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Camping near Fort Washington, MD

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    Fort Washington, Maryland offers a mix of established campgrounds and recreation areas within reasonable driving distance of Washington, DC. Cherry Hill Park in nearby College Park provides full-service camping with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and even glamping options, earning high ratings from visitors. Other notable mixed-use campgrounds include Greenbelt Park Campground, Louise F. Cosca Regional Park, and Cedarville State Forest, all located within 30 minutes of Fort Washington. These developed campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring both the natural surroundings and the Washington metropolitan area.

    Many campgrounds in the region maintain year-round or extended seasonal operations, though some like Cedarville State Forest operate primarily from April to October. "This campground is about 25 sites. Only 5 sites have electric but all 25 sites have water hookup," noted one camper at Louise F. Cosca Regional Park. Access to most developed campgrounds is straightforward with paved roads, though visitors should be aware of certain height restrictions, such as the 11-foot bridge height limit when approaching Patapsco Valley State Park from the east. Weather considerations include humid summers and occasional heavy rainfall that can affect camping conditions, particularly at sites with limited drainage.

    The proximity to Washington DC represents a significant advantage for these campground options. Campers frequently mention the convenience of using local campgrounds as affordable alternatives to city accommodations while sightseeing. One visitor observed, "It is a pretty nice, bare bones NPS campground. If you are looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it." Many campgrounds feature wooded settings that provide shade and privacy despite being near urban areas. Aircraft noise appears in several reviews due to the region's proximity to military installations and major airports. Amenities vary considerably between locations, with some offering modern facilities including showers, electric hookups, and camp stores, while others maintain a more rustic atmosphere with basic services.

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    Best Campgrounds near Fort Washington (93)

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      1. Pohick Bay Campground

      4.1(37)10mi from Fort Washington150 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids."

      "We enjoyed sitting around the campfire at night and walking the dogs down to the water. We were right next to a hiking trail that went down to the water and a beach area."

      from $37 - $170 / night

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      2. Cherry Hill Park

      4.8(42)20mi from Fort Washington1 siteRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Metrorail is about 6 miles from campground, near University of Maryland."

      "Great camping amenities, soft cushioned sites, with power and water close by. DO NOT GET BASIC TENT SITES AS THEY ARE NEXT TO HIGHWAYS AND VERY NOISY!!! Premium tent sites would be a better choice."

      from $999 / night

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      3. Cedarville State Forest

      3.8(17)11mi from Fort WashingtonRVs, Tents

      "We picked up the camping registration outside the office at the entrance, no need to speak with anyone. Then we just drove down to our campsite in the family camping loop."

      "Forested campground with fairly lengthy but level (and thus beginner friendly) hiking just a short distance away from Washington, DC."

      from $30 / night

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      4. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

      4.2(32)18mi from Fort Washington173 sitesRVs, Tents

      "If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."

      "The campsite is superb with walking trails, wildlife and the occasional overflying US Presidential Helicopter. Easily accessible from close by freeways, and charmingly peaceful"

      from $20 / night

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      5. Burke Lake Park Campground

      3.9(15)16mi from Fort WashingtonRVs, Tents

      "We stayed Burke lake campground for one night last week. It was very peaceful place. The whole camp ground was very clean and well kept."

      "This was my second time going Burke Lake and it was just as enjoyable as the first."

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      6. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

      4.6(32)24mi from Fort Washington99 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Showers are in loop B, which is a 5-7 minute walk. During holiday weekends the sites closest to the shower facilities are fully booked and have less privacy."

      "The Oak Ridge campgrounds at Prince William Forest Park are a lovely little campground just outside Washington DC. The sites were large, the facilities are clean and the staff friendly and helpful."

      from $26 / night

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      7. Louise F. Cosca Regional Park

      3.8(4)5mi from Fort WashingtonRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "Site 24 and 25 are very close together but the other sites are at a distance however, 6 of the 25 sites are unleveled so tent camping is probably the only option."

      "Close to town but far enough to enjoy yourself. Bathrooms are clean and have decent showers."

      from $10 - $45 / night

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      8. Bull Run Regional Park

      3.9(43)26mi from Fort Washington142 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "History buffs will like to explore the park surrounding the campground. Fun little water park within walking distance of all campsites that was great for kids."

      "We booked site 136 due to proximity of the playground (traveling with a 5 & 10 yr old). The site was great except the weird parking stops on every site but the pull throughs."

      from $39 - $100 / night

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      9. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp

      4.5(4)8mi from Fort WashingtonRVs, Tents

      "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."

      "It is 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."

      from $55 / night

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      10. Lake Fairfax Campground

      4.0(25)23mi from Fort WashingtonRVs, Tents

      "We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."

      "For tent camping I would suggests sites 30,33 or 35 these are tucked along the tree line. The bathroom facilities were the cleanest I have seen in a campground."

      from $30 - $70 / night

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    Recent Camping Photos near Fort Washington, MD

    194 Photos of 93 Fort Washington Campgrounds

    Recent Reviews near Fort Washington, MD

    582 Reviews of 93 Fort Washington Campgrounds

    • Matt S.
      Jun. 1, 2026

      Bay Shore Campground

      What stands out about this campground? The view!

      We spent a week at Bay Shore Campground to explore Rock Hall, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. What stands out about this campground? The view! 

      For me, this is a 4-star campground because of the view and nice staff, but not 5-stars because of the sloped site packed in with the neighbors and no sewer connection. 

      THINGS I LIKED:

      — Great view from our site of the Chesapeake Bay— especially for sunset each evening

      — Friendly staff

      — Nearby Rock Hall, Chestertown, and Eastern Neck Island Wildlife Refuge

      — They offered a promo to pay for 6 nights, and the 7th was free 

      THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:

      — Our site(Site B) had an amazing view of Chesapeake Bay, but the slope made it difficult to get even close to level— even with my front jacks fully extended. I had to buy additional leveling blocks from the camp store(at twice the price of Amazon) just so we didn’t feel like walking uphill to walk around our motorhome. I admit, I am spoiled but really appreciate the campgrounds that level their sites. I think it could be done in a few hours with a rented front loader at a couple nights’ cost.

      — Our site(Site B) was tight. The neighbor’s awning was just inches from our motorhome. I understand the need for any business to maximize revenue, but this was unpleasantly close.

      — There are no sewer hookups at the sites. They do have a couple of dump stations for your way out and provide a pump-out service once per week at$40 a pop. They were nice enough to pump me out a second time since I stayed 7 nights. Again, I know I’m spoiled, but a sewer connection is a necessity when you’re staying 8 days. 

      WOULD WE COME BACK? 

      Sure thing, but we’d stay at a different site.

    • c
      May. 9, 2026

      Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area

      Hilton area

      Thought the campsites were extremely close together. There were A LOT of kids and no quiet hours. Good for families. Not good for a camping camping experience.

    • John M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Apr. 28, 2026

      Matoaka Beach Cottages

      Fantastic location with winderful hosts

      Private campground with cabins and tent sites. Tent sites are first come, first service so call ahead to ensure the space is available. The host family was very nice and easy to work with and talk to. Fire pits were at tent sites and past the office was beach access into Chesapeake Bay. There are trash bins and porta potty’s on sight that are all maintained and kept clean. Beautiful sights and plenty to do in the area with DC being roughly an 40-60 minutes away.

    • Beth B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Apr. 12, 2026

      Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park

      Nice clean Campground

      Stayed here for a week while working nearby. Easy to get to and set up. Office was closed when we arrived but arrival paperwork was posted outside office door. Even with busy road nearby, park was quiet and felt private. Sites were level and paved making setup easy. Sites had 1/2 site extra paved for vehicle with extra parking nearby. There was no litter in park, we observed a staff member daily making the rounds to keep everything clean. There was walking access into the park on wide private roads without traffic. With park access you are able to walk into national forest park from RV camp. National Forest visitor center close by, 1 exit away going south I95. Amenities in RV park included swimming pool, chess board with extra large pieces, playground and clean bath house. Firewood and ice on site.

    • C
      Apr. 12, 2026

      Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

      Great Campground

      Our family loved this campground. It was entirely wooded with plenty of shade, sites were close but separated enough to feel like you were in your own site. Our kids and others rode their bikes around the loop all weekend long. Bathrooms could have been a little cleaner and all the entrances except one were closed, but that’s what happens when you cut budgets for public lands.

    • Ashley T.
      Mar. 13, 2026

      Goose Bay Marina

      Jeepers Creepers meets Catalina Wine Mixer

      When we first arrived it was late (we are either late or not coming as always!) the cut down tobacco fields and long dark woods surrounded the entrance into this campground and marina… to be honest I was scared and cried and my husband thought I was ridiculous and reminded me I will love it tomorrow… welp he knows me! All the boat storage and walking around it so fun looking at all the boat names… they are remodeling the bathhouses now they look nice so far on the inside. Everyone is working really hard a staying busy tending to the boats or landscaping or docks… Vicki is super friendly she works practically everyday… but hopefully one day she will trust someone enough to delegate her duties to…

    • Thiru Moorthy G.
      Nov. 27, 2025

      Bull Run Regional Park

      ⭐ 1-Star Review – Shockingly Rude, Misleading, and Embarrassing Experience

      I am writing this review because what happened to me at Bull Run Regional Park Campground was not just inconvenient—it was humiliating, unprofessional, and completely avoidable.

      I camp in my Tesla. I have already stayed at this exact campground before with no issue. Their online reservation system allowed me to book again—no warnings, no restrictions, nothing to indicate a problem. So I drove all the way from North Carolina to Virginia trusting that everything was fine.

      When I arrived to check in, the office staff was literally handing me the paperwork. Out of nowhere, a ranger barged in and bluntly told me: “You cannot camp in a Tesla. You need a separate rig.”

      His tone was rude, dismissive, and made me feel like I was doing something dirty or cheap. There was zero respect, zero empathy—just instant judgment. I felt like I was being treated as if I was trying to sneak in or break rules, even though they allowed the booking and accepted my reservation.

      If they have such a rule, why wasn’t I notified during booking? Why was I allowed to stay the first time? Why let me drive for hours only to embarrass me at the check-in counter?

      The office employee even tried to defend me, but he couldn’t convince the ranger. Instead, they told me I could not stay and promised an immediate refund.

      After a long drive, being spoken to like that was extremely disappointing. I’ve camped all over North Carolina and never been treated with such disrespect. Camping in a Tesla is clean, quiet, zero-emission, and safe, yet I was made to feel like I didn’t belong.

      To make matters worse, it has now been seven days and not a single dollar of the refund has appeared. When I called, the office representative didn’t even ask for my reservation details and seemed completely clueless. She first said she couldn’t do anything, then suddenly changed her story and said she would “leave a note.” When I asked to speak with someone who could actually help, she put me on hold and suddenly claimed the manager had “just refunded” me and that I would see the money in two business days.

      After everything that happened, it felt like another layer of indifference and incompetence.

      This entire experience—from the rude ranger to the unprofessional refund handling—left me feeling disrespected and upset. For a campground that charges over $75 a night after fees and taxes, the treatment I received was unacceptable.

      Guests deserve honesty, clear communication, and basic respect.

    • a
      Nov. 17, 2025

      Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

      Great Campsite!

      The campground is well maintained. The facilities were clean, and the other campers were friendly. There was plenty of firewood (fallen tree limbs and branches on the ground to use. Overall we had a great time!

    Guide to Fort Washington

    Camping near Fort Washington, Maryland offers access to several woodland campgrounds with proximity to both natural areas and urban amenities. The region experiences humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching into the 90s from June through August, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions. Most campgrounds in the area are situated within 30 minutes of Fort Washington, creating convenient bases for both outdoor recreation and day trips to Washington DC.

    What to do

    Disc golf adventures: Pohick Bay Campground in nearby Lorton, Virginia features an 18-hole disc golf 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.

    Trail exploration: The woodland areas around Fort Washington provide numerous hiking opportunities with varying terrain. "Nice camping spot close to DC with hiking nearby," mentions Perry A. from Pohick Bay. Many trails connect campgrounds to nearby natural areas, allowing for day hikes without driving.

    Waterfront activities: Several campgrounds offer water access for fishing or boating. At Cherry Hill Park, campers can plan water-based day trips. The park's proximity to DC allows for a combination of urban and outdoor activities, with one visitor noting, "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."

    What campers like

    Proximity to Washington DC: The ability to camp affordably while visiting the capital is consistently mentioned in reviews. "If you're in Northern VA close to DC this is a great quick getaway camp site," writes one camper about Lake Fairfax Campground. Campers appreciate the contrast between urban sightseeing and natural camping settings.

    Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the well-maintained bathhouses and shower facilities. At Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park, visitors noted, "This campground has great space and super clean bathrooms with marble tile."

    Diverse recreational options: The variety of activities available at many campgrounds receives positive feedback. "Great regional park with lots to do - trails, biking, boating. Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure). Plenty of playgrounds and trails nearby to keep the family busy," notes Kristen M. about Pohick Bay.

    What you should know

    Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Fort Washington area require advance reservations, especially during peak season. "This is not a gated campground so anyone can come through and have a tour. Park Police patrol the campground 2 times a day," explains a camper at Louise F. Cosca Regional Park, which requires online reservations.

    Wildlife considerations: Ticks and mosquitoes can be problematic in the warmer months. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," warns one camper about Cedarville State Forest.

    Noise factors: Due to the proximity to urban areas, airports, and military facilities, noise can be a factor at some campgrounds. "There is a shooting range near by so can be kind of noisy or at least it was the night we were here," mentions a visitor to Bull Run Regional Park.

    Tips for camping with families

    Water recreation options: Bull Run Regional Park offers family-friendly water features. "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."

    Organized activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled family events, particularly on weekends. "They gave us a great intro to the park as we were first timers. 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," shares Ben G. about his family's experience at Pohick Bay.

    Transportation planning: Consider using public transportation when visiting DC with children. "We took the 20 minute drive. They have a nice looking pool area, but it was too cold. The shop was cute and staff nice. Sites were pretty level," mentions Joe R. about Cherry Hill Park, which offers metro access to Washington DC.

    Tips from RVers

    Site selection considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "Check out your site before booking, some sites are steep but spacious," advises ben S. about Louise F. Cosca Regional Park. Many RV sites in the region have water hookups but limited electrical options.

    Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds have uneven sites that may require additional equipment. "The outer loop campsites are easily more level than the center loop. If leveling perfectly is a concern you may want to call ahead and ask before committing to the inner loop," recommends a visitor to Lake Fairfax Campground.

    Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups vary widely between campgrounds. A camper at Louise F. Cosca Regional Park notes, "Only 5 sites have electric but all 25 sites have water hookup." RVers should confirm specific site amenities when making reservations.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular campground near Fort Washington, MD?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Fort Washington, MD is Pohick Bay Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 37 reviews.

    What parks are near Fort Washington, MD?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Fort Washington, MD that allow camping, notably Fort Washington Park and George Washington Memorial Parkway.

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