The best camping near Merkle Natural Resources Management Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Merkle Natural Resources Management Area adventure.

Discover the serene beauty of Merkle Natural Resources Management Area.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Merkle Natural Resources Management Area

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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% Non-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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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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1850's Greenock Farm & New 4WD site

3 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.

Haughton Campgrounds

1 site · RV, Tent11 acres · Clinton, MD

Nestled amidst lush greenery, Haughton Campgrounds offers a serene retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The campgrounds are spread over a large area, featuring a variety of camping spots ranging from shaded areas beneath towering trees to sunny spots near a tranquil lake. The site is well-equipped with modern amenities including clean restroom facilities, shower areas, and a designated picnic space with grills and tables. One of the highlights of Haughton Campgrounds is its proximity to hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, making it an ideal base for exploring the natural surroundings. The lake offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming, while the trails are perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The campgrounds also host a small convenience store stocked with basic supplies and camping essentials. Throughout the year, Haughton Campgrounds is known for its well-maintained paths and facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, the campgrounds provide a peaceful and picturesque setting for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle and reconnecting with nature.

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The Muvaland

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Lexington Park, MD

I just needed a place to go to get away from it all. And I look forward to sharing that special place with you.Welcome to The Muvaland - A black-owned beachfront campsiteMuvaland is a small piece of peace on a living beach. Come vibe out under the stars, around the bonfire while the waves crash in the background. Play some Kaytranada and chill.The Muvaland currently has: A port-a-potty, a swing on the beach that can seat up to 3 people, a fire pit with 2 benches that can seat up to 6 people, a picnic tableNo parties, loud music or big events - The Muvaland is in a residential area and is not an event space

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Charity’s Hope Family Farm Resort

16 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Port Tobacco Village, MD

Enjoy the perfect retreat for families, couples or anyone looking for rest and relaxation among a quiet, breath-taking location. This revived historic farmland is an icon in the area. Located just 30 miles outside of Washington DC, features a grand Victorian home on 20-acres w/ modern amenities. This small “farm resort” features pasture areas with alpacas, mini-cows, horses, goats, pigs, ducks, chicks, bunnies, barns, a private pond for fishing, and more. Come experience it yourself. We have an amazing list of free and paid amenities and attractions including go kart, golf cart, kayak, inflatable pontoon, golf simulator, fishing, hiking, farm tours, 20-foot inflatable outdoor movie screen and projector, Bluetooth speakers, pool toys, basketball hoop, kick ball, cabanas, giant checkers, small moonbounce, board games, and much much more. Ask our hosts for our onsite Amenities and Attraction List.

Booked 1 time

Out In The Country at Harwood Hills

1 site · Lodging100 acres · Harwood, MD

This is the definition of Glamping and certainly the finest around the area. The property is around 100 acres, not far from the Patuxent River and has been in our family for nearly 80 years, we are the fourth generation to live on the farm. There is only one luxurious site available and you have complete privacy as the opening in the forest that the camp sits in is surrounded by forest. A 10x20 deck holds a 10x12 canvas tent with a luxurious queen sized bed, all linens included. The bed is flanked by vintage nightstands and lamps. You have 2 USB outlets to keep your devices charged and a chandelier to brighten things up in the evening. A bar cabinet including a wine opener and ice bucket sits across for a comfortable vintage velvet chair and ottoman with a brass tray. A storage bench sits at the foot of the bed. Outside you have a well equipped kitchen including a coffee percolator, pots and an iron frying pan. A small sink has cold running water to wash up and a separate bottled drinking water dispenser. The 2 burner stove is complete with an oven. A set of enameled tin dishes, mugs, reusable plastic glasses and flatware are stored in the kitchen cupboard. Eat at a glass topped table for 2 on the deck. Your campfire pit has a grill and you can relax by the fire and watch the stars in the 2 lounging Adirondack chairs. Just steps away from your deck is an out of this world outhouse with hot and cold running water at the sink, vintage lighting and mirror, towel racks with fluffy white linens, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion. A dryflush toilet, almost like your toilet at home is the centerpiece. Attached to the bathroom and just at the edge of the forest, is an incredible outdoor rain shower with hot and cold water. You are surrounded by acres and acres of old forest and a creek or two to explore. There are maintained walking trails, most reserved for you to enjoy, all around the property.

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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." 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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Dry RV Pad - 55min from DC - 30amp

1 site · RV3 acres · Huntingtown, MD

Parking area clearly marked. Back RV in to the square box pad.***Natural features you'll find near the Dry RV Pad ***55min from DC in Maryland50min from Annapolis Less than an hour to the National Harbor, fine dining, entertainment and the MGM Casino.15min to Breezy Point Beach (may have fee)20min to North Beach Boardwalk & Rod'n Reel Casino and Water Park

Artesian's Hidden Acres

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Fort Washington, MD

Welcome to our private, family-owned retreat! For decades, we have provided nature-based community service programs that promote wellness, restoration, and relaxation. Artesian immerses guests in the healing properties of nature. Artesian's Hidden Acres is a hidden gem located in a rural-residential district of Fort Washington and are currently suited for off-grid campers. We do not provide electricity, toilets, or running water, but we do provide privacy and a unique camping experience. So, pitch your tents, park your campers, and bring your water, cooking supplies, and power source - we'll provide the fire pit, a bundle of wood, birds, crickets, groundhogs, and tranquility. But, while you will feel secluded, we do have neighbors nearby so out of respect, please try to quiet down a bit after 9pm. Thanks! In fact, bring your bike, hiking shoes, and fishing gear along too because the property is located just 4 miles from both the Henson Creek Trailhead (a scenic paved trail perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling) and Cosca Regional Park Hiking and Mountain Biking Trail (a 690-acre natural surface and paved trail with picnic areas, tennis courts, an equestrian trail network, and a lake for boating and fishing). Since we're on the subject of location, Artesian's Hidden Acres' rural-residential status gives you the best of both worlds. On the one hand, we are secluded and nestled in a private, 3-acre plat. On the other hand, we are in a residential community giving you quick (less than one mile) retail and restaurant access to Giant Food, gas stations, Auto Zone Auto Parts, fast-food restaurants, CVS, and more. We're also located 2 miles from Branch Avenue Metrorail Station; 5 miles from the MGM National Harbor & Tanger Outlets; 3.5 miles from Top Golf; 11 miles from Six Flags America; 10 miles from the DC Tidal Basin; 6 miles from Old Town Alexandria Waterfront; 8 miles from Fort Washington Park; and 10 miles from Watkins Regional Park.

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Let your Adventure Start Today

6 sites · Tents10 acres · Owings, MD

Lacy Oasis is a land that is encompasses a history of women who loves nature, family and heart of gold who wants to share her property with others to embrace the benefits of nature specifically clarity of life. Learn more about this land: Welcome to a place that allows you to be in pure tranquility with nature and yourself. Come to connect, share laughter and create endless memories with your family, friends and your pets. The sunlight bursting through tree leaves, to the sound of frogs dancing along the streams to fluttering butterflies of amidst buzzing bees and the birds that whistle will encourage you to embrace the journey that you will embark on at Lacy Oasis. Our space is private property within a tight knit, friendly, family oriented neighborhood. We encourage our guest to wave or simple double tap on the horn on your way in and out of the space. It truly means a lot to our neighbors at the entrance of the property. All parking is provided on our property not at our neighbors house or community. We have ample amount of parking and drive up campsites for you and your guest. Amenities Lodging: capacity for 500 tents Dining: TBA ( local food vendors) - creating a partnership with local food vendors specifically minority owned Outdoor Areas: 9 large campsites for camping, various group games and activities , 2 Full Size playground area, 3 hiking trails, 9 fire rings, 4 picnic tables, 6 fire pits, 1 porta potty and 1 outhouse. Parking: available on site, bus access On Site Activities (Upon Request) : arts & crafts, nature science, Nearby Places: Chesapeake Beach, North Beach, Swann Farm, Fridays Creek Winery and, Bayfront Park We look forward to seeing you soon. Come Adopt The Pace Of Lacy Oasis: Patience

Booked 2 times

Barbara's Serenity

1 site · Lodging13 acres · Bensville, MD

Escape the chaos of everyday life and experience true relaxation at our hidden gem glamping site! The Indian Rail Trail, Charles County's most exciting recreational trail, is just a 7-minute drive from your tent. This paved, 13-mile-long, ten-foot-wide path is an excellent excursion for bikers of all ages, connecting the small town of Indian Head on the Potomac River to White Plains. The fairly level trail takes riders through mature forests, natural wetlands, and some farmland. During your stay, you can also take a 10-minute walk through the forest on our property to visit a serene creek. Your Signature campsite accommodates up to 6-10 campers. The basic booking includes space for 4 campers, with 2 sleeping on the Queen Bed in the platform safari tent and 2 sleeping in bags on the floor. The site also features a picnic table, fire pit, and Adirondack chairs where you can relax and stargaze at night. Atlantic Kayak Company is a 20-minute drive from the site, offering kayak rentals and guided expeditions. For families, Sky Zone Trampoline Park is a fun activity less than a 10-minute drive from the campsite. A Walmart is conveniently located about 10 minutes away for any supplies you may need, and local produce can be obtained on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the La Plata Farmer's Market (12 min drive) between April and November. The Road To Serenity: Our road is a quaint old country farm road made of grass and a few gravel patches here and there. It is a bit of a bumpy ride, so take it slow and easy as you make your way to our hidden getaway. There is one sharp left turn over a culvert and some dips and mild inclines, so low-sitting vehicles should definitely take it slow. The road narrows as you get closer to the site, but there are reflectors along the way to keep you on the right path. We highly recommend arriving before dark. Parking: Parking is on the grass meadow between the entrance to the meadow and the walking path to the campsite. Reflectors are in place to outline the parking area. Avoid driving beyond the parking area and down steep inclines in the meadow, as softer ground presents a risk for getting stuck. A gorilla wagon is available in the parking area to help transport your belongings to the campsite. Toilet and Shower Set-up: There is a privacy tent that contains a toilet seat over a bucket. Place a bag with absorbent materials in the bucket for your biological needs. A portable automatic shower providing hot water is also available. Pets: For the safety of your pets, ensure that they are treated for ticks prior to camping. Be sure to check for ticks before bringing pets into the tent. Noises and Sounds: This property is located in a rural community, and campers may occasionally experience common city noises such as airplanes flying overhead, distant traffic, or distant firearm shots. It is a great site for city dwellers who enjoy tranquility but not complete silence.

The best camping near Merkle Natural Resources Management Area guide

Overview

About

Dive into the natural wonders of Merkle Natural Resources Management Area. With its tranquil forests, scenic trails, and peaceful campsites, this area provides a perfect setting for camping adventures. From bird-watching to hiking, immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors and create lasting memories in this hidden gem.

When to go

The best time to visit Merkle Natural Resources Management Area is during the cooler months, from late fall to early spring, when the Canada geese are in residence. Summer brings lush greenery, but also higher temperatures and humidity. The visitor center is currently closed, so plan your trip accordingly.

Know before you go

Grounds are open from sunrise to sunset, offering full days of exploration.
Check for any park closures or alerts before your visit to ensure a smooth experience.
Accessibility information is available for those needing assistance.
Remember to bring your binoculars for an enhanced birding adventure.
While the visitor center is closed until further notice, ample outdoor activities await.