The best camping near Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail

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Creekside Orchard

4 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Street, MD

Welcome to creek-side camping on our picturesque 16 acre farm. Each site has access to Broad Creek and complementary unlimited firewood. Enjoy the sound of the water as you relax creek-side, or even take a dip to cool off! Stroll through the wildflower meadow, bird watch, pick wild raspberries and enjoy views of our orchards. Local places to visit include: Susquehanna State park, Rocks State Park and Eden Mill Nature Center. Local breweries Falling Branch and Slate Farm are both within 5 miles and are a must visit. A few ground rules: -Dogs are permitted if they are friendly and are trained well enough to listen and stay at your site. Again, they must stay at your site unless walking with you on a leash. If your dog inflicts damage to the sites (digging holes, chewing up piles of sticks, chewing up toys to bits etc. please clean up after your dogs. We will provide shovels, rakes if you need!) - OVERLANDERS: You can bring your overland camper if you want, but you must park your vehicle in the parking spot across from your site at sites 1-3. You can sleep in your vehicle, and hang in the camping area, but not both in the same place. Site 4 is large enough to accommodate your vehicle and these rules do not apply there. No exceptions! It is a safety issue to block the entryway/exit lane. -This is a place for relaxation and reflection by the creek. No loud groups or partying allowed. -This is a pack it in, pack it out site. This includes food waste, dog waste, and any garbage produced. Please respect that :) -There is NO FISHING, kayaking or boating. Go for a swim and float, no prob! But please float in the vicinity of your camp, so as not to disturb other campers. - Lastly, please do not invite visitors to your campsite. This is our home and we are sharing our place as a small source of additional income. If you want friends and family to experience our beautiful spot, please have them sign up and book a site, wouldn't that be more fun anyway!? People coming to our land who are not booked at a site will immediately be shown off the property. You can enjoy the following on our sites: - Free, unlimited wood for your campfires. Each site comes with a fire ring. - Seating arrangements (picnic table, wrought iron loungers and chairs and wood benches). - Charming outhouse situated over a septic certified holding tank with toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

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Maple Grove Farm

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Fallston, MD

Maple Grove farm is a twenty acre preserved livestock and hay farm in Harford County Maryland. It is home to sheep, alpaca, an old horse, chickens , dogs, and a cat or two. The world headquarters for Remsberg Inc Photo Studios is in the older farmhouse on the property and we lead photo safaris and workshops in Africa and England through the year. Our crack team of Border Collies are here to assist you with all your outdoor activity needs from frisbee tossing to ball throwing. Gather around the fire under the stars and listen to the sounds of sheep doing whatever it is sheep do with one of our loaner dogs at your feet and horses grazing in the sunset on the hill. When the weather is nice we occasional show movies by the barn drive in style and try to have one or two outdoor concerts each season. We are only three miles from W42 (Fallston Airport) if you are flying in. Nearby there are hiking trails and a swimming hole at Gunpowder Falls State Park one mile away. Boordy Vinyards down the road has a farmers market Thursdays and wine tastings other days or get homemade ice cream at Prigel Creamery just past it. Take your canoe up to Eden Mill or Bike on the Ma & Pa and NCR trails nearby.

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HUNTER'S PARK BY DC

13 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Damascus, MD

The campground is situated in the wooded area on the back of 27 acre horse farm which is known as "The Stables at Mezza Luna." There is Wi-Fi to all the sites. Every year in the spring there are 4-6 Thoroughbred foals born that eventually will become racehorses. They live on the farm until they are 2 years old and then they go off to begin their racing career. In the daytime, when you are not sitting around your campfire, you can walk the fence lines and visit with the Mares and Foals or just watch them frolic in the fields. Hint! "They love peppermints, carrots and apples." Who knows, you might get to meet a future Kentucky Derby winner. Nearby attractions include: Vineyard 61 (5 minutes) Stone Silo Brewery (5 Minutes) Leechwood Haunted Forest (5 Minutes) October weekends only There are also chickens, ducks and peacocks that are very anxious to receive your love and affection with any type of treat as well. Kids can even go in the chicken coop and pick out their very own egg they can cook for their breakfast. For the energetic campers and kids there are also lots of trails that you can walk or hike on and there is a small stream the kids can play in. There also is a playground with swings, monkey bars, seesaw and trampoline. Don't miss out out on this hidden gem just minutes from our nation's capital.

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Bald Eagle Farm on the Patuxent

3 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Brandywine, MD

Bald Eagle Farm has been in our family for three generations. Today two generations still live and operate the family farm. We once raised tobacco and cattle and have now converted to growing hay and grain. My family wants to share the views and the experience of sleeping under the stars on our beautiful secluded farm. You will hear nothing but the wind, birds, frogs and insects while you doze off or enjoy the dark sky and camp fire. We live on the farm so we are always here to help you out if needed. We can provide you with the firewood you need and water from our deep well. We are here to make your stay as comfortable as possible and provide a restroom in the case of an "emergency". Recently named a finalist for 'Best Hipcamp in Maryland'! Thank you SO much for your support and we look forward to hosting you in 2022. There are three campsites on the farm, one by the pond and two by the river. Very secluded and all sites include , firepit, log bench, and a picnic table that seats 3-4 people. PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN FIREWOOD. AT THIS TIME WE ARE OUT FOR THE SEASON. The original river campsite has been moved to a more remote spot so that all campers can access the pond and pier to the river. Farm encompasses nearly 300 acres on the Patuxent River. There is access to the river on high tide via our private creek (must bring your own canoe or kayak) and 150 acres of marshland. Over 100 acres of woods to walk through and a pond for wildlife watching. Local Spots to Visit: Canoe/Kayak/Fishing: Clyde Watson Boating Area, Patuxent River Park, Patuxent Wetlands Park, Cedar Haven Fishing Area Hiking: Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Patuxent River Park, Cedarville State Forest, Rosaryville State Park, Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, Maxwell Hall Park Places to Eat: Hardesty Haven Cafe, Moreland's Produce & Market, Cedarville Grocery. (Highly recommend packing well, we are approx. 20 minutes from a grocery store) Places to Drink: Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Romano Vineyard & Winery, Janemark Winery & Vineyard

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Secluded Acres

30 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Townsend, DE

Looking for a secluded place to get away from the city or town. Look at the stars and listen to the frogs or owls hooting in the distance. Deer and turkeys come by. Secluded property with forest and pond for fishing. Dog lot available for use. Located midway between Wilmington and Dover. Easy commute to Bally's Dover Casino Resort and Dover Motor Speedway. Water available to fill your tanks and limited electric.

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Maryland Health Society

42 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents98 acres · Davidsonville, MD

Maryland Health Society (MAHESO) is closing for the season 9/30/24. One of the oldest Clothing Optional Health Resort in the USA. We were established in 1934 and have been on the same property since 1936. We are 100% Not-for-Profit and 100% Volunteer. We are 45 min from Downtown Washington DC. Come out and leave all of your stress and worries behind. Like Us on Facebook Learn more about this land: We are the Maryland Health Society, one of the oldest clothing optional resorts and campgrounds in the USA. Established in 1934, we are 100% not-for-profit and 100% volunteer run. We have 98 secluded acres of wooded beauty, including cabins, RV sites with 50amp service, tent sites, swimming pool, clubhouse with kitchen and full restrooms, BBQ pit, 5 outdoor showers, 7 miles of hiking trails. Bordering the Patuxent River, we are 10 minutes from Washington, DC. We host many large fundraising events every year. We are in a rustic setting and our offer total acceptance. We are a 100% AANR Club.

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1850's Greenock Farm, plus 4WD site

4 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Lothian, MD

Learn more about this land: 45 acre Historic farm, several sites to choose from depending on adventure wanderlust (including a 4WD drive site). Located on private gravel lane, approximately 1/2 mile off county road. Either corn or soybeans with a woods backdrop. Secluded and private, yet 25 minutes to downtown Annapolis, 10 minutes to the Bay, great for cycling, paddleboarding, kayaking all 10/15 minutes from farm. Lots of great waterfront restaurants close by as well. DC 45 minutes, Baltimore 1 hour. Check out individual sites for description, each has its own personality. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. For those with 4WD and an off-road camper/trailer/tent choose Off the Grid, two entrances for easy access, travel along a logging road to an open site with fire pit. Suitable during dry conditions and not responsible for damage to vehicle or camper. Great spot for those who truly want to be in the woods off the beaten path, site takes about 5 minutes to reach due to low speed access. All sites as mentioned have no toilet/outhouse...for #2 please pack out or dig a hole, no presents needed for me or fellow campers.

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Stegan Farm

1 site · RV, Tent18 acres · Highland, MD

Our property is in Howard County, Maryland, and is super convenient to I-95, I-295, Hwy 32, and I-70. It is centrally located between Washington, DC, Baltimore, MD, and Frederick, MD. We are located right off of Highway 32 down a long, private paved driveway. What makes our property unique is all that it has to offer--it's an 18 acre oasis with mature woods protected by a conservation deed, lightly rolling hills, beautiful fields, wetlands, and a pond. It is not surprising to see deer and our local great blue heron on the property throughout the day. There is also a fire pit, which you are free to use. Firewood is free.

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Charity’s Hope Family Farm Resort

16 sites · Tents20 acres · Port Tobacco Village, MD

Enjoy the perfect retreat for families, couples or anyone looking for rest and relaxation among a quiet, breath-taking location. This revived historic farmland is an icon in the area. Located just 30 miles outside of Washington DC, features a grand Victorian home on 20-acres w/ modern amenities. This small “farm resort” features pasture areas with alpacas, mini-cows, horses, goats, pigs, ducks, chicks, bunnies, barns, a private pond for fishing, and more. Come experience it yourself. We have an amazing list of free and paid amenities and attractions including go kart, golf cart, kayak, inflatable pontoon, golf simulator, fishing, hiking, farm tours, 20-foot inflatable outdoor movie screen and projector, Bluetooth speakers, pool toys, basketball hoop, kick ball, cabanas, giant checkers, small moonbounce, board games, and much much more. Ask our hosts for our onsite Amenities and Attraction List.

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Canoein' Sue's

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Millington, MD

🛶 🎣 🏕 🔥 🦅 Whether you just need a pit-stop or want to paddle for days - come spend some time on Maryland's Eastern Shore! ✅ River access ✅ Wifi ✅ Electric ✅ Water ✅ Campfires The tiny nearby town of Millington has an excellent restaurant (Two Tree) as well as gas station/grill (Tailgate), Dollar General, Food Lion, and laundromat. Milano's and Carletto's restaurants will even deliver right to your camp! The Millington Public pool is less than 5 minutes away. * There is road noise from the Route 301 bridge. Some days it fades into the background and others it can detract from the peace depending on your tolerance. Host lives on site. There are two dogs on premises in fenced area. Instagram @canoeinsuesonthechester

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The Agape

5 sites · Lodging, Tents14 acres · Queenstown, MD

The Agape is located on 14 acres and over 2000' of shoreline in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, with breath taking sunsets every evening. Pull up your RV [or rent ours], pitch a tent, kick up your feet and relax by the water. Soak in the sounds of nature and the sight of wild birds, from the Osprey, Bald Eagle and even the Great Blue Heron. We are a pack it in, pack it out leave-no-trace camping site. There are no hookups, but during your stay, feel free to patronize the entire property. The views of the Wye River from the dock are absolutely beautiful and peaceful! There is also plenty of water for fishing, crabbing and even a small, man-made beach! OUTDOOR POOL AND RAFT USE - We have a shared outdoor pool and 4-person raft available for use. Both require PRIOR APPROVAL and a signed WAIVER to utilize.

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Alpaca Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Preston, MD

Welcome to Outstanding Dreams Farm! We are excited to start our journey as hipcamp Hosts. We have a large pasture surrounded by woods and adjacent to our alpaca barn available. Wildlife such as Whitetail deer, Bald Eagles, fox, and song birds are regular visitors here. Farm tours and visiting our Alpaca Farm Store are highlights of our farm. Interested in learning more about raising alpacas on your own? Please let us know ahead of time and we'll be happy to discuss this and answer your questions! Our sites include a picnic table and fire ring. There's also a well maintained Porta- Potty for our campers and we have firewood available for purchase at $5/bundle. This is listed under "Extras". (Please, no outside firewood to be brought on the property) Caroline County Maryland is a wonderful place to visit with plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking in nearby Martinak and Tuckahoe State Parks,Adkins Arboretum, access to public boat ramps, touring the Harriett Tubman Byway,produce stands, wineries, orchards,and close proximity to the Maryland and Delaware beaches as well as Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in neighboring Dorchester County. We're also less than two hours from Washington D.C., and Baltimore, and less than an hour from our state capitol, Annapolis. You can find out more about us through our Facebook page, Outstanding Dreams Alpaca Farm, or our website, Outstanding Dreams Farm. Thank you, Phil and Vickie Liske

The best camping near Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail guide

Overview

About

Capt. John Smith didn't just land at Jamestown and settle down (nor did he sing much). He and his crew mapped nearly 3,000 miles of waterways along the Chesapeake Bay. Follow in Smith's path as you tour the Chesapeake Bay. This unique trail is not for landlubbers. It's completely on the water.

Smart buoys help you plan your route. There are 10 buoys near the entrances to rivers in the area. Buoys relay real-time information, such as weather conditions and their location.

Start with the James River in Virginia where the Jamestown settlement started. As you move upstream, you pass Richmond, a few Civil War battlefield sites, and plenty of quaint towns. Take your boat out of the water at your campsite or dock it for the evening to grab some local fare.

Navigate into the Chesapeake Bay itself and explore this vibrant coastal area. Thousands of inlets offer plenty of hidden treasures to find. There's Point Lookout State Park where the bay splits from the Potomac River. The Little Choptank River at Gooses Reef heads to Maryland's Eastern Shore and Delaware.

Other locations on this historic trail include Virginia Beach, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia. There's plenty to do in each place, depending on how detailed you want your itinerary to be. Lighthouses along your route offer a fascinating look at seaside culture here.

Spend a weekend going up one river, or make an entire summer vacation out of this experience. Make sure to monitor river and weather conditions. Always be aware of boat traffic as you sail, paddle, or motor up these historic waterways.