Equestrian camping near Temple Hills, Maryland provides access to several woodland trail systems within a 50-mile radius. The region features coastal plain topography with elevations ranging from 200-300 feet above sea level and receives approximately 43 inches of annual rainfall. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for horse camping in the area.
What to do
Trail riding in Pohick Bay: The 18-hole disc golf course at Pohick Bay Regional Park offers an alternative activity between trail rides. "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.
Boat rentals: Water activities complement trail riding when camping with horses. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K. about the options at Pohick Bay Regional Park.
Wildlife observation: Horse trails often intersect with prime wildlife viewing areas. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" shares Kathie M. about her experience at Pohick Bay.
Forest hiking: Bull Run Regional Park offers multiple trail systems suitable for day hikes when not riding. "Very spacious sites and awesome views of the forest," reports Charyssa G.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cedarville State Forest maintains well-kept restrooms. "Restrooms were clean, closed daily for cleaning between 1 pm - 3 pm. Two showers were included but didn't use it so not sure about pressure or heat," notes Nurse N.
Convenient firewood delivery: Ranger service at Cedarville eliminates the need to transport your own wood. "The ranger delivers firewood to your site within about 10-15 min of calling, which was very convenient. Cost was $5 for 8 logs," adds Nurse N.
Family programming: Bull Run organizes structured activities for all ages. "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. This park has too many amenities to list. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," shares Bridget H.
Privacy between sites: Camp Winery offers adequate separation between camping areas. "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too," mentions Sammii D.
What you should know
Aircraft noise: The proximity to military installations affects some camping areas. "We chose this campground based on proximity to work. This campground was priced fairly, however, it does come with its downfalls... It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times," explains Kasey M. about Cedarville State Forest.
Tick protection: Bring appropriate repellents for both humans and horses. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers. Each site had picnic table, fire ring, and pretty level parking spot," warns Ben J.
Drainage issues: Some camping areas experience standing water after rainfall. "While we were here, there was a fairly heavy day of rain. Couple inches, I suppose, but nothing Biblical. The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," reports Stuart O. at Bull Run Regional Park.
Military ID requirements: Some facilities require proper identification. "Need military id and reservations to go," states M.B. about Andrews AFB Military FamCamp.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Camp Meade RV Park offers clean shower facilities for families with children. "Nice clean restrooms and showers. Friendly hostess and we had a nice shady spot, what was great with a heat of 94F," notes Rick V.
Water activities for kids: Multiple parks offer water recreation options. "This is definitely a family campground. So my activities for kids and places to run around. Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," mentions Anne K.
Shower quality: Bull Run Regional Park features exceptional bathroom facilities. "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. Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located," shares Yvonne B.
Noise considerations: Be prepared for variable noise levels depending on location. "This place is packed full of people who like to stay up late and make lots of noise. Park rules aren't very well enforced. Showers were clean and campsites seemed well maintained," warns Kelli T. about Pohick Bay.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," shares Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Campsite size limitations: Prince William Forest Park accommodates smaller rigs better than large motorhomes. "The loop is very small, with all the sites pretty close together. The site itself was very small - difficult to get 2 cars and two tents in - and the fire ring was smaller as well," notes Chris F. about camping in the area.
Security benefits: Some military campgrounds offer enhanced security. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle 🤣. They reminded me," shares Elvin J. about Camp Meade.
Reservation requirements: Plan well in advance for weekend stays. "There are occupancy AND transaction fees that really add up if you're only there a few nights. But the real kicker is a 2-night minimum stay. Even mid-week. In APRIL for gosh sakes!" cautions Stuart O.
