Several campground options exist near Marbury, Maryland for campers with pets. The region features a mix of state forest and park campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, with elevation ranging from near sea level to about 300 feet. Most sites in the area sit near creeks or rivers with mixed hardwood forests providing moderate to heavy shade during summer months.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: At Pohick Bay Campground, campers can enjoy an 18-hole disc golf course. "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," reports Rachel L.
Water activities: Water access provides multiple recreation options during warmer months. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" is available at Pohick Bay according to Anne K. At Caledon State Park Campground, campers hike to waterfront sites. "It's a nice 3 mile hike to the campsite which is right by the Potomac river! They have porta Johns and a pavilion close by. The beach is beautiful and we saw the most gorgeous sunset," shares Shelby O.
History exploration: The region offers significant historical sites within short driving distances. "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," notes Daniel S. about Oak Ridge Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate well-separated sites that provide a more secluded experience. At Caledon State Park, visitors enjoy the "Quiet place. Well maintained. Simple and scenic" atmosphere according to Hailey M. The natural spacing between sites creates a more peaceful camping environment.
Wildlife viewing: The proximity to water attracts diverse wildlife. At Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, Jack R. notes the "very clean and great Potomac River views" and mentions "Eagle's nest were interesting." Other campers report seeing various bird species throughout the year.
Clean facilities: Multiple reviewers highlight well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "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, and an adequate sized shower curtain, too," reports Tracy R. about Oak Ridge Campground.
What you should know
Tick awareness: Several campgrounds report high tick activity, particularly in warmer months. At Cedarville State Forest, one camper warns: "We stayed in site 18. Lots of trails but in June at least the ticks were waaaay too plentiful." Another notes they "never left this park without at least one tick."
Seasonal noise factors: Some campgrounds experience variable noise levels based on season and day of week. "This place is packed full of people who like to stay up late and make lots of noise. Park rules aren't very well enforced," reports Kelli T. about weekend crowds at Pohick Bay during peak season.
Reservation requirements: Most sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. Cedarville State Forest has "a small loop here accommodates both tent and RVs... There's a sacrifice of space here- I'd like to see it expand a bit, as the campground can fill quickly," according to Bill G.
Tips for camping with families
Organized activities: Several campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "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 his family camping success at Pohick Bay.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. At Bull Run Regional Park, one visitor noted the "campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish."
Campsite selection: For families, certain sites offer advantages. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," shares Ben G. about Pohick Bay. Sites near facilities reduce walking distances for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Several campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure)," notes Kristen M. about Pohick Bay. At Fort Belvoir, Thomas advises: "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."
Dump station access: RVers should note varying dump station quality across campgrounds. Cedarville State Forest has "a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower," warns Ben J.
Site size limitations: RV campers need to consider specific site dimensions. "Not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," mentions Robert P. about Pohick Bay. Prince William Forest RV Campground offers "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)."
