Equestrian camping options near Fairmount Heights, Maryland remain limited despite the region's numerous multi-use trail systems. The area sits at elevations between 50-250 feet above sea level within the Atlantic Coastal Plain, creating mostly flat terrain suitable for beginning riders. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide more comfortable riding conditions in the 60-75°F range.
What to do
Disc golf course exploration: Bull Run Regional Park offers an 18-hole disc golf course alongside camping accommodations. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes a camper at Pohick Bay Campground.
Water activities: During summer months, water recreation provides relief from heat. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer. Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," reports a visitor to Pohick Bay. At Bull Run Regional Park, "There a water park type thing here. Hiking, biking, swimming, fishing."
Hiking through mixed-use trails: Most area trails accommodate multiple user types. "There is plenty of hiking nearby," notes a camper at Bull Run Regional Park. The park features "miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish."
What campers like
Proximity to Washington DC: The region's campgrounds provide access to major attractions. "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 breakfast or the sights is a feat," writes a visitor about Pohick Bay Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural areas support diverse wildlife. "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites," reports a camper at Pohick Bay. At Cedarville State Forest, "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates."
Military installation security: Some military campgrounds offer added safety. A visitor at Camp Meade RV Park appreciated that it "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post."
What you should know
Tick prevention essential: Ticks remain prevalent throughout the region. A Cedarville State Forest camper reports: "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Bathroom maintenance schedules: Plan around facility closures. "Restrooms were clean, closed daily for cleaning between 1 pm - 3 pm," notes a visitor at Cedarville State Forest.
Noise factors: Several campgrounds experience regular noise disruption. At Bull Run Regional Park, "Downfall there's a shooting range near by so can be kind of noisy or at least it was the night we were here." Another camper adds: "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away."
Crowding concerns: Some campgrounds get busy, particularly on weekends. A Pohick Bay visitor warns: "This place is packed full of people who like to stay up late and make lots of noise. Park rules aren't very well enforced."
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Look for campgrounds with organized programs. At Bull Run Regional Park, "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon... They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides."
Playground access: Consider site location relative to play areas. At Andrews AFB Military FamCamp, military ID holders can access facilities, while at Bull Run "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located."
Water facilities for kids: Check shower conditions before booking with children. A camper at Bull Run reports: "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."
Camp store access: For forgotten supplies with children, proximity to stores matters. At Cedarville State Forest, "If you've forgotten anything you can pop on by the Target or Costco right outside the forest."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Check campground terrain before arrival. A Bull Run Regional Park camper notes: "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Campground layout considerations: Site arrangement affects privacy levels. At Cedarville State Forest, "The loop is very small, with all the sites pretty close together." Meanwhile, at Bull Run, "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone."
Firewood availability systems: Access to firewood varies by location. At Cedarville, "The ranger delivers firewood to your site within about 10-15 min of calling, which was very convenient. Cost was $5 for 8 logs." However, another camper warns: "I have never been to a site where the firewood is padlocked, and you have to call someone to come unlock it so you can buy firewood."
