Greenbelt Campground
4.26216 reviews6565 Greenbelt Road
Greenbelt Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are $20 per night for all site types, including standard non-electric, tent-only non-electric, and RV non-electric sites. Discounts such as the Interagency Senior and Access Pass reduce nightly fees by 50%. Additional fees apply for modifications ($10) or late cancellations.
About this campground
Escape the hustle of the nation's capital at Greenbelt Campground, where towering trees and tranquil trails await just 10 miles from downtown Washington, D.C. This National Park Service gem seamlessly blends the convenience of urban proximity with the serenity of a woodland retreat. Modern amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and a convenient dump station ensure comfort during your stay, while easy Metro access opens the door to endless adventures. Whether you're here to explore the capital's monuments or simply unwind beneath the canopy, this affordable sanctuary offers the perfect basecamp for both nature lovers and city explorers.
Greenbelt Campground primarily caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. It is a primitive campground without electrical or water hookups.
Historical SignificanceCamp at the crossroads of American history and natural beauty. Your tent or RV sits mere miles from where our nation's story unfolds daily—the iconic National Mall stretches before the Capitol, world-renowned Smithsonian museums house treasures of human achievement, and monuments honor those who shaped our country. This unique location offers an extraordinary opportunity to spend your days exploring the corridors of power and culture, then return each evening to the peaceful embrace of nature, creating a camping experience unlike any other in the country.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons in this year-round camping haven. Winter transforms the forest into a quiet wonderland, occasionally dusted with snow and perfect for peaceful reflection. As spring awakens the woodland, warmer days invite exploration, though mindful campers should prepare for increased humidity and tick activity. Summer brings lush greenery and vibrant forest life under the warm Maryland sun. But it's autumn that truly steals the show—when temperatures cool to perfection and the surrounding oaks and maples burst into a spectacular display of golden yellows, burnt oranges, and deep crimsons.
ElevationNestled in the gently rolling terrain of the Maryland piedmont, the campground offers level, comfortable camping conditions ideal for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living tapestry of Mid-Atlantic forest beauty. Majestic pines stretch skyward alongside sturdy oaks and graceful maples, creating a multi-layered canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Come May, the understory explodes with the delicate pink and white blooms of Mountain Laurel, Maryland's state flower. Still Creek meanders through the landscape, its gentle waters attracting white-tailed deer at dawn and dusk, while playful chipmunks dart between the trees. This verdant pocket of wilderness serves as a vital green lung for the surrounding metropolitan area, offering campers an authentic forest experience.
Geological RegionDiscover an unexpected natural sanctuary within Maryland's bustling suburban landscape. This forested haven occupies a special place where urban development yields to preserved woodland, creating a remarkable contrast that defines the camping experience here. The mixed hardwood and evergreen forest thrives on the region's characteristic clay and sandy soils, while Still Creek carves its ancient path through the terrain, supporting a surprisingly diverse ecosystem. Though surrounded by the energy of metropolitan life, this green refuge stands as testament to the enduring power of protected natural spaces, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with the wild heart that still beats within America's most developed corridor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites and grills are available. However, the overall accessibility experience is mixed, with some areas being difficult to navigate due to poor maintenance and outdated facilities.
Sites SizeMost campsites can accommodate up to three tents, two vehicles, and six people. RV sites in the B Loop are limited to 30 feet, while the D Loop accommodates up to 35 feet.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are moderately spaced, offering some level of privacy. However, users noted that the layout of certain loops results in close proximity to neighboring sites.
Total Campsites232 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLook for sites in Loop D for larger RV accessibility and Loop B for privacy. Tent campers should opt for sites with shaded areas and avoid heavily sloped sites.
Best CampsitesNotable campsites include D145 for tent camping and D116 for RVs due to their proximity to facilities and scenic surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available from 1:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights per visit and up to 28 total nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site allows up to 6 people, 2 vehicles, and 3 tents.
Groups
Designated group sites are available on the 'Scout/Youth/Organized Groups Only' loop, which is open year-round. Specific capacity details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into four loops (A, B, C, D), including designated group sites for youth and scouts in A Loop. Sites vary in slope and spacing, with some RV sites requiring leveling blocks.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov using the website, app, or call center. Payment is not accepted on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up reservations are allowed; all reservations must be made in advance online or through the call center.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before scheduled arrival incur a $10 fee plus any prior change fees. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fee. Modifications to reservations can be made up to five times without additional charges if there is no balance change.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Greenbelt Campground offers a variety of activities emphasizing outdoor recreation and proximity to urban attractions. Hiking trails are a significant highlight, and the campground is a convenient base for exploring Washington, D.C. Wildlife viewing and picnicking are also mentioned by users.
Hiking
The campground boasts ten miles of hiking trails, including the Perimeter, Azalea, Dogwood, and Blueberry Trails. However, many trails have been closed due to storm damage, which has not been fully addressed as of recent reviews. When open, the trails are described as scenic and enjoyable.Biking
Some users appreciated the camp's paved roads for biking and recommended bringing a bike to explore the area.Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to deer, chipmunks, and various bird species, making it suitable for casual wildlife viewing. Users frequently commented on the natural setting and the prevalence of ticks.Cultural and Educational Programs
Occasional ranger-led programs and activities are available, particularly for children and organized groups.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited, but a few reviews suggest that the park remains accessible and peaceful during the colder months. Heated bathrooms are a noted advantage during this season.Water Sports
No water-based recreational activities are supported due to the lack of water features suitable for such sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks are prevalent during spring and summer, requiring precautions. Occasional storms have caused fallen trees and damage in the past. Wildlife sightings include deer and chipmunks.
Active alertsSome trails remain closed due to storm damage from July 2022. Cleanup efforts are ongoing but progress is slow.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The closest emergency services are within the City of Greenbelt, approximately 1 mile away. This includes police stations, hospitals, and fire departments, all within quick access due to the urban location.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, though specific details about their location or schedule are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresStill Creek flows through the campground and adds scenic value, although it is not explicitly described as accessible for recreational activities.
Common complaintsComplaints often mention outdated and poorly maintained restroom facilities, noise from nearby highways, and tick infestations. Users have also highlighted issues with site leveling and limited availability of showers.
HostHosts are available and generally described as helpful. They monitor quiet hours and ensure safety within the campground.
Campground Map
6565 Greenbelt Road
Driving directionsFrom I-95/495 (Capital Beltway), take Exit 23 Kenilworth Avenue South (Route 201) to Greenbelt Road East (Route 193). The park entrance is a quarter mile down Greenbelt Road on the right. The park address is 6565 Greenbelt Road.
Access to the campground is via paved roads. Roads are generally well maintained though some users have noted that paving within the campground itself could use improvements. All loops (A, B, C, D) are accessible year-round, but larger RVs may face challenges due to tight turns and slopes. No seasonal closures are explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Greenbelt (1 mile), Washington, D.C. (10 miles), Goddard Space Flight Center (3 miles), major shopping centers (0.5 miles).
Nearby supplies
Major shopping centers are located within half a mile from the park entrance, offering groceries, camping supplies, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
4.3
216 reviews
Greenbelt Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Greenbelt Campground vary widely, with many praising its affordability, proximity to Washington, D.C., and quiet surroundings. However, facility conditions, particularly bathrooms and showers, are commonly criticized. Noise levels, ticks, and storm damage are frequent complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 216 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Great proximity to DC and affordability.' - 'Well-shaded campsites with fire rings and picnic tables.' - 'Hot showers and warm bathrooms during winter.' - 'Convenient access to metro stations for...
Based on 216 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- 'Bathrooms and showers are outdated and poorly maintained.' - 'Ticks are a major issue, especially during spring and summer.' - 'Storm damage has led to trail closures and campsite cleanup needs.'...
Based on 216 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring strong bug repellent to combat ticks. - Check campsite descriptions and photos before booking to avoid unlevel or unsuitable sites. - 'Bring a bike!' - Use the metro for hassle-free access to...
Based on 216 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the convenience of heated bathrooms. Spring and summer reviews frequently note issues with ticks and noise levels due to higher occupancy. Fall is...
Based on 216 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The location is great—you really can't beat it if you live in the area and want a quick place to camp or are visiting DC.' - 'Ticks were alive and well everywhere in the park. Check yourself every...
Based on 216 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site B55 (Loop B): Negative—A user reported a tree falling on them, highlighting safety concerns. Site D141 (Loop D): Mixed—Spacious but sloping ground and tick prevalence. Site B74 (Loop B):...
Based on 216 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is mixed. While there are accessible campsites and bathroom facilities, some areas are challenging to navigate due to poor infrastructure and maintenance.
Based on 216 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are generally welcomed, but users recommend keeping them close due to ticks and limited open space for off-leash activities.
Based on 216 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025