R
Roger M.
Traveler
TravelerFredericksburg-Washington DC KOA
Family friendly
Nice size spots. Lake on site. Playground for kids. Fun bike rentals. Lots of dog walks and a dog park. Camp store has a little bit of everything.
Dog-Friendly Camping near Indian Head, MD
72 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
Smallwood State Park Campground's wooded sites accommodate pets in a quiet, family-oriented setting near Indian Head, Maryland. The campground features 15 campsites with good spacing between them, providing privacy for campers with dogs. Pohick Bay Regional Park also welcomes pets at their tent sites, RV spots with water and electric hookups, and pet-friendly cabins. Leashed pets must be attended at all times throughout both parks, with pet waste disposal stations available near comfort stations. Sites at Smallwood State Park include fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern posts, while Pohick Bay offers more extensive amenities including a camp store selling pet supplies. The bathhouses at both locations remain clean and well-maintained. Dogs particularly enjoy the forested setting at Smallwood where sites back up to wooded areas rather than neighboring campers.
Several hiking trails at both parks accommodate leashed dogs, with Pohick Bay offering trails that lead directly to the Potomac River shoreline where pets can access the water. Smallwood State Park features a foot bridge over Mattawoman Creek connecting to marina areas where dogs can explore additional walking paths. The sites remain level and well-shaded, providing comfortable spots for pets during warmer months. While camping loops stay relatively quiet during weekdays, weekend activities can include outdoor movies and ranger programs that may disturb noise-sensitive pets. The park environments include wildlife that pet owners should be aware of, requiring dogs to remain leashed for their safety. The Generals Trail at Smallwood Park provides an excellent walking route for exercising dogs during their stay. Most campers find fellow pet owners respectful of park rules regarding pet cleanup and quiet hours.
Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Indian Head (72)
1. Pohick Bay Campground
"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."
"This is a pet friendly campground. There's a lot to do out at the whole park, and its worth exploring (we just didn't have time). I'm sure its so pretty out near the water."
from $37 - $170 / night
Check Availability2. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
"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."
"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."
from $26 / night
Check Availability3. Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park
"Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located."
"Adjacent to Prince William Forest, near shops and restaurants, and less than an hour away from Washington, DC. Good nature getaway from the city."
4. Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
"The other campers were all respectful and observed pet policy and quiet hours. I have a reactive dog and he did well here! We’ll be back!"
"They are in short distance from the water. There is a playground, bathhouse, and historical buildings that are accessible to campers. There are hiking trials, but none are two extensive."
from $27 - $65 / night
Check Availability5. Bull Run Regional Park
"Portable water and dumping station located at the camp store. We stayed at site 146 on the first caul-de-sac off the first loop just another site away from the bath house (which was pretty clean)."
"Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had. Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located."
from $39 - $100 / night
Check Availability6. Burke Lake Park Campground
"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."
7. Cedarville State Forest
"Forested campground with fairly lengthy but level (and thus beginner friendly) hiking just a short distance away from Washington, DC."
"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."
from $30 / night
Check Availability8. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp
"Super clean Very well maintained Pet friendly... kinda No veteran discounts smh Good for a day or two"
"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."
from $55 / night
Check Availability9. Charity’s Hope Family Farm Resort
from $60 - $100 / night
Check Availability10. Goose Bay Marina
"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"
"Location on the Potomac is great for boaters. Bought a bushel of crabs right off of the boat from Mr. Joe. Many people have golf carts, but not necessary as the campground was very walkable."
Drive Time
- 29 min from Washington, DC
- 56 min from Lexington Park, MD
- 1 hr 3 min from Baltimore, MD
- 1 hr 39 min from Winchester, VA
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Indian Head, MD
54 Photos of 72 Indian Head Campgrounds
Caitlin A.
Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
Sonyia W.
Pohick Bay Campground
Katia G.
Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp
Charity B.
Charity’s Hope Family Farm Resort
Charity B.
The Oasis at Lake Serenity
Gwynn G.
Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
Phillip W.
Burke Lake Park Campground
Caralee B.
Louise F. Cosca Regional Park
Matthias
Lake Fairfax Campground
Ariel F.
Thousand Trails Harbor View
Nicholas S.
Rappahannock River Campground
Mallory H.
Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Indian Head, MD
547 Reviews of 72 Indian Head Campgrounds
- Linda B.
RangerCherry Hill Park
Actually a 10!!!
This is a campers dream site. Everything you can think of is offered here. You have to check their website to see all. This is the closest site to Washington DC. Great location with access to all forms of transportation. Store fully stocked to include groceries. Two pools. Hot tub. Play areas to include a game room and miniature golf. Pets are pampered here. Even dog walking service available.
Megan K.
GuidePrince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park
Great spot with hookups by PW park
If you, like me, hate making reservations over the phone, it was worth it! Quick, simple, painless process.
Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located. My spot was in the back row and I didn't mind the walk
Lots: lots are really staggered/ set back from each other so feels like you have more space. Average lot size in general, but the set back feels like you have more space. It wasn't crowded either way, especially given on a weekend
Small pool
Wifi: don't plan on being able to have work zoom calls or really much on it for that matter
Cell service: I can confirm Verizon and Google fi have great service. I would imagine any other carrier would work just as well.
Area: the surrounding area is really bikeable
Hookups: I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained.
Staff: super friendly; great check in experience They have a dog park but didn't get a chance to check it out.
Overall: great experience, would recommend
MickandKarla W.
LegendCherry Hill Park
Impressive Campground
Cherry Hill Park was easy to find and get to basically right off I-95. This was our first time RVing into the WA DC area and we were concerned about traffic getting to the campground(CG). As we arrived, traffic was heavy on I-95 but manageable. Cherry Hill’s and our RV GPS directions were spot on getting us to the park. We were very impressed with this CG from the moment we entered. We picked up our package outside the office(no contact check-in) and went to premium site 93 with FHUs. Back-in was easy. The wifi was very good but the CG was only about a 1/4 full. Cherry Hill has many different ways to stay; cottages, cabins, yurts, glamping pods, premium and regular tent sites in addition to the RV sites. As we looked around we found that all of the sites, regardless of amenities, were spaced about the same. There are a few sites in the CG on the end that will give you a little more yard space like 97(need to be a competent backer), 402, and 1723. We got 2 bars each on Verizon and AT&T. The CG’s cable provided a large selection of channels and worked well. We were impressed with the main laundry facility due to the amount of large washers and dryers, very fair pricing and very clean. The two off leash dog parks(in the same area) were nice plus there’s a well maintained walking trail that goes around this very large CG’s perimeter. We really liked how there are trash receptacles and dog poopy bag dispensers nicely placed all over the CG. Though we didn’t use it, they even have a dog walker service so you can spend a lot of time exploring the DC area without worrying about your pups. About the only draw back was the road noise from the interstate and highway pretty much 24/7, but considering the area that is to be expected. Sites 13-38 and 1500 sites near the premium tent area are the farthest away from the road noise. We would definitely stay here again.
Genie W.
ScoutR & D Family Campground
Sparta Pines Family R V Park
We are winter residents having spent our first time this past year. We found the new owners and management very accommodating. Lot fee is reasonable. We found it quiet, pet friendly,and wooded off-road location. Looking forward to returning in the fall.
Caitlin A.ScoutSmallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
Private sites with water views nearby
These campground is a great find. The sites are well spaced, and while on the smaller side they’re very private with woods between each one. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. The other campers were all respectful and observed pet policy and quiet hours. I have a reactive dog and he did well here! We’ll be back!
J B.ScoutGreenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
The park/ trails
The park is located away from the camping grounds. It has two play grounds, several picnic tables and a bathroom. The bathroom is a average out door bathroom with no A.C. and the floor always seems to be wet, but I never had an issue with no toliet paper. The trails are maintained. You could tell there was even some work in progress spots. Wish there were some doggie bag stations just for the trash can. The trail comes close to the road enough times that it could be a great add for a visitor who brings pets and staff would not have to hike in to hike out a bag of garbage.
Katia G.ScoutFort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp
Well maintained
Super clean Very well maintained Pet friendly... kinda No veteran discounts smh Good for a day or two
- CCasey H.Scout
Lake Anna State Park Campground
Great place to stay
They have a wide selection of ways to camp, and are pet friendly and affordable!
Guide to Indian Head
The area surrounding Indian Head offers numerous camping options within an hour's drive of Washington, DC. The region features Maryland's coastal plain with elevations under 300 feet and humid summer conditions. Most campgrounds in this region experience moderate to heavy rainfall with approximately 43 inches annually, creating lush forest environments but sometimes challenging camping conditions.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Pohick Bay Regional Park offers an 18-hole disc golf course that provides entertainment without needing to leave the campground. As Rachel L. notes, "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."
Historical exploration: Prince William Forest Park provides opportunities to explore Civil War battlefields within minutes of your campsite. One camper explains, "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."
Water activities: The Potomac River shoreline access points allow for kayaking, canoeing, and shoreline fishing at several locations. A visitor to Bull Run Regional Park reports, "We stayed at Bull Run Regional Campground on our visit to Washington DC. It was fall and the colors were gorgeous."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the region provide good site separation with natural barriers. At Smallwood State Park, "These campground is a great find. The sites are well spaced, and while on the smaller side they're very private with woods between each one. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked."
Proximity to DC: Campgrounds serve as practical bases for exploring the nation's capital without city prices. One camper at Oak Ridge Campground shared, "We saw DC during the day but camped each evening. It was amazing!"
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness is consistently mentioned as a positive feature. A visitor to Burke Lake Park noted, "The bathrooms are clean and have hot showers. Shower stalls offered more privacy than most, each having a locking door and small dressing area with a bench."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F with high humidity, making spring and fall more comfortable for tent camping. A camper at Cedarville State Forest warns, "We stayed here a few times just to get out for a bit. It's quiet, but not too dark, as the lights from DC interfere with the night sky here."
Tick awareness: Several wooded campgrounds report significant tick activity during warmer months. A camper at Cedarville State Forest shared, "Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it! We hiked the brown trail and it was a nice walk."
Reservation requirements: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Indian Head require advance reservations, especially during summer weekends. Weekend availability can be limited with some sites booking months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Organized activities: Some parks offer regular family-oriented programming worth planning around. A visitor to Pohick Bay Regional Park shared, "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."
Playground proximity: Choose sites near play areas for convenience but be aware of potential noise. As one camper noted about Bull Run Regional Park, "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located."
Transportation options: When visiting DC from Cherry Hill Park, consider various transportation methods. A camper reports, "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. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5."
Tips from RVers
Levelness varies: Many sites require leveling blocks due to uneven terrain. A visitor to Prince William Forest RV Campground notes, "Sites were mostly level. Good location, tho our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."
Water access planning: Not all RV sites include water hookups despite electrical availability. A camper at Oak Ridge Campground explains, "Each loop has a bathroom building, Loop B is the only one with showers. There are no hookups in the campground, but drinking water is available near each bathhouse."
Dump station considerations: Some campgrounds offer unconventional dump station setups. As one camper at Cedarville State Forest noted, "They have a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near Indian Head, MD?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Indian Head, MD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Indian Head, MD is Pohick Bay Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 37 reviews.
What is the best site to find
dog-friendly camping near
Indian Head, MD?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Indian Head, MD?
TheDyrt.com has all 72 dog-friendly camping locations near Indian Head, MD, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring