Book This Dreamy Campsite Along Maryland’s Coastline and You Won’t Be Disappointed

To love Maryland is to love the water. Beaches, rivers, the Bay—Maryland offers so many ways to engage in a waterfront adventure, especially during warmer days. That's why, if you have some space in your calendar for a camping trip that will allow you to fall asleep and wake up to the sounds of the Chesapeake Bay, I'd highly encourage you to plan a trip to Elk Neck Campground. This bayside park will win you over with views of the Elk River, plus lovely beaches and marshlands.

Located on the southern tip of the Elk Neck Peninsula, Elk Neck State Park opened after naturalist Dr. William Abbott gave his land along the Elk River to the state. Shortly thereafter, the Civilian Conservation Corps made improvements to the land and park. Today, the state park is an invitation for guests to enjoy serene water views and engage in the land in meaningful, memorable ways. Activities are virtually endless; you can fish, swim, hike, crab, canoe, kayak, bike, and camp at Elk Neck State Park.

One of the park's most recognizable structures is the Turkey Point Lighthouse, a 35-foot tower standing on a 100-foot bluff. The lighthouse was commissioned in 1833 and wasn't automated until 1942. Fun fact—just before that time, it was manually operated by Fannie Salter, who was the last female lighthouse keeper in the U.S.

Camping at the park for a few nights will give you the chance to explore all that this area has to offer. There are over 250 sites to choose from, each well-maintained and some of which are open year-round. Campers love that the sites are clean and quiet, although they are somewhat close together. It's one of those no-frills, high-quality campgrounds that you'll want to return to time and time again simply for the exquisite setting.

Of course, if you do venture out beyond the state park, you'll find lots to enjoy. There are some must-try seafood spots nearby for fresh catches, including Bay Crawlers Crab Shack and Woody's Crab House. Once you've refueled, venture on a hike back at the state park. The Turkey Point Lighthouse Trail and Beaver Marsh Trail are short, easy trails that are great for all skill levels.

For a hidden gem within the park, check out the tiny beach near the lighthouse. As you're walking from the parking lot to the lighthouse, there's a quarter-mile trail on the right that leads to a tiny beach. It's a wonderful little hideaway and has lots of little shells to collect.

So, what do you think? Are you inspired to book a waterfront camping trip to this off-the-beaten-path campground? For more information on planning a visit to Elk Neck State Park, be sure to visit the official Maryland Department of Natural Resources website. For even more camping inspiration, take a look at our list of the 19 best campgrounds in Maryland (including some well-known places and hidden gems).