Maryland State Fair
Wave goodbye to summer in the best way possible with an RV trip to the Maryland State Fair. Soak up the sights and sounds while traveling in luxury.
Event information
The Maryland State Fair at 2200 York Rd., Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland, has been around in one form or another since the mid-1800s. With over 200 years to perfect it, you won’t be surprised to find your visit to the Maryland State Fair Grounds is an enjoyable one.
Guests will encounter an abundance of things to do, see, and experience, including The Timonium Race Track, Horse Show Ring, Grand Stand, and Track Infield. The expansive paved and grass area is home to many different events and attractions throughout the year, but the Maryland State Fair is most certainly the highlight.
While this is not an RV-friendly event, that doesn’t mean you’re not welcome at the fair. There are multiple campgrounds and RV-friendly facilities within 25 miles of Lutherville-Timonium and exceptional public transport options as well. You can park, take the nearest light rail or bus, and enjoy what Maryland can offer.
This state fair in Maryland is all about education, agriculture, and bringing people together. However, in the mix are plenty of carnival rides, entertainment, music, and vendors with wares for sale. Bring cash, the family, and say goodbye to summer with an RV holiday of a lifetime.
Tickets
Admission ticket prices vary for adults, seniors, and children. Children under five are free, and you can refer to www.marylandstatefair.com for updated ticket prices. Your admission ticket does not gain you access to the rides and some activities. If you attend any of the concerts in the Racetrack Infield, you will need additional tickets for everyone age three and over.
However, if you are with the military, police, fire, or EMS, entry is free with your active ID. There are also multiple ticket options for food vendors and rides. Ride tickets are available at the various ride ticket booths throughout the midway.
Explore Maryland State Fair RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Driving to Lutherville-Timonium will be a leisurely experience, even with all the additional traffic on the road. Given the limited parking, you may find it more convenient to park at one of the multiple camping grounds within 25 miles of Lutherville-Timonium and set up camp before heading to the fair. You can then utilize the rail link and bus services to get to the fair or try private hire ride options.
Parking areas
There is limited paid parking available at the fairgrounds on Deereco Road, but determining park space sizes might be tricky. Contact the Maryland State Fair organizers to determine if your RV can be accommodated in day parking. There is also the option of parking at Park and Ride on Deereco Road, west of the fairgrounds, but size restrictions may apply.
Public Transportation
Given the sheer volume of the event and space restrictions, public transportation options are plentiful. You can set up camp at one of the proximate RV camps, then utilize the Light RailLink (train), LocalLink (bus), and private hire services. Both Light RailLink and LocalLink stops are a short walk from the fairgrounds entrance gate. This option is a preference over private vehicles by event organizers.
Where to stay
Onsite
Since onsite camping is permitted only for vendors of the Maryland State Fair, it is not available for the general public. A lack of available space means campers will need to find alternative RV accommodation in the Lutherville-Timonium area or nearby.
Nearby
Because there’s no onsite camping, you will need to look further afield for where you can park your RV during your stay. Lutherville-Timonium is central to many larger towns, with camping facilities dotted around the wider Maryland area. While you may need to arrange transportation from your campsite to the fair, it adds to the excitement of your holiday.
Getting around
The small size of the State Fair means that getting around it on foot is entirely manageable. There will not be any golf carts or shuttles on site, but there is also no need for them. It may be best to leave your bikes and scooters secured at your campsite. Wheelchairs are available to hire for guests with disabilities.
What to pack
Clothing
With summer on its way out, it’s bound to get a little breezy and cool both during the day and at night. You will also be a fair distance from your RV while at the fair, meaning you won’t be able to shoot back at a moment’s notice to alter your outfit. Take a jacket and layers you can remove if you get too hot. You’ll need to wrap up warm at night as well.
Gear
You will be able to bring bags smaller than the regulated sizes into the fair, as well as coolers that fit the size dimensions. All medical equipment such as oxygen tanks are allowed, but child diaper bags should be clear, if possible. Drones, alcohol, fireworks, weapons (including mace or pepper spray), selfie-sticks, duffle bags, Segways, and hoverboards are not allowed. Bring cash with you, and don’t forget your cooking equipment for back in your RV!
Health & Safety
Even though summer is on its last legs, you will still see a decent need for sunscreen. Bring all your medical supplies with you in a small bag, and ensure you have plenty of drinking water. If you plan on handling or touching any of the animals at the fair, make use of the handwashing facilities dotted around the Maryland State Fair.
Where to eat
Cooking
As you will not be able to camp at the Maryland State Fair, the cooking rules and regulations differ depending on where you stay. Most RV campsites provide service hookups to allow you full advantage of your onboard cooking facilities. If you lack ingredients, the township of Lutherville-Timonium has markets for you to stock up.
Restaurants
Lutherville-Timonium may be small, but it’s not short of dining establishments. If you couldn’t eat one more bite of a corn dog or cotton candy, then you have options galore in the town center. Take your pick of fast food, intimate dining establishments, and family-friendly restaurants within proximity to the fairgrounds.
Vendors
This annual fair never fails to deliver on its eclectic mix of vendors. Get a taste of all different cuisines, while even having the opportunity to do a spot of shopping while you’re there. If you want a convenient way of purchasing food and beverages, you can buy both food and carnival ride tickets at various booths around the grounds.
Safety
Security
Maryland State Fair staff take guest safety and security seriously. Once fair-goers enter through the gate, they agree to backpack and wand searches, as well as abiding by all security rules. Non-permitted items include drones, weapons, and selfie sticks. Protests, vigils, and demonstrations are also prohibited at the fairgrounds.
Weather
At the end of August, temperatures tend to be in the high 80s, but it’s not uncommon for them to drop back to mid-60s when fall begins in September. Weather extremes on your travels to Lutherville-Timonium are a bit less likely this time of year, but always check traffic feeds and weather apps to ensure you’re up to speed as you travel.
Medical
If you have any medical conditions that require care during the day, you may want to check fair regulations for what you might need in preparation. Don’t forget to bring the related items with you as you travel for simplicity during your trip. Contact Maryland State Fair officials if you need assistance while at the fair. Lutherville-Timonium has a medical center near the fairgrounds if needed.
