Camping sites near Bristow, Virginia offer both natural settings and quick access to metropolitan areas. Most campsites in this region sit at elevations under 500 feet within the Piedmont region's rolling hills. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons maintain more moderate 60-75°F daytime temperatures.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Bull Run Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course that draws enthusiasts. "The park has disc golf, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds," notes Tom C. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access, particularly at lakes. "The lake is beautiful!" comments Drew H. about Burke Lake Park Campground, which includes rental options for those without gear.
Water recreation: Several parks feature water activities beyond swimming. "We'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests Rachel L. from Pohick Bay, while Anne K. adds, "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" is available at Pohick Bay Campground.
Historical exploration: The region's rich Civil War history provides educational opportunities. "There are tons of amenities here. Lots of history near by so check out the old battle fields and buildings that housed troops during civil war," explains Daniel S., highlighting activities beyond typical camping.
What campers like
Convenient access to DC: Multiple campgrounds serve as bases for Washington DC exploration. Josh J. explains that Pohick Bay "took me 25-30m to get there so you are far away from bustle of city but not so far that going in to enjoy breakfast or the sights is a feat."
Clean facilities: Reviews frequently mention facility quality as a standout feature. "The bathrooms are with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," raves Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides wildlife viewing opportunities despite suburban proximity. Kathie M. notes that Pohick Bay is an "Eagle haven! Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere!"
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds in the region typically offer extensive amenities. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt," writes Bridget H., highlighting Bull Run's family activities.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. "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. about Bull Run.
Seasonal crowds: Public areas can become congested during peak times. "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," warns Kelli T. about Pohick Bay.
Reservation requirements: Most area campgrounds require advance booking. "You need military credentials," cautions Mike H. about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, highlighting specific access restrictions at some facilities.
Urban noise factors: Despite wooded settings, some urban sounds penetrate. "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," explains Drew M. about ambient noise at Bull Run.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple activity options: Families benefit from diversified recreation options. "BLP has a great lake for fishing and boat rentals, a paved path to walk around the lake (about 5 miles) and a fantastic playground. There is a carousel and a kiddy train, frisbee golf," details Alexis about Fairfax County Burke Lake Park.
Organized activities: Some parks offer structured programming for children. "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," Ben G. shares about Pohick Bay's family programming.
Water park access: Several campgrounds feature water recreation beyond natural bodies of water. "This park has too many amenities to list. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," Bridget H. notes about Bull Run's family attractions.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research site characteristics before booking. "Caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level," warns Cheryl D. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Full-hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer complete hookups. "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). Some long term guests occupy the back sites which have sewer," explains Kristen M. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Accessibility for large rigs: Site dimensions and road access vary significantly between campgrounds. "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," advises Corey B. about Lake Fairfax Campground.
