Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camp Ground

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Hello, Maryland locals! If you're involved with a youth organization, a community group, or simply looking for a dedicated space to foster outdoor experiences and teamwork, the Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camp Ground in Annapolis offers a unique opportunity. Unlike a traditional public campground for individual families or RVs, this specific section of the popular Sandy Point State Park is exclusively designed for organized youth and adult groups affiliated with recognized non-profit or community organizations. It’s a fantastic resource right here in Maryland for building camaraderie, experiencing nature, and making lasting memories with your group.

Located with rustic views overlooking the magnificent Chesapeake Bay, the Youth Group Camp Ground provides a dedicated, safe, and engaging environment. While the broader Sandy Point State Park is famous for its beaches, fishing, and iconic views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, the Youth Group Camp Ground focuses on providing essential amenities and a natural setting for educational and recreational group activities. It’s a place where young people can connect with the outdoors, learn valuable skills, and enjoy the beauty of Maryland's coastal landscape.

The Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camp Ground is situated within the larger Sandy Point State Park, located at Annapolis, MD 21409, USA. This prime location at the foot of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge offers stunning views of the Bay and provides easy access to the numerous attractions within the park itself. For Maryland residents, its proximity to Annapolis and major routes makes it a highly accessible destination for organized groups.

The park is open year-round (excluding Christmas Day) from 7 a.m. to sunset. During the "Lights on the Bay" program (mid-November to early January), hours adjust slightly. Access to the park is generally straightforward, though it's important for groups to be aware of the specific entrance procedures. While state pass holders might encounter issues with automatic entrances, staff at the tollgate can assist. The youth group camping sites are described as rustic and overlook the Chesapeake Bay, providing a scenic backdrop for group activities.

The Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camp Ground is tailored for organized groups, prioritizing basic amenities and a natural setting for their activities.

• Designated Group Camping Sites: The park has two dedicated Youth Group Camping sites. These sites are exclusively for official youth groups affiliated with recognized non-profit or community organizations.
• Tent Space: The sites primarily provide space for tents, making them ideal for traditional group camping experiences.
• Covered Picnic Shelter: Each site includes a covered pavilion with picnic tables, offering shelter from the elements and a designated area for meals and group gatherings.
• Barbecue Grill and Fire Pit: Essential for outdoor cooking and campfire activities, each site is equipped with a barbecue grill and a fire pit.
• Restrooms and Outside Showers: Basic restroom facilities and outside showers are available, providing necessary conveniences for campers.
• Minimum and Maximum Capacity: Each youth group campsite can accommodate a minimum of eight people and a maximum of 30 people, ensuring sufficient space for most group sizes.
• Proximity to Park Amenities: While the youth campground itself offers basic amenities, groups have access to the wider Sandy Point State Park's facilities, including public restrooms, bathing facilities (bathhouses with showers near the beach), picnic areas, and playgrounds.

It is important to note that specific rules apply to these sites, including no pets and no alcohol.

• Exclusive Group Camping Experience: The primary highlight is its dedicated nature. This campground is "strictly for official youth groups only," providing a focused and secure environment for organizations like Scouts, Boys & Girls Clubs, church groups, and other community organizations. This exclusivity fosters a strong sense of group identity and purpose.
• Scenic Chesapeake Bay Overlooks: The rustic camping sites offer beautiful views overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. This natural backdrop enhances the outdoor experience, providing opportunities for scenic appreciation and connection with one of Maryland's most iconic natural treasures.
• Ideal for Outdoor Education and Team Building: With its focus on youth groups, the campground is perfectly suited for outdoor education, leadership development, and team-building activities. The basic facilities encourage self-reliance and cooperation, aligning with the objectives of many youth programs.
• Access to Sandy Point State Park Attractions: While the campground itself is rustic, groups have full access to the broader Sandy Point State Park amenities. This includes a mile of sandy beach for swimming (in designated areas), 22 boat ramps for water access, fishing and crabbing piers, short hiking trails, and picnic areas. The park is also famous for hosting annual events like "Lights on the Bay," providing additional recreational opportunities (check park schedules for event dates).
• Affordable Group Camping (with Youth Group Pass): For eligible Maryland youth groups, camping at these sites can be very affordable, with charges sometimes being $0 with a valid Maryland Park Service Youth Group Pass (required). This makes it an accessible option for many organizations.

For the Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camp Ground, the key "special offer" is the Maryland Park Service Youth Group Pass. This biennial (valid for two years) pass entitles eligible youth groups to free day-use entry into Maryland state parks (excluding weekends and holidays from Memorial Day through Labor Day) and, crucially, allows them to camp in designated youth group areas like Sandy Point, subject to site availability.

To avail of this, groups must:

• Possess a valid Maryland Park Service Youth Group Pass.
• Make a reservation in advance.
• Meet specific criteria, such as being an organized youth or adult group affiliated with a recognized non-profit or community organization, with priority given to youth groups where over half its members are under 18 years of age.
• Adhere to a minimum ratio of one adult supervisor for every five youth members.

While individual camping fees apply for day-use visitors to Sandy Point State Park (e.g., $5/person on weekends/holidays from May-Sept), the Youth Group Pass significantly reduces the cost for eligible groups. It’s important to note that the pass does not cover special facility service charges like shelters or boat concessions. Groups are encouraged to apply for the Youth Group Pass in advance, as processing takes time.

To reserve a site at the Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camp Ground or for more detailed information, organized groups should use the following contact methods:

• Address: Annapolis, MD 21409, USA (within Sandy Point State Park)
• Reservations Phone: 1-888-432-CAMP (2267)

Groups can make youth group camping reservations online via the Maryland State Parks reservation website (parkreservations.maryland.gov) or by calling the reservation service. It's essential to have a valid Maryland Park Service Youth Group Pass to book these sites. For inquiries about the pass application process or general park information, it's advisable to contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources or the Sandy Point State Park headquarters directly.

For Maryland locals involved in youth development, community leadership, or outdoor education, the Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camp Ground is an invaluable resource. Its exclusive nature means it's specifically tailored to the needs of organized groups, providing a safe and structured environment for young people to connect with nature and each other. This is crucial for fostering teamwork, building character, and instilling an appreciation for Maryland’s natural heritage.

The camp's prime location on the Chesapeake Bay, with its rustic views and access to all the amenities of Sandy Point State Park, offers a comprehensive outdoor experience right in our backyard. From swimming and fishing to hiking and enjoying the famous "Lights on the Bay," there's a wealth of activities to enrich any group's stay. Furthermore, the affordability offered through the Maryland Park Service Youth Group Pass makes this a highly accessible option for many local non-profits and community organizations. For Marylanders passionate about youth development and outdoor adventure, this dedicated campground at Sandy Point State Park is a perfect venue for making impactful and memorable experiences close to home.

Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camp Ground

Annapolis, MD 21409, USA