Equestrian camping options remain scarce near Brinklow, Maryland, an area located 25 miles north of Washington DC at approximately 500 feet elevation. The region features rolling hills with mixed forest and open meadow terrain typical of central Maryland. Winters can be cold with occasional snow while summers are hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Bull Run Regional Park offers multiple trail networks throughout its 1,500-acre property. Visitor Charyssa G. notes, "Very spacious sites and awesome views of the forest," making it an ideal base for day hikes through the deciduous forest.
Water recreation options: Pohick Bay Campground provides boating access with kayak and motorboat rentals during summer months. As Josh J. mentions, "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Took me 25-30m to get there so you are far away from bustle of city but not so far that going in to enjoy the sights is a feat."
Historical exploration: Located within 75 miles of Brinklow, Artillery Ridge Campground sits adjacent to Gettysburg National Battlefield. According to camper MJ B., "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts."
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Many campers highlight the well-maintained restroom facilities at regional parks. At Bull Run Regional Park, Yvonne B. shares, "The best review I can give us of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had."
Creek access sites: Gettysburg Campground features coveted waterfront sites along a small creek. Jenny P. describes it as a "Great spot. Nice creek with ducks. Close to battlefield," providing natural white noise for sleeping.
Spacious forested sites: Cedarville State Forest offers secluded camping within wooded sites. Reviewer Nurse N. explains, "Great campground hidden away in the city. Clean sites include table and fire pit. Restrooms were clean, closed daily for cleaning between 1 pm - 3 pm."
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Cedarville State Forest and surrounding areas have significant tick populations, especially from April through October. As Chris F. observes, "At the end of the day it was $20 (with a $6 booking fee) and for better or worse we never interacted with a single park ranger or camp host."
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience airplane and traffic noise due to proximity to major flight paths and highways. At Bull Run Regional Park, Drew M. notes, "Camp ground is nice. Check in was a breeze. The only drawback is that it is not quite. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away."
Equestrian facility limitations: While dedicated horse campgrounds near Brinklow, Maryland remain unavailable, some parks permit day-use horse trailer parking. Most equestrian facilities require traveling at least 100 miles from Brinklow to western Maryland or West Virginia.
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Camp Meade RV Park offers structured programming for military families. Elvin J. shares, "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle 🤣. They reminded me."
Playground proximity: Some campgrounds offer sites specifically near play structures. Bull Run Regional Park features multiple play areas, though camper Yvonne B. cautions, "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located."
Water park access: For summer camping with kids, Pohick Bay Campground includes a water park on property. Anne K. confirms, "This is definitely a family campground. So my activities for kids and places to run around. Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have slightly uneven sites requiring additional equipment. At Bull Run Regional Park, Roberta K. advises, "Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that."
Electric hookup availability: Camp Winery provides tent camping but lacks RV hookups while still permitting small trailers. Sammii D. reports, "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too."
Military camping option: Andrews AFB Military FamCamp provides exclusive access for military ID holders with full hookup sites. Access requires advance reservation, and reviewer M.B. cautions, "Need military id and reservations to go."