Greenbelt Park's location between the Patuxent and Anacostia Rivers creates a unique forested environment at an elevation of approximately 160 feet. The park's sandy soil composition affects drainage during rainy periods, which can impact both tent sites and hiking trails. Traffic noise varies significantly between camping loops, with Loop C typically offering the quietest experience for noise-sensitive dogs.
What to do
Explore hiking options: Trails throughout Greenbelt Park Campground connect to the American Discovery Trail, allowing longer excursions beyond park boundaries. "The American Discovery Trail (ADT) passes through the park," notes Becky, who frequently visits even when not camping.
Visit nearby Washington DC: The campground's proximity to public transportation makes day trips convenient while keeping dogs at your campsite. "We did not take our dog this time with us but would seriously consider it next time. They have a nice dog area for the dog to be able to run around and exercise which a lot of places we have been do not have," explains Stephanie H. about Washington DC / Capitol KOA.
Watch wildlife: The woodland setting attracts diverse wildlife throughout the seasons. "We saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," reports Ben J. about his experience at Cedarville State Forest, which offers similar wildlife viewing opportunities to Greenbelt.
What campers like
Metro accessibility: One of the most appreciated features is the campground's location near two Metro stations. "Being nearby but storing my popup camper elsewhere, I often park my camper here for a few days while I pack it for a trip. It's also just nice to experience that 'getaway' feeling without being too far from home," explains Becky about Greenbelt Park.
Urban escape feeling: Despite its proximity to developed areas, the campground provides a true forest experience. "This is an urban oasis. Traffic can be heard but not seen. Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground," comments Becky from her experience at Greenbelt Park.
Clean facilities: The campground's maintenance receives positive comments from visitors. "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," notes Amanda A. from her visit to Patapsco Valley State Park.
What you should know
Tree restrictions: Park rules limit how camping gear can interact with trees. "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," warns Timothy C. about his Greenbelt Park stay.
Insect preparation: The wooded environment supports significant insect populations, particularly during warmer months. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," advises Ben J. from Pohick Bay Campground, which shares similar tick issues with Greenbelt.
Campsite variations: Campsite quality and layout varies between loops. "Decent little campground! It was quiet aside from occasional air traffic noise, and while there wasn't much spacing between some camp sites everyone was respectful. My spot was a little difficult to find because the online park map was incorrect," reports Lauren S. about her Greenbelt experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: The camping loops include small play areas, but larger playgrounds require short drives. "We had a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," shares Ben G. about nearby Lake Fairfax Campground, which offers similar family amenities to Greenbelt.
Evening programs: Check with rangers about scheduled activities at the campfire circle. "Rangers keep a close eye on things, and there are monthly programs at the campfire circle that I sometimes attend even when not camping here," mentions Becky about Greenbelt Park.
Difficulty finding sites: Navigation within the park can be challenging after dark. "Wasn't the easiest place to navigate at night to find spots that weren't reserved. The ranger station was closed so we couldn't talk to anyone to see what sites were open," explains Kim O. from her Greenbelt Park visit.
Tips from RVers
Narrow access roads: The campground's one-way loop roads can be difficult for larger rigs. "You can't beat the close proximity to DC and public transportation while still falling asleep in the woods," notes a Greenbelt visitor, though site access requires careful navigation.
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites require significant leveling. "Sites were pretty level but did have some rocks in the area where my pad would be so I had to do a little clearing," explains Crystal C. during her extended stay at Greenbelt Park.
Limited hookups: While electric is available in select loops, water access points are shared. "There is only 20/30amp electricity and NO water or sewer- although there was a dump and a place to fill your water tank," explains Travyl Couple from their visit to Hollofield Area Campground, which has similar hookup arrangements to Greenbelt.
