Cedarville State Forest is located about 25 miles southeast of Washington, DC in the Atlantic coastal plain region of Maryland. The forest's terrain ranges from flat to gently rolling hills with elevations between 150-250 feet above sea level. Horse campers visiting this area will find a mix of pine and hardwood forests spanning 3,510 acres with various trail networks that accommodate both hikers and equestrians.
What to do
Trail riding options: The brown trail at Pohick Bay Campground offers scenic riding through wooded areas. According to one visitor, the campground has a variety of recreation options: "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" and many campers note it's located "near the National Harbor" with "eagles everywhere!"
Disc golf course: Located within a 30-minute drive, Bull Run Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course popular with campers. One reviewer mentioned, "The park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds."
Fishing spots: Multiple ponds and small lakes throughout the Clinton area provide fishing opportunities. Cedarville State Forest maintains stocked fishing areas accessible from the camping loops. As one camper observed, "We saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates" - indicating the diverse wildlife around water features in the region.
What campers like
Proximity to DC: Most horse campgrounds near Clinton, Maryland offer the unique advantage of being close to urban amenities while providing rural camping experiences. One camper at Camp Meade RV Park noted the security aspect: "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post."
Wildlife viewing: The forests and fields around Clinton provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. A visitor to Cedarville State Forest reported, "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates. Moderate privacy and space, especially considering how close it is to DC."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. One camper at Cedarville State Forest commented: "Bathrooms don't look like much from the outside, but the inside is very nice. Clean, hot water, and good water pressure."
What you should know
Ticks are prevalent: Equestrian camping areas around Clinton have significant tick populations, especially in warmer months. One Cedarville State Forest camper warned: "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Aircraft noise: Due to proximity to military installations and DC airports, noise can be a factor. A visitor noted: "It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times."
Firewood availability: Most equestrian campgrounds provide firewood for purchase, though quality varies. At Cedarville State Forest, "They sell firewood, but they were huge pieces and getting them to start burning was tough."
Limited cell service: Coverage can be spotty in wooded areas. One camper reported: "We have AT&T and had two bars pretty consistently" - suggesting adequate but not perfect connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bull Run Regional Park offers family-friendly amenities including playgrounds. One reviewer mentioned: "This campground was full of stuff to do and we didn't even get to do a lot of it... They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground."
Educational activities: Several equestrian campgrounds near Clinton organize ranger-led programs. At Cedarville, a camper noted, "From 8am to 4pm I learned A LOT about what number to dial in case of emergency" - referencing the youth group activities taking place at the campground.
Water recreation: During summer months, some nearby parks offer water activities. A Bull Run visitor shared: "The park also offer cabin rentals if you don't want to camp. I like to take new families that have not camped before to this campsite."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At equestrian-friendly campgrounds, RV sites may require additional leveling equipment. A camper at Camp Winery noted their experience: "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too."
Dump station access: Cedarville State Forest has recently updated facilities. One RVer reported: "They have a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower."
Site selection for large rigs: When booking horse camping sites, consider tree placement for larger vehicles. A visitor to Cedarville State Forest advised: "Site 6 was good but not for larger rigs. We have a pop up and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs. Site 5 or 7 wouldn't have that problem."
