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Best Equestrian Camping near Colonial Beach, VA

100 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Cedarville State Forest is one of the most accessible campgrounds for equestrians near Colonial Beach, Virginia, approximately 45 minutes away. While the campground does not offer dedicated horse corrals, it provides designated equestrian trails that wind through the forest's 3,510 acres. The camping area consists of a single loop with 27 sites that can accommodate tents and smaller RVs up to about 30 feet in length. Electric hookups (30-amp) are available at sites on the inner loop. Horse owners frequently note the sound and smell of horses can be detected from several campsites, indicating the proximity of equestrian activities. The family campground offers clean restrooms with showers, drinking water from spigots positioned around the loop, and fire rings at each site. Firewood is available for purchase at $5 per crate through an honor system.

The extensive trail system at Cedarville State Forest attracts riders throughout the region, with multiple color-coded paths suitable for horses. Trails are well-maintained with excellent signage, making navigation straightforward for visitors. Equestrians should be aware that ticks are abundant, particularly during summer months, with multiple reviewers mentioning the need for thorough tick checks after riding. The forest shares boundaries with hunting areas, so wearing bright colors during hunting seasons is advisable for safety. The campground remains open from April through October, with reservations recommended on weekends. Horse trailers can be accommodated at larger sites, though calling ahead to confirm specific site dimensions is recommended. Sites are moderately priced and positioned within reasonable distance from Washington DC, making this a practical weekend destination for urban-based equestrians seeking nearby trail access.

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Colonial Beach, Virginia (5)

    1. Pohick Bay Campground

    38 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 339-6104

    $33 - $150 / night

    "We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids."

    "Pohick Bay Campground in Virginia offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. It's an ideal spot for families and nature lovers."

    2. Cedarville State Forest

    17 Reviews
    Brandywine, MD
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 888-1410

    $30 / night

    "We picked up the camping registration outside the office at the entrance, no need to speak with anyone. Then we just drove down to our campsite in the family camping loop."

    "There are some abandon camp loops around the open campground which makes for some cool walks with your dog. Very pretty area with lots of trails and overgrown roads to walk."

    3. Bull Run Regional Park

    43 Reviews
    Iron Gate, VA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 631-0550

    $34 - $90 / night

    "We have lived in northern Virginia for over 30 years and never been to this campground until this month! Very nice campground with friendly staff and friendly campground hosts."

    "History buffs will like to explore the park surrounding the campground. Fun little water park within walking distance of all campsites that was great for kids."

    CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

    4. Lichtman Camp 1 — Prince William Forest Park

    1 Review
    Prince William Forest Park, VA
    31 miles
    Website

    5. Andrews AFB Military FamCamp

    2 Reviews
    Clinton, MD
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 981-4109

    $18 - $30 / night

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Colonial Beach, VA

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Colonial Beach, VA

100 Reviews of 5 Colonial Beach Campgrounds

  • R
    Oct. 4, 2021

    Cedarville State Forest

    Peaceful

    We picked up the camping registration outside the office at the entrance, no need to speak with anyone. Then we just drove down to our campsite in the family camping loop. We could hear and smell horses when we got to our campsite, but it didn't last forever. 

    The site was mostly clean, had a few pieces of small trash scattered around when we arrived. The sites were decently spaced out from one another, it didn't feel like we were right on top of the people across and next to us. Our site was close to the restroom, it had a little path leading to the restroom, and it looked like there was little trail paths all around leading to the restrooms from the different parts of the loop. The path leading to the restroom from our site was gravel and easy to walk on. The restrooms were clean, but the floor was wet almost the entire time we were there (likely due to the showers).

    If you need to buy wood it is $5 for 8 pieces and you call a number given to you in your registration packet. The ranger will then drive by and drop off the wood at your campsite. The inner ring of this loop has electricity, and the electric box was just on the far side of the picnic table in the corner.

  • Ben J.
    Aug. 31, 2019

    Cedarville State Forest

    Pretty cool for so close to DC

    Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates. Moderate privacy and space, especially considering how close it is to DC. There are some abandon camp loops around the open campground which makes for some cool walks with your dog. Very pretty area with lots of trails and overgrown roads to walk. Equestrian trails go deep into the woods if you want a longer trail. Bathrooms don’t look like much from the outside, but the inside is very nice. Clean, hot water, and good water pressure. The have a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower. It was hot, so it was OK. Hahaha. They sell firewood, but they were huge pieces and getting them to start burning was tough. LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers. Each site had picnic table, fire ring, and pretty level parking spot.

  • Kasey M.
    Aug. 26, 2020

    Cedarville State Forest

    Mosquitos, Overgrown & Quiet

    We chose this campground based on proximity to work. This campground was priced fairly, however, it does come with its downfalls.

    PROS

    Let me start with the positive, we were 1 of 3 campers in this loop during our week-long stay. This made it peaceful and quiet. 

    CONS

    It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times. 

    Other than the daily bathroom cleaning, this campground lacks maintenance on sites and walkways. They are both overgrown. 

    Playground, fishing, archery all seem blocked off at this time. 

    Trails seem open but are across and through hunting areas. They are also muddy from the rain. There is even standing water around our site which brings us to...the MOSQUITOS! We tried fans, tiki torches, and many deet free or light deet products before having to buy 100% deet so we could be outside. These things are awful!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 29, 2024

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Good trip

    We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids. The waterpark is new and loud so we avoid but nice if you have young kids. Careful low bridge on Route 1 exit ramp little warning when taking ramp off I95. Go around to next exit. The check in at the cap store is crowded and narrow even with renovations but our 34 ft makes it okay. Bring bikes. Long bike trail along road. Farmers markets in Lorton and things to do in DC. Park at Huntington or Springfield metro. Short boat ride straight across from Ft Belvoir new family campground. Ice cream shop in season by water docks. Bathrooms clean always hot water three stalls each. Sink outside for dishes. Playground buts up against inner circle which are the only sewer sites. Others are electric water. Careful some near steep drop off. Stick to main road or inner circle or first circle if in big unit. Must go round circle to get to those spots which can be annoying. Two speed bumps. Camp store sells smores ingredients, limited candy, no eggs or bacon get those off Rte 1. Past entrance on Rte 1 is a Food Lion, McDonalds. Gas stations along Rte one are tight so fill up before exiting to campground. If you are desperate there is gas 7/11 at corner of Pohick and Rte 1 but its sketchy. Up the road off Rte 1 is Fort Belvoir Access w a drivers license however cant shop without military sponsored ID. Great bbq at Telegraph Rd and greek at Olympians family restaurant. Movie theater on Telegraph is nice. Springfield Mall close. Take Onville Rd which is a backroad by Pohick Church to shortcut to Rte 1. Pohick Rd past camping turn deadends into private neighborhood. Do not pass camp entrance. Hard to turn around if you do. Near End of Pohick is a small walk with overlook. See birds at point. Drive a car not RV. Park at lot on right before road split deadend. Gunston Hall on left can see from campground and water. Tours are nice.

  • Anne K.
    Apr. 26, 2020

    Bull Run Regional Park

    Typical

    Lots of trees to protect from hot Virginia sun

    Woke up to sounds from gun range.

  • dito S.
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Pohick Bay Campground in Virginia offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. It's an ideal spot for families and nature lovers. Don’t forget to register dito sim to stay connected during your visit!

  • Kelsey K.
    Jul. 4, 2021

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Family oriented, but super close and not private

    Initially disappointed by the tiny spot we got, but we were able to move. Majority of the spots are extremely close to the next and doesn't allow much privacy. Very few trees in between. We chose another spot that was available, however, we found out the first night that there is a boat area and bright light all night right behind us and the light came through the tent. Another dissapointment. We camped in a tent and did 3 nights, 4 days. (4th of July weekend) We loved the family friendliness that allowed us to walk right down the street/trail to take our kids to the water park. They give you a discounted price if you are camping. They also have mini golf and disc golf near by as well. If we come again, we will definitely be more particular about our spot. They also had bathrooms and showers not to far from our spot that were actually clean.

  • Jenifer K.
    May. 11, 2019

    Pohick Bay Campground

    Woods and City

    We stayed here for 3 nights at a back in with w/e. We enjoyed sitting around the campfire at night and walking the dogs down to the water. We were right next to a hiking trail that went down to the water and a beach area. We were working in Arlington/DC only a 25 min drive away and it was nice to come home to some nature.

  • moonbeans
    Oct. 15, 2022

    Cedarville State Forest

    Great beginner’s campground

    Forested campground with fairly lengthy but level (and thus beginner friendly) hiking just a short distance away from Washington, DC.

    If you’ve forgotten anything you can pop on by the Target or Costco right outside the forest.

    Also, you can purchase wood while checking in and the Rangers don’t mind if you take a bit extra. Just bring your own starters and kindling (or a small hatchet/saw).

    Planes do occasionally fly over the area so consider bringing earplugs if you are a sensitive sleeper. The noise wasn’t really noticeable when I went on a Saturday (the neighboring campsite’s dogs were louder).

Guide to Colonial Beach

Cedarville State Forest provides horseback riding options for equestrians near Colonial Beach, Virginia, with a trail system spanning over 19 miles across 3,510 acres of mixed hardwood forest. Located in Maryland approximately 45 minutes from Colonial Beach, the forest maintains open riding access from April through October. Sites accommodate equestrian visitors with space for horse trailers at designated larger campsites.

What to do

Disc golf course: Bull Run Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course that draws visitors throughout the year. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes Rachel L. about nearby Pohick Bay Regional Park.

Nature scavenger hunt: Family-friendly activities include guided explorations at several parks in the region. A camper at Bull Run Regional Park mentioned, "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish."

Trail exploration: Multiple color-coded paths range from easy to moderate difficulty throughout the forest system. "We hiked the brown trail and it was a nice walk," reports Nurse N. about trails at Cedarville State Forest, adding practical advice about cell coverage: "We have AT&T and had two bars pretty consistently."

What campers like

Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal populations visible from trails and campsites. "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," reports Ben J. about his experience at Cedarville State Forest.

Waterfront activities: Several parks offer water recreation opportunities during summer months. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K. about activities at Pohick Bay Regional Park, while another camper notes "Eagles everywhere!" as a highlight at the waterfront camping areas.

Solitude during weekdays: Off-peak camping provides a quieter experience with fewer visitors. "We were 1 of 3 campers in this loop during our week-long stay. This made it peaceful and quiet," reports Kasey M. about mid-week stays at Cedarville State Forest.

What you should know

Tick prevention: Thorough tick checks are essential after trail activities throughout the region. Ben J. warns about Cedarville: "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers."

Airplane noise: Several campgrounds experience overhead air traffic due to proximity to major airports and military installations. "It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times," notes Kasey M. about Bull Run Regional Park.

Seasonal closures: Most equestrian trails and camping areas operate on limited schedules. "Camp ground is nice. Check in was a breeze. The only drawback is that it is not quiet. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," reports Drew M.

Tips for camping with families

Plan for bathroom access: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds in the region. "Bathrooms are with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls... Best camping showers I've ever had," reports Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park.

Water park options: Summer visitors can combine camping with water attractions. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," mentions Anne K. about family attractions near Pohick Bay campground.

Weekend activities: Organized events occur regularly at several parks. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground reported, "We had a great time here over a long weekend in August. The check in is a breeze and the staff is super nice and helpful. They informed us that 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."

Tips from RVers

Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," advises Drew M. about camping at Bull Run Regional Park.

Loop selection: Inner loop sites generally provide better access to amenities. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," notes Ben G., adding that "The bathhouse is standard but also has laundry and an outdoor dish washing station."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Colonial Beach, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Colonial Beach, VA is Pohick Bay Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 38 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Colonial Beach, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 equestrian camping locations near Colonial Beach, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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