Campgrounds near Indian Head, Maryland range from military-affiliated facilities to state forests, with many situated along the Potomac River watershed. The region sits at low elevation (under 200 feet) and experiences hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Most campgrounds remain open April through October, though several locations offer year-round availability with seasonal variations in amenities.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: At Pohick Bay Regional Park, campers can enjoy an 18-hole disc golf course. "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.
Water recreation access: Bull Run Regional Park includes a water park perfect for summer visits. "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," shares Bridget H.
Wildlife observation: Bald eagle watching is popular at Pohick Bay and surrounding areas. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" reports Kathie M. at Pohick Bay Campground.
Historic site exploration: Many campgrounds provide access to Civil War battlefields and historic structures. "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," reports Daniel S. from Oak Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the secluded nature of sites at several parks. "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," notes Caitlin A. about Smallwood State Park.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers highlight the well-maintained bathrooms. "The bathrooms were nice and clean throughout my stay and looked newly renovated," mentions Clara K. about Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple locations offer shoreline and pier fishing access. "We had a guys weekend here with my Brother and my 4 year old son. Had a great time. Every park ranger we met was nice and helpful. There is a nice fishing pier and the Generals Trail which my son loved," shares Sean R. about Smallwood State Park.
Access to trails: The network of walking and biking paths receives positive mentions. "Great regional park with lots to do - trails, biking, boating. Sites are spacious and decently level. Plenty of playgrounds and trails nearby to keep the family busy," writes Kristen M.
What you should know
Airplane noise: Military installations create consistent aircraft sound at several campgrounds. "We could hear activity at Quantico. Lots of air noise too, from both airplanes and helicopters," reports Tracy R. from Oak Ridge Campground.
Insect concerns: Ticks and mosquitoes are significant issues, particularly in summer months. "Ticks were really bad. We killed dozens and ended up taking at least one with us when we left. Only because of the ticks, we would not stay here again," warns a reviewer at Oak Ridge.
Limited privacy at some sites: Cedarville State Forest receives mixed reviews about site spacing. "The loop is very small, with all the sites pretty close together. The forest behind the site was sparse, enough so that it was hard to find fuel for the fire," notes Chris F.
Variable site leveling: Many campsites require adjustment for RVs. "Sites were mostly level. My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," explains Drew M. at Bull Run Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs. "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," shares Ben G. about Pohick Bay.
Consider weekday visits: Weekend crowds can impact experience at popular parks. "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," cautions Kelli T. about Pohick Bay during peak times.
Check playground locations: Not all campgrounds have conveniently placed play areas. "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located," notes Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Water activities schedule: Leesylvania State Park offers water access that families appreciate. "This park is ALWAYS full of family's having picnics and enjoying time together! There's playground and a beach area for kids and family to all enjoy," recommends Sarah F.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection matters: Request specific sites based on rig size. "Some sites seemed entirely too close, others spread apart. At times, sites seemed backwards - I kept saying they should reverse the one way direction so back in sites were easier," notes an Oak Ridge Campground visitor.
Leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling equipment for certain parks. "Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river. Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable," advises Mike H. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Secure campgrounds: Military-affiliated sites offer added security. "This campground is aboard Fort Belvoir, a US Army base in Northern, VA. It is very clean and there are many amenities close by," notes Jack R. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Hookup variations: Water and electrical options differ between parks. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious. The site had water and electric which was nice," reports Ben G. about camping at Pohick Bay.
