Camp Loop D

For residents of Maryland seeking a refreshing escape without a long drive, Camp Loop D offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature right in the heart of the suburban landscape. Located within the historic and sprawling Greenbelt Park, Camp Loop D serves as a tranquil "urban oasis" for those who want the experience of the deep woods while remaining just minutes away from the conveniences of Riverdale and the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area. This campground is part of a National Park Service gem that has provided local families and travelers with a peaceful retreat for decades.

The beauty of Camp Loop D lies in its balance. While the surrounding region is bustling with activity, the interior of the park is forested with a lush mix of pine, oak, and maple trees. This provides a dense canopy that keeps the area cool during the humid Maryland summers and offers a spectacular display of color during the autumn months. Whether you are a seasoned camper looking for a local base or a newcomer wanting to try out tent life for the first time, this loop provides a managed, safe, and scenic environment to enjoy the outdoors.

Location and accessibility are among the strongest selling points for Camp Loop D. Situated at 6565 Greenbelt Road, it is strategically placed near the intersection of the Capital Beltway (I-495) and Kenilworth Avenue (Route 201). For Maryland locals, this means you can leave work in the afternoon and be sitting by a campfire before the sun sets. The campground is also a favorite for visitors looking to explore the nation's capital, as the Greenbelt Metro Station is located roughly two miles away, providing an easy rail link into downtown D.C. without the hassle of city parking.

Navigating the park is straightforward, with paved roads leading from the main entrance on Greenbelt Road directly to the individual loops. While the park is deeply wooded, it is exceptionally well-connected to the surrounding community. Residents are never far from local grocery stores, service stations, and restaurants in Riverdale and Greenbelt. However, visitors should be aware that the metro trail and footpaths can sometimes be tricky to navigate on the return trip; locals recommend keeping a close eye on park maps and landmarks when heading back from the station area.

The services offered at Camp Loop D are designed to maintain a primitive and authentic camping experience while ensuring essential comforts are met. As a National Park Service facility, the focus is on conservation and hospitality. The following services are available to all registered campers:

• Year-round site reservations through the Recreation.gov system, allowing for planning up to six months in advance.
• On-site Ranger Station staffed during daylight hours to provide information, maps, and assistance to visitors.
• Regular patrols by the United States Park Police to ensure a safe and secure environment for all families.
• Dedicated waste management including trash and recycling collection points located conveniently near the loop.
• Access to a centralized dump station (located at C Loop) for RV and trailer maintenance.
• Educational and interpretive programs led by park rangers, which are often available seasonally to teach visitors about local ecology and history.

When it comes to features and highlights, Camp Loop D is often cited as the preferred loop for those bringing larger vehicles or looking for specific accessibility features. Each campsite is thoughtfully laid out to provide a sense of privacy amidst the trees. Key highlights of this specific area include:

• Spacious campsites that can accommodate up to six people, three tents, and two vehicles.
• Specific RV and trailer accommodations with a maximum vehicle length of 35 to 40 feet (including the tow vehicle).
• Full access to modern comfort stations equipped with flush toilets and hot showers that are available year-round.
• Individual site amenities including a heavy-duty picnic table and a combination grill and campfire ring.
• Wheelchair-accessible facilities, including paved ramps and stalls in the comfort stations, and designated accessible campsites (such as D128 and D129).
• Proximity to the park’s extensive trail system, including the 1-mile Blueberry Trail and the 5.3-mile Perimeter Trail, which are perfect for morning hikes.
• Paved parking spurs for every site, ensuring vehicles are kept off the grass and the natural soil is protected.

For those planning a visit, it is important to have the correct contact and location information on hand. Reservations must be made in advance, as payment is not accepted on-site. The following details will help you reach the park and plan your stay:

• Physical Address: 6565 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770 (Grid Reference: X3JV+23, Riverdale, MD)
• Ranger Station Phone: (771) 208-1588
• Emergency Contact: United States Park Police at (202) 610-7500
• Reservation Portal: Recreation.gov (Search for "Greenbelt Park Campground")

What makes Camp Loop D worth choosing over other regional options is its incredible value and its "best of both worlds" positioning. In a metropolitan area where lodging costs can be astronomical, this campground provides an affordable alternative that doesn't sacrifice the peace and quiet of a traditional camping trip. It is a place where you can watch deer and chipmunks from your tent in the morning and be standing in front of a Smithsonian museum by noon.

Furthermore, choosing Camp Loop D means supporting the National Park Service and the preservation of Maryland’s natural green spaces. The loop is particularly well-suited for those who value accessibility and a reliable standard of cleanliness. While the local Maryland climate can bring its challenges—such as the occasional mosquito during the humid summer months—the shaded sites and well-maintained facilities more than make up for it. For anyone in the Maryland area looking for a quick getaway or a home base for city exploration, Camp Loop D stands out as a top-tier choice for its safety, hospitality, and sheer natural beauty.