Camping options near Fort Washington, Maryland span across Maryland and Virginia, with several parks within 30-60 minutes of the area. Fort Washington sits along the Potomac River at approximately 115 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for outdoor recreation. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions in the 60-75°F range.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Bull Run Regional Park offers an 18-hole course that campers enjoy. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes Rachel L. from Pohick Bay Campground.
Waterpark access: Several campgrounds feature water recreation areas during summer months. Anne K. mentions that at Pohick Bay, "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer" and notes additional "boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats."
Hiking trail systems: Most parks offer wooded trails ranging from beginner to intermediate difficulty. "Nice camping spot close to DC with hiking nearby," says Perry A. about Pohick Bay. Many trails connect camping areas to other park amenities like boat launches or disc golf courses.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to spot local birds and wildlife. Kathie M. observed that Pohick Bay is an "Eagle haven! Eagles everywhere!" making it ideal for birdwatching.
What campers like
Proximity to Washington DC: Many campers appreciate the ability to access urban amenities while camping. Josh J. from Bull Run Regional Park 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."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive mentions. Glen W. notes Pohick Bay has "Very nice staff and clean facilities." Similarly, at Bull Run, Roberta K. reports: "Bath houses are clean and well maintained."
Campsite privacy: Several parks offer campsites with good separation. At Cedarville State Forest, Donald G. appreciated that sites are "very well maintained, nice sites that aren't right on top of one another."
Seasonal activities: Parks often schedule special programming. Bridget H. describes Bull Run: "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."
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: While searching for horse campgrounds near Fort Washington, Maryland, note that dedicated equestrian camping is scarce. Ben J. from Cedarville mentions: "Equestrian trails go deep into the woods if you want a longer trail," but the campgrounds don't specifically offer horse corrals or overnight equestrian accommodations.
Ticks and insects: Bug protection is essential, particularly at Cedarville. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," warns Ben J. Another camper, Nurse N., emphasizes: "Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it!"
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. Drew M. notes that at Andrews AFB Military FamCamp, "The only drawback is that it is not quite [quiet]. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away."
Firewood availability: Policies vary by park. At Cedarville State Forest, "They sell firewood, but they were huge pieces and getting them to start burning was tough," notes Ben J. Nurse N. adds: "The ranger delivers firewood to your site within about 10-15 min of calling, which was very convenient. Cost was $5 for 8 logs."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Consider site location relative to play areas. At Camp Meade RV Park, military families can camp with security benefits. Elvin J. notes it "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post."
Scheduled activities: Some parks offer family-oriented programming. Ben G. describes Pohick Bay: "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."
Cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. At Bull Run, Bridget H. shares: "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."
Water recreation: Swimming areas provide kid-friendly entertainment. "There is a pool/water park in the park as well as a nice network of trails. There is plenty of things to do here to keep a family occupied," notes Ben G. about Pohick Bay.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. Robert P. mentions at Pohick Bay Campground: "Nice layout, not all sites are level (half)." At Bull Run, Roberta K. notes: "Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that."
Military campgrounds: Active and retired military personnel have additional options. M.B. notes that Andrews AFB Military FamCamp requires "military id and reservations to go." These facilities typically have full hookups but restricted access.
Water and electric access: Most campgrounds offer partial or full hookups. Drew M. explains his Bull Run experience: "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Shower facilities: RVers who prefer campground facilities over onboard showers have good options. Yvonne B. raves about Bull Run: "The best review I can give us of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had."
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