Camp Loop A

For those in Maryland seeking a refreshing escape into nature without venturing far from urban conveniences, Camp Loop A, nestled within the expansive Greenbelt Park, presents an ideal solution. This well-regarded campground provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a peaceful, forested environment while remaining remarkably close to the vibrant heart of the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. It's a true urban oasis, offering a serene backdrop for outdoor adventures and relaxation for individuals, families, and organized groups alike.

Greenbelt Park, managed by the National Park Service, is renowned for its commitment to preserving natural and cultural resources, and Camp Loop A embodies this dedication. As part of a larger campground facility, Camp Loop A specifically caters to youth, scout, and organized groups, fostering a sense of community and shared experience amidst the tranquility of the woods. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking to introduce your family to the joys of the outdoors, this campground offers a welcoming and well-maintained setting for creating lasting memories.

Beyond its natural beauty, Camp Loop A stands out for its accessibility and affordability, making it a popular choice for local Marylanders looking for an easy and economical getaway. The campground's emphasis on safety, peaceful surroundings, and the characteristic hospitality of the National Park Service ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all visitors. It’s a place where the rustle of leaves and the calls of local wildlife replace the usual city bustle, offering a genuine sense of calm and rejuvenation right here in Prince George's County.

Camp Loop A is conveniently located at X4J2+CQ, Greenbelt, MD 20737, USA, making it incredibly accessible for residents across Maryland. Situated within Greenbelt Park, this campground offers the perfect blend of natural seclusion and easy reach to major transportation arteries and local amenities. Its strategic location means you can transition from city life to a woodland retreat in a matter of minutes, a significant advantage for those with limited travel time.

The park itself is just 10 miles from the bustling attractions of Washington, D.C., offering campers the unique flexibility of combining a natural escape with cultural exploration. For those relying on public transport, the Washington, D.C. Metro Transit System is easily accessible, approximately 1.5 miles from the park, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the nation's capital. Additionally, major shopping centers are located within half a mile of the park entrance, ensuring that any forgotten essentials or cravings can be easily satisfied.

The paved roads and parking spurs within Camp Loop A and the wider Greenbelt Campground ensure good access for both cars and RVs, although specific length restrictions apply to RVs in different loops (Loop A specifically for groups). This ease of access, combined with its proximity to urban centers and essential services, makes Camp Loop A an ideal choice for both spontaneous weekend trips and longer, planned vacations for Maryland residents.

Camp Loop A, as part of the Greenbelt Campground, provides a range of essential services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. While it is a primitive campground, focusing on natural immersion, it doesn't skimp on the fundamental necessities.

Services Offered:

• Year-round operation, allowing for camping in all seasons.
• Flush toilets available year-round, ensuring convenience and hygiene.
• Hot showers, a welcome luxury after a day of outdoor activities.
• Potable water access for drinking and cooking.
• A dump station for RVs, although sites do not offer individual hookups.
• Trash and recycling collection services, promoting a clean environment.
• Staff on site year-round, including park rangers and campground hosts, for assistance and safety.
• Online reservation system (Recreation.gov or by phone), with no on-site cash payments accepted, streamlining the booking process.

Camp Loop A, within Greenbelt Park, boasts several features and highlights that make it a standout choice for campers in Maryland. These attributes contribute to its appeal as a peaceful and convenient outdoor destination.

Features / Highlights:

• 172 Campsites: The larger Greenbelt Campground features a substantial number of individual campsites suitable for tents and RVs, with Loop A specifically designed for organized groups, youth, and scouts.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a combination grill/campfire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
• Affordable Camping: Known for its affordability, offering excellent value for a National Park Service managed campground.
• Year-Round Access: The campground is open 24 hours a day, year-round, for registered campers, providing flexibility for seasonal visits.
• Proximity to D.C.: Just 10 miles from Washington, D.C., allowing for easy day trips to museums, monuments, and other attractions.
• Extensive Trail System: Ten miles of hiking trails, including Perimeter, Azalea, Dogwood, and Blueberry Trails, offering opportunities for exploration and wildlife viewing.
• Natural Surroundings: Forested with a mix of pine, oak, and maple trees, providing shade and a colorful display in autumn. Mountain Laurel blooms in May.
• Wildlife Sightings: Deer and chipmunks are commonly seen, adding to the natural experience.
• Quiet Hours: Enforced quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. ensure a peaceful environment for all campers.
• Accessibility: Some campsites and facilities are designed to be wheelchair accessible, with paved paths leading to comfort stations in various loops.
• No Hookups (Primitive Camping): While not offering electric or water hookups at individual sites, this contributes to a more rustic and affordable camping experience.

While specific, ongoing promotions for Camp Loop A are not typically advertised in the same way as commercial businesses, its pricing structure and National Park Service affiliation offer inherent value and occasional benefits. The standard campsite fee for Greenbelt Campground is $20.00 per night, which allows for three tents and up to six people per campsite. This competitive pricing makes it an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.

Furthermore, as a National Park Service site, certain discounts may apply for holders of specific passes, such as the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, Senior Pass, or Access Pass. These passes can often provide significant savings on camping fees, making a stay at Camp Loop A even more affordable for eligible visitors. It is always recommended to check the Recreation.gov website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information on fees and any applicable discounts. The fact that camping fees directly fund campground improvement projects also means that your payment contributes to the ongoing enhancement of the park facilities, offering a promotional benefit in itself by supporting a valued public resource.

For reservations and general inquiries regarding Camp Loop A and Greenbelt Campground, the primary method is through the official reservation system.

Address: X4J2+CQ, Greenbelt, MD 20737, USA (located within Greenbelt Park)

Phone for Greenbelt Park: (771) 208-1588 (This number can be used for general park information and assistance.)

Reservations for campsites must be made online or by phone:

• Website: Recreation.gov (Search for "Greenbelt Campground")
• Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (Toll-free, for reservations)
• International: 518-885-3639 (for reservations)

Please note that payment is not accepted on-site, and all reservations must be made in advance or upon arrival via the Recreation.gov website or call center. It is always advisable to check the Recreation.gov website for the most current information regarding site availability, booking windows, and any specific regulations pertaining to Camp Loop A.

Camp Loop A in Greenbelt Park is exceptionally well-suited for locals in Maryland for a multitude of reasons. Its primary appeal lies in its remarkable proximity and accessibility. For Maryland residents, a serene natural escape is often just a short drive away, eliminating the need for long, arduous travel typically associated with traditional camping trips. This makes it perfect for quick weekend getaways, spontaneous overnights, or even a mid-week refresh after a busy day. The convenience of being able to immerse oneself in a peaceful woodland setting, complete with hiking trails and the sounds of nature, without significant travel time, is a huge advantage.

Moreover, its location within Greenbelt Park offers an "urban oasis" experience. This isn't just a remote wilderness campground; it's a place where nature meets civilization in the best possible way. Locals can enjoy the tranquility of the forest while still having immediate access to essential services and attractions. Grocery stores, gas stations, and various restaurants are just a few miles away, ensuring that any needs or cravings can be met without disrupting the natural experience. Furthermore, the close proximity to Washington D.C. means that a camping trip can seamlessly combine outdoor adventure with cultural exploration, offering a unique dual-purpose vacation for families and individuals. Imagine spending your day exploring the Smithsonian museums or monuments, and then returning to the peaceful crackle of a campfire under the stars – all within minutes.

The affordability of Camp Loop A, especially as a National Park Service site, makes it an economical choice for local families looking to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. The provision of hot showers, flush toilets, and potable water, while maintaining a primitive camping feel (no individual hookups), strikes a perfect balance between comfort and a genuine outdoor experience. The presence of park rangers and campground hosts year-round also provides an added layer of safety and helpfulness, making the experience more welcoming, particularly for those new to camping. For organized groups, scouts, and youth, Camp Loop A provides a structured and safe environment for educational and recreational activities, fostering a love for the outdoors and teamwork.

In essence, Camp Loop A offers Maryland locals an unparalleled blend of convenience, affordability, natural beauty, and access to both wilderness and urban attractions. It's a testament to how easily one can disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature, right in their own backyard.

Camp Loop A

X4J2+CQ, Greenbelt, MD 20737, USA