Beyond Baltimore: Celebrating National Camping Month
You and campfires sound like the perfect match.
Did you know that camping originated in 1910? This outdoorsy activity was started by the Boy Scouts!
Since 1970, the U.S. has observed National Camping Month each June. The creation of this month was simple; many wanted to encourage the masses to celebrate Mother Nature. So, Union Wharf residents, leave behind the hustle and bustle of your day-to-day activities and go outside. Take a breath of fresh air and recharge your batteries.
Where to Camp
Here’s a comprehensive list of the best places to camp that are not too far from Baltimore:
Patapsco Valley State Park, Ellicott City
Need your alone pine? Patapsco Valley State Park is only 30 minutes away from Union Wharf. The park is known for its ruins, waterfalls, and 200 miles of hiking trails.
Elk Neck State Park, North East
Elk Neck State Park is a peninsula that is approximately one hour away from home. There are various marshlands, wooded areas, cliffs, and beaches. So, Elk Neck’s scenic views are unmatched. Outside of the tent, campers can explore trails, boat, fish, canoe, kayak, and swim.
Catoctin Mountain Park, Thurmont
Catoctin Mountain Park offers tent and small-camper camping (with no electricity), and hike-in camping. There’s plenty of firewood to start your campfire. Whilst there, be sure to visit Chimney Rock overlook for a picturesque view of the horizon.
Bayshore Campground, Rock Hall
Bayshore Campground is just a few miles south of Elk Neck State Park and is located beside the Wildlife Refuge. Therefore, campers can look forward to remarkable views of nature and fauna. Oh, and don’t forget about their birdwatching and kayaking. If interested, Bayshore offers camping alongside the bay or the pond.
Assateague is best known for its roaming ponies and wild horses. Campers can set up their tents along the bayside or oceanside. So, you’ll never miss out on the park’s stunning waterfront views. Plus, there are plenty of picnic tables and grills on-site.
Explore the Unexplored
Looking for something different? Here are a couple of untraditional camping spots in Maryland.
Enjoy a Sheep Safari in a Classic Land Rover this month. Guests can sleep in a rooftop tent in a 1966 Land Rover in the midst of a sheep farm. Border collies will be nearby, and guests can utilize the firepit and water facilities near the farmhouse. Gunpowder Park is nearby with its various trails and swimming holes.
Sleep within a 16-acre farm at Creekside Orchard at one-of-four unique campsites. There are wildflower meadows with fresh fruit, access to the creek for swimming, and birdwatching spots. Guests can enjoy free, unlimited wood and seating arrangements.
Happy National Camping Month
We hope you’ll take this opportunity to explore nature and Baltimore’s surrounding counties. If you do decide to check out one of our camping recommendations, be sure to tag us in your photos, @UnionWharf.
