The best camping near National Capital Parks-East

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next National Capital Parks-East adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near National Capital Parks-East

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Bears Den Campground

5 sites · Tents66 acres · Bluemont, VA

Set up your tent in our remote but easily accessible campground, 100 yards off the Appalachian Trail. Roast marshmallows by the fire pit and watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Individual site capacities are varied! Please take note of this when selecting your site upon checkout. Site #1 is on a hilly slope and accommodates 4 campersSite #2 accommodates 8-10 campersSite #3 accommodates 4 campersSite #4 accommodates 6-8 campersSite #5 accommodates 6-8 campers About the property Located on a 66-acre plot just five miles from the Shenandoah River, our property offers amazing access to hiking and the outdoors while also keeping civilization within striking distance. Bear Chase Brewery is just a half mile walk across the street, and we are 15 miles from Purcellville. The land and lodge used to be the summer home of a trained opera singer, whose singing could be heard throughout the mountain. Your Host lives onsite in the stone house that also acts as a hostel for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Built in the 1930's all from locally sourced hand-hammered stone, the house is open every night from 5pm - 9pm. Note that we offer several campsites relatively close to each other, so you should expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. About the listing Pitch your tent in a forested area just a short walk up from where you’ll park your car. Enjoy unbeatable proximity to hiking and panoramic views while still having basic amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. You’ll have access to a composting pit toilet, and can access potable water from the tap in the lodge. That’s also where you can access hot showers. As noted above, we host Appalachian Trail thru hikers on the property, so you may see them hanging around or sleeping in the bunkhouse near the shared facilities. For meals, we have picnic tables, and you are encouraged to cook over the fire pits that accompany each site. Please practice Leave No Trace practices during your stay, as the property has raccoons and other critters who will be drawn to any food scraps that are left behind. Pets are allowed! Please keep them on leash during your stay. Trash can be disposed of in the bins onsite. Additional details to note Expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. No kitchen equipment is provided, so campers must bring their own supplies if they'd like to cook. We do not offer WiFi, but there is good cell reception for all common carriers.

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Cross Creek Farm

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Southern Gateway, VA

**** Limited time - Baby Goats born mid-March will be here through June *** Originally part of Blake Farm, built in the 1930's. Blake Farm was subdivided into 5 acres farmettes in the 1990's. The original farmhouse is next door, now known as Agape Farms. The forest has reclaimed much of the original Blake Farm land. Visit over 4 acres of available land, from the pastures, to the wooded creek, or the very back edge of the farm abutting deep woods. Spend relaxing time petting the Nigerian Dwarf goats, Rhode Island Red chickens, and the super-friendly livestock guard dogs (Thomasina, Bucky, and Sarge). We are also located adjacent to Agape Farms, with its horses, ducks, and chickens. All this in horse country just minutes from I-95 and an hour from Washington, DC or Richmond, VA.

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(115)

Riverside Farm by the Monocacy

7 sites · Tents30 acres · Walkersville, MD

PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE DESCRIPTION BEFORE BOOKING... 30 acres of mostly reclaimed farmland. We are located where Glade Creek flows into the Monocacy River. There is evidence of civil war activity here and the old river ford is on our property. Creek and river access make this a beautiful, peaceful place that is full of life. The energy here is overwhelmingly positive. Our house was built in the 1850s and the neighboring farm was built shortly after—lots of history on this property. You will be able to camp right next to Glade Creek which is always cool, clean, and refreshing. Our goal with opening the land up for camping is to eventually phase out commercial farming on the property and transform it into woodlands using native plants and trees. We've already started by planting hundreds of native tree species along the creek and river banks. Each camper gets us closer to that goal! Thanks for your support! See our map in the gallery for a complete overview of our property including site locations. Please note that you will need to drive back through the crossing to access the portable toilet. Property occasionally floods. Zero flash floods, just slow river overflow. Check this site for flooding info. https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?gage=fdkm2 Flood stage is 15 feet.

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Maryland Health Society

42 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents98 acres · Davidsonville, MD

Maryland Health Society (MAHESO) is now open for the season! One of the oldest Clothing Optional Health Resort in the USA. We were established in 1934 and have been on the same property since 1936. We are 100% Not-for-Profit and 100% Volunteer. We are 45 min from Downtown Washington DC. Come out and leave all of your stress and worries behind. Like Us on Facebook Learn more about this land: We are the Maryland Health Society, one of the oldest clothing optional resorts and campgrounds in the USA. Established in 1934, we are 100% not-for-profit and 100% volunteer run. We have 98 secluded acres of wooded beauty, including cabins, RV sites with 50amp service, tent sites, swimming pool, clubhouse with kitchen and full restrooms, BBQ pit, 5 outdoor showers, 7 miles of hiking trails. Bordering the Patuxent River, we are 10 minutes from Washington, DC. We host many large fundraising events every year. We are in a rustic setting and our offer total acceptance. We are a 100% AANR Club.

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HUNTER'S PARK BY DC

13 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Damascus, MD

The campground is situated in the wooded area on the back of 27 acre horse farm which is known as "The Stables at Mezza Luna." There is Wi-Fi to all the sites. Every year in the spring there are 4-6 Thoroughbred foals born that eventually will become racehorses. They live on the farm until they are 2 years old and then they go off to begin their racing career. In the daytime, when you are not sitting around your campfire, you can walk the fence lines and visit with the Mares and Foals or just watch them frolic in the fields. Hint! "They love peppermints, carrots and apples." Who knows, you might get to meet a future Kentucky Derby winner. Nearby attractions include: Vineyard 61 (5 minutes) Stone Silo Brewery (5 Minutes) Leechwood Haunted Forest (5 Minutes) October weekends only There are also chickens, ducks and peacocks that are very anxious to receive your love and affection with any type of treat as well. Kids can even go in the chicken coop and pick out their very own egg they can cook for their breakfast. For the energetic campers and kids there are also lots of trails that you can walk or hike on and there is a small stream the kids can play in. There also is a playground with swings, monkey bars, seesaw and trampoline. Don't miss out out on this hidden gem just minutes from our nation's capital.

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Bald Eagle Farm on the Patuxent

3 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Brandywine, MD

Bald Eagle Farm has been in our family for three generations. Today two generations still live and operate the family farm. We once raised tobacco and cattle and have now converted to growing hay and grain. My family wants to share the views and the experience of sleeping under the stars on our beautiful secluded farm. You will hear nothing but the wind, birds, frogs and insects while you doze off or enjoy the dark sky and camp fire. We live on the farm so we are always here to help you out if needed. We can provide you with the firewood you need and water from our deep well. We are here to make your stay as comfortable as possible and provide a restroom in the case of an "emergency". Recently named a finalist for 'Best Hipcamp in Maryland'! Thank you SO much for your support and we look forward to hosting you in 2021.There are three campsites on the farm, one by the pond and two by the river. Very secluded and all sites include a bundle of firewood, firepit, log bench, and a picnic table that seats 3-4 people.The original river campsite has been moved to a more remote spot so that all campers can access the pond and pier to the river.Farm encompasses nearly 300 acres on the Patuxent River. There is access to the river on high tide via our private creek (must bring your own canoe or kayak) and 150 acres of marshland. Over 100 acres of woods to walk through and a pond for wildlife watching. Local Spots to Visit:Canoe/Kayak/Fishing: Clyde Watson Boating Area, Patuxent River Park, Patuxent Wetlands Park, Cedar Haven Fishing AreaHiking: Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Patuxent River Park, Cedarville State Forest, Rosaryville State Park, Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, Maxwell Hall ParkPlaces to Eat: Hardesty Haven Cafe, Moreland's Produce & Market, (Highly recommend packing well, we are approx. 20 minutes from a grocery store)Places to Drink: Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Romano Vineyard & Winery, Janemark Winery & Vineyard

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Burton Family Farm a place to relax

10 sites · RVs, Tents49 acres · Fredericksburg, VA

Learn more about this land: The Burton Family Farm is a beautiful spot to relax and get in touch with nature. This area is full of history and things to do, Civil War Battlefields, George Washington’s childhood home, Ferry Farm, Mary Washington House, Chatham, Kenmore, Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, Rising Sun Tavern, James Monroe Museum & Memorial Library, Rappahannock Railroad Museum, Chancellorsville Battlefield, Shannon Air Museum, United States National Slavery Museum, within minutes to Rocky Pen Run Reservoir, Motts Run, & not far from the Rappahannock River, local brewery’s, river activities, hiking, biking, visit Fred! Pitch your tent under the beautiful star filled sky! There is a pond, woods, relic hunting, wildlife and lots of fresh air! This is the perfect weekend getaway. We are very close to 95, right of Rt 17, 10 mins to historical Fredericksburg, FRED, 1 hour south of Washington DC, NOVA, 1 hour north of Richmond. RVA, Less than 5 minutes to shopping, gas and restaurants, but you would never know once you are on the farm. Come fall in love with our slice of heaven! We look forward to meeting you!

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(41)

Parson’s Landing

1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Madison, MD

Perfect waterfront camping. Flat, open and spacious. Enjoy the fire pit, Picnic table and porta John. Launch kayaks from the shore or bring your boat and launch at boat ramp a few miles away Picturesque sunsets Wildlife/ birders paradise Fishing, crabbing from shore. 20 mins from Cambridge, black water wildlife drive and Harriet Tubman museum 10 mins to Emily’s market 5 mins to slaughter creek marina to Wolford store, Taylor’s island boat ramp and restaurant No water or electricity

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(4)

The Agape

5 sites · Lodging, Tents14 acres · Queenstown, MD

The Agape is located on 14 acres and over 2000' of shoreline in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, with breath taking sunsets every evening. Pull up your RV [or rent ours], pitch a tent, kick up your feet and relax by the water. Soak in the sounds of nature and the sight of wild birds, from the Osprey, Bald Eagle and even the Great Blue Heron. We are a pack it in, pack it out leave-no-trace camping site. There are no hookups, but during your stay, feel free to patronize the entire property. The views of the Wye River from the dock are absolutely beautiful and peaceful! There is also plenty of water for fishing, crabbing and even a small, man-made beach! On days where there is great weather, inquire about use of our inflatable tandem Kayak!

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Stegan Farm

1 site · RV, Tent18 acres · Highland, MD

Our property is in Howard County, Maryland, and is super convenient to I-95, I-295, Hwy 32, and I-70. It is centrally located between Washington, DC, Baltimore, MD, and Frederick, MD. We are located right off of Highway 32 down a long, private paved driveway. What makes our property unique is all that it has to offer--it's an 18 acre oasis with mature woods protected by a conservation deed, lightly rolling hills, beautiful fields, wetlands, and a pond. It is not surprising to see deer and our local great blue heron on the property throughout the day. There is also a fire pit, which you are free to use. Firewood is free.

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1850's Greenock Farm & New 4WD site

4 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Lothian, MD

Learn more about this land: 45 acre Historic farm, several sites to choose from depending on adventure wanderlust (including a 4WD drive site). Located on private gravel lane, approximately 1/2 mile off county road. Either corn or soybeans with a woods backdrop. Secluded and private, yet 25 minutes to downtown Annapolis, 10 minutes to the Bay, great for cycling, paddleboarding, kayaking all 10/15 minutes from farm. Lots of great waterfront restaurants close by as well. DC 45 minutes, Baltimore 1 hour. Have a couple of tent/RV sites depending on interest. For those with 4WD and an off-road camper/trailer/tent have a site down a small hill, travel along a logging road and camp by a small stream or a giant poplar. Suitable during dry conditions and not responsible for damage to vehicle or camper. Great spot for those who truly want to be in the woods off the beaten path, site takes about 5 minutes to reach due to low speed access.

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Eaters Acres

2 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Frederick, MD

We are a small vegetable, fruit and herb farm that has just been getting started over the past few years after relocating from farming in California. Our property is an old farm that historically was primarily used for pasture. We have several vegetable gardens, a berry patch and two small fruit orchards and a forest that campers are welcome to explore. There are about two acres of pasture, but no animals currently grazing, only the chickens that may or may not be within a fenced in area depending on the day and season. We are currently selling produce from our gardens and eggs from our free roaming chickens along with our kitchen products produced on farm in our licensed farm kitchen. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent near the creek in our forest or hilltop with a view of surrounding farms or in a pasture where you will wake with the morning sun. We have various locations perfect for setting up your space for the night. We do often have two bookings a night on the weekends, it is a first come first pick option for the sites. However, with larger groups we may require to set up in the forest site near the creek or near the farm building might be another option for those who do not want to walk. We are a small diverse vegetable, herb and fruit farm so we welcome campers anywhere as long as they respect the boundries of the gardens and the orchards. All sites may require walking a little from your car, but some cars are able to get a little closer to the sites(depending on the car & the weather). We also have a small flock of egg laying hens that roams the property along with nine friendly barn cats and a friendly(but big) farm dog that you may see around the farm. There are countless species of birds that can be seen around as well as colorful butterflies, moths and dragon flies regularly flying about. Campers have access to a rustic bathroom(no hot water unless you boil it) and a partial kitchen as well as a charcoal grill, community fire pit and a picnic table. If you would like to cook onsite we have minimal amount of cookware available to use and you can buy from the farm whatever seasonal produce and/or eggs you might need. Our farm is down the road from wineries, breweries, a tea room and various other Frederick county attractions. There are numerous historic sites within a short drive such as Harpers Ferry and Civil War battlefields, including Gettysburg and Antietam. We are a 15 minute drive to historic downtown Frederick, 10 minutes from the center of historic New Market while being about an hour from downtown D.C. and 45 minutes to Baltimore. Our central location is great for site seeing around the area during the day, then you can spend the evenings relaxing around the farm. * For small RVs we can accomodate you in some space near the farm buildings. **The hilltop has some flat areas, but there is also a good slope depending on where you set up, so it is really best for campers with only one tent. This is next to a newly planted orchard, so there is also the option of some flat areas around the little fruit trees. Some cars are able to drive up the hill to park on the hiltop, depends on your car, but we are very strict about no driiving in the orchard. ***Plenty of space for larger groups as well in the grove site in our forest, near the creek. If your group has more than 4 adults we may require that you use this space as it is most appropriate for larger groups. Some cars are able to drive up the hill to get a little closer, but be prepared to walk up from the parking space near the barns which takes 3-5 minutes or a two minute walk from the hilltop.

The best camping near National Capital Parks-East guide

Overview

About

Get away from overcrowded Washington D.C. monuments and visit these lesser-known, yet equally important spots. This park system includes 13 sites, covering more than 8,000 acres of parklands from Capitol Hill to the Maryland suburbs. Visitors to the area will find a wide range of activities. Milk cows and feed chickens at Oxon Hill Farm. Visit famous forts that were built to defend Washington, D.C. Or learn an important history lesson and stop by the home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

One standout among the parks is the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. Back in 1938, thirty acres of land was purchased along the Anacostia River to preserve Walter Shaw's aquatic gardens and the surrounding marshland. Visitors can stroll the grounds and enjoy garden paths that lead to 44 unique ponds. From here you can link up with the Anacostia River Trail, a paved path that is open to both hikers and bikers.

Since most of these parks are small, you'll have no problem hitting up several in one day. But why rush through an area that has so much history to absorb? Check out public and private campground listings on Hipcamp and stay in the area for more adventures!