Just four months into the 2012 camping season and we have been out on two very successful adventures.  The first combined the Monument Ave 10k road race with a stay at Pocahontas State Park.  That little run/race outing was so much fun Michele and I found another running event we could combine with camping.  Little over two weeks later and we were on the road to Waldorf, Maryland and the Saint Charles Running Festival. 

We have friends who live in Waldorf and our first thought was to drive-way camp at their place, but when that plan fell apart we hit the net looking for a nice place to cast our truck camper anchor.  And where did we end up…Cedarville State Forest, part of the Maryland Park Service.  And like Pocahontas this state run camp ground did not disappoint.  

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources web site made finding and reserving a camping spot a breeze.  The Piscataway Indian Tribe made this section of Southern Maryland its winter camping ground because of the mild climate and abundance of game.  And for us the location and up keep of the grounds was perfect.  There are 27 spots in the family camping area and although they appeared a bit small for some of the larger rigs, our truck camper felt right at home.  If you were to ask us what we liked best about camping so far, it would be that we can take our faithful, loving puppy Hanna along with us.

Friday night we arrived after dinner and began setting up camp.  Once at the park we realized we forgot to grab a bite to eat on the ride up, we were very happy to find a local pizza shop who delivered.  Another great surprise was that while we were setting up we noticed the park staff made frequent rounds around the camp making sure everyone was well suited and safe.  The staff and camp hosts were great people, we felt welcomed.

One of the features that Michele and I really liked about Cedarville was that each camping site was nestled into a little wooden cutout.  The treed lots were equipment with fire rings, picnic tables and surrounded by mature natural trees.  The sites offered electric , but no water or sewer hook ups.  With a full load of water and empty holding tanks we had no problem operating all weekend.

 Saturday was race day and the FIRST time we would separate the camper from the dually.  I really wanted to practice this before being out on the road, but because of a busy schedule and just plain forgetting about it, Saturday would be the first time.  I have to admit I was pretty nervous about this…I could just see not being able to mate the rig back up.  Once the truck was out from under the camper we headed to the race site. 

The race was held at the local semi-pro baseball stadium (Southern Maryland Bluecrabs), which offered a nice setting and opening day festivities.  After the race we hung out for a bit, got our picture taken, had a free beer and then headed out.  Michele and I both had a very successful race, she walked the 5k leg (3.1 miles) and I ran the 10 miler.  It was a prefect day to be outside and we both turned in good times, myself setting a personal best by more then 6 minutes over a very hilly course.  

After the race we used our Chik-Fil-A coupons and had a great lunch for only 6 bucks!  After our bellies were full of the chicken recommend by our favorite cows, we then headed back to camp.  While out we picked up some odds and ends including my favorite camp item.....marshmallows.  Back in the park we stopped along the road to score some free firewood.   The roads within the state park are well cared for and if it had not been that I had just run 10 miles, I would have loved to have gone pound some pavement.  Back at our site, Michele and I began to put our home on wheels back together again.  And I’m glad to report we did it on the first try and without a harsh word.