cunningham Falls in Cunningham Falls State Park.

Wildlife Viewing and Photography

Want to check out the local wildlife? Honestly, simply visiting the state parks and beaches listed will likely give you a few wildlife sightings. You’re likely to see raccoons, white-trailer deer, plenty of birds, and possibly even black bears.

For a better chance of seeing these critters, try heading to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Catoctin Wildlife Preserve, or Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge.

Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions

Taking the whole family RV camping in Maryland? You’re going to have an amazing time. The outdoor activities, landmarks, and national sites mentioned above will offer plenty of fun, but for even more family-friendly attractions, read on.

Historical Sites and Museums

One of the best ways to take full advantage of any family getaway? Sneak in a little bit of roadschooling! This is super easy to do and it definitely doesn’t have to be dull or boring.

Historic sites offer great ways to squish in a history lesson. We mentioned a few of the best NPS historic sites about, but we also highly recommend visiting the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park for even more fun learning about the past.

Another great roadschooling tool? Museums, of course. Maryland has a number of wonderful museums to choose from. Some of our favorites are Maryland Science Center in Baltimore, Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, and Port Discovery Children’s Museum in Baltimore.

Amusement Park, Zoos, and Wildlife Refuges

For lots of fun and excitement for every single member of the family, turn to Maryland’s amusement parks. Six Flags America in Baltimore is a good pick for thrill seekers. Meanwhile, we recommend Adventure Park USA for a less overwhelming amusement park experience. WE also love the Jolly Roger Amusement Parks in Ocean City.

Zoos are another wonderful option for families looking to have a good time together. We love The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore as well as the National Aquarium in the same city. You could also choose to head into Washington DC to check out Smithsonian National Zoological Park!

Safety and Preparedness When RV Camping in Maryland

Clearly, you will want to stay as safe as possible while RV camping in Maryland. Carrying a first aid kit and driving safely will go a long way, as will applying some common sense. That said, there are a few other things you should know about.

Weather Conditions and Natural Disaster Preparedness

The most common natural disasters in Maryland include flooding and hurricanes. Fortunately, hurricanes are easy enough to avoid as a vacationer. simply pay attention to the weather report and get out of the path of the storm if it seems to be heading your way. A weather app with push notifications is good for this.

As far as floods go, you’ll avoid many of those by avoiding the hurricanes. However, heavy rains can cause rivers to flood. For this reason, it’s best to avoid parking your RV near rivers during the rainy season or when a lot of rain is in the forecast.

If a flash flood warning is issued and you can safely drive away from the affected area, do so. If you can’t drive, get to higher ground on foot.

Wildlife Encounters and Precautions

Most of the animals in Maryland will leave you alone as long as you aren’t bothering them. For this reason, you always want to give wildlife plenty of space and avoid approaching wild creatures.

If you go hiking, make sure to make lots of noise to warn animals that you are there. Generally, this will scare dangerous animals such as bears away. If you do find yourself face to face with a bear, make yourself as big as possible by lifting your arms in the air and slowly and quietly back away.

While you probably won’t need to use it, many people do choose to carry bear spray when hiking in Maryland.

More Inspiration for Your Maryland Travels

As you can see, RV camping in Maryland is a fantastic choice! The info above should help you start planning, but if you find yourself needing more inspiration, don’t hesitate to check out the links below.

The Ultimate Guide to RV Camping in Maryland