Skipper's Point Campground

For those serving in the military or working within the Department of Defense in the Maryland region, finding a peaceful and secure outdoor escape is a top priority. Skipper's Point Campground, nestled along the scenic waters of the Gunpowder River in Harford County, serves as a dedicated sanctuary for the military community. Located on the Edgewood area of Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), this campground is a "best-kept secret" among local service members who seek a primitive, back-to-nature experience without traveling far from the base. It offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Chesapeake Bay tributaries while remaining within a secure, familiar environment tailored specifically to the needs of military families and personnel.

The atmosphere at Skipper's Point is characterized by its profound quiet and rustic charm. Unlike commercial campgrounds that can often feel crowded and noisy, Skipper's Point is designed for those who appreciate simplicity. It is a primitive site, meaning the focus is on traditional tent camping and authentic outdoor living. Residents of the Maryland area who have access to the installation often visit for the weekend to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. The sound of the wind through the trees and the gentle lapping of the water against the shore are the primary soundtracks here, providing a necessary reprieve for those balancing the high-stakes responsibilities of military life.

Location and accessibility are primary factors that define the Skipper's Point experience. The campground is situated at 1601 Skippers Point Rd, Gunpowder, MD 21010, within the southern sector of Aberdeen Proving Ground, commonly known as the Edgewood Area. For local Marylanders, this location is highly convenient, offering a waterfront retreat that is easily accessible from I-95 via Route 24. However, because it is located on a federal military installation, access is strictly controlled. Guests must enter through the Hoadley Road (Route 24) Gate and present valid Department of Defense (DOD) identification. This level of security provides an added layer of peace of mind for families, ensuring that the community remains private and exclusive to authorized personnel.

The campground is designed with accessibility in mind for all members of the military community. The entrance and the on-site parking lots are wheelchair accessible, and the layout of the common areas is relatively flat, making it easier for guests with mobility challenges to navigate the grounds. While the sites are primitive, the infrastructure supporting them is well-maintained by the Army MWR (Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation) program. The presence of an on-site boat ramp further enhances the accessibility of the Gunpowder River, allowing boaters and kayakers to launch directly from the campground into the tidal waters.

Services offered at Skipper's Point Campground are focused on the essentials of a successful outdoor excursion. While the park does not provide the luxury amenities of a resort, it offers the critical services needed for a safe and organized stay. The management prioritizes cleanliness and order, which is a hallmark of military-run facilities. Because the site is "Leave No Trace" focused, services are geared toward helping guests maintain the environment while enjoying their stay.

• Managed reservation services through the APG Outdoor Recreation office, ensuring that every guest has a designated and prepared space.
• On-site parking specifically designed to accommodate personal vehicles near the camping pads.
• Water hookup services specifically for RVs that may be utilizing the designated pads, providing essential hydration and cleaning capabilities.
• Standardized site preparation including clear debris removal and maintenance of stone fire rings.
• Groundskeeping services that maintain the playground and pavilion areas to high safety standards for children and families.
• Emergency support via the APG installation police and medical services, providing a level of safety not found in public parks.
• Information services regarding restricted water zones and local fishing regulations to ensure all recreational activities are compliant with installation rules.

The features and highlights of Skipper's Point make it a standout destination for primitive camping enthusiasts. The waterfront views are undoubtedly the primary draw, offering stunning sunrises and sunsets over the Gunpowder River. The community features are designed to encourage family bonding and group social activities in a controlled, natural setting. For families with children, the campground provides enough structured activity to keep little ones engaged while still allowing for the freedom of the great outdoors.

• Dedicated tent camping sites that feature individual picnic tables and sturdy stone fire rings for evening campfires.
• A well-maintained boat ramp that provides direct access to the water for small motorboats, canoes, and kayaks.
• A modern playground area that is highly rated by visitors for its condition and safety, making the site very kid-friendly.
• Large pavilions equipped with picnic tables and charcoal grills, perfect for unit gatherings or family reunions.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow for dogs (on-leash), ensuring that the four-legged members of the family aren't left behind.
• Public restroom facilities and portable toilets that are regularly serviced and kept in clean condition.
• Proximity to world-class fishing spots along the Gunpowder River, known for its variety of native Maryland fish species.
• Quiet hours enforced from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM, guaranteeing a restful environment for all guests.

For those eligible to stay at Skipper's Point, the contact process is handled through the Aberdeen Proving Ground MWR Outdoor Recreation division. It is important to remember that reservations must typically be made in advance, and identification will be verified at the time of booking and upon entry to the installation.

• Physical Address: 1601 Skippers Point Rd, Gunpowder, MD 21010, USA
• Primary Phone: (410) 436-2713
• Outdoor Recreation Office: (410) 278-5789
• Emergency After Hours (MWR): (443) 910-5953

What is worth choosing about Skipper's Point Campground is the unique combination of security, serenity, and exclusivity. For Maryland residents who have the privilege of base access, this campground offers a level of seclusion that is impossible to find at state parks or private campgrounds during the busy summer months. The fact that the user base is limited to DOD personnel means that the campground remains remarkably quiet and the facilities are never overtaxed. It is a place where you can feel entirely safe letting your children play while you enjoy the river view.

Furthermore, choosing Skipper's Point is a choice for an authentic camping experience. In a world where "glamping" is becoming the norm, Skipper's Point preserves the tradition of the fire pit, the tent, and the stars. It is an affordable, high-quality way to enjoy the Maryland waterfront while supporting the MWR programs that give back to the military community. If you are looking for a clean, quiet, and secure place to pitch a tent and launch a boat on the Gunpowder River, Skipper's Point Campground is the premier choice for authorized personnel in the Harford County region.