RV camping near Clinton, Maryland offers access to multiple sites within a 30-mile radius. Located in the Potomac River Basin at an average elevation of 249 feet, the area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently reaching 90°F and mild winters. Many campgrounds close during winter months, with limited year-round options requiring advance booking during peak foliage season from mid-October through early November.
What to do
Water activities on the Potomac River: At Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, visitors can rent kayaks and canoes to explore the river. "The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on," notes Jack R.
Fishing opportunities: Smallwood State Park provides water access for anglers. "Mattawoman Creek is right there and great for kayaking," explains Lorraine P. The park includes docks and shoreline fishing areas that remain accessible to campers.
Historical exploration: Sites near Prince William Forest RV Campground offer Civil War history. Kenneth H. recommends, "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."
What campers like
Easy transportation to DC: Cherry Hill Park provides transport options for Washington DC visitors. "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5," shares Jennifer H.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention bathroom quality as a key factor. At Bull Run Regional Park, Yvonne B. states: "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."
Secluded sites: Despite proximity to urban areas, some campgrounds offer private sites. At Smallwood State Park, Caitlin A. notes: "These campground is a great find. The sites are well spaced, and while on the smaller side they're very private with woods between each one."
What you should know
Military base requirements: Some campgrounds require military credentials. Mike H. explains about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp: "You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river. Eagle's nest were interesting."
Tick prevention: Wooded areas require insect protection, especially at Cedarville State Forest. "Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it!" advises Nurse N., while Ben J. reports, "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven grounds at certain campgrounds. At Harbor View, Nick E. observed: "Gravel site pad could definitely use some maintenance and fresh material added. Had to put down boards to park our travel trailer because about a third of the pad had just turned into mud."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Thousand Trails Harbor View offers several family activities. "The pool is a nice size and includes a kiddie pool. There is a playground with lots of picnic tables and a putt putt (small fee) that's is close. There is a basketball court and nice paved roads to ride bikes on," shares Samantha G.
Evening activities: Bull Run Regional Park organizes family programs. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," says Bridget H. These scheduled events typically occur on weekends during peak season.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds maintain play areas for children. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, Rebecca E. notes: "The showers are clean/hot and the playground is in very good condition."
Tips from RVers
Leveling equipment: Bring extra blocks for unlevel sites. At Fort Belvoir, Thomas explains: "Good site, secure location, decent facilities with solid WiFi. Pier within walking distance. Good location, tho our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."
Site selection strategy: At Cedarville State Forest, certain sites work better for larger rigs. "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," advises Nurse N.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. Laura G. describes Prince William Forest RV Campground as having "nice, clean bathroom and pool. Adjacent to Prince William Forest, near shops and restaurants, and less than an hour away from Washington, DC. Good nature getaway from the city."
