Pax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds
Open
— Open year-round. Reservations available through Recreation.gov. Military base access restricted to eligible patrons with valid ID cards. Gate 1 is open 24/7. Sponsors must submit documentation 14 days prior for unaffiliated guests.
About
Paradise Grove Campground is one of three campgrounds on Naval Air Station Patuxent River, located 55 miles south of Washington D.C. in Southern Maryland. The campground features 12 primitive tent-only sites with no hookups, positioned at the scenic confluence of the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay, offering exceptional sunrise and sunset views.
The installation provides extensive water recreation opportunities along approximately 12 miles of shoreline, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, motor and sailboat launches, fishing, and crabbing. Land-based recreation includes a 10-mile paved cycling loop within the installation and designated bike trails. Additional MWR facilities on base include a golf course, outdoor pool, marina, theater, auto hobby shop, and fitness center.
Access is restricted to military-eligible patrons: Active Duty, Reservists, Retired Military, Unremarried Widows, Veterans, and Department of Defense employees. All guests must have valid eligibility ID cards and pass through Gate 1 security. Sponsors may bring unaffiliated guests with proper documentation submitted 14 days in advance. The area is rich in American and Navy history, with nearby attractions including Historic St. Mary's City, Patuxent River Air Museum, Point Lookout State Park, and Solomon's Island.
Directions
From Washington D.C.: Take 295 S towards I-95/495, merge onto I-495 S, take exit 7A toward MD 5 S/Branch Ave, turn left onto Mattawoman Beantown Road, turn left onto MD 5 S/Leonardtown Road, continue on MD 235 to NAS Patuxent River Gate 1, Cedar Point Road.
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