Camping spots near Accokeek, Maryland range from full-service RV parks to primitive tent sites, all within 30 miles of Washington DC. The region experiences high humidity from June through September with average summer temperatures of 85-90°F, while spring and fall offer more moderate camping conditions between 60-75°F. Many campgrounds in this area feature water proximity with access to the Potomac River or smaller lakes for recreation.
What to do
Fishing access: At Smallwood State Park, the camping loop connects to the marina area via a foot bridge, offering boat launching access with camping. "There is a nice fishing pier and the Generals Trail which my son loved," writes one camper about this waterfront location.
Disc golf: Pohick Bay Campground features an 18-hole disc golf course popular with weekend campers. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests a regular visitor who calls it their "go-to weekend camping spot."
Hiking trails: Prince William Forest Park offers multiple hiking trails through dense forest areas. "Beautiful park and campground many of nice camp sites!" notes a visitor who wished they could have stayed longer to explore more of the park's trail system.
What campers like
Waterfront amenities: Pohick Bay Campground provides water recreation throughout summer. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions one visitor, while another notes "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!"
Convenient DC access: Many campers appreciate the proximity to national attractions. "It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5," explains a camper at Cherry Hill Park, noting various transportation options to the city.
Quiet forest settings: Despite suburban locations, several campgrounds maintain wooded environments. "The campground isn't too far from where I live but it's far enough and quiet enough for a weekend getaway," shares a visitor to Oak Ridge Campground, noting the renovated facilities and peaceful atmosphere.
What you should know
Tick prevention: Multiple campgrounds report tick issues, especially during warmer months. At Cedarville State Forest, campers warn to "Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it!" One visitor recounted, "I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."
Site levelness varies: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain that requires preparation. "Check out your site before booking, some sites are steep but spacious," advises a camper at Cosca Regional Park, while at Prince William Forest RV Campground, visitors note "Sites were mostly level."
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking, 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 about Cosca Regional Park's management system.
Tips for camping with families
Water parks and pools: Many families enjoy the water recreation facilities at Cherry Hill Park, which offers "Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," according to a recent visitor who gave the campground five stars.
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds feature family-friendly amenities. "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," notes a Pohick Bay camper.
Educational opportunities: Family camping offers learning experiences. At Oak Ridge Campground, campers appreciate its historic setting: "There is lots and lots of history around the area. We spent 5 days camping and exploring the civil war battle areas and other things. Definitely worth exploring."
Tips from RVers
Campground selection: Greenbelt Park Campground offers options for different RV sizes. "Loop B is for tents and RVs under 30 ft, Loop C is for tents, and Loop D is for tents and RVs under 35 ft. No hookups at any of the sites," explains a visitor who offers detailed transit information for DC access.
Utility information: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Only 5 sites have electric (2, 5, 18, 24, 25) but all 25 sites have water hookup," notes a camper at Cosca Regional Park, providing specific site numbers for those needing power connections.
Water and dump stations: RV campers should note water access points. "There's a dump station and drinking water fill in loop C. The water fill was a little annoying in that there's a handle you have to hold down the whole time, but we used a rock to prop the handle down," shares a Greenbelt Park visitor.
