Camping near Fort Washington Park offers both urban and natural experiences within the Potomac River watershed. Within 25 miles of this Maryland location, campers find sites nestled among Eastern deciduous forests with average elevations under 400 feet. Summer humidity levels often exceed 80%, creating muggy conditions from June through August when temperatures regularly reach 85-95°F.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton features an 18-hole course popular with campers. "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," notes Rachel L.
Water activities: Smallwood State Park provides excellent water access for paddling. "Mattawoman Creek is right there and great for kayaking. We'll definitely be back!!" shares Lorraine P. The park also offers fishing opportunities from several docks.
Hiking options: Trail systems throughout the region provide varied terrain. "We hiked the brown trail and it was a nice walk," reports a camper at Cedarville State Forest. The American Discovery Trail passes through Greenbelt Park Campground, adding connectivity to longer routes.
Historical exploration: The region contains significant historical sites with interpretive displays. "We saw DC during the day but camped each evening. It was amazing!" explains a visitor to Oak Ridge Campground. Many sites serve as convenient bases for visiting Civil War battlefields and monuments.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds vary in their spacing and natural buffers. "The sites for tents are big enough for a 4 person tent. There is a sacrifice of space here- I'd like to see it expand a bit, as the campground can fill quickly," notes Bill G. about Greenbelt Park Campground.
Urban accessibility: Prince William Forest RV Campground provides easy access to Washington DC. "This is a small facility that is well maintained. The staff is amazing," shares Rebecca E. Most campgrounds in the region offer access to public transportation or are a short drive to Metro stations.
Cleanliness standards: Facilities receive regular maintenance at most locations. "The bathrooms were nice and clean throughout my stay and looked newly renovated," reports Clara K. about Oak Ridge Campground. Campers frequently mention shower quality as an important factor in their reviews.
Wildlife viewing: Natural areas support diverse animal populations. "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," writes Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest. Eagle sightings are reported at multiple locations along the Potomac.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds have limited schedules. "Very nice campground hidden away in the city. Clean sites include table and fire pit. Restrooms were clean, closed daily for cleaning between 1 pm - 3 pm," explains a visitor to Cedarville State Forest.
Pest concerns: Ticks and mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in warmer months. "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. Bug spray with DEET is recommended from April through October.
Reservation policies: Booking requirements vary but are typically strict. "Sites were well-maintained, including lavatories. Plenty of tree cover. NOTE: park service forbade tying lines or straps to the trees at the time of our visit (Autumn 2024), so if you favor hammock camping or deploying tarps/ridgelines, plan accordingly," advises Timothy C. about Greenbelt Park Campground.
Noise factors: Sound carries between camping areas and from surrounding infrastructure. "You can here some traffic noise. Perhaps from the highways or just in the park. Over all very nice and convenient," notes Nick C. about Greenbelt Park Campground. Air traffic noise affects several locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Bull Run Regional Park offers organized entertainment. "They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning," explains Ben G. about scheduled activities.
Playground access: Multiple parks maintain play equipment for children. "This campground has great space and super clean bathrooms with marble tile," reports Chad about Oak Ridge Campground, which also features a playground within walking distance of campsites.
Educational opportunities: Nature programs operate seasonally at several parks. "There are monthly programs at the campfire circle that I sometimes attend even when not camping here," shares Becky about Greenbelt Park Campground. Rangers often lead walks focused on local ecology.
Swimming options: Hot summers make water access desirable. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," notes Anne K. about facilities at Pohick Bay Regional Park. Several campgrounds maintain pools or swimming areas during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Terrain varies across campgrounds, creating challenges for larger rigs. "Sites were mostly level," reports Bille W. about Cherry Hill Park. RVers recommend bringing leveling blocks as many sites have slight slopes.
Hookup availability: Services differ significantly between parks. "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. 50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer," explains Beth R. about Cherry Hill Park. Some locations offer only basic facilities while others provide full hookups.
Accessibility considerations: Entry and navigation vary in difficulty. "Caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level. The rain created red clay mud," warns Cheryl D. about Prince William Forest RV Campground. Weather can impact road conditions substantially.
Dump station facilities: Waste management systems show quality variations. "Quiet campground with tables and fire rings at all sites. Small, well stocked camp store. Propane and 2 easy dump stations," notes Mary P. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
