Quiet Waters Park Camping Guide 2025

Quiet Waters Park might not be the first name that pops up when you think of camping getaways, but that’s exactly why we’d recommend it. Nestled in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, this peaceful gem offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience compared to bigger state parks. It’s not a vast wilderness—there are no backcountry hikes or high-altitude views—but the beauty of Quiet Waters lies in its simplicity: wooded trails, scenic views of the South River, open fields, and tranquil coves perfect for kayaking.

If you’re looking for a low-key weekend camping trip that’s close to home (especially if you’re near Annapolis or D.C.), Quiet Waters Park is a solid pick. While it’s mostly known for its walking trails, picnic areas, and art gallery, the park also offers limited but special camping opportunities through its group site bookings and seasonal programs. It’s ideal for families, small gatherings, or folks who want a quiet night outdoors without straying too far from civilization.

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How to Get There

Getting to Quiet Waters Park is refreshingly simple. It’s located just outside the historic city of Annapolis, Maryland—roughly 35 miles from Washington, D.C., and about 30 miles from Baltimore. The park entrance is off Hillsmere Drive, just south of Forest Drive/MD Route 665.

If you’re coming from the D.C. or Baltimore area, hop on Route 50 and take the Aris T. Allen Blvd exit (MD-665) toward Annapolis. From there, follow signs to Forest Drive and turn onto Hillsmere Drive. The main entrance is well marked and easy to find.

Parking is convenient and plentiful near the park’s main facilities, and there’s designated parking close to the camping areas, depending on the program or group site you’re using. While it’s not a drive-in style campsite where you park right next to your tent, access isn’t a big hassle—you’ll typically walk a short distance on well-maintained paths to reach your site.

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Permits and Fees

Quiet Waters Park doesn’t offer traditional individual campsites you can reserve like a typical state park. Instead, camping here is usually available through group reservations, special events, or seasonal programs offered by the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks. You’ll want to check their current calendar or reach out directly to see what’s available during the time you plan to visit.

Here’s what you’ll generally need to know:

• Entrance Fee: There’s a daily entrance fee of $6 per vehicle for county residents and $7 for non-residents (as of the 2025 update). Walk-ins and bikers pay a lower fee.
• Camping Permit: For group camping, you’ll need to book in advance and get a special permit through the county’s website or by calling the park office. Fees vary depending on group size and duration.
• Pavilions or Field Use: If your group needs a covered area or open field near the campsite, those typically require a separate reservation and fee.

There are no camping options for solo or dispersed campers at this time, and permits are required for any overnight stay within park boundaries.

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Camping Rules and Regulations

Camping at Quiet Waters is intentionally limited to protect the park’s environment and preserve its peaceful setting. It’s more structured than what you’ll find in national forests or wilderness areas, but that also means it’s safer and more beginner-friendly.

Here are a few key things to know:

• No dispersed camping: All camping must take place in designated group areas or as part of an approved program. Setting up your own tent anywhere in the park is not allowed.
• Group size: Group camping sites typically accommodate anywhere from 10 to 30 people. If you’re organizing something larger, you’ll need additional approval and possibly extra fees.
• Fires: Campfires are only allowed in provided fire rings or grills. You’re not allowed to gather firewood from the park, so we’d suggest bringing your own or buying locally. Fire bans may apply during dry spells, so always check with park staff before lighting anything.
• Leave No Trace: This one’s important. Quiet Waters takes environmental protection seriously. That means packing out all trash, sticking to established trails, and avoiding any damage to trees, plants, or wildlife.
• Quiet Hours: From 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., the park enforces quiet hours. Generators, loud music, or rowdy behavior won’t go over well here. It’s a peaceful setting, and the vibe is definitely more nature-focused than party-centered.

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Best Camping Spots and Recommendations

Because camping here is limited to group use, you don’t have dozens of spots to choose from—but the available areas are thoughtfully placed and well-kept. The main group camping area is located near the back of the park, offering a nice mix of shade, open space, and nearby amenities like restrooms and picnic tables.

Here’s what we’d recommend depending on your preferences:

• For more privacy: Ask about the woodland edge group areas. These are slightly set back from the main trail loops and offer a more “in the woods” feel without being remote.
• For accessibility: Some group sites are closer to paved trails and facilities, which is great if you’ve got kids, older guests, or need to transport a lot of gear. It’s a short walk from the parking area.
• For sunrise or sunset views: While camping directly on the waterfront isn’t permitted, some sites are just a short walk from scenic overlooks along the South River. We always recommend an early morning stroll for the sunrise—it’s quiet and stunning.
• Typical crowd levels: Since camping is limited to pre-arranged groups, you won’t be packed in next to strangers. Most weekends, the park itself sees moderate use, but you’ll still get plenty of space to relax if your group books ahead.

One thing to keep in mind—Quiet Waters isn’t about wild backcountry adventure. It’s more of a hybrid: peaceful, accessible, and great for connecting with nature in a structured environment. We think it’s perfect for families, casual campers, and anyone looking to unplug without roughing it too much.

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Hiking Trails and Routes

One of the things we really appreciate about Quiet Waters Park is how easy it is to explore on foot. The park offers over 6 miles of well-maintained trails, and they’re all fairly easy-going—perfect for casual walks or short day hikes. You won’t find steep climbs or rocky scrambles here, which makes it ideal if you’re camping with kids or just looking for a low-key outdoor experience.

There are two main paved loops:

• The Red Trail (Perimeter Trail) circles the park and offers access to several scenic overlooks, including views of Harness Creek and the South River.
• The Blue Trail (Cross Park Trail) connects major parts of the park like the visitor center, dog beach, and playgrounds.

If you’re looking for a bit more solitude, the natural surface trails that branch off into the wooded sections of the park are worth exploring. These paths are soft underfoot, shaded, and surprisingly quiet, even on weekends. We’d recommend downloading a park map or snapping a photo of the trail kiosk at the entrance—it’s easy to stay oriented here, but it’s still good to have a general route in mind.

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Packing List and Gear Guide

Camping at Quiet Waters doesn’t require heavy-duty gear, but a little preparation goes a long way—especially since you’ll be walking your equipment into the group site. Here’s what we’d suggest bringing:

Essentials:

• Tent with good ventilation – Maryland summers can get muggy, and a breezy setup makes a difference.
• Tarp or ground cloth – Keeps your tent floor dry and protected, especially after rain.
• Headlamp or flashlight – Trails are not lit after dark, and it’s easy to lose track of your gear at night.
• Bug spray and citronella candles – Mosquitoes can be relentless, especially near wooded and marshy areas.
• Camping chairs and table – Group sites may not include picnic tables, so having your own setup adds comfort.
• Portable camp stove or grill – Fires are allowed only in designated rings, and a stove gives you flexibility if you don’t want to rely on firewood.

Water gear and storage tips:

• 5-gallon water container or collapsible jug – There are no potable water hookups at most camping areas, so you’ll need to bring your own or plan to haul it from home.
• Cooler with ice packs – Essential if you’re staying overnight and want to keep perishables safe.
• Dry bags or plastic bins – Keeps food and gear dry in case of rain.

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Water and Food Tips

One important thing to plan ahead for: Quiet Waters Park doesn’t offer potable water at the group camping areas. This means you’ll need to bring enough clean water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Depending on how many people are in your group and how long you’re staying, that can add up quickly. For a single night, we usually estimate at least 1 gallon per person.

You won’t need a filtration system like you would in wilderness camping, but we’d still recommend having backup options like water purification tablets or a gravity filter if you’re unsure about availability during special events.

As for food, pack like you’re picnic-camping—simple, easy-to-prep meals tend to work best. Think sandwiches, pasta salad, grilled items, and snacks. You can’t rely on nearby stores once you’re inside the park, so double-check your list before heading out.

To keep wildlife away and your food safe, store everything in sealable containers or coolers and clean up thoroughly after meals. Raccoons and squirrels are frequent visitors, especially at night. Don’t leave food or trash out—zip it up and stash it in a bin or car.

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Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips

Quiet Waters Park is open year-round, but some months are more enjoyable than others depending on your camping preferences.

Spring (April–May):
Mild temperatures and blooming trees make this one of the best times to visit. Just be ready for spring rain and bring waterproof gear.

Summer (June–August):
The park gets more visitors, especially during school breaks, but camping is still peaceful since overnight stays are limited. Expect heat, humidity, and mosquitoes. Afternoon thunderstorms are common—make sure your tent is rain-ready.

Fall (September–October):
Arguably the best time for camping here. The weather is crisp, the bugs taper off, and the foliage along the trails is beautiful. October weekends can book fast for group activities, so it’s wise to plan ahead.

Winter (November–March):
The park is quiet, and you’ll find solitude on the trails. That said, overnight camping isn’t as common in colder months, and the park may close areas due to ice or snow. Check ahead if you’re thinking about a cold-season visit.

We always suggest packing a lightweight rain jacket, quick-dry layers, and an extra blanket or sleeping bag liner if temperatures are expected to drop at night.

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Safety and Navigation

Quiet Waters isn’t remote wilderness, but it’s still smart to take a few safety precautions—especially since camping is more self-guided here.

• Cell service is generally reliable throughout the park, but it can get spotty in some wooded areas.
• Maps and signage are clear, and trails are well-marked. Still, we’d recommend keeping a photo of the trail map on your phone or bringing a printed one, just in case.
• Emergency access is available, but park rangers are not on-site 24/7. If you need help, call 911 or the Anne Arundel County Parks emergency line—keep that number saved before your trip.
• First-aid basics like bandages, bug bite cream, and pain relievers should be in your daypack.
• Let someone know your group’s general schedule, especially if you’re staying overnight.

Even though you’re close to town, it still pays to be prepared. And in our view, that kind of thoughtfulness makes the whole camping experience smoother and more relaxing.

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Leave No Trace Principles

If there’s one thing we really want to emphasize about camping at Quiet Waters Park, it’s this: respect the space. This park is loved for its peaceful trails, wildlife, and quiet woods—and we all play a part in keeping it that way. Following the Leave No Trace principles here isn’t just a good idea, it’s essential.

Here are a few practical ways to leave no trace at Quiet Waters:

• Pack it in, pack it out: Whatever you bring—including trash, food scraps, and packaging—should leave with you. There are trash bins near parking areas, but not at the campsites, so bring a bag and keep it sealed.
• Stay on trails: Cutting through brush or stepping off marked paths might seem harmless, but it damages plant life and encourages others to do the same.
• Respect wildlife: You’ll probably spot deer, squirrels, and tons of birds. Watch quietly from a distance and never feed them—even crumbs can cause long-term harm.
• Camp on durable surfaces: If you’re staying at the designated group campsite, use the established tent areas and fire rings. Don’t trample fresh vegetation trying to find a “better spot.”
• Minimize campfire impact: Fires are allowed only in park-provided fire rings, and you’ll need to bring your own firewood—collecting sticks or branches in the park isn’t permitted.
• Leave what you find: Whether it’s a wildflower, cool rock, or feather—snap a photo, but leave it in place.

By following these habits, you’re helping preserve this beautiful space for other visitors—and for yourself, if you come back.

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Nearby Attractions

If you have some extra time around your camping trip, there are a few nearby places we’d definitely recommend checking out:

• Annapolis Historic District – Just 10 minutes away, the downtown area is full of charming streets, colonial architecture, and good local eats. The Naval Academy and waterfront are especially scenic.
• Quiet Waters Dog Beach – If you’re traveling with your dog, this is a huge bonus. It’s leash-free, and dogs love splashing around in the shallow water.
• South River Overlook – Within the park itself, this quiet viewpoint is a great spot to catch a sunrise or just relax before packing up.
• Great Frogs Winery – A local vineyard just a short drive from the park, perfect for unwinding after your camping trip (if you’re not heading home right away).
• Thomas Point Park & Lighthouse Viewpoint – A lovely spot to extend your outdoor time, with gorgeous views of the Chesapeake Bay.

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Suggested Itineraries

Whether you’re fitting in a quick overnighter or planning a longer stay, we’ve got a couple trip suggestions to help you make the most of Quiet Waters Park.

One-Night Quick Trip

• Pack light: Bring a small tent, water jugs, simple food (sandwiches, trail mix, pre-made meals), flashlight, bug spray, and a folding chair.
• Arrive early afternoon: Set up camp at the group site, walk a few of the nearby trails, and catch the sunset at the South River overlook.
• Dinner & downtime: Use the provided fire ring (with your own firewood), or bring a portable stove for a quick hot meal. Enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.
• Morning hike: Pack up after a short trail walk or coffee by the fire. You’ll be back home by noon.

2–3 Night Adventure

• Pack a bit more: Along with basics, bring a small cooler, a camp table, daypacks, a few changes of clothes, and perhaps a hammock.
• Explore more: Use one full day for trail walking and biking inside the park. Day two can include a trip into Annapolis or a visit to the dog beach.
• Meals: Bring a two-burner stove or grill and prep easy meals like eggs and toast, grilled wraps, or one-pot pasta.
• Relax and reset: This longer trip gives you the chance to truly disconnect without being far from the comforts of town if you need anything.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp overnight at Quiet Waters Park?

Yes, but it’s limited. Camping is only available at designated group campsites, and you’ll need a reservation through Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks. It’s not a traditional campground—you won’t find RV hookups or individual sites.

Are fires allowed at the campsites?

Fires are allowed only in the fire rings provided at the group sites. You’ll need to bring your own firewood, and gathering sticks or brush from the park is not permitted.

Is there drinking water at the campsites?

No. The group camping area does not have potable water, so we recommend bringing at least one gallon of water per person, per day.

Can you bring your dog camping?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Quiet Waters Park, including the campgrounds, as long as they are leashed. The dog beach is a bonus if you’re camping with a pet.

Is Quiet Waters Park safe for solo or family campers?

Generally, yes. The park is well-maintained and in a safe area. That said, it’s still important to be mindful: let someone know your plans, bring a charged phone, and carry a basic first-aid kit.

Are there restrooms or showers available?

There are bathroom facilities in the park, but not at the camping sites themselves. You’ll need to walk or drive to the nearest comfort station during park hours. There are no showers.

Can you camp in an RV or car?

No. Quiet Waters Park does not allow RV or vehicle camping. The group campsites are walk-in only—plan to carry your gear from the parking area.

Do you need a special permit to camp here?

Yes. You’ll need to reserve the group site in advance through Anne Arundel County Parks. There is a fee, and the site must be booked for groups of 10 or more, even if fewer people show up.

How crowded does the park get on weekends?

During spring and fall, weekends can get fairly busy with weddings, events, and dog walkers. However, since camping is limited to the group site, you’ll still have plenty of peace and space if you book in advance.

What’s the best time of year to camp here?

We’d recommend early fall (September–October) or late spring (May–early June). Temperatures are mild, bugs are fewer, and the scenery is at its best.