Take in the water from these camping sites throughout the Bay watershed

Although we typically think of a camping experience as a weekend in the woods and campfires with s’mores, the Bay region has many camping sites that offer a little something extra. With the many rivers that are home to the Chesapeake watershed and an abundance of camping sites, river-front camping has something for everyone whether you’re looking for the classic camping experience or fun water activities!

Learn about just some of the sites across the region that provide breathtaking views and an immersive camping experience on the water.

Harpers Ferry (WV)

Harpers Ferry sits right by the Potomac River on the border between Maryland and West Virginia, with no shortage of activities to partake in while staying at the nearby campgrounds. Sites for RVs and tents, along with cabin rentals are all available to accommodate camper preferences, and the town of Harpers Ferry is a short walk or bike ride away. While on the river, campers can engage in whitewater tubing and rafting, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding. For those who are wanting to stay dry, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from that offer gorgeous views of the Potomac or take a history lesson by visiting Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. With all the outdoor activities you could think of available, Harpers Ferry is the perfect place for campers of all ages and levels of experience.

James River State Park (VA)

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the James River State Park is ideal for campers who are looking for both land and water based activities. Hiking, kayaking or canoeing and miles of shoreline all show beautiful mountain and river views. With multiple camping sites along the riverbanks that offer cabins, a visitor center, picnic shelters and boat launches, there is plenty of room to set up your tent, relax and fall asleep to the sounds of the river after a long day of outdoor recreation. 

Hart-Miller Island (MD)

For campers looking for a secluded, quiet getaway outside of Baltimore City, Hart-Miller Island is the perfect site. The Maryland State Park island has over 1,000 acres of land located at the mouth of the Middle River. With a 3,000 foot sandy beach, visitors can wade in the water and lay on the shore or enjoy the variety of wildlife while fishing. The island is also a haven for boating as it has calm open waters that can be used for fishing and other recreational activities.

Trap Pond State Park (DE)

Trap Pond is a fan-favorite campground with various water trails for paddling, opportunities for biking and hiking, and unique educational programs. Trap Pond drains into the Nanticoke River, which is a major tributary of the Bay. The nature center on the park displays the connection this waterway has to the Chesapeake and offers exhibits on the importance of wildlife in the area. 

RV camping, tents, yurts and cabins are all available, and renting water activity equipment is easy, making for a low-effort but high value trip!

Glimmerglass State Park (NY)

Otsego Lake marks the beginning of the Susquehanna River, which is the Bay’s largest tributary. The lake is home to Glimmerglass State Park, which attracts many campers for its variety of wildlife and multiple trails. In the winter, visitors can go skiing, ice skating, snowmobiling and ice fishing, making this an attractive site no matter when your urge to go camping arises. 

Lower Susquehanna River (PA)

Being the largest tributary of the Chesapeake Bay, the Susquehanna River has plenty of room to camp. The riverbanks are home to various campgrounds such as River Pointe Campground, Otter Creek Campground, Ferryboat Campsites and multiple island campsites. Many of these sites offer unique spots for fishing and exploring, and most have beach areas to launch boats from or relax on the shore. Calm waters also make for excellent paddling or swimming conditions, and assorted wildlife all around makes the Susquehanna a great camping trip for all. 

Pocomoke River State Park (MD)

Camping at Pocomoke River State Park is made easy with 175 campsites to choose from. With electric hookups and centrally located bathhouses with running water, the park is accessible for all and is even dog friendly. Campgrounds are located right on the Pocomoke River, offering views and opportunities to fish and swim. In addition to nature-based activities, the campgrounds have playgrounds, a swimming pool and scheduled activities for younger campers. 

Are there any waterfront campgrounds you’d like to add to the list? Let us know in the comments!