Westmoreland State Park Campground provides tent sites and cabin accommodations within a 1,300-acre park situated on the Potomac River. The park's varied terrain includes wooded areas and access to the Potomac shoreline with seasonal temperatures ranging from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Tent sites at loops A and B offer diverse levels of privacy, while premium RV sites include water, electric, and sewer hookups during the April to October peak season.
What to do
Fossil hunting at Fossil Beach: Visitors to Westmoreland State Park Campground can spend hours searching for prehistoric shark teeth along the shoreline. "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night," reports Sara A. The beach features a mix of sand, rocks and clay formations that make fossil hunting productive.
Winter hiking: Cold weather camping offers unique opportunities to experience the park's natural features. "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," notes RL. Winter trails provide clearer views of the Potomac River with less foliage.
Use park facilities: Pohick Bay Campground offers numerous recreational options within the park boundaries. "Great regional park with lots to do - trails, biking, boating," explains Kristen M. The campground maintains an 18-hole disc golf course, multiple playgrounds, and water access points for various outdoor activities.
What campers like
Heated bath facilities: Winter campers appreciate comfort amenities at Westmoreland State Park Campground. "Bath houses are heated which is amazing," reports RL. These facilities remain open year-round and provide hot showers even during colder months.
Private campsite options: Tent campers find suitable privacy at several campgrounds in the region. According to Courtney K. at Matoaka Beach Cottages, "We tent camped at Matoka Cabins and it was a beautiful peaceful camping trip! Our spot was very private and you could see the bay and hear the waves." Sites positioned near water often provide natural sound barriers.
Camp stores and essentials: Convenience features make extended stays more comfortable. "This is a stunning state park with a gorgeous campground. The whole place seems very well taken care of, with a camp store, visitor center, and discovery center for kids," notes a visitor about Westmoreland State Park Campground. Many campgrounds offer firewood sales, basic supplies, and park information.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campgrounds in the region feature varied terrain that affects site quality. At Louise F. Cosca Regional Park, "6 of the 25 sites are unleveled so tent camping is probably the only option." According to Tye S., only 5 sites have electric hookups but all 25 sites include water access.
Weather preparedness: The Potomac River area experiences significant seasonal changes. "Definitely gets windy near the river. Nothing a big pot of camp soup or chili can't help!" advises RL about winter camping at Westmoreland. Wind conditions intensify during colder months, particularly at waterfront sites.
Wildlife encounters: Local campgrounds report active wildlife, particularly after dark. "Raccoons run wild at night flipping trash can lids on your campsite hunting for food. Use repel spray to keep the raccoons off your site," warns Tye S. at Louise F. Cosca Regional Park. Proper food storage in secure containers prevents unwanted animal visits.
Tips for camping with families
Schedule-based selection: Families should consider timing their visits for optimal experiences. At Lacy Oasis Campground, Terrance D. reports, "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." Weekday visits typically offer quieter environments with less competition for facilities.
Look for structured activities: Many campgrounds offer organized programming for younger visitors. "The check in is a breeze and the staff is super nice and helpful. 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," explains Ben G. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Consider yurt camping: Families seeking Charlotte Hall, Maryland yurt camping options often choose Cherry Hill Park. The park's yurt accommodations provide solid structures with canvas walls that combine tent camping feel with greater comfort. Multiple families report these units work well for groups with young children who need more weather protection than traditional tents.
Tips from RVers
Early reservations essential: RV campers report limited availability at popular parks, particularly for full-hookup sites. "We tent camped there with 2 other families memorial day weekend. It rained the entire time but we still had a blast," notes Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park. Weather-resistant yurt camping near Charlotte Hall provides alternatives during wet conditions.
Check site dimensions: RV sites vary significantly in size and layout across different campgrounds. "Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure)," advises Kristen M. about Pohick Bay Campground. Longer rigs should verify turning radius and access road conditions before booking.
Consider seasonal factors: Some campgrounds restrict RV access during winter months or reduce services. "Summer visitors can enjoy swimming at the park's pool while winter glampers appreciate heated accommodations," notes a visitor at Cherry Hill Park. Year-round yurt camping options near Charlotte Hall maintain comfort regardless of season.
