Across the East Bay from the capital city, Annapolis, Maryland, Martinak State Park is a standout place to visit to escape the busy Washington metropolitan area. Tucked away near the small town of Denton and on the banks of the Choptank River and Watts Creek, this small state park is quiet and beautiful — an excellent home base for exploring this more rural side of Maryland.
Activities and Amenities in Martinak State Park
Water activities are the largest draw to Martinak State Park. Bring your own boat or kayak and take advantage of the excellent fishing (with a Chesapeake Bay fishing license for anyone over 16 years old). There are a few canoes available to rent on-site, as well as some stand-up paddleboards. If the weather allows, feel free to get in at the day-use beach area.
Land lovers will have plenty to do as well. The nature trails offer stunning views of hardwood and pine forests and panoramic picture opportunities. Biking and horseback riding is also allowed. Everyone in your camping group will find a fun way to unwind in this low-key East Bay area state park. Children will enjoy the playground and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Make at least a weekend out of your visit and camp within the park to wake up in this shady getaway less than 75 miles from Baltimore.
RV Camping In Martinak State Park
Set back a short way from the water are two main loops for campers. There are 63 total campsites plus six cabins that are also available to rent. Thirty of the sites have electric hookups (only) and are good for most sizes of RVs. Big rigs beware, as there are a few tight turns when maneuvering around the campground, but even 50-foot fifth wheels will find at least a couple of sites that will work.
Each of the campsites, including the primitive ones, can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs — be sure to specify exactly the size of your vehicle when booking a campsite. Be sure to reserve online to make sure you get the site that works best for your group’s needs. A dump station is available on-site as well as flushable toilets and accessible showers.
When To Visit Martinak State Park
The best time to plan your trip is any time between spring and autumn. Autumn brings the additional wow factor of the leaves changing color against the backdrop of the water. From November through March, Martinak State Park weather could be a little too chilly for the average camper. By April, average temperatures have climbed back into the mid-60s in the daytime, and nighttime lows hover in the 40s, making for perfect nights for cozy evenings around a campfire or inside the RV.
The state park is busiest from mid-August to October, so plan for more crowds when exploring the park’s many activities and events. Summer temperatures are in the 80s on average, with much cooler nights. In the off-season, this quiet park is peaceful and serene. The fishing is easier, too, with significantly less competition.
See More of the Area
If you want to see more of the quaint waterside towns in Maryland east of the East Bay, there are plenty of other areas to camp nearby. If the campgrounds at Martinak State Park are already full for the weekend, check out the neighboring state park for more options.
Tuckahoe State Park is located less than 15 miles northwest of Martinak State park and also contains fishing and boating opportunities as well as an archery range and trails. There is an electric and non-electric loop with more than 55 campsites for tents, pop-ups, and RVs. It’s a bit larger than Martinak and offers additional amenities such as mountain biking and a disc golf course.
Relax in Comfort and Style With Cruise America
For a first camper’s weekend getaway or a bit longer to decompress on and near the water, Martinak State Park is a gem. Hop in your RV and make yourself at home in the large, flat campsites along the Choptank River. If you don’t have your own, pick up an RV rental from Cruise America located conveniently just north in Elkton, MD, west near Baltimore, or visit a location nearer to you.
Cruise America is always ready to help you pick out the perfect-sized RV for your needs online at CruiseAmerica.com. Visit today to see your options for layouts in the RV that will become your home on wheels for days or weeks.
