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.
Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Fort Washington Park
Pohick Bay Campground's wooded sites cater to pets with designated dog-friendly areas throughout the regional park. Located just 30 minutes from Washington DC, the campground offers spacious sites where dogs can accompany campers in tents, RVs, cabins, and glamping accommodations. Leashed pets are permitted throughout the grounds, though owners should maintain control at all times, particularly on the hiking trails that overlook the Potomac River. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp also welcomes pets with clean facilities and access to the Potomac where dogs can enjoy water activities. Most campgrounds in the region require pets to be on leashes no longer than 6 feet, with waste disposal stations available at central locations. The campground is particularly quiet on weekdays, making it ideal for campers with noise-sensitive dogs.
Trails near both Pohick Bay and Greenbelt Park Campground provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs, with several miles of pet-accessible paths through shaded forest areas. Cherry Hill Park offers premium amenities for pet owners including designated pet relief areas and proximity to veterinary services in College Park. During summer months, pet owners should be mindful of heat concerns, especially at sites with limited shade. Wildlife encounters are common in these parks, so keeping dogs leashed protects both local animals and pets. All campgrounds enforce quiet hours starting at 10 PM when excessive barking is prohibited. Oak Ridge Campground at Prince William Forest Park features additional pet-friendly trails with water access points where dogs can cool off after hikes. The bathhouse facilities are generally clean and well-maintained, though floors can become muddy during wet weather.
Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Fort Washington Park (71)
1. Pohick Bay Campground
38 ReviewsLorton, VA8 milesWebsite+1 (703) 339-6104$33 - $150 / night
"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."
2. Cedarville State Forest
17 ReviewsBrandywine, MD11 milesWebsite+1 (301) 888-1410$30 / night
"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."
3. Cherry Hill Park
42 ReviewsBeltsville, MD22 milesWebsite+1 (301) 937-7116$999 / night
"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. "
"As we looked around we found that all of the sites, regardless of amenities, were spaced about the same."
4. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
32 ReviewsGreenbelt, MD20 milesWebsite+1 (301) 344-3948$20 / night
"The park is located away from the camping grounds. It has two play grounds, several picnic tables and a bathroom."
"If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."
5. Burke Lake Park Campground
15 ReviewsBurke, VA15 milesWebsite+1 (703) 323-6600"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."
6. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
31 ReviewsDumfries, VA22 milesWebsite+1 (703) 221-7181$26 / night
"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."
7. Bull Run Regional Park
43 ReviewsIron Gate, VA25 milesWebsite+1 (703) 631-0550$34 - $90 / night
"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."
8. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp
4 ReviewsFort Belvoir, VA6 milesWebsite+1 (703) 805-3081$55 / night
"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."
9. Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
9 ReviewsMarbury, MD14 milesWebsite+1 (888) 432-2267$27 - $65 / night
"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."
10. Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park
18 ReviewsDumfries, VA19 miles+1 (703) 221-2474"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."
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Fort Washington Park
58 Photos of 71 Fort Washington Park Campgrounds
Katia G.
Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp
Caralee B.
Louise F. Cosca Regional Park
Sonyia W.
Pohick Bay Campground
Charity B.
The Oasis at Lake Serenity
Charity B.
Charity’s Hope Family Farm Resort
Caitlin A.
Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
Phillip W.
Burke Lake Park Campground
Mallory H.
Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park
Gwynn G.
Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
Evelyn T.
Cherry Hill Park
Matthias
Lake Fairfax Campground
Ariel F.
Thousand Trails Harbor View
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Fort Washington Park
571 Reviews of 71 Fort Washington Park Campgrounds
singinajf@aol.comTravelerRamblin' Pines
Quiet Spot
The staff and seasonal campers are all very friendly. The bathrooms are incredibly clean. We love all the games there are to play and the dog park is our favorite spot. Overall, it's peaceful and quiet in a nice, wooded setting.
- 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.
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.
Nancy W.LegendRamblin' Pines
Good location to Baltimore/Frederick Attractions
We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick. The campground is quite large with lots of seasonal sites but there are some transient spaces that can accommodate big-rigs. In addition to RV sites, there are tent sites and cabins.
We stayed in one of the transient sites (#FR14) across from the RV storage lot. It was a long gravel back-in with 50-amp FHU. The water hook-up is in a pit so it doesn’t freeze so look under the cover. It can be a bit difficult to reach and you have to get on the ground to hook-up. Based on the location of the spigot, we were not able to attach our water filter (we drank the tap water anyway and it was good). The electric worked fine and were able to reach the sewer with our 20’ hose. The view out of our front window was of the storage lot which was not the most scenic. However, parking in the FR row is the easiest place for big-rigs to park since some roads in the park are tight and hard to navigate with the trees and with the two-way traffic.
There are lots of amenities and it seems some people come here for the activities and things to do. It is a destination for many campers. They have lots of themed events, the most popular being the entire month of October celebrating like Halloween. They set up a haunted walk through the woods, have pumpkin carving, trick or treating, a costume contest, haunted hayride, and site decoration contest every weekend. If you want to camp on the weekends– book early because we found it very difficult to get a reservation during October and you have to pay in full and there are no refunds for cancellations. Other weekends have live music, bingo, hayrides, cornhole tournaments, crafts, and more. Basically, there is something every weekend.
Huge fishing pond, shuffleboard, horseshoes, large dog park with agility, game room, playgrounds, jump pillow, heated swimming pool, and exercise room (which was decent but didn’t have a television to occupy your time), 18-hole mini golf. A short but nice hiking trail winds through the woods and is nice for walking dogs. There is a large covered pavilion with picnic tables for big gatherings. There is free Wi-Fi but it doesn’t reach sites in the back of the campground. Wi-Fi is great if you are near the office/store. The camp store is fairly large with some food/beverage items, t-shirts, large amount of RV supplies, and misc. other items. There is a coffee maker with free coffee.
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
Guide to Fort Washington Park
Camping options around Fort Washington Park range from forested tent sites to full-service RV hookups within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and mild winters where overnight temperatures can drop below freezing. Several campgrounds remain open year-round while others operate seasonally from March through October with varying accessibility during wet weather conditions.
What to do
Disc golf at Pohick Bay: An 18-hole course provides a recreational alternative to hiking and water activities. "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. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Boating and fishing: Multiple watercraft options from non-motorized to powered boats available seasonally. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," explains Anne K. about the activities at Pohick Bay. The Potomac River access points provide various fishing opportunities throughout the warmer months.
Historical exploration: Civil War sites and historical buildings offer educational opportunities within short driving distance. "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," shares Daniel S. about staying at Oak Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Many campgrounds feature recently renovated bathhouses with good water pressure. "The showers were hot, water pressure and shower heads good. Shower stalls offered more privacy than most, each having a locking door and small dressing area with a bench," notes Tracy R. about Oak Ridge Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Eagles, deer, and other animals frequently visit campsites in the quieter campgrounds. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" shares Kathie M. about Cherry Hill Park.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds offer structured family events including campfires and hayrides. "We had a great time here over a long weekend in August. 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," reports Ben G. about Pohick Bay.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Ticks become particularly problematic during warmer months. "Ticks were really bad. We killed dozens and ended up taking at least one with us when we left," warns Tracy R. about camping at Oak Ridge Campground. Bug spray containing DEET is recommended between April and October.
Noise factors: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes or military facilities. "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," explains Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Site selection: Sites vary significantly in size, privacy, and levelness within the same campground. "Sites varied greatly in size. Some seemed entirely too close, others spread apart. At times, sites seemed backwards," notes Tracy R. about Oak Ridge Campground. Research specific site reviews or contact park staff before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities: Several parks feature multiple kid-friendly amenities in close proximity. "The check in is a breeze and the staff is super nice and helpful. There is boat rental a short walk down the trail from the campgrounds and the pool and disc golf course are another short trail walk away," shares Ben G. about Greenbelt Park Campground.
Water recreation options: Water parks and splash areas provide cooling alternatives during hot summer months. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," mentions Anne K. about Pohick Bay Regional Park. Most water features operate between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Weekday visits: Quieter conditions prevail during weekdays at most campgrounds. "Nice and quiet here during winter more so during week than weekends," observes Josh J. about Pohick Bay Campground. This timing particularly benefits families with noise-sensitive children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many RV sites require additional equipment for proper leveling. "Not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," advises Robert P. about Pohick Bay Campground. Bring extra leveling blocks, especially for the hillier campgrounds.
Urban convenience: Several campgrounds offer city proximity while maintaining natural surroundings. "This campground is byfar one of the best I have ever stayed at. The price is a little steep, but with all the amenities you get, it is well worth it. This campground is very close to DC and you are able to ride the metro bus right from the campground," explains Jonathan B. about Cherry Hill Park, a pet friendly camping option near Fort Washington Park.
Hookup variations: Not all sites offer the same level of service even within one campground. "The sites for tents are big enough for a 4 person tent. There are clean bathrooms and the hosts, who I have spoken to many times, are friendly and knowledgeable about the area," shares Bill G. about Greenbelt Park Campground. Check specific site details when making reservations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near Fort Washington Park?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Fort Washington Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Fort Washington Park is Pohick Bay Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 38 reviews.
What is the best site to find
dog-friendly camping near
Fort Washington Park?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Fort Washington Park?
TheDyrt.com has all 71 dog-friendly camping locations near Fort Washington Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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