Milltown Landing Campsite

For Marylanders seeking a genuine return to nature, Milltown Landing Campsite in Brandywine offers a rare and secluded experience. Located within the Milltown Landing Natural Resources Management Area (NRMA) on the western banks of the Patuxent River, this campsite is a hidden jewel for those who value tranquility over commercial amenities. Managed as part of the extensive Patuxent River Park system, the site provides a rustic backdrop where the sounds of the modern world are replaced by the rustle of tobacco barns and the gentle flow of the river. It is a destination specifically designed for self-sufficient campers and outdoor enthusiasts who wish to explore the rich biodiversity of Southern Maryland’s riverfront.

The site serves as a vital stop along the 80-mile-long Patuxent Water Trail, making it a favorite for kayakers and canoeists navigating the waterway. Historically, Milltown Landing was a working wharf used for shipping tobacco, and today, that heritage is still visible in the surrounding landscape. The campground is characterized by its open agrarian fields, dense woodlands, and picturesque old tobacco barns that dot the trail leading to the water. This is not a typical RV park; it is a primitive camping experience that honors the natural and cultural history of Prince George's County, offering a peaceful sanctuary for birdwatchers, hikers, and anyone looking to "unplug" from the daily grind.

Milltown Landing Campsite is located at 17403 Milltown Landing Rd, Brandywine, MD 20613, USA. For local residents coming from Upper Marlboro or Waldorf, the journey is a straightforward but scenic drive through the rural landscapes of Prince George's County. To access the grounds, travelers generally follow Croom Road (MD Route 382) south for approximately 14 miles before turning left onto Milltown Landing Road. At the end of the road, guests will encounter a grassy parking area. It is important to note that while "No Trespassing" signs may be visible on adjacent private properties, visitors should stay on the designated road to reach the public NRMA gate and parking area.

Accessibility at Milltown Landing is geared toward the "passive recreation" user. The main path from the parking area to the river is a gravel and dirt lane approximately half a mile long, passing through beautiful shrubby habitats and agricultural fields. While the main road may be navigable by wheelchairs with all-terrain tires during dry weather, the smaller foot trails and the shoreline itself remain largely rugged. Parking is conveniently located on-site, but due to the primitive nature of the area, there are no permanent restroom facilities at this specific landing. Campers should arrive prepared for a "Leave No Trace" adventure, ensuring they have all necessary supplies for a remote stay.

• Designated primitive tent sites suitable for small and large groups of up to 25 people.
• Access to the Patuxent Water Trail for boat-in camping and small watercraft launching.
• Permit-based camping reservations managed through the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC).
• Established picnic tables at the campsite area for communal outdoor dining.
• Seasonal access to diverse hiking and nature trails that wind through woodlands and fields.
• Opportunities for legal seasonal hunting within the Natural Resources Management Area (NRMA) guidelines.
• Proximity to local fishing spots along the riverbank for catch-and-release or seasonal angling.
• Staff support and park information accessible via the Patuxent River Park Visitor Center.

The highlights of Milltown Landing are deeply tied to its status as a premier birding and wildlife observation site. During the fall and spring migrations, the hedgerows and marshes are filled with a variety of sparrows, warblers, and waterfowl. It is not uncommon to hear Eastern Screech-Owls at dusk or see Short-eared Owls hunting over the fields in the late autumn. For families, the open spaces and proximity to the river make it a fantastic "living classroom" where children can learn about Maryland's agricultural past and the importance of river ecology. The lack of light pollution also makes it one of the better spots in the region for stargazing on clear Maryland nights.

• Authentic primitive camping experience with a maximum capacity for larger group outings.
• Direct access to the scenic Patuxent River, perfect for kayaking and canoeing.
• Historic atmosphere featuring well-preserved tobacco barns and old wharf remnants.
• Exceptional birdwatching opportunities with a diverse range of seasonal migratory species.
• Pet-friendly environment, allowing leashed dogs to join the family on the trails.
• Affordable nightly rates for Prince George's and Montgomery County residents.
• Secluded, low-traffic location that ensures a quiet and peaceful camping experience.

To plan your stay at Milltown Landing, reservations are required through the Patuxent River Park office. You can reach the registration team at (301) 627-6074. For mobile users or those needing quick access to park rangers, the number is +1 301-627-6074. The physical address for navigation is 17403 Milltown Landing Rd, Brandywine, MD 20613. It is a professional recommendation to check the local hunting calendar before your visit, as the NRMA is an active hunting area during specific seasons. Camping is generally permitted from April through October, coinciding with the peak seasons for the Patuxent Water Trail.

What makes Milltown Landing Campsite worth choosing is its uncompromising commitment to a quiet, natural experience. If you are tired of crowded campgrounds with paved pads and noisy neighbors, this is the place for you. It is worth choosing because it provides a sense of discovery; the half-mile walk to the river feels like stepping back in time. For local Marylanders, it is an incredibly affordable way to host a group retreat or a scouting trip in a safe, managed environment. Whether you are arriving by water as part of a multi-day paddling trip or by land for a weekend of fishing and hiking, Milltown Landing offers a level of solitude and scenic beauty that is increasingly rare in the Baltimore-Washington corridor.

As you prepare for your trip to Brandywine, remember to pack sturdy waterproof boots and plenty of water. Experience the rugged beauty of the Patuxent River from a campsite that celebrates the true spirit of the Maryland wilderness. From the first morning mist over the fields to the evening glow on the river, Milltown Landing provides a foundation for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.