RV camping near Bristow, Virginia encompasses a mix of county, regional, and military facilities within the Northern Virginia region. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from March through September, with a few year-round options available. The area sits at approximately 250-300 feet elevation with a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild-to-cool winters.
What to do
Visit historical sites: At Prince William Forest RV Campground, travelers can explore nearby attractions including the National Marine Corps Museum. "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," notes Kenneth H.
Water activities: The Potomac River offers recreational options at Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp. "The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on," shares Jack R.
Hiking trails: Forest paths provide day hiking opportunities within short driving distances of most campgrounds. "Prince William Forest which is a fantastic National Parks forest," states one camper at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high on camper satisfaction lists. "Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located. My spot was in the back row and I didn't mind the walk," reports Megan K. at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Proximity to Washington DC: Cherry Hill Park provides excellent access for visiting the capital. "Great for a DC visit. Easy access and well laid out sites. They have a bus stop for metro service to the city, but we took the 20 minute drive," writes Joe R.
Riverside campsites: At Harpers Ferry Campground, many campers appreciate waterfront sites. "Amazing sites right on the Potomac. There is a Ale House above the office that delivers for free to your site (2.5 miles away), just tip the driver," shares Eric J.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience noise disruption from nearby rail lines. At Harpers Ferry Campground, campers should prepare for train sounds. "The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will. Every hour through the night," cautions Sherri C.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Bull Run Regional Park, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," notes Drew M.
Military ID requirements: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp requires military credentials for access. "You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river," explains Mike H.
Seasonal weather impacts: Spring campers may encounter heavy pollen at some locations. "If you have allergies, avoid spring. EVERYTHING outside was covered in a light haze of pollen," advises Ariel F. at Thousand Trails Harbor View.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Lake Fairfax Campground offers numerous family-friendly attractions. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too); wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat), skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground, fishing, & canoeing)," recommends Amy B.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Bull Run Regional Park, one visitor noted, "This campground was full of stuff to do and we didn't even get to do a lot of it. The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt."
Swimming options: Pools provide summer recreation at several campgrounds. Prince William Forest RV Campground has "a nice pool and bath house," according to Mary P.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Burke Lake Park Campground and other facilities have varying site configurations. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "The campsites are one on top of the other in a row along the access road and the river. There is no separate between the sites," mentions Sherri C.
Connectivity: Internet access varies significantly between locations. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, "Wifi: don't plan on being able to have work zoom calls or really much on it for that matter. Cell service: I can confirm Verizon and Google fi have great service," reports Megan K.
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds require advance booking, particularly on weekends. At Bull Run Regional Park, there's "a 2-night minimum stay. Even mid-week. In APRIL for gosh sakes!" notes Stuart O.
Site selection strategy: When possible, request specific site locations. At Cherry Hill Park, campers suggest to "Look at the park map and try to get a site at the end of a row. The sites are pretty close together but on the ends at least you only have a neighbor on one side," advises Scott C.
