Top-rated campgrounds
Top-rated campgrounds
Public campgrounds near Silver Spring
Stories from the community
Other options near Silver Spring
The best cabins near Silver Spring with fishing guide
Where to go
Catoctin Mountain Park
Sitting on the northeast end of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Catoctin Mountain Park is home to over 25 miles of hiking trails, historical sites, and camping. The park offers multiple campgrounds with tent sites and unique historic cabins and dorm rentals. Find the state’s largest waterfall along the Cunningham Falls Nature Trail, or journey through the half-mile loop Charcoal Trail to learn about the region's charcoal-making history. The west side of the park provides quiet and secluded trails where campers can traverse the Catoctin National Recreation Trail filled with historic colonial sites.
Gunpowder Falls State Park
Sail the scenic shoreline of Gunpowder River at Gunpowder Falls State Park. Sitting an hour northeast of Silver Spring, Gunpowder Falls—one of Maryland’s largest state parks—provides campers with six areas of outdoor adventure. The Hammerman Area in Middle River provides pavilions, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a swimming beach, as well as the nearby Dundee Creek Marina where boaters can access a boat launch, fuel, and rentals. Lack of on-site camping requires campers to plan ahead and explore the surrounding campgrounds, cabin rentals, and vacation cottages.
Prince William Forest Park
Venture across the border of Virginia to Prince William Forest Park. Covered by a canopy of trees, the peaceful park welcomes hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Picnic areas offer day-use options, while overnight campers can choose from tent sites, RV sites, backcountry camping, and cabin rentals. Note that the grounds are dry sites only, and there are no hookups for RVs or trailers. The Chopawamsic Backcountry Area is perfect for secluded serenity, though campsites only hold two tents maximum and no campfires are allowed.
When to go
Silver Spring welcomes campers year-round to enjoy the changing seasons and lavish landscapes. Late spring, summer, and early fall bring temperatures in the high 70s and 80s, ideal for campers wishing to hit the water and sleep under the stars. As cooler temperatures approach, catch the artistry of nature at work in the unforgettable fall foliage. Winter weather sees average highs around 40°F and lows that drop below freezing overnight from late November to March. Experience with cold weather camping is highly recommended, or a cabin rental for a snowy stay.