The best camping near Silver Spring with swimming

·

Near the border of Washington DC and Virginia, Silver Spring ties together diverse parks, spectacular shorelines, and historical landmarks like those found in Catoctin Mountain Park. Its centrality makes the area ideal for exploring surrounding states and sites, and the area is wrapped in biodiverse landscapes featuring a wide variety of parks, peaks, and Hipcamps. Just 30 minutes south, campers can access the nation’s capital for a day trip to President’s Park and its monuments. Around Silver Spring, Hipcampers will find campsites, glampsites, farmlands, and retreats year-round, whether crossing borders, staying within state lines, or heading out to the Potomac River.

96% (867)

Top-rated campgrounds

Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

1. Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

98%
(127)
44mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Westminster, MD
Welcome to our fifth generation, mini-valley, woodland, and rolling hills. Empty Cupboard Farm has been family owned since 1918. It is presently planted in soy and corn. Wildlife abounds, including deer, small mammals, and geese. Bald eagles and Heron even take a pond dip periodically. Woodland trails are accessible and new tree plantings can be observed. We welcome RVs under 30'. It will be too hilly for anything longer. (Be aware: inclement weather is not your friend here if your vehicle can't handle potentially slippery conditions.) Enjoy the following activities: Mountain biking, pedal onlyPond fishing. (Sorry, no swimming in the pond; but an "An open to the public", private pool is 13 miles/20min. As is the Y. Lawn games and a fire pit are available. So are the stars at night; cloud permitting. Consider the free star gazing app, SkyView Lite, even in the day and under clouds. Don't miss our stunning sunsets at the "Red Door," our entrance. Historical towns within 10 miles any direction are reached over rolling countryside. Gettysburg is less than 20 miles. Baltimore is less than an hours ride by open highway. Blue Ridge mountains 18 miles. Taneytown, 1836, has an extraordinary antique store that is a delight to browse; as well as fine dining, drive through, an open air beer garden and close by grocery stores. Homemade ice cream is found at Baugher's and Hoffmans in Westminster. Baugher's Orchard has "pick your own" available. There is a mini farm animal petting zoo at the orchard. Additional things to see: Boating in Carroll County Maryland. Local wineries Ski Liberty Carroll is a full service county whatever your needs. Check out carrollcountytourism.org to learn more No lions, tigers, and Oh my! However, be aware that small critters may try to steal your food. No recent bear sightings. Geese visit occasionally. Coyotes are seen periodically. All hunting rights are reserved for long term clientele; therefore, hiking on the farm may be curtailed if they are present during hunting season. (November- January) Consider using Sky View Lite on line to watch the sky.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Drone View of Leoni Island. you can hike here from the Tree Star site!

3. TINYHOME n WOODS & PRIVATE ISLAND

97%
(76)
49mi from Silver Spring · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rock Point, MD
Discover the all-new and upgraded camping experience at our stunning property, now featuring a charming tiny home at the Tree Star Campsite complete with a private bathroom. Nestled within 133 acres of pristine nature, this unique spot offers comfort and tranquility like never before. In addition to the Tree Star site, we proudly offer a Private Island Campsite—an exclusive getaway that delivers a true off-road adventure. Please note, reaching the island requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain and ensure a smooth arrival. For those seeking the ultimate retreat, the entire property can be booked together, providing a massive, immersive outdoor experience filled with diverse landscapes and unforgettable moments. To enhance your stay, we provide a variety of convenient add-ons including firewood, trash removal, and natural spring water, making your visit comfortable and hassle-free. We’re back and better than ever, delivering unique experiences through our thoughtful upgrades and exceptional offerings. Your next adventure awaits! Enjoy and take lots of photos to share, you'll love it. Check out our Instagram for additional photos and videos of @farmzen_
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$99
 / night
More great views across the soybean field behind the campsite.

6. Greenock Farm

100%
(152)
24mi from Silver Spring · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lothian, MD
Please read entire description and most importantly, there are no toilet facilities, so please pack it out, dig a hole or bring your own head if you're not self-contained. No presents for me or other campers, thank you. 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. DC 45 minutes, Baltimore 1 hour. Jug Bay wetlands, wineries, fun little waterfront towns and Bay front restaurants all within easy reach. Check out individual sites for description, each has its own personality. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. First listing actually has several options. For large campers/coach/fifth wheelers the area by the tractor shed will be the best. Around the corner there's two other choices both with firepits which will accommodate units up to 40 feet depending on your backing/maneuvering skills. Field of Dreams and Sycamore Ridge will accommodate campers under 25 feet with some backing/maneuvering skills. For those with 4WD and an off-road camper/trailer/tent choose Off the Grid, two entrances for easy access, travel along a logging road to an open site with fire pit. 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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Riverside Farm by the Monocacy

7. Riverside Farm by the Monocacy

97%
(280)
38mi from Silver Spring · 7 sites · Tents · 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. We HIGHLY recommend a vehicle with AWD or at least a decent ground clearance.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$37
 / night
Redemption Springs Farm

8. Redemption Springs Farm

98%
(43)
38mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · RVs · Finksburg, MD
Come stay in the tranquil beauty of the Maryland countryside, conveniently located in Finksburg MD just 10 minutes from the heart of Westminster MD. Here you can cuddle with the cows, hang out with the hogs, and chill with the chickens. A family-run, working small farm, built in the 1800s, we are dedicated to improving the land, soil, plants, and wildlife, through Regenerative Agriculture with all-natural, chemical, hormone, anti-biotic, and GMO-free methods. We raise and breed Rare Heritage Livestock in a conservation program to keep these genetic lines alive and diverse. Several of our breeds are listed on the Slow Foods Ark of Taste. Our farm practices invite loads of wildlife, including herons, fox, hummingbirds, woodpeckers, deer, bald eagles, red-tailed hawk, and more. Instagram: @Redemption_Springs Facebook: @RedemptionSprings
Electrical Hookup
Water Hookup
Pets
from 
$50
 / night
The Lavat Spot Eudaimonia

9. The Lavat Spot Eudaimonia

99%
(50)
46mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bolivar, WV
This beautiful property features 1.5 acres of land with 200 feet of waterfront on the Shannendoah River. The site has electric hookups and potable water available for convenience. Property can accommodate larger groups. Please reach out to host. You can enjoy the outdoors with an outdoor kitchen area, outdoor shower, firepit, and deck with stairs leading to the water. Kayaks, a canoe, floating tubes and a variety of yard games are provided for your use. The property is located just minutes away from downtown Harpers Ferry and the Charlestown Hollywood Casino. You'll also have plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities with River Riders and Harpers Ferry Brewery and Adventure Park nearby. The area is abundant with wildlife, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
Standard fall sunset view. Wildlife, especially bird species abound on this piece of Wild and Wonderful Shenandoah River.

13. Private River - RV or tent

86%
(22)
46mi from Silver Spring · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Shannondale, WV
Learn more about this land: Enjoy in your RV (no power) and/or tent camping with private river access on the Shenandoah River in Harpers Ferry, WV. Numerous amenities combined with peaceful sunrise and sunset views make this site a rare gem. Expect to see all sorts of birds along the river and other wildlife on the property. Conveniently located 6.5 miles from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and 5 miles south of Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. The private bathhouse (Taj Mah Potty) has a clawfoot tub, shower, toilet, sink, small refrigerator and is air conditioned for your convenience. Two sit on top kayaks, life jackets, and paddles are included for use at our private put in. Our site is priced in comparison to an RV site at the KOA in Harpers Ferry. The difference is this is a private site, with 100' of private river frontage, and you are not on top of your neighbor. If you are tent camping feel free to book, but realize this spot is priced according to rv rates.
Pets
Campfires
Water Hookup
from 
$85
 / night
We outfitted our platform tents with a covered porch for protection from rain and sun. A perfect place for morning coffee!

14. Camps at Evensong Farm

100%
(37)
48mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · Lodging · Sharpsburg, MD
Evensong Farm is a preserved historic farm adjacent to the Antietam National Battlefield. We have set up two, almost identical, sites on a 60 acre parcel of our farm which is very private for our campers, but allows access to the lovely Antietam Creek. The sites themselves are about 500 feet apart so, while they maintain privacy when booked by different parties, can also be booked together for group stays. We have been hosting campers at our "glampsites" since 2021. Each off-grid site has a 12x16 platform with a 10x12 canvas side wall tent, a firepit and chairs, a cooking area with a grill and sink for washing up, a picnic table and benches, and a private bathroom with a composting toilet and solar shower bag. The main tent is set up for 2 people, although 4 is possible. The sites can handle a max of 12 people, with the use of additional tents (BYO or you can set up some of ours). We provide an electronic camp guide to all of our campers that include our recommendations for things to do in the area, as well as camping tips and other handy info. Inside the tent you will find a queen size bed, side tables, and a cafe table and chair set. We have put down foam flooring and a carpet for your comfort and provide numerous battery powered lights, lanterns and fans. In cold months we can add a propane heater to keep the chill away. We also have some games, maps of the area, decks of cards, and a fire extinguisher. Stepping outside the tent you'll find our long rainfly creates a covered porch where you can relax on our provided chairs. There are additional chairs around the firepit and each firepit has a cooking grate so you can cook over your campfire. We provide one bundle of firewood (including kindling) per night with your reservation. We do sell additional firewood, if needed. In our kitchen area you will find a picnic table and chairs, 5 gallons of drinking water, a clean up table that includes a foot operated pump sink with an additional 5 gallons of washing water, a grill (one site has propane and the other has charcoal), trash and recycling bins, grill tools, lighters, plus dish and hand soaps. Our farm is a mile and a half from the town of Sharpsburg, MD, home of the Antietam National Battlefield (and Nutter's Ice Cream Shop). You will find the Appalachian Trail to our east and the C&O Canal to our west (10 minute drive to either).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$117
 / night

Near the border of Washington DC and Virginia, Silver Spring ties together diverse parks, spectacular shorelines, and historical landmarks like those found in Catoctin Mountain Park. Its centrality makes the area ideal for exploring surrounding states and sites, and the area is wrapped in biodiverse landscapes featuring a wide variety of parks, peaks, and Hipcamps. Just 30 minutes south, campers can access the nation’s capital for a day trip to President’s Park and its monuments. Around Silver Spring, Hipcampers will find campsites, glampsites, farmlands, and retreats year-round, whether crossing borders, staying within state lines, or heading out to the Potomac River.

96% (867)

Top-rated campgrounds

Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

1. Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

98%
(127)
44mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Westminster, MD
Welcome to our fifth generation, mini-valley, woodland, and rolling hills. Empty Cupboard Farm has been family owned since 1918. It is presently planted in soy and corn. Wildlife abounds, including deer, small mammals, and geese. Bald eagles and Heron even take a pond dip periodically. Woodland trails are accessible and new tree plantings can be observed. We welcome RVs under 30'. It will be too hilly for anything longer. (Be aware: inclement weather is not your friend here if your vehicle can't handle potentially slippery conditions.) Enjoy the following activities: Mountain biking, pedal onlyPond fishing. (Sorry, no swimming in the pond; but an "An open to the public", private pool is 13 miles/20min. As is the Y. Lawn games and a fire pit are available. So are the stars at night; cloud permitting. Consider the free star gazing app, SkyView Lite, even in the day and under clouds. Don't miss our stunning sunsets at the "Red Door," our entrance. Historical towns within 10 miles any direction are reached over rolling countryside. Gettysburg is less than 20 miles. Baltimore is less than an hours ride by open highway. Blue Ridge mountains 18 miles. Taneytown, 1836, has an extraordinary antique store that is a delight to browse; as well as fine dining, drive through, an open air beer garden and close by grocery stores. Homemade ice cream is found at Baugher's and Hoffmans in Westminster. Baugher's Orchard has "pick your own" available. There is a mini farm animal petting zoo at the orchard. Additional things to see: Boating in Carroll County Maryland. Local wineries Ski Liberty Carroll is a full service county whatever your needs. Check out carrollcountytourism.org to learn more No lions, tigers, and Oh my! However, be aware that small critters may try to steal your food. No recent bear sightings. Geese visit occasionally. Coyotes are seen periodically. All hunting rights are reserved for long term clientele; therefore, hiking on the farm may be curtailed if they are present during hunting season. (November- January) Consider using Sky View Lite on line to watch the sky.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Drone View of Leoni Island. you can hike here from the Tree Star site!

3. TINYHOME n WOODS & PRIVATE ISLAND

97%
(76)
49mi from Silver Spring · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rock Point, MD
Discover the all-new and upgraded camping experience at our stunning property, now featuring a charming tiny home at the Tree Star Campsite complete with a private bathroom. Nestled within 133 acres of pristine nature, this unique spot offers comfort and tranquility like never before. In addition to the Tree Star site, we proudly offer a Private Island Campsite—an exclusive getaway that delivers a true off-road adventure. Please note, reaching the island requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain and ensure a smooth arrival. For those seeking the ultimate retreat, the entire property can be booked together, providing a massive, immersive outdoor experience filled with diverse landscapes and unforgettable moments. To enhance your stay, we provide a variety of convenient add-ons including firewood, trash removal, and natural spring water, making your visit comfortable and hassle-free. We’re back and better than ever, delivering unique experiences through our thoughtful upgrades and exceptional offerings. Your next adventure awaits! Enjoy and take lots of photos to share, you'll love it. Check out our Instagram for additional photos and videos of @farmzen_
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$99
 / night
More great views across the soybean field behind the campsite.

6. Greenock Farm

100%
(152)
24mi from Silver Spring · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Lothian, MD
Please read entire description and most importantly, there are no toilet facilities, so please pack it out, dig a hole or bring your own head if you're not self-contained. No presents for me or other campers, thank you. 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. DC 45 minutes, Baltimore 1 hour. Jug Bay wetlands, wineries, fun little waterfront towns and Bay front restaurants all within easy reach. Check out individual sites for description, each has its own personality. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. First listing actually has several options. For large campers/coach/fifth wheelers the area by the tractor shed will be the best. Around the corner there's two other choices both with firepits which will accommodate units up to 40 feet depending on your backing/maneuvering skills. Field of Dreams and Sycamore Ridge will accommodate campers under 25 feet with some backing/maneuvering skills. For those with 4WD and an off-road camper/trailer/tent choose Off the Grid, two entrances for easy access, travel along a logging road to an open site with fire pit. 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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Riverside Farm by the Monocacy

7. Riverside Farm by the Monocacy

97%
(280)
38mi from Silver Spring · 7 sites · Tents · 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. We HIGHLY recommend a vehicle with AWD or at least a decent ground clearance.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$37
 / night
Redemption Springs Farm

8. Redemption Springs Farm

98%
(43)
38mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · RVs · Finksburg, MD
Come stay in the tranquil beauty of the Maryland countryside, conveniently located in Finksburg MD just 10 minutes from the heart of Westminster MD. Here you can cuddle with the cows, hang out with the hogs, and chill with the chickens. A family-run, working small farm, built in the 1800s, we are dedicated to improving the land, soil, plants, and wildlife, through Regenerative Agriculture with all-natural, chemical, hormone, anti-biotic, and GMO-free methods. We raise and breed Rare Heritage Livestock in a conservation program to keep these genetic lines alive and diverse. Several of our breeds are listed on the Slow Foods Ark of Taste. Our farm practices invite loads of wildlife, including herons, fox, hummingbirds, woodpeckers, deer, bald eagles, red-tailed hawk, and more. Instagram: @Redemption_Springs Facebook: @RedemptionSprings
Electrical Hookup
Water Hookup
Pets
from 
$50
 / night
The Lavat Spot Eudaimonia

9. The Lavat Spot Eudaimonia

99%
(50)
46mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bolivar, WV
This beautiful property features 1.5 acres of land with 200 feet of waterfront on the Shannendoah River. The site has electric hookups and potable water available for convenience. Property can accommodate larger groups. Please reach out to host. You can enjoy the outdoors with an outdoor kitchen area, outdoor shower, firepit, and deck with stairs leading to the water. Kayaks, a canoe, floating tubes and a variety of yard games are provided for your use. The property is located just minutes away from downtown Harpers Ferry and the Charlestown Hollywood Casino. You'll also have plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities with River Riders and Harpers Ferry Brewery and Adventure Park nearby. The area is abundant with wildlife, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
Standard fall sunset view. Wildlife, especially bird species abound on this piece of Wild and Wonderful Shenandoah River.

13. Private River - RV or tent

86%
(22)
46mi from Silver Spring · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Shannondale, WV
Learn more about this land: Enjoy in your RV (no power) and/or tent camping with private river access on the Shenandoah River in Harpers Ferry, WV. Numerous amenities combined with peaceful sunrise and sunset views make this site a rare gem. Expect to see all sorts of birds along the river and other wildlife on the property. Conveniently located 6.5 miles from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and 5 miles south of Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. The private bathhouse (Taj Mah Potty) has a clawfoot tub, shower, toilet, sink, small refrigerator and is air conditioned for your convenience. Two sit on top kayaks, life jackets, and paddles are included for use at our private put in. Our site is priced in comparison to an RV site at the KOA in Harpers Ferry. The difference is this is a private site, with 100' of private river frontage, and you are not on top of your neighbor. If you are tent camping feel free to book, but realize this spot is priced according to rv rates.
Pets
Campfires
Water Hookup
from 
$85
 / night
We outfitted our platform tents with a covered porch for protection from rain and sun. A perfect place for morning coffee!

14. Camps at Evensong Farm

100%
(37)
48mi from Silver Spring · 2 sites · Lodging · Sharpsburg, MD
Evensong Farm is a preserved historic farm adjacent to the Antietam National Battlefield. We have set up two, almost identical, sites on a 60 acre parcel of our farm which is very private for our campers, but allows access to the lovely Antietam Creek. The sites themselves are about 500 feet apart so, while they maintain privacy when booked by different parties, can also be booked together for group stays. We have been hosting campers at our "glampsites" since 2021. Each off-grid site has a 12x16 platform with a 10x12 canvas side wall tent, a firepit and chairs, a cooking area with a grill and sink for washing up, a picnic table and benches, and a private bathroom with a composting toilet and solar shower bag. The main tent is set up for 2 people, although 4 is possible. The sites can handle a max of 12 people, with the use of additional tents (BYO or you can set up some of ours). We provide an electronic camp guide to all of our campers that include our recommendations for things to do in the area, as well as camping tips and other handy info. Inside the tent you will find a queen size bed, side tables, and a cafe table and chair set. We have put down foam flooring and a carpet for your comfort and provide numerous battery powered lights, lanterns and fans. In cold months we can add a propane heater to keep the chill away. We also have some games, maps of the area, decks of cards, and a fire extinguisher. Stepping outside the tent you'll find our long rainfly creates a covered porch where you can relax on our provided chairs. There are additional chairs around the firepit and each firepit has a cooking grate so you can cook over your campfire. We provide one bundle of firewood (including kindling) per night with your reservation. We do sell additional firewood, if needed. In our kitchen area you will find a picnic table and chairs, 5 gallons of drinking water, a clean up table that includes a foot operated pump sink with an additional 5 gallons of washing water, a grill (one site has propane and the other has charcoal), trash and recycling bins, grill tools, lighters, plus dish and hand soaps. Our farm is a mile and a half from the town of Sharpsburg, MD, home of the Antietam National Battlefield (and Nutter's Ice Cream Shop). You will find the Appalachian Trail to our east and the C&O Canal to our west (10 minute drive to either).
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$117
 / night

Camper favorites near Silver Spring

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Silver Spring

Stories from the community

Other options near Silver Spring

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Silver Spring with swimming 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.