Cedarville State Forest encompasses over 3,510 acres of woodland offering equestrian camping opportunities within 25 miles of North Brentwood. The forest maintains an active trail system used by horse riders throughout the camping season from April to October. The forest campground features 30-amp electric hookups at select sites with a sanitary dump station available for campers with recreational vehicles.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Bull Run Regional Park maintains an 18-hole disc golf course popular with campers seeking recreational activities beyond horseback riding. "The park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds," notes reviewer Tom C. about this Bull Run Regional Park option.
Waterpark access: Several campgrounds near North Brentwood offer water recreation facilities during summer months as an alternative to trail riding. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," mentions Anne K. about visiting Pohick Bay Campground, which operates a seasonal water park within the recreation area.
Trail exploration: The region offers multiple trail systems suitable for both hikers and equestrians with varying difficulty levels. "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," writes Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park's family-friendly trail options.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The wooded areas near North Brentwood provide opportunities for wildlife spotting during horseback rides or hiking excursions. "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," reports Ben J. about his experience at Cedarville State Forest.
Proximity to DC: Many equestrian campers appreciate the campgrounds' accessibility to urban areas while maintaining a natural setting. "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," explains Josh J. about Pohick Bay's convenient location.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathroom facilities rank high on camper satisfaction surveys throughout the region. "The bathhouse is standard but also has laundry and an outdoor dish washing station," notes Ben G., highlighting amenities that enhance extended stays for equestrians requiring shower facilities after trail rides.
What you should know
Tick prevention: Ticks remain a persistent concern for both humans and horses throughout Maryland's wooded camping areas. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," warns Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest, emphasizing the importance of thorough checks after trail rides.
Aircraft noise: Several campgrounds near North Brentwood experience periodic aircraft noise due to proximity to military and civilian airports. "It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times," reports Kasey M. about ambient noise levels that may startle some horses unaccustomed to aircraft.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during peak riding season and weekends. "Advance reservations recommended through the Maryland Park Service, especially for groups with multiple horses requiring adjacent campsites," suggests park staff at Cedarville.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: When camping with children and horses, select sites near recreational facilities for convenient supervision. "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located," mentions Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park, suggesting families request sites closer to play areas.
Organized activities: Some parks offer scheduled events suitable for family members not participating in horse riding. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," shares Bridget H., highlighting structured activities for younger campers.
Bathroom considerations: Clean restrooms with reliable hot water access rank as essential for families with children after dusty trail rides. "The best review I can give us of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls... Best camping showers I've ever had," praises Yvonne B. about Bull Run's facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers report varying experiences with site grading at equestrian campgrounds. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," explains Drew M. about his experience at Bull Run Regional Park.
Water hookup location: RVers should note the placement of water connections, particularly when filling horse water containers. "We had site 18. Which is next to one of the water spigots. The idea is to use it to fill up tanks. Ranger let us know not to stay hooked up to it," advises Joe C., highlighting water usage protocols for RVs with horses.
Dump station access: Proper planning for sanitary needs remains important for extended stays. "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," notes Ben J. about one forest's unique dump station configuration.
