Brunswick Family Campground offers direct river access for anglers and water enthusiasts along the Potomac River, located 43 miles northwest of Poolesville. The area features moderate summer temperatures averaging 85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms between June and August. Many campgrounds in the region connect to the C&O Canal towpath, providing access to historic sites and extended hiking routes without requiring vehicle transport.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Visit the historic Harpers Ferry town, accessible from Harpers Ferry Campground. "From there you can grab a bite, visit the history of Harper's Ferry or continue exploring more hiking trails," notes one visitor. The town is accessible via a 1.5-mile hiking trail from the campground.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line directly from your campsite at Brunswick Family Campground. "Great location right next the river. Easy to walk into the river or tube down it," one camper reports. The Shenandoah River features clear, clean water for fishing throughout the camping season.
Military history: Tour Gettysburg National Military Park when staying at nearby campgrounds. "Not far from downtown Gettysburg, which also has a lot of different things to do," notes a camper at Drummer Boy Camping Resort. The battlefield is approximately 10 minutes from several Gettysburg area campgrounds.
What campers like
Riverfront access: Many sites at Brunswick Family Campground sit directly along the water. "Our spot was on the river with a short walk to the boat ramp and access. It was very quiet, serene, & clean," explains a first-time RV camper. Most waterfront sites include full hookups.
Pool facilities: Cherry Hill Park offers swimming pools and splash pads that remain open throughout the summer season. "Pool, playgrounds, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early and late," reports one satisfied guest who visited with family.
Nature trails: Walk from your campsite to hiking trails at Bull Run Regional Park. "The park is nice, but if you're looking for fishing don't go here, but you can in fact kayak down the creek," advises one camper. The park features miles of trails through wooded areas.
What you should know
Train noise: Brunswick Family Campground sits near active train tracks. "The campground is adjacent to a very large, very busy train yard. It's not bothered me but you should be aware," warns one camper. Nighttime train traffic can be disruptive to light sleepers.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Bathhouses could definitely use some upgrading for the money that place probably takes in each season," notes a reviewer at Drummer Boy Camping Resort. At Bull Run, one camper had high praise: "Best camping showers I've ever had."
Site spacing: Campsite proximity differs greatly between parks. "Sites are really staggered/set back from each other so feels like you have more space," explains one Brunswick Family camper. At Gettysburg Campground, visitors note "small sites but some are along the creek."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Gettysburg Campground provides amenities specifically for children. "It is a wonderful place to have kids. Tons of things for them to do," shares one tent camper. The campground includes playgrounds and a creek where children can observe wildlife.
Playground access: Consider proximity to play areas when booking. At Round Top Campground, a reviewer observed "there was only 1 playground, it was all the way at the front of the campground (we had to drive to it) and it was very junky and run down."
Kid-friendly activities: Bull Run Regional Park organizes family programs. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon...They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," reports a camper who stayed in a cabin with grandchildren.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at some parks. At Round Top Campground, an RVer noted "spots are tight, water pressure is low, road traffic noise. Water and electric are in awkward spots on our site." Bringing additional leveling blocks is recommended.
Military base camping: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp offers secure camping with military credentials. "Nice views of river. Eagle's nests were interesting. Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable," reports a military camper. The campground provides full hookups including 50-amp service.
Sewer connections: Pay attention to hookup placement when selecting sites. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, a reviewer mentions "all spots are pull through and are close together. Most have some tree cover (and some of the trees could use a trim along the roads). Some long term guests occupy the back sites which have sewer."
