Bull Run Regional Park offers cabin camping options with modern amenities within 30 miles of Chantilly, Virginia. The campground has pull-through sites positioned to face wooded areas, creating a sense of seclusion despite being in a developed park. Winter temperatures in the region typically range from 27°F to 47°F, while summer averages 66°F to 88°F, making camping possible year-round with proper preparation.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park sits adjacent to Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders, where you can access a 1.5-mile trail into the historic town. "You can walk the trail right next to the campground into the historical town of Harper's Ferry. The trail is about 1.5 miles one way," notes Maggie A.
Water activities: Direct river access allows for swimming, fishing, and boating at several campgrounds. At Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground, primitive campsites sit right on the water. "The primitive spots are right next to the river. The spots are a short walk from the parking area and the campground provides wagons to transport your stuff. Great fishing and swimming right at your camping spot," reports Matt P.
Mountain biking: Trail systems throughout the region accommodate riders of all skill levels. Leesylvania State Park offers accessible paths for beginners. "Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners. Campground access to the Shenandoah River," writes Laura N.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Sites with natural barriers provide more seclusion. Little Bennett Campground offers well-separated spaces. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup," says Ray & Terri F.
Clean shower facilities: Several campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms. Bull Run Regional Park receives consistent praise for its facilities. "The best review I can give is of the bathrooms. They're worth staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," reports Yvonne B.
Riverside locations: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites for the views and activities. At Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders, "Our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water). We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus," writes Mikala S.
What you should know
Train noise: Campgrounds near rail lines experience regular train activity. Harpers Ferry Campground sits beside CSX tracks. "The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will," cautions Sherri C.
Site leveling challenges: Some campsites require significant adjustment to achieve level placement. At Pohick Bay Campground, "Nice layout, not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," mentions Robert P.
Weather preparedness: Spring camping often means dealing with rain and mud. Waterproof footwear and tarps are essential. Yurt camping near Chantilly, Virginia provides more protection from the elements than tent camping during wet periods.
Tips for camping with families
Organized activities: Several campgrounds offer structured programming for children. Bull Run Regional Park provides diverse entertainment options. "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," says Bridget H.
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience with young children. Little Bennett Campground has kid-friendly amenities. "My family loves this camp ground. It's conveniently located, it's quite, it's beautiful and there is plenty to do to keep the kids busy," Ryan D. explains.
Yurt options: Yurt camping near Chantilly provides a comfortable alternative to tents for families with small children. Cherry Hill Park offers these structures with convenient amenities. "The best park in the DC area! Very nice grounds, clean, and amenities galore! Plan and reserve your DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park," says Jason E.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: End sites typically offer more space and fewer neighbors. At Cherry Hill Park, "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," recommends Scott C.
Drainage issues: Some campgrounds experience standing water after rain. Bull Run Regional Park has documented drainage problems. "There was a fairly heavy day of rain. Couple inches, I suppose, but nothing Biblical. The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," reports Stuart O.
Reservations: Many campgrounds in the Chantilly region fill quickly, especially during peak season. Make reservations well in advance for yurt camping near Chantilly, Virginia locations, particularly for holiday weekends and summer dates.
