Best Camping Beaches in Maryland

Charlestown Manor Beach and Campground is located in Cecil County, Maryland, offering a serene getaway along the North East River. This family-oriented destination provides a beautiful beach area perfect for swimming and relaxation. The campground is well-equipped with amenities like picnic tables, public restrooms, and a volleyball court, making it an ideal spot for both families and individuals seeking an outdoor experience. The beach is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with operating hours from 9 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and 9 AM to 6 PM on weekends.

The campground offers a range of activities, including camping, kayaking, and swimming, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying modern comforts. The scenic views and tranquil atmosphere make it a great place for those looking to unwind. Additionally, the beach is alcohol-free, ensuring a safe and family-friendly environment.

Visitors can enjoy the picturesque views of the North East River while engaging in various water activities or simply relaxing on the beach. The campground's competitive pricing and cash-only policy ensure a hassle-free experience for guests.

Breezy Point Beach & Campground is a picturesque destination located in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, offering a serene beach experience with sandy shores and gentle surf. It is a popular spot for family outings, providing activities like swimming, fishing, and crabbing from a 200-foot pier. Visitors can also hunt for fossils and shark teeth along the beach. The campground offers scenic views of the Chesapeake Bay, making it ideal for camping and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. The beach is open from May 1 to October 31 and is about an hour's drive from Washington D.C.
The area is rich in local seafood and offers nearby attractions such as the Chesapeake Beach Water Park and the Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum. Breezy Point Beach & Campground is operated by Calvert County, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
With its beautiful scenery and diverse activities, Breezy Point is a must-visit for those seeking a relaxing beach experience in Maryland.

Elk Neck State Park is a scenic destination located on a peninsula between the Chesapeake Bay and the Elk River in Cecil County, Maryland. The park spans 2,370 acres and offers a diverse range of landscapes, including sandy beaches, marshlands, and heavily wooded areas. It is home to the historic Turkey Point Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the bay. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as swimming, fishing, crabbing, and hiking on the park's 12 miles of trails. The park also features over 250 campsites, making it an ideal spot for both day trips and extended stays.
The park's unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in history. The Turkey Point Lighthouse, dating back to 1833, is a notable attraction and offers seasonal tours. The park's proximity to North East, Maryland, provides easy access to local amenities and services.
Elk Neck State Park is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and has been a significant recreational area since its establishment in 1936. It continues to evolve with ongoing improvements to its facilities, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors.

Catoctin Mountain Park is not a beach but a mountainous park located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Maryland. It offers a diverse landscape with forests, streams, and wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The park is known for its historical significance, featuring structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. It is also home to Camp David, a presidential retreat, though this area is not open to the public. Visitors can enjoy scenic vistas, picnic areas, and a variety of flora and fauna.
The park's history dates back to the 1930s when it was developed as a recreational area. Today, it provides opportunities for nature exploration and relaxation. With its proximity to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, it serves as a convenient getaway for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
Catoctin Mountain Park is managed by the National Park Service and is adjacent to Cunningham Falls State Park, offering additional recreational opportunities.

Cunningham Falls State Park, located in the Catoctin Mountains of Maryland, is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse recreational activities. The park features Maryland's highest cascading waterfall, which is a major attraction, along with a lake offering swimming and boating opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails of varying difficulty, including the popular Lower Trail to the falls and the more challenging Cliff Trail. The park also hosts the Annual Maple Syrup Festival and offers camping facilities, making it a great destination for both nature lovers and families.
The park's William Houck Area includes the lake, falls, and campgrounds, while the Manor Area offers additional camping sites and historical attractions like the Catoctin Iron Furnace. The park's proximity to Washington D.C. makes it an accessible getaway for those seeking outdoor adventures.
With its rich history and natural beauty, Cunningham Falls State Park provides a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination in Maryland.

Assateague Island, located off the coast of Maryland, is a 37-mile-long barrier island renowned for its pristine beaches, wild horses, and diverse wildlife. The island is divided between Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park, offering a range of activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, and camping. Visitors can explore the marshes by canoe or kayak and enjoy the scenic bike paths. The island's unique charm and natural beauty make it a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and tranquility.
The island is easily accessible from nearby Ocean City, Maryland, making it a convenient day trip or extended vacation spot. The annual Pony Swim, where wild horses are rounded up and auctioned off, is a major attraction.
Assateague Island's natural habitats support a wide variety of birds and marine life, adding to its allure as a nature lover's paradise.