State Parks and Forests That Offer Camping

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The Maryland Park Service offers more than 2,000 campsites, 120 full-service and camper cabins, and 100 picnic shelters to guests. Reservations for these facilities can be made through a toll-free, reservation service by calling 1-888-432-2267, (9 am - 5 pm Monday through Friday). For citizens residing outside the United States, reservations can be made by calling 301-687-8160. This is not a toll-free call. TTY users can call 866-804-7846.

Tent camping at Patapsco Valley State ParkOn-line reservations may be made at parkreservations.maryland.gov. Internet customers have the ability to make reservations on Maryland's Reservation Internet site 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Reservations are available 365 days in advance of your arrival date. Same day reservations are allowed at a limited number of parks through the call center and website until 5 pm. New reservation inventory is available Monday through Friday beginning at 9 a.m. both online and in the call center. New inventory does not become available on Saturdays, Sundays, and designated holidays (Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day) when the call center is not open. Inventory that would become available on these dates will be available on the next day the call center is open. Not all state park campgrounds are open for camping year round. Please check with the state park before you arrive.

Reservation staff will help you select the most appropriate site for your needs. With one call, you can make multiple reservations for your camping and outdoor recreation needs. Walk-in guests at parks and forests can request any non-reserved sites. Campsites, cabins, picnic shelters and youth group campsites in Maryland state parks can be reserved by calling 1-888-432-2267, or 301-687-8160 if you live outside the United States, unless otherwise noted.

Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance of the date of arrival. Camping and cabin service charges must be paid at the time the reservation is made by credit card, using either MasterCard or VISA. Campsite and cabin rental rates vary. The rates are available by calling the toll-free reservation number. Service charges are subject to change.

Registered campers, members of their camping party (guests), and their camping units are limited to 14 cumulative nights of camping in Maryland State Park campgrounds during any 21-day period. Persons who have stayed in a campground for 14 of 21 nights must vacate Maryland State Park campgrounds with their camping unit and other property for at least seven consecutive days before re-registering at a state park. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day there is a two-night minimum stay required, which must consist of a Thursday/Friday, Friday/Saturday or Saturday/Sunday stay. Holiday weekends require a three-night stay, which must include a Friday/Saturday/Sunday. Saturday arrivals or departures are not permitted during this time unless you are reserving seven (7) or more nights.​

If you are a frequent visitor to Maryland State Parks, consider purchasing a Maryland Park Service Passport for a genuine cost savings. You may purchase the annual Passport on-line through this website.


Parks with Camping Accommodations

Maryland's state parks offer a camping experience for everyone - from campgrounds with electric, sewer and water hookups and showers, to primitive camping in state forests. Most campsites are available through advance reservations by calling 1-888-432-2267, or 301-687-8160 if you live outside the United States.

Primitive campsites in state forests are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Self-registration is available at each forest office and must be made for a minimum of two nights on weekends and three nights (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) on holiday weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Advanced reservations are available for Pocomoke State Forest.

Youth Group camping is also available at designated state parks. See specific information regarding youth group campsites at this bottom of this web page.

Full Service Cabins

Herrington Manor State Park Full Service CabinJanes Island cabins require a 7 or 14-night minimum stay (Saturday to Saturday) from the second Saturday in June to the Saturday before Labor Day weekend. All other cabins require a two-night minimum stay, year-round, except during holiday weekends such as Memorial Day weekend, 4th of July and Labor Day weekend, when there is a three-night minimum stay (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)​. The Maryland Park Service is ready to meet your needs when planning a stay in one of 50 state park cabins located throughout Maryland. These simple cabins offer some of the modern comforts of home, yet still provide a great way to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

Most of the cabins are furnished and equipped with electricity, bathrooms with showers, fireplaces and kitchens. Cabins also come equipped with minimal dishes, pots and pans and dinnerware. Firewood is provided in winter months. Cabins at Elk Neck State Park do not have bathrooms. A central washhouse with hot and cold running water and flush toilets is provided. Cooking utensils, tableware, linens and blankets must be provided by occupants.

Camper Cabins

Camper CabinCamper cabins offer guests the option of enjoying the outdoors, while sleeping in a mini cabin on a real bed and closing a real door. Many Maryland State Parks offer these mini cabins, which are small rustic cabins with beds for four to six people -- usually a double and two twin beds set up bunk style. The six-person camper cabins also offer an additional futon couch or set of bunk beds and usually a small table w/chairs. Grills are provided for outdoor cooking and restroom facilities are available nearby. Camper cabin reservations must be made for a minimum of two nights on weekends and three nights on holiday weekends from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Camp Sites

Campers are limited to a maximum two-week stay. Campers who have stayed in a campground for two weeks must vacate the park for at least one week before re-registering. From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day there is a two-night minimum stay required, which must consist of a Thursday/Friday, Friday/Saturday or Saturday/Sunday stay. Holiday weekends require a three-night stay, which must include a Friday/Saturday/Sunday. Saturday arrivals or departures are not permitted during this time unless you are reserving seven (7) or more nights. Campsites have a picnic table and in most cases a fire ring. A central restroom facility with hot and cold running water and flush toilets is provided.

Cancellation Policies

Cancellations and changes to reservations within 24 hours of the date of initial reservation are allowed without an additional fee. Reservation / transaction fees are non-refundable. No refunds will be issued for no-shows / cancellations / early departures after the scheduled date of arrival. To modify or cancel reservations made with a credit card, customers must verify the last four digits of the credit card number. Cancellations made on the scheduled date of arrival must be performed by contacting the park.

Camping/Camper cabins/Yurts
Changes or cancellations made up to the close of business on the day prior to the scheduled date of arrival will require a $4.75 per reservation cancellation service charge (except for reservations at Assateague State Park, which require a $4.75 per night cancellation change service charge). Cancellations or changes made on the scheduled date of arrival will require the payment of one night's camping service charge for each reservation and a $4.75 per reservation cancellation change service charge (except for reservations at Assateague State Park, which will require a $4.75 per night cancellation change service charge). Changes and cancellations will NOT be allowed at Assateague State Park more than 11 months prior to arrival date.

Full Service Cabins / Houses
Changes or cancellations made 46 days or more prior to the scheduled date of arrival will require a $4.75 reservation cancellation change service charge. Cancellations or changes made 45 days or less prior to the scheduled date of arrival will require the payment of one night's cabin rental and a $4.75 per reservation cancellation change service charge.

Shelters
Changes or cancellations made 30 days or more prior to the reservation date will require a $4.75 cancellation change service charge. Cancellations or changes made 8 to 29 days prior to the reservation date will require payment of 50% of the reservation service charge. No refunds will be issued for cancellations or changes made 7 days or less in advance of the reservation date.

Buses
Changes or cancellations to reservations will result in the loss of the non-refundable service charge.

Youth Groups
Changes or cancellations made up to close of business on the day prior to the scheduled date of arrival will require a $4.75 per reservation cancellation change service charge. Cancellations or changes made on the scheduled date of arrival will require payment of one night's camping service charge for each reservation and a $4.75 per reservation cancellation change service charge. Changes and cancellations will NOT be allowed at Assateague State Park more than 11 months prior to arrival date.​

Unique Overnight Accommodations

Mill Pond Cottage

If you are looking for a unique getaway that is relaxing and close to nature, then Gunpowder Falls State Park has the place for you.Mill Pond Cottage

Nestled in the Hereford Wildlands, the Mill Pond Cottage offers visitors an array of outdoor recreation opportunities. Hikers and nature lovers will enjoy the miles of trails. Paddling, tubing and world-class trout fishing are also located just out the front door while cyslists will find the nearby Northern Central Rail Trail to be an enjoyable ride.

The staff at Gunpowder Falls State park is more than willing to custom design your stay. Local outfitters can be arranged to lead day trips or teach you how to fool the Gunpowder River's discriminating wild trout. Whether you are looking for a romantic hideaway or world class trout fishing, Gunpowder's Mill Pond Cottage is a great place to stay.

If you would like more information about the Mill Pond Cottage click here​. If you would like to make a reservation, please call the Gunpowder Falls State Park Headquarters at 410-592-2897. The cost is $200 per night. There is a two-night minimum year round and 3-night minimum on holiday weekends.

Janes Island Daugherty Creek Lodge

The Daugherty Creek Lodge at Janes Island State Park is available year round for half day, full day, and overnight use. The facility sleeps 16 persons and is equipped with four bedrooms, three and one half baths, kitchen, common area, large second floor meeting room, two fireplaces, heat, air conditioning, and a deck overlooking the expansive marshes of Janes Island.Janes Island Conference Center

Additional amenities include a screened porch and a large outdoor grill. The Lodge kitchen is equipped with oven, stove, refrigerator, dish washer, coffee pot, microwave, basic cooking utensils, and service for 16. Renters must provide their own towels and bed linens.

Rentals rates vary, depending on length of stay. Visit the service charge page for rate information. Contact the Park for reservations.

Located near Crisfield on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Janes Island State Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauty and bounty of the Chesapeake Bay. The island portion of the park – Janes Island – includes over 2,900 acres of saltmarsh, over 30 miles of water trails, and miles of isolated pristine beaches.

Wye Island Conference Lodge

Wye Island Natural Resources Management Area hosts the DNR Conference Lodge (Duck House). The lodge and grounds are available to rent for your meetings, retreats, company picnics, family reunions, Wye Island Conference Lodgeweddings and receptions. The conference lodge is located on Granary Creek just off the Wye East River. For recreation, we provide volleyball and horseshoes and a large field for other recreational activities. Guests are welcome to hike or bring bicycles to utilize the many miles of trails and shoreline. The lodge can accomodate 25 to 30 people per day for an indoor meeting or event. There are overnight accommodations for 12 people in a dormitory setting within the lodge and adjoining bunkhouse. Outdoors groups of 50 to 250 people can be accommodated as well using the lodge and nearby pavilion. A self-service kitchen and an outdoor grill are available to users. A list of local caterers is available upon request. Pets are permitted in the area but for sanitary reasons are prohibited from being in the Conference Lodge.

Rental charge for the lodge is $225 per day plus a $15 reservation charge. Overnight accommodations in the bunkhouse cost an additional service charge of $50.00 per night. During certain times of the year, the pavilion can be reserved for a service charge of $175 per day. The lodge and pavilion can be rented as a package for $350 per day. Reservations are accepted ten months in advance of your stay and can be made by contacting the Wye Island Office at 410-827-7577 or via e-mail at wye-island-nrma@dnr.state.md.us

Private Campgrounds

For information on private campgrounds in Maryland, please contact the Maryland Association of Campgrounds at 301-271-7012, via e-mail at campinmd@dmv.com, or on-line at: www.mdcamping.com

Park Passes

The Maryland Park Service offers four different kinds of park passes. Select the pass that best meets your needs and link to the appropriate application that can be downloaded and mailed to the Maryland Park Service for your convenience.

  • Annual Passport -- Entitles unlimited day-use entry, for everyone in the vehicle, to Maryland's state forests and parks; unlimited boat launching; and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals.
    Purchase the Annual State Park and Trail Passport on-line through this website.
  • Youth Group Pass -- Entitles youth groups free day use admittance to Maryland State Parks and free camping in those parks that have designated "Youth Group" areas subject to site availability. This pass is not valid for day use entry on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
  • Golden Age Pass -- Entitles adults, ages 62 and older, free entry (cardholders only) to all State Parks that charge service fees. The pass is also valid for half price camping Sunday through Thursday. This pass is non-transferrable and must be presented in person at check-in. The boat launch fee at Maryland State Parks is eliminated for seniors who possess a Golden Age Pass.
  • Universal Disability Pass -- Entitles free lifetime entry to State Parks for individuals with disabilities. This pass does not waive the additional boat launch service charge except where the launch charge is included in the day use service charge.


Camping, Cabin and Shelter Reservations

The following facilities have campsites, cabins, and shelters, as listed, available for rent through the statewide reservation system, unless otherwise noted as available on a first-come, first-served basis, or through a specific park or forest office.

EASTERN REGION

  • Family campsites
  • Youth group campsites (reserved by calling the Reservation Service at 1-888-432-2267)
Pocomoke River State Park (Shad Landing)

Pocomoke River State Park (Milburn Landing)
Pocomoke State Forest

Janes Island State Park
Tuckahoe State Park
Martinak State Park
  • Cabin, camper cabins, family campsites, amphitheater and picnic shelters

Wye Island NRMA

CENTRAL REGION

Patapsco Valley State Park
  • Avalon Area - picnic shelters
  • Glen Artney - picnic shelters
  • Hilton Area - family campsites, camper cabins, picnic shelters
  • Hilton Area - youth group campsites (reserved through the Reservation Service)
  • Hollofield Area - family campsites and picnic shelters
  • McKeldin Area - picnic shelters
  • McKeldin Area - youth group campsites (reserved through the Reservation Service)
  • Orange Grove Area - picnic shelters
  • Pickall Area - picnic shelters

Seneca Creek State Park
  • Picnic shelters and open area picnic sites

Gunpowder Falls State Park
Hart-Miller Island
  • Family campsites (first-come, first-served basis, accessible by boat only)

North Point State Park
  • Picnic shelter

Rocks State Park
  • Picnic shelters

Susquehanna State Park
  • Family campsites, camper cabins and picnic shelters

Elk Neck State Park

SOUTHERN REGION

Sandy Point State Park
Smallwood State Park
Cedarville State Forest
Rosaryville
  • Picnic shelters

Point Lookout State Park
  • Family campsites and picnic shelters 

Calvert Cliffs State Park

WESTERN REGION

Cunningham Falls State Park
Gambrill State Park
  • Family campsites, picnic shelters, camper cabins and Tea Room

Greenbrier State Park
Washington Monument State Park
Fort Frederick

Rocky Gap State Park


Green Ridge State Forest
  • Primitive campsites (first come, first served)
  • Group sites (parties with 20 or more may reserve through the forest office)

Dans Mountain State Park
  • Picnic shelters

New Germany State Park
  • Cabins, family campsites and picnic shelters

Big Run State Park
Savage River State Forest
Deep Creek Lake State Park
  • Bear Den campsite, camper cabins, family campsites, yurt and picnic shelters

Herrington Manor State Park
  • Cabins and picnic shelter

Swallow Falls State Park
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