Camp Loop D

- X3JV+23, Riverdale, MD 20737

Welcome, Maryland residents, to a hidden gem right in your backyard: Camp Loop D. Nestled within the serene Greenbelt Park in Riverdale, MD, this campground offers a fantastic opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature without venturing far from home. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, Camp Loop D provides a convenient and welcoming environment for all to enjoy.

For those in Maryland, finding accessible and enjoyable outdoor spaces is key to balancing urban living with natural rejuvenation. Camp Loop D at Greenbelt Park perfectly fits this need, offering a genuine camping experience that feels miles away from the city, yet remains incredibly close for a spontaneous weekend getaway or a planned family adventure. It embodies the essence of a local escape, providing a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to embrace the tranquility of the outdoors.

Camp Loop D is ideally situated at X3JV+23, Riverdale, MD 20737, USA, placing it within the larger Greenbelt Park. This prime location offers an incredible advantage for Maryland locals, as it's just 10 miles from Washington, D.C. This proximity makes it an urban oasis, providing a quick and easy escape without the need for extensive travel. The campground is about two miles from the main park entrance on Greenbelt Road (Route 193), which passes over Route 201.

While the campground offers a sense of seclusion, it remains highly accessible. Paved roads and parking spurs within the camp provide good access for both cars and RVs, ensuring a smooth arrival. For those relying on public transportation, accessing nearby amenities is possible; grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants are approximately three miles from the campground. Public Wi-Fi access is available two miles away, and the Greenbelt Library, three miles distant, offers internet and computer access. However, visitors should be aware that finding the metro trail on the way back from the metro can be challenging, as some previous visitors have noted a lack of clear signage on the exit side. Planning your route in advance, especially for public transit users, is advisable.

Camp Loop D, as part of Greenbelt Park, provides a range of essential services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. While it is a primitive campground, focusing on the natural experience, key amenities are available.

• Camping Sites: The campground boasts a total of 172 sites, with Loop D specifically accommodating RVs up to 35 feet (including the tow vehicle) and tents. Each campsite includes a picnic table and a combination grill/campfire ring.
• Restroom Facilities: Flush toilets are available, providing a convenient and clean option for campers.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is accessible within the campground, ensuring you have a safe water supply for your stay.
• Hot Showers: For registered campers, hot showers are provided, allowing for a refreshing end to a day of outdoor activities.
• Dump Station: An onsite dump station is available for RVs, offering a practical solution for waste disposal.
• Staff On Site: Park rangers and campground hosts are available year-round to assist campers and ensure a smooth experience.
• Trash/Recycling Collection: Year-round trash and recycling collection services are provided, promoting cleanliness and environmental responsibility.
• Reservations: All campsite reservations must be made online; walk-in sites and cash/check payments are no longer accepted. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.

Camp Loop D and its surrounding Greenbelt Park offer a variety of features and highlights that enhance the camping experience, encouraging both relaxation and exploration.

• Wooded Urban Oasis: The campground is a beautiful, wooded park, providing a peaceful and serene environment that offers a true escape from city life.
• Hiking Trails: Ten miles of hiking trails meander through Greenbelt Park, including popular routes like the Perimeter, Azalea, Dogwood, and Blueberry Trails. These trails offer opportunities for leisurely strolls or more vigorous hikes, allowing campers to immerse themselves in nature.
• Picnic Areas: The Sweetgum Picnic Area, located 1.5 miles from the campground, features playground equipment and public picnic tables, making it an excellent spot for family outings.
• Campfire Programs: The park occasionally hosts campfire programs, providing an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, adding to the outdoor adventure.
• Proximity to D.C. Attractions: Being just 10 miles from Washington, D.C., campers have the unique opportunity to combine their nature escape with visits to the nation's capital and its many attractions.
• Affordability: Greenbelt Campground is known for its affordability, making it an accessible option for a wide range of campers.

While specific, ongoing promotional offers for Camp Loop D are not widely publicized, the National Park Service, which manages Greenbelt Park, emphasizes the affordability of camping here, especially given its close proximity to a major metropolitan area. The focus is on providing a cost-effective and accessible outdoor experience for the public. It is always recommended to check the Recreation.gov website or contact the campground directly for any potential seasonal discounts, group rates, or special event opportunities that might arise. Keep an eye on the official Greenbelt Park or National Park Service websites for any announcements regarding fee-free days or other public initiatives that could offer a reduced cost for access or camping.

For inquiries and reservations at Camp Loop D, part of Greenbelt Park:

• Address: X3JV+23, Riverdale, MD 20737, USA (Within Greenbelt Park, 6565 Greenbelt Road, Greenbelt, MD 20770)
• Phone Number: For campground inquiries, you can call (301) 344-3948.
• Reservations: Reservations must be made online via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Camp Loop D at Greenbelt Park is an exceptional destination for Maryland locals for a multitude of reasons. Its unparalleled proximity to urban centers like Riverdale and Washington, D.C., means that a genuine nature escape is never more than a short drive away. This convenience eliminates the need for extensive travel planning, making it perfect for spontaneous weekend trips or even a mid-week break. For families, individuals, and groups seeking an affordable and accessible outdoor adventure, Camp Loop D truly delivers.

Despite its urban surroundings, the campground maintains a remarkably peaceful and secluded atmosphere. The dense, wooded environment provides a sense of wilderness, allowing locals to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in nature's tranquility. The availability of essential amenities like hot showers, flush toilets, and potable water ensures a comfortable stay, even for those who prefer a less rustic camping experience. The well-maintained hiking trails offer an immediate opportunity to explore and appreciate the local flora and fauna, fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment.

While some past visitors have noted challenges with mosquito presence and finding the metro trail, these are minor considerations that can be easily managed with proper preparation (e.g., insect repellent) and prior route planning. The overall consensus highlights the campground's safety, affordability, and the welcoming hospitality of the National Park Service staff.

Ultimately, Camp Loop D offers Maryland residents a unique opportunity to experience the joys of camping, embrace outdoor activities, and create lasting memories without straying far from home. It's a testament to the fact that you don't need to travel cross-country to find a refreshing natural retreat; sometimes, the best adventures are found right in your own backyard.

Camp Loop D

X3JV+23, Riverdale, MD 20737, USA