Best Camping near Mechanicsville, MD

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mechanicsville, MD has a lot to offer. Mechanicsville is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Mechanicsville, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Mechanicsville, MD (78)

    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground

    2. Pohick Bay Campground

    39 Reviews
    63 Photos
    307 Saves
    Lorton, Virginia

    Choose your next adventure at Pohick Bay Campground in Lorton, Virginia. Bring the kids for a day of splashing and sliding at Pirate’s Cove Waterpark, spend a day on the bay with our canoe, paddleboard, stand up paddleboard and kayak rentals; or bring your own boat to our public boat launch ramp. Make a day of it by renting a picnic shelter or stay a little longer and reserve one of our cabins or campsites.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedarville State Forest

    3. Cedarville State Forest

    17 Reviews
    56 Photos
    100 Saves
    Brandywine, Maryland

    The lat/long on The Dyrt were updated 5/5/2022 to reflect what the State Forest site says is the CORRECT way to get into this campground.

    Equestrian Camping

    Campsites are primitive and a bathhouse is located in the center of the equestrian/special events camping loop. Equestrian Camping is roughly $30.00 per night per campsite. Make a reservation by calling 1-888-432-2267 (M-F 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) or online during the camping season (April through October).​ A horse is required to stay in this campground.​ Youth Group Camping

    Youth group passes are honored. Youth group camping reservations can only be made by calling the Maryland Park Service Reservation Service at 1-888-432-2267 Make future reservations by calling 1-888-432-2267 or online. The Maryland Park Service reserves the right to restrict the maximum and minimum number of vehicles and individuals admitted under one youth group pass per visit.

    Check out a map of the youth group and special event loops.
    

    Family Camping

    Family camping is available from April to October. Walk-ins are not permitted in office; same day reservations are made by calling 1-888-432-2267 (M-F 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) or online (24/7). ​

    Check out a map of the Family Camping Area.​
    
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed
    Camper-submitted photo from Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed

    4. Point Lookout State Park - Temporarily Closed

    29 Reviews
    104 Photos
    226 Saves
    Scotland, Maryland

    The campground will be closed for the 2023 season due to water and sewer replacement.

    This park's peaceful surroundings on a peninsula between the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River in St. Mary's County belie its history as the location of a camp which imprisoned as many as 52,264 Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. A museum on site recounts this vivid history. A park map is available at park headquarters, the camp office, camp store and the Civil War Museum/Marshland Nature Center. The Point Lookout Lighthouse is currently closed for renovations.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $21 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Hill Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Hill Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Hill Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Hill Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Hill Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Hill Park

    5. Cherry Hill Park

    41 Reviews
    181 Photos
    294 Saves
    Beltsville, Maryland

    Cherry Hill Park is a family-owned and operated campground that has been in the Gurevich family for 5 generations. We offer premium amenities, friendly service, and a wide variety of lodging - everything from tent & RV sites to premium log cabins and glamping pods and yurts. Our concierge and tours program makes it easy for guests to access downtown Washington, DC, by bus, Metro train, and guided tours. We love hosting guests from all across America, from all over the world, and from just down the road in our home state of Maryland.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $101 - $999 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    6. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    31 Reviews
    58 Photos
    253 Saves
    Dumfries, Virginia

    Overview

    Oak Ridge Campground is a 100-site, wooded campground located in Prince William Forest Park, 35 miles southwest of Washington, DC. The park's land was set aside during the Great Depression, and in 1935 the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) began restoring the previously over-farmed acreage, converting it to recreational lands for public use. The CCC built trails, dams and cabins, making the park a wonderful place for recreation and relaxation. Large group camping is not permitted at Oak Ridge Campground. Please read the need to know section for additional information.

    Recreation

    The park offers many recreational activities, including hiking, biking, orienteering and fishing. Hikers enjoy exploring the park's 37 miles of foot trails. The South Valley, Oak Ridge and Farms to Forest Trails all begin at the campground entrance.Bicyclists will find 21 miles of paved roads within the park, including the 12-mile Scenic Drive. Little traffic and a 25 m.p.h. speed limit make this a popular biking spot. A 3-mile, family-friendly paved bike lane leads to the campground. Mountain biking is also available on 10 miles of gravel fire roads.The park boasts 30 orienteering courses with picturesque settings. Orienteering is a 19th century Scandinavian sport primarily used as military training. The courses were developed in 1972 and continue to provide hours of entertainment and exploration for park visitors.Approximately 18 miles of streams and two small lakes are open to the public for fishing. The water quality of Quantico Creek supports numerous fish species and other aquatic life. The most common fish species are bluegill, pumpkinseed, largemouth bass and channel catfish.

    Natural Features

    Prince William Forest Park preserves approximately 15,000 acres of Piedmont forest covering a major portion of the Quantico Creek watershed. The park represents one of the largest parcels of undeveloped land in the area and is the third largest unit of the National Park System in Virginia. The area is the largest example of a Piedmont forest ecosystem in the National Park Service, makeing it a significant natural resource. Various geological outcroppings, winding creeks, gently rolling slopes and man-made lakes make wonderful destinations for any adventurous visitor. The park is home to 46 species of mammals, 22 species of amphibians, 25 species of reptiles, more than 129 species of birds, 26 species of fish and an unknown number of invertebrates. More than 900 plant species exist in Prince William Forest Park. From the smallest wildflower to the tallest tree, each species has a special role to play in this forest ecosystem. From tree bark in winter, wildflowers in spring, canopy cover in summer and autumn colors in fall, Prince William Forest Park offers beautiful scenery year-round.

    Nearby Attractions

    Prince William Forest Park is centrally located, with easy access to all of the attractions the Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., area have to offer. From the park entrance, the National Museum of the Marine Corps and the main gate of the United States Marine Corps Base Quantico are just a mile away. The park is located directly between historic Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park and Manassas National Battlefield Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    7. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    29 Reviews
    86 Photos
    228 Saves
    Greenbelt, Maryland

    Overview

    Greenbelt Campground is an urban oasis just 10 miles from Washington, D.C. This beautiful, wooded park is known for its safety, affordability, peaceful surroundings and National Park Service hospitality. Each campsite includes a picnic table and combination grill/campfire ring. Campsites have been improved using your camping fees to include new picnic tables and grills.The campground does not have water or electric hookups (primitive campground).A Loop is a Scout loop, youth or group Loop only. There is a RV limit of 30 feet (including tow vehicle) in B Loop and limited availabilty for larger vehicles (35 feet including tow vehicle) in D loop.

    Recreation

    The trails are open. Ten miles of hiking trails meander through Greenbelt Park, including Perimeter, Azalea, Dogwood and Blueberry Trails. Sweetgum Picnic Area is located 1.5 miles from the campground, with playground equipment and public picnic tables.

    Natural Features

    Situated in suburban Maryland, Greenbelt Campground is forested with a pleasant mix of pine, oak and maple trees, which give way to a colorful autumn season. Mountain Laurel blooms throughout the park in May. Still Creek flows through the site, where deer and chipmunks are commonly seen.

    Contact Info

    This location is staffed. Please call (771) 208-1588 to speak with local staff.

    Nearby Attractions

    Greenbelt Campground is surrounded by a myriad of fun and interesting attractions. Washington, D.C. and its famed historic sites are just 10 miles from Greenbelt. Goddard Space Flight Center is 3 miles from the park and the City of Greenbelt is 1 mile away. The Washington, D.C. Metro Transit System can be accessed 1.5 miles from the park, and major shopping centers are located within 1/2 mile away from the park entrance.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park

    8. Bull Run Regional Park

    41 Reviews
    72 Photos
    187 Saves
    Iron Gate, Virginia

    Bull Run Campground, located near Interstate 66, is a getaway that is not far from Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia attractions. Bull Run Park is only 27 miles from Washington, D.C. and 15 miles from the Vienna Metro Center Station. We are convenient for visitors to the Dulles area , Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center of the National Air and Space Museum and Manassas National Battlefield Park. The variety of campsites available at Bull Run Campground are RV sites with electric only service, Electric RV sites with water, RV sites with full-service (which includes sewer, water and electric), tent sites, rustic cabins and group camping areas. There are two bathhouses in the campground that offer hot showers, sinks, toilets and laundry facilities. The camp store sells camping supplies, snacks, ice and firewood and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $30 - $95 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Endeavor Point

    9. Endeavor Point

    5 Reviews
    13 Photos
    56 Saves
    Patuxent River, Maryland

    NOTE: THERE IS A 2 NIGHT MINIMUM FOR HOLIDAY WEEKENDS.

    Great place for fishing, camping, kayaking, lazy days on the beach grilling and hanging out with family and friends. Book family events on the beach. Come and explore the historic Benedict village. Join us at our Endeavor Point to enjoy simplicity and remarkable views of the Patuxent river. The Endeavor Point is located at the end of Mill Creek Road, offering breathtaking views of the Patuxent river, overlooking Golden Beach and St. Mary's County shoreline. Far enough for a serene retreat and yet just a few minutes drive to shops and restaurants in Prince Frederick or Charlotte Hall. Endeavor Point is a diamond in the rough. Come play, fish, relax, and have fun! Whether you’re in Maryland for a day, weekend stop or a week of touring, Endeavor Point is the perfect spot for bird watching, fishing, kayaking, camping, stargazing, or just enjoying a serene evening by the fire. Enjoy breathtaking views from each one of our 3 comfortable accommodations or from any of the campsites. Spacious outdoor area, rustic beach, long pier. Explore the Patuxent river or Mill Creek with our kayaks or paddle board, available for rent on site.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $55 - $95 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping

    10. Calvert Cliffs State Park Youth Group Camping

    5 Reviews
    13 Photos
    60 Saves
    Lusby, Maryland

    Youth Group Camping

    There are five youth group camping sites available and reservations are required. Youth Group passes are honored.

    Access to pit toilets, fire ring, and one 12 foot picnic table are provided with each site. (Available April-October)

    You can make reservations through parkreservations.maryland.gov or by calling 1-888-432-2267.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
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Showing results 1-10 of 78 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Mechanicsville

Recent Reviews in Mechanicsville

491 Reviews of 78 Mechanicsville Campgrounds


  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    Dec. 11, 2024

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Convenient to DC and public transportation

    This is an urban oasis.  Traffic can be heard but not seen.  Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground. Living 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.  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.  No electric or hook ups.  There is a dump station and water available at spickets throughout the campground.  Showers and bathrooms are basic and clean.   Oh, and bonus, the American Discovery Trail (ADT) passes through the park.  https://discoverytrail.org/

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    Nov. 12, 2024

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Great site - super accessible!

    Sites were well-maintained, including lavatories. Plenty of tree cover. 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.

  • Heather The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Breezy Point Beach
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Breezy Point Beach

    Nice to be by the water & hear the waves

    They have renovated the beach and per my friends, the fencing protecting the area is new, but needed. The sites are too close to each to each other and people were blaring their music. The bathhouse needs updating. Not enough fire rings and if you don’t have one and the campground is full, you’re out of luck. Saw an otter one night!

  • dito S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Pohick Bay Campground in Virginia offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. It's an ideal spot for families and nature lovers. Don’t forget to register dito sim to stay connected during your visit!

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aquia Pines Campground
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Aquia Pines Campground

    So convenience campsite, right up the Rt 95, 36mile from Washington DC.

    And the host are very kind and very friendly, event near Rt. 95, not very loud noise with big tall trees, happy stay!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Meade RV Park
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Camp Meade RV Park

    Great RV park to stay near Vicksburg

    Did stay here after visting Vicksburg. Nice clean restrooms and showers. Friendly hostess and we had a nice shady spot, what was great with a heat of 94F.

  • Rob  O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    Great family campground with trails and HOT showers

    Reservations are made through the National parks service "recreation.gov" website. Arrived for tent camping for 1 nights, park ranger met me at the entrance to ensure i could find my site. My stay was quiet and the bathrooms were clean and well stocked with HOT water in the private showers. This is a great base camp for getting out to hike the various trails in Prince William Forrest. Firewood is gather your own from fallen limbs in the park.

  • Judy W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Bull Run Regional Park

    Noisy but Nice

    Pros - Clean Bathrooms, Camp store open 8am - 8pm, Sites 62 - 92 (except #74 and 88) are all pretty  good.  Security was great, patrol throughout the night.  Quiet hours are enforced and campers are polite.  Lots of activities, and nice hiking trails. Fabulous historical attractions, great visitor center. 

    Cons - Campground is in the flight path of Dulles Airport, so planes are flying over head at all hours of the day and sometimes late at night/morning.  There is a shooting range nearby. Some noise during range hours. (Not late at night!)  Because there had been so little rain, there was not great fishing in the park.  (I went to Silver Lake, that was great!)

    Traffic! Lots of local traffic on the main roads. (to be fair, it IS a suburb of DC ). Stores are all approx. 20 mins away. (Head towards Haymarket)

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Bull Run Regional Park

    Spacious Sites and family friendly

    I stayed here with my family this summer and the park itself is a perfect spot for nature near DC. My son loved the giant playground and full water park at the campground, they even had discounted entry to the water park for campers. We stayed in site 20 which is an easy pull through and had a direct trail to the water park and the full network of trails in the park.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA
    Aug. 29, 2024

    Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA

    Nice location

    Just a few miles off of Interstate ninety five and u s seventeen. Within thirty minutes of fredericksburg. At this k o a everything was clean and organized. Our site was a pull through. With plenty of room side to side. In fredericksburg be sure to do the trolley tour.

  • Terrance D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lacy Oasis Campground
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Lacy Oasis Campground

    Serenity, serenity, serenity!

    If you are a nature lover, a person who loves peace, serenity, and, tranquility, or just need some respite, Lacy Oasis is the place to be. Whether you are an adult or a child, this place will have a positive effect on you. The owners are involved and designed this space with the visitors pleasure in mind. This space is about healing and being grounded with yourself. My agency took about 25 children there last week and they did not want to leave, neither did I. The rates are very economical for what is being provided on the space. There is not enough I can say about this place. It was definitely more than I expected. But my agency has worked with the owner in the past on other community support initiatives and she has always been an overachiever. Please come and enjoy this space. You will not be disappointed. I cannot wait to return.

  • Trees F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Excellent spot

    We loved staying at Pohick. We were here to visit DC and it was an excellent spot to stay. It was extremely hot as it was July but the sites had a lot of shade. Site 46 where we stayed was close to the bathrooms and nice and flat. The bathrooms were cleaner than any other campground we have stayed in and they have laundry and a nice stainless sink and counter for washing dishes if needed. About a 40 minute drive into DC and definitely worth it. Also, campers get a discount at the water park which was a very reasonable 5 dollars per person. The weekend tends to be a bit louder but during the week was very quiet.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Hill Park
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Cherry Hill Park

    Great park and amenities

    We stayed a week at Cherry Hill and it had everything we needed for visiting DC. Staff very helpful and really explained the Metro system very well. We didn't drive to DC at all - just used public transit We also did 2 tours with Cherry Hill, which were good overviews of the featured sites. Nicely stocked store, great cafe onsite, and clean bathrooms and showers were great features. Swimming pools pretty crowded so we didn't use. Still, very happy with site, partial shade too. Would return to Cherry Hill.

  • Heather H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Westmoreland State Park Campground

    Great with the littles

    Stayed one night in our camper van, walked down to fossil beach which was the perfect amount of hiking for a two year old, great playground with plenty of other kids, camp store is well stocked and had decent hours. Our site was right next to bathrooms which was also great with the kids but we didnt hear or smell them. Cleanest campground bathrooms we've ever seen. Gravel parking and pebbles in the picnic table area, which my 2 year old enjoyed and my 9 month old tried his hardest to ingest. Loved it, would def go back.

  • Chris S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Fairfax Campground
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Lake Fairfax Campground

    Nice spot, friendly park rangers, clean bathrooms

    Chicken was easy and the Rangers were helpful. We stopped here to go tour Washington DC. We tried both sides 46 and 44 and both were not level.

  • j
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Fairfax Campground
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Lake Fairfax Campground

    Crowded but nice

    Great bathrooms all singles w showers. Lots of fun things to do. Pretty peaceful despite being crowded and not overly scenic campsites. A bit on top of each other. Site 43 had good location, electric and trees. But was a very pokey gravel pad, a bit uncomfortable if you don’t have good mattress. Interior sites, less scenic but some have more grass. But also more slope. 43 was pretty flat.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pohick Bay Campground
    May. 29, 2024

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Good trip

    We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids. The waterpark is new and loud so we avoid but nice if you have young kids. Careful low bridge on Route 1 exit ramp little warning when taking ramp off I95. Go around to next exit. The check in at the cap store is crowded and narrow even with renovations but our 34 ft makes it okay. Bring bikes. Long bike trail along road. Farmers markets in Lorton and things to do in DC. Park at Huntington or Springfield metro. Short boat ride straight across from Ft Belvoir new family campground. Ice cream shop in season by water docks. Bathrooms clean always hot water three stalls each. Sink outside for dishes. Playground buts up against inner circle which are the only sewer sites. Others are electric water. Careful some near steep drop off. Stick to main road or inner circle or first circle if in big unit. Must go round circle to get to those spots which can be annoying. Two speed bumps. Camp store sells smores ingredients, limited candy, no eggs or bacon get those off Rte 1. Past entrance on Rte 1 is a Food Lion, McDonalds. Gas stations along Rte one are tight so fill up before exiting to campground. If you are desperate there is gas 7/11 at corner of Pohick and Rte 1 but its sketchy. Up the road off Rte 1 is Fort Belvoir Access w a drivers license however cant shop without military sponsored ID. Great bbq at Telegraph Rd and greek at Olympians family restaurant. Movie theater on Telegraph is nice. Springfield Mall close. Take Onville Rd which is a backroad by Pohick Church to shortcut to Rte 1. Pohick Rd past camping turn deadends into private neighborhood. Do not pass camp entrance. Hard to turn around if you do. Near End of Pohick is a small walk with overlook. See birds at point. Drive a car not RV. Park at lot on right before road split deadend. Gunston Hall on left can see from campground and water. Tours are nice.

  • Martin T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    May. 28, 2024

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Depends on What You Are Looking For

    This is a fairly nice, bare bones NPS campground. If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it. Helicopters and planes fly over regularly, and you can hear sirens from neighboring college park. The campsites are pretty close together, we could see probably about 10 or so other campsites from our campsite. And there is not a ton to do within the park itself -- there are a few picnic areas, a pretty unimpressive small playground, some nature/walking trails, and that's about it.

    But it is a pretty nice campground -- campsites and showers seem clean and well maintained, bathrooms are fine and you're never far away from one. Rangers come around regularly to check on things and every one we interacted with was extremely friendly. I don't think there's anything comparable so close to DC, so if you're in the DC area and just want someplace close by for a short camping trip, or are looking for an affordable outdoors-y option to stay while you're visiting DC from out of town, this probably fits the bill. As soon as you leave the park you are in College Park with Metro access close by, and very close to the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Bull Run Regional Park
    May. 1, 2024

    Bull Run Regional Park

    First Camping Trip

    Took my family of 7 to the Bull Run regional park for our first camping trip and the experience was great! Didn’t want to stray too far from the house in the event that it was a nightmare, thankfully this local spot offered a soft opening to our family over the two days we spent there and all was good. The site was clean and well kept, bathhouse was close to the tent site and in ok shape (wasn’t expecting anything spectacular so wasn’t disappointed. Playground and trails were nice, kids really enjoyed the chance to take in nature. This experience was good and would recommend a visit for anyone looking for a soft intro to camping for their family!

  • Guerrmo The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Washington DC / Capitol KOA
    Apr. 19, 2024

    Washington DC / Capitol KOA

    Expensive/Not a Great Value

    Camp site wasn’t level at all. I was actually kind of worried that it would slide into the woods. Pool was dirty. Ran out of hot water. Got chided by the golf cart police for driving >20 mph. Stayed at nicer campgrounds for significantly less money.

  • Mallory H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
    Apr. 2, 2024

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Quick one night stay

    Quick one night stop on our way south. While the sites are pretty exposed, it was a cold night so there were only a few other campers!

    The bathroom was clean and extremely warm which was much appreciated after a cold night.

  • Mallory H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Westmoreland State Park Campground
    Apr. 2, 2024

    Westmoreland State Park Campground

    Quick Stay

    While we only camped here for one night, we enjoyed the park from check in to checkout!

    Since we tent camp our site was dry and had no amenities but there were full hook up sites available. Our site was nestled in with the full hook up sites so it was as far away from the bathrooms as possible, not a big deal just something to note.

    Since we visited in March, the trees did not have much foliage so the sites were more exposed than I tend to prefer and lots of the campers around left their outside RV lights on all night.

    Being in campground A, we were only a short walk to the trail leading to fossil beach which was beautiful!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cherry Hill Park
    Mar. 12, 2024

    Cherry Hill Park

    Great Campground close to DC

    The Campground is located conveniently at the corner of I95 and the Washington DC Beltway I495. It is an especially good Campground to stay at if you are planning on visiting Washington DC. Personally, I would say that is a good Campground for Overnight or a Trip to DC. There is a generally good sense of community, which is lucky because of how close together the sites are. There is a Bus Stop right by the Entrance to the Campground that will get you into Washington DC if you don’t feel like driving. The Camp store is very well stocked with camping stuff, food, and beer. There is also plenty to do for the kids, like Tractor Ride through the Campground. We visited Cherry Hill Park Campground in a Class A Motorhome and while it was tight, we fit no problem.



Guide to Mechanicsville

Camping near Mechanicsville, Maryland, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and easy access to the sights of the D.C. area. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore Washington D.C.: Many campers use the nearby campgrounds as a base to visit the nation's capital. For instance, at Cherry Hill Park, one visitor mentioned, "We stayed a week at Cherry Hill and it had everything we needed for visiting DC." The campground provides easy access to public transit, making it simple to get into the city.

  • Enjoy Nature Trails: Hiking is a popular activity in the area. A reviewer at Bull Run Regional Park noted, "The site was great except the weird parking stops on every site but the pull-throughs." This park offers trails that are perfect for families and nature lovers alike.

  • Water Activities: If you love being on the water, Pohick Bay Campground is a great choice. One camper shared, "The bathrooms were cleaner than any other campground we have stayed in," highlighting the cleanliness and convenience of the facilities after a day of kayaking or fishing.

What campers like:

  • Community Feel: Campers often appreciate the friendly atmosphere. A visitor at Cherry Hill Park said, "There is a generally good sense of community, which is lucky because of how close together the sites are."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained grounds are a big plus. A reviewer at Bull Run Regional Park mentioned, "The bathhouses are ample and clean but can be a hike from some sites."
  • Convenient Location: Many campers enjoy the proximity to attractions. One camper at Pohick Bay Campground noted, "About a 40-minute drive into DC and definitely worth it."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways or airports. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground warned, "This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7."
  • Site Proximity: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "The sites are all nice and level, but rather close, as expected given the proximity to DC."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A reviewer at Greenbelt Park Campground noted, "There’s not a ton to do within the park itself."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. At Cherry Hill Park, one family enjoyed the "great cafe onsite, and clean bathrooms and showers were great features."
  • Plan for Nature Exploration: Bring along bikes or hiking gear. A camper at Bull Run Regional Park mentioned, "There is also plenty to do for the kids, like Tractor Ride through the Campground."
  • Pack for Comfort: Make sure to bring items that will keep everyone comfortable. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground appreciated the "clean bathrooms" after a long day of activities.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Oak Ridge Campground noted, "RV sites are limited to 32’ and trailers to 26’."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A camper at Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA mentioned, "If looking for a place to stay near Richmond with full reliable hook-ups this would service that need."
  • Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds may charge extra fees for early check-in. A visitor at Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA pointed out, "They'll charge you an extra $20 for early check-in."

Camping around Mechanicsville, MD, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions