While Spencerville lacks dedicated equestrian campgrounds, several nearby options accommodate horse owners within reasonable driving distance. Located in Montgomery County at approximately 400 feet above sea level, the area experiences mild summers and cool winters with moderate rainfall throughout the year. Most campgrounds near Spencerville require reservations during peak season from April through October.
What to do
Disc golf enthusiasts: Pohick Bay Campground offers an 18-hole course that campers consistently rate highly. "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.
History exploration: Artillery Ridge Campground provides direct access to Gettysburg's historic battlefield trails. "Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded. Literally right outside the entrance of the campgrounds is where the battlefield starts," shares MJ B.
Nature hiking: Multiple trail options exist in the forest environments around Bull Run Regional Park. "Camp ground is nice. Check in was a breeze. The sites are nicely spread out. 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.
What campers like
Accessible location: Many campers appreciate Pohick Bay Campground's proximity to Washington DC while maintaining a natural environment. "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Took me 25-30m to get there so you are far away from bustle of city but not so far that going in to enjoy breakfast or the sights is a feat," states Josh J.
Wildlife viewing: Eagle watching opportunities enhance the camping experience near Pohick Bay. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" observes Kathie M.
Year-round availability: Several campgrounds operate throughout winter months, offering off-season alternatives. "We stay here at least 6 trips a year. Nice layout, not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," reports Robert P. about Pohick Bay Campground.
What you should know
Tick precautions: Cedarville State Forest and surrounding areas have significant tick populations, particularly in summer. "We hiked the brown trail and it was a nice walk. Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it!" warns Nurse N.
Limited horse facilities: None of the campgrounds within 30 miles of Spencerville explicitly advertise horse corrals or dedicated equestrian amenities, though some allow trailer parking and have nearby riding trails. Trailer-friendly sites exist at several locations, but dedicated horse infrastructure is minimal.
Drainage issues: Some campsites experience flooding during heavy rainfall events. "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. from Bull Run Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Bull Run Regional Park offers organized family programs throughout camping season. "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. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," describes Bridget H.
Water recreation: Several locations feature water activities during summer months. "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. Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K. about Pohick Bay.
Bathroom facilities: Families particularly appreciate the quality shower facilities at certain locations. "I'll go again just for the showers. We tent camped there with 2 other families memorial day weekend. It rained the entire time but we still had a blast. The best review I can give us of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls," says Yvonne B. about Bull Run's amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request level sites when booking, as topography varies significantly between campgrounds and even within loops. "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone. Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that," advises Roberta K. from Artillery Ridge Campground.
Military base options: Active and retired military personnel have additional camping options at Camp Meade RV Park, which provides secure facilities. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle 🤣. They reminded me," notes Elvin J.
Site size considerations: Some campgrounds have restrictions for larger rigs or challenging approaches to certain sites. "Site 6 was good but not for larger rigs. We have a pop up and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs. Site 5 or 7 wouldn't have that problem," cautions Nurse N. about Cedarville State Forest.
