Clifton's camping options feature diverse sites across Northern Virginia's Piedmont region with elevations ranging from 200 to 400 feet. The area experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 20°F. Most campgrounds remain operational year-round with reduced services during winter months.
What to do
Hayrides and outdoor activities: At Bull Run Regional Park, families can enjoy organized evening activities. "Our family stayed here in a cabin on a long weekend trip to DC. The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," notes Bridget H.
Hiking through historical areas: The region's trails connect to Civil War sites and natural areas. "Tons of trails, wildlife and activities in and near the park. This state park is adjacent to Shenandoah National Park and is just as beautiful and rich in history!" explains Ricki F. from Shenandoah River State Park.
Water recreation: Rivers provide kayaking, tubing, and fishing opportunities. "This campground is great! Primitive camping at its best. We stayed here and went tubing on the Rappahannock River one day. The tubing trip was organized by the same people that run the campground so that was very convenient!" shares Katie M.
What campers like
Proximity to DC with natural isolation: Campers appreciate being close to urban amenities while feeling remote. "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. 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," reports Josh J. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities abound. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" says Kathie M.
Campsite privacy: Many sites offer secluded settings. "The sites are all pull-through off the roads through the campground. So your camper faces the woods and you feel like you're all alone," shares Roberta K., describing Bull Run's layout design.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some parks have excellent facilities while others are primitive. "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," says Yvonne B.
Weather considerations: The area can experience heavy rain with drainage issues at some sites. "While we were here, 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," warns Stuart O.
Background noise at some locations: Urban proximity means occasional noise intrusion. "Camp ground is nice. The only drawback is that it is not quite. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," mentions Drew M.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt camping options: Yurt accommodations at Little Bennett Campground offer a comfortable alternative to traditional camping. "This is a good regional campground with activities for kids on special days. Took our grand daughter there for her first camping trip and she loved the bouncing strawberry and the hikes," shares Georgia H.
Specialized children's programs: Many parks offer organized activities. "We loved the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish. This park has too many amenities to list," notes Bridget H.
Multiple recreation options: Parks typically offer multiple activity choices. "State run park with many amenities. Park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds. I like to take new families that have not camped before to this campsite," suggests Tom C.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies: Some RV sites require adjustments. "Site #D69 level side-to-side but we were forced to greatly elevate front of trailer to level front-to-back. Site #D69 gravel parking pad," reports Napunani at Cherry Hill Park.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer comprehensive services. "We stayed at site D72 for 4 days. The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup. D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C & E are tents only," explains Ray & Terri F.
Reservation recommendations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer. Pros: 50 amp hook-up, water, sewer, playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court, snack bar on site, nightly hayride, gated, on-site camp store, on-site bus shuttle," shares Beth R.
