Do you consider yourself a rugged camper? You don’t need fancy accessories to make your outdoor experience more exciting. You’re simply satisfied with a tent and the quietness of Mother Nature. If this describes you, then check out the following campsites for primitive camping in Maryland. Most offer a primitive or dispersed camping experience for those who prefer to rough it.

1. Green Ridge State Forest

Green Ridge State Forest, 28700 Headquarters Dr NE, Flintstone, MD 21530, USA
TripAdvisor / Management
Green Ridge State Forest offers a more primitive camping experience. There are about 100 designated primitive campsites here for those who prefer roughing it. Few modern amenities are at the forest, and that includes no plumbing as well. If you like your camping simple, then there's no better spot for primitive camping in Maryland. Visit the Maryland DNR website for more information. If you’re in the Flintstone area and looking for primitive camping near me, you need to check this out!

2. Appalachian Trail

Appalachian National Scenic Trail, United States
Flickr / Mark Plummer
About 40 miles of the Appalachian Trail crosses through Maryland. Hikers are welcome to camp as long as they follow the rules on where to do so. You can only pitch a tent at designated campsites or 200 feet from water and 100 feet from any trail. You may also find a few cabins along the way for a more comfortable stay. Visit the Maryland DNR website for more information. Dispersed camping Maryland is the best here!

3. Savage River State Forest

Savage River State Forest, 97 Locker Ln, Grantsville, MD 21536, USA
TripAdvisor / tralala102
Be one with nature at this primitive camping spot. There are about 70 sites available and they're all rustic as can be. Be sure to leave no trace, as the state strives to keep this spot pristine for the wildlife that resides here. Visit the Maryland DNR website for more information. While it’s not free camping in Maryland, it’s incredibly close!

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4. Patapsco Valley State Park

Patapsco Valley State Park - Avalon Area, 5120 South St, Halethorpe, MD 21227, USA
Martin LaBar/Flickr
Because this park stretches between both Howard County and Baltimore County, there are plenty of spots for primitive camping. There are miles of trails where you can explore natural wonders, ruins, and swinging bridges. This place has some more modern amenities if you so choose. Visit the Maryland DNR website for more information.

5. Janes Island State Park

Janes Island State Park, 26280 Alfred J Lawson Dr, Crisfield, MD 21817, USA
Flickr / GPA Photo Archive
While you can book modern campsites that include picnic tables and a fire ring, Janes Island State Park also offers primitive backcountry campsites. These spots are quieter and more rustic, offering great views. Bring your gear and enjoy a relaxing camping experience, and be sure to leave no trace. Visit the Maryland DNR website for more information.

6. Jug Bay Natural Area

Jug Bay Natural Area - St. Thomas Church Road Trailhead, 15902 St Thomas Church Rd, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772, USA
Flickr / F Delventhal
This spot offers more than just sprawling wetland views. It also has a handful of primitive campsites year-round. There's no running water at the sites so this is a great place for those who like to keep things rugged. The views won't disappoint. Visit The Maryland-Natioal Capital Park and Planning Commission's website to learn more.

7. Catoctin Mountain Park

Catoctin Mountain Park, 14707 Park Central Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Grant Kunkel/Google
About 49 campsites are available here, and they're all surrounded by woodland views. If you really want some seclusion, then check out the two Adirondack Shelters, which are off the beaten path and quiet. While here, check out the numerous trails that lead to gorgeous overlooks. Visit the NPS website for more information.

Ready for some primitive camping in Maryland? While primitive camping or dispersed camping in Maryland isn’t for everyone, there are many people who enjoy roughing it out in the wilderness. For more comfortable camping experiences, consider checking out some of Maryland’s best glampgrounds! And if you need some new camping gear, we love the options at REI. They have tents, clothing, hiking boots, and more to make your adventure the best it can be!

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Primitive Camping Maryland

Megan McDonald | May 03, 2024

Where are the best places to go glamping in Maryland?

For more comfortable camping accommodations, the best places to go glamping in Maryland include:

  • Wild Yough Glamping Huts in Oakland, Maryland offers quaint cabins, each with its own porch and chairs. Inside are basic amenities including a bed and a table. 
  • At Savage River Lodge in Frostburg, Maryland, there are yurts with king-sized beds available.
  • Cherry Hill Park in College Park has yurts with queen beds as well as bunk beds, dining areas, and fire pits.
  • Little Bennet Campground in Clarksburg also has yurts. The yurts here each offer full beds and twin bunk beds along with a picnic table and fire pit.

 

Check out these glamping sites in Maryland for more information. You’ll love these options. They are a lot fancier than primitive camping in Maryland!

What are some of the best family-friendly campgrounds in Maryland?

Want to take the whole family camping? Check out the following family-friendly campgrounds in Maryland:

  • Sun Outdoors Frontier Town in Berlin has waterfront campsites as well as cabins available for rent. There’s also a Western-themed town that both kids and adults will love.
  • Brunswick Family Campground in Brunswick offers both tent and RV sites as well as cabins. In addition, there’s a playground and tubing available for those who want to spend some time on the water. 

 

These are some wonderful family-friendly campgrounds in Maryland. If you have the opportunity to visit them, you shouldn’t miss out!

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