Campgrounds near Fort Dupont Park provide access to wooded terrain in the urban setting of Washington DC and surrounding areas. Most sites operate seasonally from March through October, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak camping months. The region offers a mix of military-restricted and civilian camping options within 30-45 minutes of downtown DC attractions.
What to do
Hiking trails at Bull Run Regional Park: Located about 30 minutes from Fort Dupont Park, the park offers miles of wooded walking paths. "We stayed in a cabin on a long weekend trip to DC. This campground was full of stuff to do and we didn't even get to do a lot of it. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," notes Kenneth H. from Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Fishing and water activities: Multiple campgrounds near Fort Dupont Park provide waterfront access. "There is a pier out into the river to fish on. The outdoor recreation center has bait, snacks, and drinks," reports Jack R. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp. Military credentials are required for access to this facility.
Washington DC sightseeing: Campers can visit monuments and museums while staying at nearby campgrounds. "We stayed here for several nights while visiting Washington DC. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system," writes Mike H. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp. The proximity to public transportation allows campers to avoid driving into the city.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out in camper reviews across multiple rv parks near Fort Dupont Park. "I'll go again just for the showers. They're worth staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," shares Yvonne B. from Bull Run Regional Park.
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural setting despite proximity to urban areas. "Sites are very well spaced out and there are only 15 in the only camp loop. Sites are private with most having thick foliage and trees between them," writes Laure D. about Smallwood State Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Swimming pools and recreational areas add value for families. "This campground has so much to do. They have a nice pool and bathrooms. Very close to Washington DC. About 17 miles to the closest Rail station to bring you to the mall in Washington DC," explains Ken W. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. "Lake Fairfax Campground has sites largely in more of a meadow and not many are very wooded. Our site, 41, was level and nicely spaced from other sites but many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant," reports Erin W. about Lake Fairfax Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Several rv parks near Fort Dupont Park require additional equipment for leveling. "You really need a toad since supplies are not very close to the camping area. Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable," notes Mike H. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Transportation options: Public transit availability varies by location. "Take the METRO if you are going into the District. There are two stations very close to camp (Greenbelt and University Park). Rides vary depending on how far you are going but on average I spent about $10 per day on METRO versus $20-$40 on parking in the district area," advises Crystal C. from Greenbelt Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Several parks offer splash pads and swimming areas. "The park has a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish. This park has too many amenities to list. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," shares Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Playground access: Most family-oriented campgrounds include play structures. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails; wooded hikes with water along the trails, skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground, fishing, & canoeing. Best quality: totally in the woods so summer sun doesn't affect you," says Amy B. about Lake Fairfax Campground.
Educational opportunities: Historic sites near several campgrounds offer learning experiences. "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," notes Kenneth H. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend requesting specific areas within campgrounds. "Try and reserve row E if you need full hook up. Caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level," warns Cheryl D. about Cherry Hill Park.
Internet connectivity: Working remotely is possible at some locations. "I work full-time remote and the Verizon service was perfect with our hotspot. Only even slightly negative thing to say - If you have allergies, avoid spring. EVERYTHING outside was covered in a light haze of pollen," advises Ariel F. about Thousand Trails Harbor View.
Leveling preparation: Bring adequate leveling equipment for many sites in the region. "The sites are mostly level. Some long term guests occupy the back sites which have sewer. Almost all sites are pull through and are close together. Most have some tree cover (and some of the trees could use a trim along the roads)," writes Kristen M. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
