Camping at Greenbelt Park
Location and Overview
Greenbelt Park is located in suburban Greenbelt, Maryland, which is within the boundaries of Prince George's County. The park is administered by the National Park Service and provides an urban oasis for residents and visitors of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. With over 1,100 acres, Greenbelt Park offers a variety of outdoor recreation activities set within a forested and serene environment.
Camping Facilities
Campground: Greenbelt Park features a campground with more than 170 individual sites, suitable for tents and RVs. Each site typically includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and parking space. The campground is organized into loops with restrooms equipped with cold running water and flushing toilets.
Group Camping: In addition to individual sites, the park offers group camping areas which can be reserved in advance and can accommodate larger groups for organized events or gatherings.
Amenities: The park does not offer electric, water, or sewer hook-ups for RVs, but there is a dump station available for use. Firewood can usually be purchased, and there might be restrictions on bringing in outside wood to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Activities and Trails
Greenbelt Park boasts several miles of hiking trails that meander through a varied landscape of forest, meadow, and stream environments. Trails range in difficulty but are generally suitable for all ages and provide a great opportunity to spot local wildlife or enjoy wildflowers during the appropriate seasons.
Park Rules and Regulations
Fires and Cooking: Open fires are permitted only in designated areas or provided fire rings. Personal grills can be brought in, but must be used with caution and in accordance with park rules.
Alcohol: Alcohol is typically prohibited in the park, except by permit or in designated areas with special permission.
Pets: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and should not be left unattended. Owners are responsible for picking up after their pets.
Quiet Hours: The park enforces quiet hours, generally from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., to ensure a peaceful environment for all visitors.
Reservations and Fees
Campsite Reservations: Campsites in Greenbelt Park are available on a first-come, first-served basis, as well as by reservation. Reservations can be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service.
Fees: There is a fee for camping which varies depending on the type of site and the length of stay. Check the latest fee structure and any applicable discounts (such as for senior citizens or holders of the America the Beautiful pass) on the park's official website or by contacting the park directly.
Accessibility
Greenbelt Park strives to be accessible to all visitors. Not all areas might be fully accessible, but efforts have been made to ensure that some campsites and facilities are suitable for visitors with disabilities. For specific information regarding accessibility, it is recommended to contact the park directly.
Nearby Attractions
Greenbelt Park is situated close to a number of attractions, including the Goddard Space Flight Center, College Park Aviation Museum, and the city of College Park. Additionally, its proximity to Washington, D.C. makes it a convenient base for exploring the nation's capital and its many historic landmarks and museums.
Contact Information and Further Details
Before planning your visit, it is advisable to check the latest information regarding operating hours, any potential closures or advisories, and updates on local conditions. The official National Park Service website maintains up-to-date information about Greenbelt Park, and park staff can be contacted for further inquiries or assistance.
