Camp Springs, MD

Today, the intersection of Old Branch Avenue and Allentown Road is a major intersection boasting gas stations and businesses. But in the early 1800s, this was the location of a small settlement named Allentown, after a prominent family who owned a large chunk of land. Because of the village's location between DC and Fort Meade (then called Annapolis Junction), soldiers frequently passed through the area during the Civil War. They often set up camp in the area because of the beautiful weather and the local springs. As a result, the area was often referred to as "Camp Springs."

The area remained rather rural until Andrews AFB was built next door in 1945. Soon, the area was "discovered," not only for its location next to the base but also due to its close proximity to DC. Many of the homes in Camp Springs were built during this time, between 1950 and 1960.

Some of the nation's most-loved historic sites and museums are a short Metro ride away in DC. The Smithsonian alone should keep you busy for weeks. The museum is free and open every day except Christmas. The Smithsonian is the largest museum in the world, consisting of nine museums, galleries, and the National Zoo. Museums include the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of Natural History. Other great locations include the Washington Monument, the National Mall, the White House, the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the US Capitol building.

Living just a half an hour from the spectacular Chesapeake Bay, you'll enjoy a bevy of amazing restaurants when you move to a Camp Springs apartment. Famous for its blue crabs, clams, and oysters, the Chesapeake Bay provides fresh seafood for the entire region. Do yourself a favor and head into DC and try the Pearl Dive Oyster Palace, the Oceanaire Seafood Room, or the BlackSalt Fish Market and Restaurant.

When you want something closer to home, several neighborhood restaurants will quickly rank among your favorite go-to places. Topolino Italian Cuisine and Buffet offers pizza, pasta, seafood, and an Italian buffet that includes items like manicotti, pizza, tortellini, and mussels. Head south of Camp Springs to neighboring Clinton to enjoy the crab cakes at Fish Market Restaurant.

For a night out, head to DC and enjoy some of the local hotspots like the Park at Fourteenth or Ultrabar. If you prefer a more refined night out, attend the Washington Ballet or catch a performance at Lincoln Theatre.

The best way to get from Camp Springs to Washington DC is by train -- the Green and Red Metro lines will take you into Downtown DC in half an hour. The Branch Avenue Station is located on Old Soper Road. To travel throughout Prince George County, TheBus operates 29 bus routes, including routes to Prince George's Community College, the Town Centre Station, National Harbor, and Capital Crossing.

If you want to drive, take Highway 5 or I-495. Sidewalks frame most of the roadways for those who prefer to walk to local stores and restaurants.

A variety of parks and undeveloped green space surround Camp Springs, including Tinkers Creek Stream Valley Park, the Camp Springs Recreation Center, Old Branch Park, and Woodberry Forest Recreation Center. Henson Creek Park is on the west side of the neighborhood, extending southwest and following the creek. Henson Creek Trail follows the creek, extending 5.7 miles. This paved trail is ideal for jogging, walking, bicycling, and in-line skating. Horseback riding is available along the trail's grassy shoulder.

Just south of Camp Springs, Piscataway Creek Stream Valley Park contains hiking trails, a lake, tennis courts, the Clearwater Nature Center, and sports fields. For terrific waterfront parks, try heading west to the Potomac River. Here, you'll discover the Oxon Cove Park and Oxon Hill Farm, a large park featuring the Oxon Farm Trail, a 19th-century plantation, and a living history farm with hands-on exhibits and animals.

Comparable to most of Maryland, apartments in Camp Springs rent for an average of $1,649. Homes cost slightly less on average at $247,000 (compared to Maryland's average of $280,000). The largest employer in Camp Springs is Andrews AFB. In Prince George County, the largest employers include the University System of Maryland, the US Department of Agriculture, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the IRS, and the Census Bureau.

For local shops and restaurants, Camp Springs has two shopping centers. Allentown Way Shopping Center contains grocery stores, an art gallery, an interior design store, and other specialty shops. Padgetts Corner Shopping Center contains a Giant Food, a CVS Pharmacy, and an Apex Beauty Supply. Just outside the neighborhood in Gordons Corner, you'll find Iverson Mall and the Marlow Heights Shopping Center. The mall contains a Burlington Coat Factory, GNC, Shoe City, and more. Marlow Heights has a MAC Cosmetics, Macy's, Dockers, and Nautica.

Head eight miles west of Camp Springs along I-495 and you'll arrive at the Tanger Outlet National Harbor. Here, you'll find outlet stores for high-end brands, including Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Oakley Vault, Fossil Outlet Store, Under Armour Factory House, and Brooks Brothers Outlet.

More extensive shopping is available in DC -- just hop the Metro and head downtown for a fun day of shopping the unique art galleries, boutiques, and shops.