Cosca Park Campground

Cosca Park Campground, nestled within the expansive Louise F. Cosca Regional Park in Clinton, Maryland, offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and travelers alike. Managed by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), this campground serves as a vital green lung in Prince George's County. It provides a rustic, wooded atmosphere that feels miles away from the hustle of the city, yet it is strategically located near major metropolitan hubs. Covering approximately 690 acres of lush Maryland landscape, the park surrounding the campground is a premier destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the local flora and fauna while enjoying well-maintained recreational facilities.

The campground is designed to accommodate both traditional tent campers and those traveling in recreational vehicles. With its dense canopy of mature trees and rolling terrain, the sites offer a degree of privacy and shade that is highly valued during the humid Maryland summers. Whether you are a local resident looking for a weekend "staycation" or a cross-country traveler seeking an affordable base camp near the nation's capital, Cosca Park Campground provides a factual and dependable outdoor experience. The park’s history as a community staple since the 1960s ensures a welcoming environment that balances preservation with modern recreational needs.

Location and accessibility are among the top reasons visitors choose Cosca Park Campground. Situated at 11050 Thrift Rd, Clinton, MD 20735, the campground is remarkably close to the Capital Beltway (I-495), making it easily accessible for travelers coming from Baltimore, Northern Virginia, or Washington, D.C. It sits approximately 20 minutes south of downtown D.C., providing a convenient alternative to expensive city hotels. For those utilizing public transit, the Branch Avenue Metro station is just a short 15-minute drive away, offering a direct line into the heart of the National Mall.

Upon arriving at the park, visitors will find that the campground entrance is clearly marked with "Family Camping" signage, located across from the main regional park entrance. The interior roads of the campground are paved but can be narrow, framed by overhanging branches that contribute to the secluded feel. While perfectly suited for camper vans, Class B motorhomes, and smaller trailers, operators of large Class A rigs are encouraged to navigate with care. On-site parking is available for residents, and the park maintains wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking lots to ensure the grounds are inclusive for all visitors.

• Overnight camping sites for both tents and trailers with a maximum stay of two weeks.
• Water hookups available at all 25 designated campsites for guest convenience.
• Electrical service (30-amp and 20-amp) provided at select sites, specifically sites #2, #5, #18, #24, and #25.
• On-site sanitary dump station located near the campground exit for RV waste management.
• Trash collection services with individual receptacles at each campsite emptied daily by park staff.
• Public restroom and shower facilities that are centrally located and regularly maintained.
• Online reservation system via the Parks Direct portal for streamlined booking and permit management.

The features and highlights of staying at Cosca Park go far beyond the campsite itself. The regional park acts as a comprehensive outdoor activity hub, featuring a diverse range of environments from the tranquil Cosca Lake to the educational Clearwater Nature Center. Nature lovers can explore miles of interconnected trails, including the red, blue, and purple loops, which are popular for both hiking and mountain biking. These trails are known for their resilience to moisture, making them a reliable choice for local hikers even after Maryland's frequent rain showers.

• Clearwater Nature Center: A staffed facility offering live animal exhibits (including a bald eagle), gardens, and environmental programs.
• Cosca Lake: A scenic body of water where visitors can enjoy seasonal paddle boat rentals and shoreline fishing.
• Extensive Athletic Facilities: Includes lighted tennis courts, a skate park, baseball diamonds, and basketball courts.
• Kid-Friendly Amenities: Multiple playgrounds, including a specialized area near the lake designed for younger children.
• Picnic Shelters: Several large covered pavilions and picnic areas equipped with tables and grills, ideal for group gatherings.
• Wooded Seclusion: Heavily forested sites that provide excellent bird-watching opportunities and a quiet atmosphere at night.
• Proximity to Local History: Located near the Surratt House Museum and other historic Southern Maryland landmarks.

To plan your visit or inquire about current conditions and seasonal hours, you can reach out to the park administration. Please note that while the park itself is open from dawn to dusk, campground access is typically reserved for those with active permits. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, as the limited number of electrical sites tends to book up quickly.

Address: 11050 Thrift Rd, Clinton, MD 20735, USA

Phone: (301) 868-1397 (Park Office) or (301) 699-2400 (Park Permits Office)

What is worth choosing about Cosca Park Campground is the exceptional value it offers compared to other Maryland-area lodging. As one of the most competitively priced campgrounds in the region, it allows families and budget-conscious travelers to enjoy the outdoors without a significant financial burden. The "urban wilderness" feel is truly unique; you can spend your morning watching fireflies and deer in a pristine forest and your afternoon exploring the world-class museums of Washington, D.C. This duality makes it an ideal choice for those who want the best of Maryland’s natural beauty paired with the convenience of suburban amenities.

Additionally, the campground is worth choosing for its integration with the Clearwater Nature Center. Having access to professional naturalists and live animal programs right within your "backyard" provides an educational component that is rare for a standard campground. For local Maryland families, it is a fantastic way to introduce children to camping in a safe, managed environment that still feels like a true adventure. Whether you are coming for the quiet trails, the lakefront views, or the easy commute to the city, Cosca Park Campground remains a hidden gem in the Prince George's County park system.