Camp Loop A

Camp Loop A is a distinctive and peaceful camping destination nestled within the lush, 1,100-acre expanse of Greenbelt Park in Prince George's County, Maryland. Managed by the National Park Service, this loop serves as a vital "urban oasis" for local residents and visitors alike. While many people associate the Baltimore-Washington corridor with heavy traffic and urban sprawl, Camp Loop A provides a startlingly quiet retreat where the sounds of the city are replaced by the rustle of oak and maple leaves. It is part of one of the few national parks dedicated specifically to urban recreation, making it a unique treasure for Marylanders who want to experience the great outdoors without a long drive to the mountains or the coast.

The atmosphere in Camp Loop A is characterized by its mature forest canopy and well-spaced sites that offer a sense of seclusion rarely found so close to a major metropolitan area. This specific loop is traditionally recognized for its service to organized youth groups and scouts, fostering a community-centric environment where the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts can learn essential skills. However, its proximity to the heart of Greenbelt and the nation's capital also makes it a strategic home base for travelers who want to combine a rustic camping experience with sightseeing. Whether you are planning a weekend of trail running or a week-long educational trip for a youth group, Camp Loop A offers a reliable and scenic setting for your adventures.

The location and accessibility of Camp Loop A are perhaps its most appealing features. Located at 6565 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770, the campground is situated just 12 miles from the Washington Monument. For local users, the park is easily accessible via the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (I-295) and the Capital Beltway (I-495/I-95). Unlike more remote wilderness areas, Camp Loop A is surprisingly close to modern conveniences; major shopping centers, restaurants, and grocery stores are located less than a mile from the park entrance. This "best of both worlds" positioning allows campers to enjoy a campfire in the evening and grab a fresh cup of coffee or forgotten supplies just a few minutes away the next morning.

Accessibility within the loop is also a priority for the National Park Service. The park features paved roads and parking spurs, and Camp Loop A specifically provides a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and accessible stalls within the comfort stations. For those using public transportation, the campground is remarkably close to the Washington Metro system. The Greenbelt Metro Station is approximately 1.5 to 2 miles away, making it possible to leave your vehicle at the campsite and take a short ride or Metro trip into the District of Columbia. This ease of access makes it a favorite for local families who want a "staycation" that feels like a world away.

• Tent sites designed for traditional outdoor stays with level ground for gear.
• RV camping capabilities with parking spurs suitable for various vehicle lengths (check specific site dimensions).
• Picnic tables provided at every campsite for comfortable outdoor dining and food preparation.
• Fire rings with integrated grills at each site for safe and enjoyable campfires and cooking.
• Public restroom facilities (comfort stations) located centrally within the loop.
• Public shower facilities with hot and cold running water for registered campers.
• On-site parking available directly at each campsite for up to two vehicles.
• Potable water spigots located at convenient intervals throughout the camping loop.
• A sanitary dump station available near the campground entrance for RV users.
• Ranger-led programs and campfire circles (seasonal) to educate visitors about local wildlife and history.

The features and highlights of staying at Camp Loop A revolve around the natural beauty and recreational variety of Greenbelt Park. The park boasts nine miles of well-maintained hiking trails, including the popular 5.3-mile Perimeter Trail, which is a favorite for local trail runners and dog walkers. The forest is a mix of pine, oak, and maple, providing stunning displays of mountain laurel in May and vibrant foliage in the autumn. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, foxes, and numerous bird species frequently spotted near the campsites.

• Designated as a primary loop for youth, scout, and organized groups, offering a safe and focused environment.
• Direct access to the Perimeter Trail and Blueberry Trail for immediate hiking opportunities.
• Year-round operation, allowing for winter camping experiences in a protected forest setting.
• Close proximity to the Sweetgum Picnic Area, which features playground equipment for children.
• Abundant birdwatching opportunities within a thriving Atlantic flyway ecosystem.
• Quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM to ensure a peaceful night's sleep for all guests.
• Affordable nightly rates that make it one of the most cost-effective lodging options in the D.C. area.
• Pet-friendly environment where leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners on the trails and at the sites.

For those looking to plan a visit, reservations are required year-round and must be made through the official government portal. The park is a "no-cash" facility, so ensure you have your booking confirmed before arrival. The local staff at the Ranger Station are available daily to assist with check-ins and provide information about the park's rules and regulations.

Address: 6565 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770, USA (Camp Loop A is located approximately two miles from the park entrance via Park Central Road)
Phone: (771) 208-1588 (Ranger Station)

What is worth choosing about Camp Loop A is the sheer convenience and the quality of the National Park Service experience. For Marylanders, it offers a rare chance to camp in a professionally managed forest without leaving the suburbs. It is particularly worth choosing if you are organizing a group event or a scouting trip, as the loop is specifically designed to accommodate the needs of multiple tents and larger parties. The security of being near a staffed Ranger Station and the United States Park Police provides peace of mind that is often missing from more remote primitive sites.

Furthermore, the value of Camp Loop A lies in its ability to facilitate a "nature-first" trip while remaining connected to the cultural riches of the region. You can spend your morning visiting the Smithsonian museums in Washington D.C. and be back at your campsite in time to grill dinner and watch the stars. It is an ideal choice for first-time campers who might be intimidated by the deep wilderness but want to experience the joy of sleeping outdoors. By choosing Camp Loop A, you are supporting the preservation of Maryland's urban forests while enjoying a quiet, safe, and memorable getaway.