Greenbelt Campground

Greenbelt Campground serves as a remarkable urban oasis for outdoor enthusiasts and budget-conscious travelers alike. Managed by the National Park Service, this 1,100-acre forested retreat is located in Riverdale, Maryland, offering a serene escape that feels worlds away from the nearby metropolitan bustle. Whether you are a local Maryland resident looking for a weekend getaway or a visitor exploring the nation's capital, Greenbelt Campground provides a lush, wooded environment characterized by towering pine, oak, and maple trees. This year-round facility is celebrated for its safety, affordability, and the classic hospitality associated with the National Park Service.

The campground is an ideal destination for those who appreciate a rustic and authentic camping experience. While it is situated in a suburban Maryland setting, the thick canopy and abundant wildlife—including deer, chipmunks, and numerous bird species—create a genuine sense of wilderness. Many visitors are "awestruck" by the sheer size of the campsites, which are often large enough to accommodate multiple tents with room to spare. Although it is a primitive campground without water or electric hookups at individual sites, the modern conveniences provided in the communal areas ensure a comfortable stay for both tent and RV campers.

Location and accessibility are among the greatest strengths of Greenbelt Campground. Conveniently positioned just 10 miles from downtown Washington, D.C., and roughly 23 miles from Baltimore, it acts as a strategic base camp for regional exploration. Access is straightforward for Maryland locals and travelers; from the Capital Beltway (I-95/495), visitors take Exit 23 toward Kenilworth Avenue and follow the signs to Greenbelt Road. The park is remarkably accessible to public transit, with the Greenbelt and College Park Metro stations located just a few miles away. This allows campers to park their vehicles and take a short trip into the District of Columbia for sightseeing without the stress of city traffic or expensive parking fees.

Accessibility within the park itself is also a priority. The facility features wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking lots. Paved roads wind through the various campground loops, providing a smooth surface for both vehicles and pedestrians. The proximity to local amenities is another highlight; while the park feels secluded, major shopping centers, restaurants, and the Greenbelt Public Library are all located within a short drive, ensuring that supplies and internet access are never out of reach.

The services offered at Greenbelt Campground are designed to facilitate a traditional outdoor experience while providing essential support for modern travelers. As a National Park facility, the services focus on conservation and resident safety. The services include:

• Year-round campsite reservations available through the Recreation.gov system, allowing for planning up to six months in advance.
• Dedicated onsite park rangers and campground hosts who provide information, safety patrols, and educational programs.
• Clean and well-maintained public restrooms featuring flush toilets and sinks.
• Public shower facilities with hot water, available in designated loops for all registered campers.
• A central dump station and potable water spigots located conveniently within the campground for RV maintenance.
• Trash collection and recycling stations to ensure the park remains clean and environmentally friendly.
• Educational Junior Ranger programs and seasonal campfire talks that are perfect for engaging children and families.

The features and highlights of Greenbelt Campground make it more than just a place to sleep; it is a recreational destination in its own right. From the winding trails to the spacious picnic groves, the park offers a variety of ways to engage with nature. Key features include:

• Over 170 spacious campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a combination barbecue grill/campfire ring.
• Nine miles of well-marked hiking trails, including the popular Dogwood, Azalea, and Blueberry trails, which offer varied terrain for all skill levels.
• Designated RV camping loops that can accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet in length (depending on the loop).
• Beautifully shaded picnic areas like Sweetgum, Holly, and Laurel, which feature playground equipment and open fields for group activities.
• Dog-friendly policies that allow visitors to bring their leashed pets along for the adventure.
• Designated cycling lanes on the surfaced roads, providing a safe environment for biking within the park.
• Abundant natural beauty, particularly in May when the mountain laurel is in full bloom and in the autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold.

To plan your stay or gather more information about current park conditions and trail availability, you can contact the park staff directly. Please note that reservations must be made online or by phone via Recreation.gov, as payment is not accepted onsite.

Address: 6565 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770, USA

Phone: (301) 344-3944

When considering which Maryland destination is worth choosing, Greenbelt Campground stands out as a "no-brainer" for those seeking value and convenience. It is an exceptional choice for visitors who want the experience of the Great Outdoors without sacrificing proximity to the cultural treasures of the East Coast. The sheer affordability—often around $20 per night—makes it one of the most cost-effective ways to visit the Washington, D.C. area, especially for families or groups who would otherwise need multiple hotel rooms.

Beyond the cost savings, the park is worth choosing for the quality of the environment. The National Park Service hospitality ensures a level of care and safety that provides peace of mind for first-time campers. It is a place where you can spend your morning at the Smithsonian museums and your evening roasting marshmallows under a canopy of oak trees. For Maryland residents, it offers a "staycation" opportunity to disconnect from digital noise and reconnect with the local landscape. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to hike, a spacious spot for a family picnic, or a reliable base for urban exploration, Greenbelt Campground delivers a unique and memorable Maryland experience.