RV campgrounds near Potomac, Maryland are typically open year-round due to the region's temperate climate, though summer temperatures can reach the 90s with high humidity. Camping options range from primitive sites to full-hookup RV accommodations with 30/50-amp service. The area sits within the Potomac River watershed at approximately 400 feet elevation, providing access to both urban and natural attractions.
What to Do
Water activities on the Potomac River: At Brunswick Family Campground, campers can access the Potomac directly from the campground. "The Shanandoah River parallels the campground. The river is beautifully clean, clear and cool," notes one visitor who appreciated the water quality.
Historic exploration: The region offers significant Civil War and Revolutionary War sites within short drives. "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," according to a camper at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Trail hiking: Multiple campsites connect to extensive trail networks. Lake Fairfax Campground provides "wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat)" and includes "mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too)" as reported by visitors who enjoy the diverse trail systems.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer direct fishing access. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp has "a pier out into the river to fish on. The outdoor recreation center has bait, snacks, and drinks," making it convenient for anglers without bringing all their supplies.
What Campers Like
Natural settings close to urban areas: Despite proximity to Washington DC, many campsites maintain wooded, natural environments. Little Bennett Campground receives praise for "quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded sites with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," providing a nature escape despite urban proximity.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse quality varies between campgrounds but remains important to campers. At Bull Run Regional Park, visitors highlight "five stars for the restroom facilities. Bright, large, clean and very well maintained," making longer stays more comfortable.
Diverse recreation options: Many campgrounds provide multiple activities within walking distance. "There's a water park, paddle boats, playgrounds, trails, skate park, sports fields, and the bathrooms are the nicest I've ever seen," reports one Lake Fairfax camper, noting the variety available without leaving the park.
River views: Waterfront sites are particularly valued. Harpers Ferry Campground offers "gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing," showing how natural features compensate for fewer developed facilities.
What You Should Know
Train noise considerations: Several riverside campgrounds experience regular train traffic. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "the proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night," so light sleepers should bring earplugs.
Military credential requirements: Some campgrounds require military ID. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp offers excellent value but "you need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system," limiting access for civilian campers.
Variable site leveling: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. "Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable" at Fort Belvoir, while at Prince William Forest RV Campground "caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level."
Seasonal facilities: Amenities vary by season. "Lake Fairfax Campground in Reston provides approximately 60 level RV sites with 110/30/50 amp electrical connections but no water hookups at individual sites, operating from March to September," requiring campers to plan accordingly.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity planning for kids: Cherry Hill Park offers extensive family amenities. "This campground has so much to offer. We loved it... Playground, Mini Golf, Swimming Pool, Hot tub, Basketball court, Snack bar on site, Nightly hayride," making it particularly suitable for families with varied interests.
Campsite selection strategies: Site location significantly impacts family camping experiences. At Bull Run Regional Park "the outer loop campsites are easily more level than the center loop. If leveling perfectly is a concern you may want to call ahead and ask before committing to the inner loop," helping families avoid setup frustrations.
Budget considerations: Camping costs vary widely. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "we got a discount for staying 2 nights so it was only $29 a night. Don't buy the $25 firewood it'll be gone in one night they have wood throughout the campground go forage!" providing practical budget management advice.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies by location. At Little Bennett Campground, RVers report "AT&T 5 MB/s without booster (1 bar), 8 MB/s with it (2 bars). There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy. OTA TV was descent using an external omni antenna. There is no WiFi," helping remote workers plan accordingly.
Urban access strategies: Prince William Forest RV Campground provides convenient urban access. "Very close to Washington DC. About 17 miles to the closest Rail station to bring you to the mall in Washington DC," allowing RVers to avoid driving into congested areas.
Leveling requirements: Site terrain varies significantly. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water)," but many sites throughout the region require substantial leveling equipment, especially for larger RVs.
