Camping options near Nanjemoy, Maryland include several state and regional parks within a 50-mile radius. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity, creating ideal conditions for water-based activities. The area sits at low elevations generally under 300 feet above sea level, with primarily oak and pine forest cover dominating the landscape.
What to do
Fossil hunting along shorelines: At Westmoreland State Park, visitors can search for prehistoric shark teeth along the beaches. "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night," reports a camper at Westmoreland State Park.
Disc golf courses: Several parks offer dedicated disc golf facilities. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests a reviewer about Pohick Bay Campground.
Water recreation beyond fishing: Besides standard fishing access, many parks offer boat rentals. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" is available at Pohick Bay according to one camper, while another notes that "There is boat rental a short walk down the trail from the campgrounds."
Trail exploration: The region features extensive hiking options through woodland areas. "There are plenty of playgrounds and trails nearby to keep the family busy," says a visitor to Pohick Bay, while another mentions that at Burke Lake Park, "The trail around the lake is a bit under 5 miles, but it's all trail. There is almost no elevation gain."
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between sites. A camper at Oak Ridge Campground noted, "Sites varied greatly in size. Some seemed entirely too close, others spread apart."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness is frequently mentioned as a positive feature. "The bathrooms were nice and clean throughout my stay and looked newly renovated," reports a visitor to Oak Ridge Campground.
Winter camping options: Unlike many seasonal facilities, some parks remain open year-round. "Went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year," states a camper at Westmoreland State Park, adding, "Bath houses are heated which is amazing."
Park programming: Many parks offer organized activities. One visitor to Bull Run Regional Park shared, "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground."
What you should know
Traffic and noise levels vary: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or facilities. "There's a shooting range near by so can be kind of noisy," notes a camper at Bull Run Regional Park, while another states, "This place is packed full of people who like to stay up late and make lots of noise."
Insects require preparation: Tick activity can be significant in wooded areas. A visitor to Oak Ridge warned, "Ticks were really bad. We killed dozens and ended up taking at least one with us when we left."
Campsite selection matters: Terrain varies significantly across the region. At Burke Lake Park Campground, "The camping area is 2 small loops where I think maybe 40 sites are available. The camping spots are primitive no running water or electricity at your campsite."
Advance reservations recommended: Many of the best places to camp near Nanjemoy fill quickly. "We only have a small tent and some snacks. Lol but we are having an amazing time," reports a last-minute visitor to Westmoreland State Park, suggesting spontaneous trips are possible but not ideal.
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities for kids: Look for parks with organized children's programs. A family at Smallwood State Park shared, "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."
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse," notes a camper at Pohick Bay, while another adds, "This is definitely a family campground. So my activities for kids and places to run around."
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer nature programs. "I took my daughter (4.5 yr old) for her first campout, at her request. We had a great time," says a visitor to Oak Ridge Campground, where the host was "wonderfully hospitable."
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. A visitor to Westmoreland State Park described, "Cabin 24 is a 2BR/1BA cinderblock cabin with waterfront views and large yard space. One room has two bunk beds, dresser, shelving, a lamp, and two night stands."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure)," notes a camper at Pohick Bay, while at Prince William Forest RV Campground, "Sites were mostly level."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry roads. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, "Almost all sites are pull through and are close together. Most have some tree cover (and some of the trees could use a trim along the roads)."
Hookup availability varies: Electric, water and sewer connections differ between parks. "I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained," reports an RVer at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Seasonal differences in services: Facilities change throughout the year. "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Nice and quiet here during winter more so during week than weekends," shares a visitor to Pohick Bay about winter camping.
