Cabin accommodations near Arlington, Virginia range from basic to deluxe units with varying amenities depending on location. Many cabins in the area require advanced reservations, with peak summer months filling quickly due to limited availability. Several campgrounds provide year-round cabin options, making these shelters accessible during all seasons for visitors seeking alternatives to tent camping.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Pohick Bay Campground offers excellent water access with boating options from kayaks to motorboats. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," notes one visitor. The park's location provides opportunities to observe wildlife, especially birds, with another camper mentioning, "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!"
Historical exploration: Visit the historic sites near Bull Run Regional Park, where you can explore Civil War battlefields. "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," writes one reviewer. The park features historical buildings that housed troops during the Civil War.
Disc golf courses: Several parks near Arlington feature disc golf facilities. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests a regular visitor to Pohick Bay. Bull Run Regional Park also offers a frisbee golf course among its recreational amenities, providing an alternative outdoor activity for cabin dwellers.
What campers like
Proximity to DC attractions: Cherry Hill Park provides exceptional access to Washington DC. One reviewer notes, "The best park in the DC area! Very nice grounds, clean, and amenities galore! Plan and reserve you DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!" Cabin guests appreciate this convenience when visiting national monuments.
Privacy between sites: Little Bennett Campground features well-separated cabin and camping sites. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded," reports one visitor. Another adds, "Lots of vegetation between sites providing privacy from neighbors," making it ideal for visitors seeking more secluded accommodations.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention the cleanliness of bathhouses and common areas. "Toilet/shower facility very clean," notes one Little Bennett camper. Another visitor to Bull Run remarks, "Bathrooms were central and well maintained," a crucial factor for cabin campers who typically share communal bathroom facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals must be booked well in advance. A Little Bennett visitor noted, "Reserved 137 days prior to arriving," indicating the popularity of cabin accommodations in the region. Weekend dates fill especially quickly during summer months.
Price considerations: Burke Lake Park offers competitive rates compared to other facilities. Cabins throughout the region vary widely in price, with some visitors noting that municipal campgrounds in Northern Virginia are "a bit spendy for being government sponsored."
Seasonal variations: While some facilities operate year-round, others have limited seasons. "Open April 1 to October 30" is the operating schedule for Little Bennett Campground, while other parks may offer cabin accommodations during cooler months with heating systems installed.
Parking regulations: Many campgrounds have specific parking rules, especially for cabin guests. "Entrance gate required entry code," mentions one reviewer, noting that some facilities have secure access systems requiring special procedures for late arrivals.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Patapsco Valley State Park features exceptional facilities for children. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," reports one family camper. Another adds, "It's the perfect little getaway from the city for camping, fishing and hiking."
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer nature programs specifically for young visitors. "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," shares a Bull Run visitor.
Swimming options: Consider cabin locations with water recreation. "They have a nice looking pool area," notes a Cherry Hill visitor, while another camper mentions the "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer" at Pohick Bay, providing important cooling options during hot summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking cabins, position matters. "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," advises a visitor to Washington DC/Capitol KOA in Millersville. This applies to cabin areas as well, where end units typically offer more privacy.
Utility connections: For cabins with electrical hookups, bring appropriate adapters. "50 amp hook-up, Water, Sewer," lists one Cherry Hill Park reviewer, noting the comprehensive connections available. However, not all cabins offer the same utilities, so confirm specifics when booking.
Laundry facilities: For extended cabin stays, on-site laundry can be essential. "3 washers and 3 dryers, along with folding tables in the basement of the check-in building. Accepted credit card for $1.75/load," details a Little Bennett visitor, providing useful information for longer-term cabin guests.
