Glamping close to Fort Washington Park provides urban access in a rural setting. The surrounding area encompasses over 300 acres of forests along the Potomac River at elevations between 10-100 feet, creating variable camping environments. Winter temperatures average 30-45°F while summer months typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity.
What to do
Disc golf course exploration: Pohick Bay Campground features an 18-hole disc golf course that draws weekend visitors. According to Rachel L., "Pohick Bay is my go-to weekend camping spot. Just a few miles outside DC, Pohick Bay is a hidden gem in the area. I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course."
Water recreation options: Visitors can enjoy seasonal boating and swimming activities at multiple parks. Anne K. notes that Pohick Bay offers "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" while Westmoreland State Park includes "beaches and trails that seem so much more peaceful and untouched" during off-season periods according to RL.
Historical site visits: The region includes Civil War battlefields and other historic landmarks within short driving distances. Tom C. explains that Bull Run Regional Park is "close to home and if anyone decides to bail out there is a hotel 5 min away," making it convenient for history enthusiasts wanting flexibility in their plans.
What campers like
Urban convenience with natural settings: Glamping close to Fort Washington Park offers unique access to Washington DC while maintaining wilderness connections. Josh J. from Pohick Bay Campground shares: "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."
Family-oriented amenities: Cherry Hill Park provides extensive recreation facilities. Jennifer H. mentions: "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... The park itself has more than most. Mini golf, two pools, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early!! And late!!!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several glamping locations offer wildlife observation areas. Kathie M. remarks on Bull Run Regional Park: "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!"
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have variable site conditions. At Cosca Regional Park, ben S. advises, "Check out your site before booking, some sites are steep but spacious. Close to town but far enough to enjoy yourself. Bathrooms are clean and have decent showers."
Seasonal crowd factors: Campground busyness varies significantly by season. Regarding Leesylvania State Park, Wilfredo D. warns, "Good for a day use, parking is full most of the time but have a lot of space to park you may have to walk but you will find one spot."
Noise considerations: Some locations experience various noise sources. Drew M. points out about Bull Run Regional Park: "Camp ground is nice. The only drawback is that it is not quite. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away."
Tips for camping with families
Family programming access: Many glamping locations near Fort Washington Park schedule regular activities. Bridget H. shares about Westmoreland State Park: "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."
Bathroom proximity planning: Consider site locations relative to facilities when camping with children. Alexis from Burke Lake Park advises: "We reserved campsite B14. it was right next to the bathroom (we wanted to be near the restroom for the kids) but it was about 20 ft away, so pretty distracting."
Transportation options: Families can utilize various transit methods when glamping near Fort Washington Park. Ben G. from Pohick Bay mentions: "We got a site on thr inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious. The bathhouse is standard but also has laundry and an outdoor dish washing station."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV sites vary significantly in levelness across the region. Drew M. notes: "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Hookup variations: Electric service types differ between locations. Robert P. from Pohick Bay Campground shares: "We stay here at least 6 trips a year. Nice layout, not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help."
Reservation timing strategies: Book well in advance for premium RV sites, especially during peak seasons. Beth R. emphasizes Cherry Hill Park's amenities but notes the trade-offs: "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer... Pros: 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer... Cons: Gravel pad, Expensive, Spotty Wi-Fi."
