Pet-friendly camping options near Burke, Virginia range from primitive sites to full-service campgrounds within 30 miles of Washington DC. Burke Lake Park Campground has tent-only sites in the B and C loops, with sites B14 located about 20 feet from bathrooms. Most camping areas in the region operate seasonally from March through October, with overnight temperatures ranging from 45-65°F in spring and fall seasons.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Pohick Bay Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course that makes for an enjoyable afternoon activity. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes Rachel L. from Pohick Bay Campground.
Nature scavenger hunts: Bull Run Regional Park organizes structured outdoor activities for children including guided nature exploration. "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," shares Bridget H.
Train rides and carousels: Burke Lake Park offers family-friendly attractions beyond camping. "The park has a mini train ride that goes around part of the park," explains Tom C., while another camper adds that Burke Lake has "a carousel and a kiddy train, frisbee golf, a regular golf course - all a short drive from DC."
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Despite being in urban areas, many campgrounds maintain a woodland atmosphere. "Greenbelt Park is quiet aside from occasional air traffic noise, and while there wasn't much spacing between some camp sites everyone was respectful," writes Lauren S. about Greenbelt Park Campground.
Multiple loops with different features: Oak Ridge Campground offers distinct camping experiences based on which loop you select. "There are three loops, front to back. Loop A are walkin only sites for RVs and tents. Loops B and C reservable. Loop B sites are for large families or groups. Loop C is more remote," explains Tracy R. from Oak Ridge Campground.
Fishing and boating: Several parks provide water recreation opportunities on their lakes. "There is a pier out into the river to fish on. The outdoor recreation center has bait, snacks, and drinks," notes Jack R. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, which sits along the Potomac River.
What you should know
Shower availability varies: Some campgrounds have limited shower facilities while others have none. At Bull Run Regional Park, "There's only one playground that's awkwardly located," and "Bath houses are clean and well maintained. Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that," advises Roberta K.
Wildlife encounters: Ticks can be an issue at certain parks during warm months. According to one camper at Oak Ridge Campground: "Ticks were really bad. We killed dozens and ended up taking at least one with us when we left. We had Deep Woods Off, but seemed to do no good."
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking online. "This is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online," Crystal C. explains about Greenbelt Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Several campgrounds offer water recreation facilities for children. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," mentions Anne K. about Pohick Bay, while another reviewer notes Lake Fairfax Park has "a water park, paddle boats, playgrounds, trails, skate park, sports fields."
Educational activities: Bull Run Regional Park organizes seasonal events for children. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," shares Bridget H.
Loop selection for families: When booking at Oak Ridge Campground, consider which loop best suits your needs. "Loop B is for large families or groups. Loop C is more remote. Each loop has a bathroom building, Loop B is the only one with showers."
Tips from RVers
Site grading: Many RV sites in the area require leveling equipment. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, "The back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level. The rain created red clay mud so the dogs were a mess," reports Cheryl D.
Electrical hookups: Lake Fairfax Campground offers powered sites but they may not be level. "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 commiting to the inner loop. Electric hookup only," advises Corey B.
RV dump stations: Most regional parks provide sanitation facilities, but access varies. "Water fill & Dump Station on the beach side of the bathhouse," notes one Lake Fairfax camper, while another mentions that Prince William Forest has "propane and 2 easy dump stations."
