RV campgrounds surrounding North Brentwood, Maryland sit within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, with the Anacostia River flowing nearby at elevations rarely exceeding 300 feet. Most camping areas maintain year-round operations due to the region's moderate climate, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-90°F and winter lows around 30°F. Multiple campgrounds operate on military bases or within federal land boundaries, requiring specific credentials for access.
What to do
Explore historical sites: Brunswick Family Campground provides access to nearby Civil War landmarks. "DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," notes Kenneth H. from Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Access water activities: Fish or launch boats directly from riverfront campsites. "The Shenandoah is just as beautiful. The showers could use a good cleaning but they are typical Campground showers perfect for the campground life," reports Brian S. about Brunswick Family Campground.
Use metro transportation: Skip driving into DC completely. "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," suggests Crystal C. from Greenbelt Park Campground.
Visit national parks: Access protected forests within minutes of your campsite. "Adjacent to Prince William Forest which is a fantastic National Parks forest. Att coverage is good," reports Kristen M.
What campers like
Clean, secure facilities: Military campgrounds maintain strict standards. "Very clean and there are many amenities close by. The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river," says Jack R. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Multiple recreation options: Many parks combine camping with additional activities. "Plenty of space between camp site clusters. The park itself is safe, quiet, permitting some nice treks through the woods. The other great thing about it that you can spend entire days at the always-free Smithsonian museums and still fall asleep in the woods," mentions a camper at Greenbelt Park Campground.
Convenient transportation: Multiple sites offer direct access to public transportation. "Best park in the DC area! Very nice grounds, clean, and amenities galore! Plan and reserve you DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!" explains Jason E. from Cherry Hill Park.
Recreational trails: Several parks feature hiking and biking options. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too); wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat), skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground, fishing, & canoeing)," reports Amy B. from Lake Fairfax Park Campground.
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Several campgrounds require proper credentials. "You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river. Eagle's nest were interesting," explains Mike H. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Variable site quality: Level sites can be challenging to find. "If leveling perfectly is a concern you may want to call ahead and ask before commiting to the inner loop," advises Corey B. about Lake Fairfax Park.
Reservation policies: Some campgrounds implement strict booking requirements. "Municipal campgrounds in Northern Virginia are a bit spendy for being government sponsored. But the real kicker is a 2-night minimum stay. Even mid-week. In APRIL for gosh sakes!" warns Stuart O. from Bull Run Regional Park.
Noise considerations: Multiple noise sources exist near most campgrounds. "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," notes Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Several campgrounds feature water activities for children. "This campground has so much to offer. We loved it. Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer, Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," shares Beth R. from Cherry Hill Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "Our family stayed here 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. The campground had 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," explains Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Budget considerations: Compare total costs including transportation. "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. So $4-9 per person," shares Jennifer H.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require significant adjustment. "Sites were mostly level," notes Bille W. about Prince William Forest RV Campground, while another camper mentions, "Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable."
Hookup availability: Water and sewer connections vary considerably. "Sites are really staggered/set back from each other so feels like you have more space. Average lot size in general, but the set back feels like you have more space," explains Megan K.
Navigational challenges: Some parks have tight turns or limited access. "Driveways are all very narrow. Most have too much tree cover for solar or starlink, but some sites are more open and you might be able to make it work," advises Laura M. about Greenbelt Park Campground.
Propane availability: Several campgrounds offer on-site propane service. "Quiet campground with tables and fire rings at all sites. Small, well stocked camp store. Propane and 2 easy dump stations. Nice pool and bath house. Close to everything," shares Mary P.
