Camp Loop B

For those seeking a peaceful escape without straying far from the nation's capital, Camp Loop B at Greenbelt Park stands as a remarkable "urban oasis." Located in Riverdale and Greenbelt, Maryland, this specific loop is part of a larger 172-site National Park Service facility renowned for its lush forest canopy and quiet atmosphere. While much of the surrounding Prince George’s County is bustling with metropolitan activity, Camp Loop B offers a serene environment where the sounds of the city are replaced by the rustle of oak and pine trees. It is a favorite among local Marylanders and travelers alike who want the rustic feel of a deep-woods retreat with the convenience of being just 10 miles from the heart of Washington D.C.

Camp Loop B is specifically noted for its accommodation of recreational vehicles, providing a dedicated space for those who prefer "dry camping" or primitive stays. Unlike high-density commercial RV parks, this loop preserves the natural terrain, offering paved pads that are integrated into the wooded landscape. This balance of accessibility and natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for weekend warriors from Baltimore or locals looking to test out a new RV in a safe, patrolled environment managed by the National Park Service.

Location and Accessibility

The campground is strategically located at X3HX+5P, Riverdale, MD 20737, with its main entrance situated at 6565 Greenbelt Road. This location is exceptionally accessible for Maryland residents, sitting just off the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and the Capital Beltway (I-495). Its proximity to major transit hubs is one of its greatest assets; the Greenbelt Metro Station is approximately 1.5 miles away, allowing campers to park their rigs and be in downtown D.C. via the Green Line in about an hour. This makes Camp Loop B not only a place to sleep but a strategic home base for exploring the Mid-Atlantic region.

Within the park, accessibility is handled with care. The campground features paved roads and parking spurs, which are designed to facilitate smooth entry for cars and RVs. Loop B itself has specific length requirements to ensure that vehicles can navigate the winding, wooded paths without difficulty. Furthermore, the park includes wheelchair-accessible restroom facilities and paved pathways near the main comfort stations, ensuring that the natural beauty of the Maryland forest is available to all visitors regardless of mobility needs.

Services Offered

Camp Loop B provides a professional "onsite services" model managed by Park Rangers and campground hosts. While the camping here is considered primitive—meaning there are no individual water, sewer, or electric hookups at the sites—the facility provides high-quality centralized amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The services are geared toward self-contained RVs and traditional campers who appreciate a more authentic outdoor experience.

• RV and Tent Camping: Though primarily favored by RV users, the sites in Loop B are versatile and can accommodate up to three tents and six people per site.
• Sanitation Facilities: Access to centrally located comfort stations featuring flush toilets and hot showers that are maintained year-round.
• Potable Water: Running water is available at common spigots located throughout the loop for cooking and drinking needs.
• Waste Management: A dedicated dump station is available on-site for RV users, alongside trash and recycling collection points.
• Security and Safety: The park is frequently patrolled by United States Park Police, providing an added layer of security for families and solo campers.
• Reservation Management: All sites are managed through the Recreation.gov system, ensuring a guaranteed spot upon arrival without the hassle of on-site cash payments.

Features and Highlights

The true appeal of Camp Loop B lies in the extensive recreational features of Greenbelt Park. Campers aren't just renting a parking pad; they are gaining access to miles of pristine Maryland trails and educational opportunities. The park's natural features shift beautifully with the seasons, from the mountain laurel blooms in May to the vibrant foliage of the autumn months.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: Direct access to 10 miles of trails, including the Perimeter Trail and the Azalea Trail, which meander through diverse forest ecosystems.
• Picnic Infrastructure: Each individual site in Loop B is equipped with a picnic table and a combination grill/campfire ring for traditional outdoor cooking.
• Biking Paths: The paved roads within the campground loops are excellent for biking, providing a safe and scenic route for all ages.
• Wildlife Viewing: It is common to spot deer, chipmunks, and a variety of native birds right from your campsite.
• Interpretive Programs: Seasonal ranger-led programs and a nearby Ranger Station provide educational insights into the local environment and history.
• Quiet Hours: Strictly enforced quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM ensure a restful night's sleep for all guests.

Contact Information

For more information or to inquire about current conditions, visitors can reach out to the National Park Service staff. Note that reservations must be made through the national portal rather than by calling the station directly for booking.

• Address: 6565 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770 (Entrance)
• Ranger Station Phone: (771) 208-1588 or (301) 344-3944
• Reservations: Recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777

What is Worth Choosing

Camp Loop B is worth choosing for its rare combination of affordability and location. In a region where hotel prices can be astronomical, the $20-per-night camping fee (subject to change) offers an unbeatable value for those visiting the D.C. and Baltimore areas. It is specifically worth choosing for RV owners with rigs under 30 feet who want a quiet, wooded "dry camping" experience that feels like a state park but sits in the middle of a suburb. The "very quiet" reputation of Loop B makes it a top pick for those who find larger, commercial RV resorts too loud or crowded.

Additionally, for Maryland residents, it is an excellent "practice" spot for those new to RVing. Because you are only minutes away from major grocery stores and gas stations in Riverdale and Greenbelt, you have a safety net if you forget essential supplies. Choosing Camp Loop B means choosing the tranquility of a national forest while remaining close enough to hear the presidential helicopters fly overhead—a uniquely Maryland experience that balances nature with the pulse of the nearby capital.