Pax River Paradise Grove Campgrounds

Naval Airstation (Nas) Patuxent River

Visitors eligible for reservations at this location are limited to Active Duty, Reservists, Retired Military, Unremarried Widow, Veterans and Department of Defense employees. Learn more about eligible visitors and access to this military base recreation site.

A variety of recreational programs and facilities await you and your family at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, located just 55 miles south of Washington D.C. Situated at the confluence of the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay, this is an area rich in both American and Navy history and natural beauty. Part of the legacy of Southern Maryland may be found in the spacious, natural campsite areas aboard the installation.

• Tent Only Nonelectric

• Overnight

Notifications and Alerts

Fire restrictions are currently in effect that prohibit all fires, campfires, or stoves. These restrictions include gas and charcoal barbecues or grills.

Need to Know

MILITARY BASE ACCESS: Visitors eligible for reservations at this location are limited to Active Duty, Reservists, Retired Military, Unremarried Widow, Veterans and Department of Defense employees, and must have a valid eligibility ID card to check in for a reservation or to gain access to the facility. Gate 1 is open 24/7. Patrons can proceed to their campground but will be turned away at the gate if they do not have proper credentials.

GUEST RESTRICTIONS: To enter the military installation, guests must be in the same vehicle as the ID holder and remain with the ID holder at all times. NOTE: Please be sure to verify all policies/restrictions prior to arrival, they may vary based on the military installation and/or location. This may impact (but not limited to) certain guest eligibility such as DoD civilians, contractors, retired civilians, sponsors, foreign nationals, etc. Other restrictions may apply but are not listed.

NONAFFILIATED GUEST ACCESS: Visitors eligible for reservations at this location (Active Duty, Reservists, Retired Military, and Department of Defense employees) are authorized to sponsor nonaffiliated guests during their stay. It is imperative that package submission is provided no later than fourteen (14) days prior to your arrival date via email directly to the NASPAXRIV Pass and ID office. For more information please visit: MWR Pax River Camping
MWR Pax River Website
Fishing and Crabbing Information
Personal or commercial drone usage within the NAS Patuxent River Fence Line is prohibited

Natural Features

NAS Patuxent River Paradise Grove Campground is located where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Patuxent River, offering the best views for sunrises as well as sunsets

Nearby Attractions

• Historic St. Mary's City

• Patuxent River Air Museum

• Historic Sotterly

• St. Clement's Island

• Point Lookout State Park

• Solomon's Island

• Navy Recreation Center Solomons

Recreation

Water lovers will find that NAS Patuxent River stretches across approximately 12 miles of shoreline offering locations to launch kayaks, stand up paddle boards, motor and sail boats, places for fishing and crabbing as well as areas for the beach lovers.

Bicyclists will find a 10 mile paved loop within the installation as well as designated bike trails.

MWR also has a Golf Course, Outdoor Pool, Marina, Theater, Community Recreation Office, Auto Hobby Shop and Fitness Center.

Contact Information

Phone Number

For campground inquiries, please call: 301.342.3573

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Driving 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 on to Mattawoman Beantown Road, turn left onto MD 5 S/Leonardtown Road, continue on MD 235 to NAS Patuxent River Gate 1, cedar point road

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery

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