Camp Office

For Marylanders seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse outdoor recreation, the campground at Point Lookout State Park in Scotland, MD, is an exceptional destination. While the provided information lists "Camp Office" with a general Maryland 20687 address, it is widely known that this refers to the camping facilities within Point Lookout State Park, specifically associated with its general office operations. This park offers a peaceful setting on a historic peninsula, where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Potomac River, providing a tranquil escape that belies its significant past as a Civil War prisoner-of-war camp. Whether you're an avid angler, a history enthusiast, a birdwatcher, or simply looking for a family-friendly spot to relax by the water, Point Lookout State Park Campground offers a memorable experience. It's a place where Maryland locals can immerse themselves in the state's heritage while enjoying the stunning waterfront landscape.

Point Lookout State Park Campground is located at 11175 Point Lookout Road, Scotland, MD 20687, USA. This address places it at the very southern tip of St. Mary's County, Maryland, on a unique peninsula formed by the confluence of the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River. This strategic geographic position contributes significantly to its appeal, offering waterfront views and access to two major bodies of water.

Accessibility to Point Lookout State Park is straightforward, with clear driving directions available from both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. From Baltimore, follow Rt. 695 to Rt. 97 South, then to Rt. 3 South (which becomes Rt. 301). From Rt. 301 South, continue to Rt. 4 South in Upper Marlboro, cross the Solomons Island Bridge, and turn left onto Rt. 235 South. Follow Rt. 235 South into Ridge, then turn left onto Rt. 5 South, which leads directly to Point Lookout. From Washington, D.C., take Rt. 495 to Rt. 4/Pennsylvania Avenue South to Upper Marlboro, continue on Rt. 4 South across the Solomons Island Bridge, then follow Rt. 235 South and Rt. 5 South as described above. The park's well-maintained roads and clear signage make it easy to navigate once inside, guiding visitors to the campground area and other facilities. This relative ease of access makes it a convenient and desirable weekend getaway or longer vacation spot for many Maryland residents.

Point Lookout State Park Campground offers a wide array of services and facilities to cater to various camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for RVs, tents, and even those looking for cabin options.

• Diverse Campsite Options: There are 90 wooded campsites available. Of these, 26 have full hook-ups (water, electric, sewer), and an additional 4 sites have electric only. There are also tent sites available.
• Full Hook-up Loop (Tulip): A specific loop, Tulip, is designated for self-contained campers only, meaning no restrooms are available directly within that loop.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean public restrooms and showers are available within other campground loops, ensuring comfort for campers without full hookups or those in tents.
• Visitor Center & Civil War Museum: An on-site visitor center features a Civil War Museum and a Marshland Nature Center, offering educational opportunities and historical insights.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store provides essentials, snacks, ice, and camping supplies. The store often sells bait and gear for fishing and crabbing.
• Boat Launch & Marina: The park offers a boat launch, making it easy for campers to get their vessels onto the water. There is also a marina.
• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: Visitors can rent canoes and kayaks from the nature center/museum to explore the marsh water trails.
• Fishing Piers: Multiple piers are available for fishing and crabbing, including a 710-foot fishing pier jutting into the Chesapeake Bay.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, complete with grills, picnic tables, shower buildings, and a playground.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playground areas are available for children.
• Pet Policy: Leashed pets are allowed at specified campsites, on the causeway, and on the beach north of the causeway.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs.
• Pavilion/Shelter Rentals: A facility capable of accommodating up to 75 people, reservable in advance.

Point Lookout State Park Campground truly stands out due to its unique features and diverse highlights that appeal to a wide range of interests.

• Historic Significance: The park served as a major Confederate prisoner-of-war camp during the Civil War, housing thousands of soldiers. The on-site Civil War Museum vividly recounts this history, offering a compelling educational experience. The presence of an old fort also adds to the historical depth.
• Dual Waterfront Access: Its location at the confluence of the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River provides unparalleled access to both bodies of water for diverse activities. This includes bay-side recreation and river-side activities.
• Exceptional Birdwatching: Point Lookout is recognized as one of Maryland's premiere birding locations, attracting a wide variety of species due to its position as a "potent migrant trap." Habitats include sandy beaches, tidal wetlands, open water, and diverse woodlands, making it an exciting destination for birders year-round.
• Variety of Water Activities: Beyond fishing and boating, campers can enjoy crabbing, kayaking, canoeing (with rental options), and swimming at the designated beach.
• Scenic Beauty and Tranquility: Despite its popularity, the campground offers "wooded campsites" and a peaceful atmosphere. While some areas might have less tree coverage, reviews highlight that some sites, especially in the Tulip Loop, provide excellent privacy, where "you wouldn't even know there were other campers nearby."
• Recreational Trails: Hiking trails wind through the marsh and wooded areas, including a small walking trail around the nature center. While limited for biking, the causeway can be explored.
• Stargazing Opportunities: With areas of minimal tree coverage, Point Lookout offers "unbelievable" views of the night sky, making it one of the best spots for stargazing in the region.
• Point Lookout Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse is on-site, offering a scenic landmark and additional historical interest.

As a Maryland State Park campground, Point Lookout offers promotions and pricing structures typical of state-managed facilities, often including discounts for Maryland residents and certain federal pass holders.

• Maryland Resident Discounts: Entrance fees for the park are lower for Maryland residents ($5/person on summer weekends/holidays, $3/vehicle weekdays year-round) compared to non-residents. Camping fees also vary by residency.
• Maryland State Park Passes: Annual State Park Passes or Senior State Park Passes can be used for park entry, offering savings for frequent visitors.
• Reservations: Campsites are available through advance reservations by calling 1-888-432-2267 or registering online at parkreservations.maryland.gov. This allows campers to plan their trip well in advance.
• Minimum Stays: During peak season (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day), a two-night minimum stay is required for weekend bookings (Thursday/Friday, Friday/Saturday, or Saturday/Sunday). Saturday arrivals/departures are generally not permitted during this period unless reserving seven or more nights.
• Daily Fees: Entrance fees apply during peak season (May-September) on weekends and holidays ($5/person MD resident) and weekdays year-round ($3/vehicle MD resident).

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations, fees, specific campsite availability, and park rules, it is always best to contact Point Lookout State Park directly or utilize the Maryland State Parks online reservation system.

Address: 11175 Point Lookout Road, Scotland, MD 20687, USA

Phone: (301) 872-5688

Reservations: 1-888-432-2267 or online at parkreservations.maryland.gov

It is highly recommended to check their official website or call before your visit, especially for details on specific activities, hours of operation, and any temporary closures or conditions (e.g., jellyfish in swimming areas, which vary by season).

Point Lookout State Park Campground is an ideal choice for Maryland locals because it offers a truly multi-faceted experience right in our own backyard. Its location at the very tip of the peninsula, where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Potomac River, provides unique opportunities for water activities like fishing, crabbing, boating, and swimming, making it a perfect summer destination. Beyond recreation, the park serves as a living history lesson, with its Civil War Museum and historic sites offering a compelling glimpse into Maryland's past. For nature lovers, it's a birdwatcher's paradise with incredible diversity and stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. The campground offers a range of options, from "full hook-ups" for RVs to "wooded campsites" for tents, catering to different comfort levels. While some loops might lack direct restrooms, the availability of clean showers and restrooms in other areas, and the overall "well-maintained" nature of the park, ensures a comfortable stay. The park's commitment to maintenance, as evidenced by positive camper reviews, ensures a pleasant experience. For Marylanders seeking a conveniently located yet seemingly remote getaway that combines historical exploration, diverse outdoor activities, and the tranquility of a waterfront setting, Point Lookout State Park Campground is an unparalleled option that promises rich experiences for the whole family.

Camp Office

Maryland 20687, USA