Elk Neck State Park Campground

For residents of Maryland, Elk Neck State Park Campground represents the quintessential Mid-Atlantic outdoor experience. Nestled on a peninsula in Cecil County, bounded by the Chesapeake Bay to the west and the Elk River to the east, this expansive park offers over 2,300 acres of diverse landscapes. From the iconic white clay cliffs to deep hardwood forests and sandy shorelines, local campers from Baltimore, Wilmington, and beyond have long considered this their "go-to" destination for weekend getaways and seasonal family traditions. Whether you are looking to pitch a tent under the stars or park your RV in a full-hookup site, Elk Neck provides a scenic backdrop that highlights the very best of the Land of Pleasant Living.

The campground is a vibrant hub of activity that balances the tranquility of nature with the convenience of modern facilities. It is particularly beloved by local families who return year after year to enjoy the brackish waters of the bay and the historic charm of the nearby town of North East. With its unique position on the tip of the Elk Neck Peninsula, the park serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, including bald eagles and ospreys, making it a premier spot for nature lovers and photographers looking to capture Maryland’s coastal beauty without traveling far from home.

Location and Accessibility

Elk Neck State Park Campground is conveniently located at 95 Campground Rd, North East, MD 21901, USA. For local Marylanders, the park is exceptionally accessible; it sits just about 14 miles south of I-95 (Exit 100), making it an easy drive for a Friday afternoon departure. The journey takes you through the heart of Cecil County along MD Route 272, passing through the charming town of North East before the road narrows into the lush, wooded canopy of the state park.

The campground itself is divided into several distinct loops, each designed to accommodate different camping styles and preferences. Accessibility is a priority here, with paved main roads and well-marked signage throughout the facility. The park's layout ensures that even those with larger trailers or motorhomes can navigate the terrain safely. Furthermore, its proximity to the North East Beach area and the Rogues Harbor Boat Launch means that water-based recreation is always just a short drive or a moderate walk away from your home base.

• More than 250 individual campsites catering to tents, trailers, and RVs.
• Full-hookup sites in the North East Loop, offering electric (20, 30, and 50 amp), water, and sewer connections for modern RV convenience.
• Thirteen mini/camper cabins and six rustic cabins for those seeking a roof over their heads while still enjoying the camping atmosphere.
• Centrally located bathhouses in each camping loop, featuring hot running water, flushing toilets, and private showers.
• A fully stocked camp store (open seasonally) providing firewood, ice, snacks, and essential camping supplies.
• Multiple playgrounds and a dedicated nature center that hosts educational programs during the summer months.
• Sanitary dump stations and potable water fill-up points for RV travelers.
• Youth group camping areas specifically designed for scouts and organized local organizations.

Features and Highlights

• The Turkey Point Lighthouse: A historic 1833 lighthouse sitting atop a 100-foot bluff. The easy 2-mile round-trip hike provides some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Upper Chesapeake Bay.
• Swimming and Beach Access: The North East Beach area features a sandy swimming beach, picnic shelters, and grills, making it a favorite for local families during the summer heat.
• Extensive Trail System: Over 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, ranging from the easy Lighthouse Trail to the more challenging White Banks and Beaver Marsh loops.
• Boating and Fishing: Rogues Harbor offers four public boat ramps and fishing piers on the Elk River, perfect for catching striped bass, perch, and blue crabs.
• Pet-Friendly Loops: Dedicated camping sections allow you to bring your four-legged family members along for the trip.
• Abundant Wildlife: A prime location for birdwatching, specifically at the Raptor Viewing Field where hawks and eagles are frequently spotted.
• Seasonal Variety: While the campground is a summer staple, it also offers stunning fall foliage views and quiet, serene conditions for spring explorers.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or inquire about site availability, you can reach the park staff through the following contact details:

• Address: 95 Campground Rd, North East, MD 21901, USA
• Phone: (410) 287-5333
• Reservations: Maryland State Park Reservation Service (can be made online or by phone)

Please note that reservations are highly recommended, especially for holiday weekends and the popular full-hookup sites, as this is one of the most visited state parks in Maryland.

What is Worth Choosing

Elk Neck State Park Campground is worth choosing because it offers a "complete" Maryland vacation in one location. While many campgrounds focus solely on the woods or solely on the water, Elk Neck gives you the best of both. For local residents, the value of having a safe, well-maintained state park with clean facilities cannot be overstated. It is a place where you can spend the morning hiking through deep forests, the afternoon swimming at the beach, and the evening watching a sunset from the base of a historic lighthouse.

For families with children, the "Good for kids" reviews are backed by the presence of multiple playgrounds, a nature center with Junior Ranger programs, and a friendly community atmosphere. For RV enthusiasts, the North East Loop provides the level of service and space that rivals private resorts but with the added benefit of being inside a protected natural area. If you are looking for a location that captures the spirit of the Chesapeake Bay while providing enough activities to keep everyone entertained for a week, Elk Neck is undoubtedly one of the premier camping choices in the state.