Cedarville Campground

Cedarville Campground, located within the expansive Cedarville State Forest, offers a serene and authentically Maryland outdoor experience for locals and visitors alike. Situated near the border of Prince George's and Charles Counties, this campground serves as a vital green lung for the Waldorf and Brandywine communities. The forest itself spans over 3,500 acres and is famously situated at the headwaters of the Zekiah Swamp, Maryland's largest freshwater swamp. For Marylanders looking for a quick escape from the suburban sprawl of the Washington D.C. metro area, Cedarville provides a dense canopy of loblolly pines and hardwoods that feels worlds away from the city, yet remains conveniently accessible for a weekend trip.

The history of the land adds a layer of depth to every stay. Originally the ancestral home of the Piscataway Indian Tribe, the area was later developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Today, the campground is managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, ensuring that the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the forest are preserved for future generations. Whether you are an avid hiker, a birdwatcher, or a family looking to introduce children to the joys of sleeping under the stars, Cedarville Campground provides a structured yet wild environment that captures the spirit of Southern Maryland's natural heritage.

Location and accessibility are two of Cedarville Campground's greatest strengths. Located just off Bee Oak Road, the entrance is easily reachable from Route 301, making it a straightforward drive for residents of Waldorf, Clinton, and Upper Marlboro. The campground is designed to accommodate a variety of vehicles, featuring on-site parking and designated loops for different types of campers. While the forest feels secluded, it is strategically located near the Brandywine Crossing shopping center, meaning that if you forget a crucial piece of gear or need extra supplies, modern conveniences are only a ten-minute drive away. This balance of deep-woods atmosphere and proximity to suburban infrastructure makes it an excellent choice for first-time campers and seasoned veterans alike.

• Family Camping Loop featuring 27 wooded sites suitable for both tents and RVs.
• Electric hookups available on select sites within the inner loop (30-amp service).
• Centrally located, renovated bathhouse featuring hot showers and flush toilets.
• Access to a fresh water-fill station and a convenient dump station for RV users.
• Equestrian Camping Loop specifically designed for visitors traveling with horses, including a muck bin and primitive sites.
• Youth Group Camping area available year-round for organized groups with a Maryland Youth Group pass.
• On-site firewood sales provided by the park rangers to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Picnic areas and rentable pavilions equipped with grills for day-use gatherings and family reunions.
• Multiple potable water spigots located throughout the camping loops for easy access.

The highlights of Cedarville Campground extend far beyond the campsites themselves. The forest is home to a unique ecosystem, including the rare Cedarville Bog, which supports carnivorous plants like the northern pitcher plant and sundews. Nature enthusiasts can explore over 19 miles of marked trails that are mostly flat and level, making them ideal for young children and novice hikers. For those who prefer wheels or hooves, these trails are multi-use, welcoming mountain bikers and equestrians. The four-acre freshwater pond is another major draw, stocked regularly with bluegill, catfish, and bass, providing a peaceful spot for bank fishing throughout the warmer months.

• 19.5 miles of scenic trails, including the popular 7-mile Orange Loop that winds through pine plantations and marshlands.
• A dedicated archery range on Cross Road featuring targets at various distances, accessible to all visitors.
• Excellent birdwatching opportunities with over 50 species of trees providing habitat for hawks, owls, and migratory songbirds.
• Dog-friendly environment where leashed pets are welcome in the family camping loop and on the trails.
• Educational opportunities at the Fish Hatchery Visitor Center, where guests can learn about local aquatic life.
• Abundant wildlife sightings including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and beavers near the Zekiah Swamp headwaters.
• Historic landmarks such as the remains of 1950s charcoal kilns and CCC-era drainage ditches.
• Safe and supervised environment with a Camp Host and Duty Ranger available for assistance.

Address: 10201 Bee Oak Rd, Brandywine, MD 20613, USA (Waldorf Area)

Phone: (301) 888-1410 (Park Headquarters) or 1-888-432-2267 (Reservations)

What is worth choosing about Cedarville Campground is its unique identity as a "beginner-friendly" wilderness. Many Maryland state parks can be rugged or difficult to navigate, but Cedarville’s flat terrain and well-marked trails offer a low-stress entry point into outdoor recreation. It is specifically worth choosing if you value a quiet, forested atmosphere without the crowds often found at waterfront parks. The availability of equestrian-specific camping is also a rare and valuable feature in the Southern Maryland region, making it the premier destination for the local horse-owning community. Furthermore, the updated bathhouse facilities ensure that even those who are hesitant about "roughing it" can enjoy the comforts of hot water and clean restrooms.

Ultimately, Cedarville Campground represents an affordable and high-quality recreational resource for Maryland residents. By choosing to stay here, you are supporting the Maryland Park Service and the continued conservation of the Zekiah Swamp ecosystem. Whether you are visiting for the history, the fishing, or the simple pleasure of a campfire with your children, Cedarville offers a consistent and factual outdoor experience that stands as a testament to the natural beauty of the "Old Line State." It is a place where memories are made under the pines, providing a much-needed breath of fresh air for everyone in the region.