Camping sites near Fredericksburg, Virginia range from secluded riverside spots to family-oriented parks with organized activities. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 100-250 feet, creating moderate terrain that's accessible year-round. Winter temperatures typically drop to 30°F at night, making three-season sleeping bags necessary from November through March.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: At Pohick Bay Campground, campers can enjoy an 18-hole disc golf course within walking distance of their sites. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes Rachel L., who calls this her "go-to weekend camping spot."
River tubing excursions: Rappahannock River Campground offers organized tubing trips during summer months. "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.
Historical exploration: Access to Civil War sites and historic Fredericksburg is easiest from campgrounds on the eastern side of the region. "Not far to drive if you want to venture out into Fredericksburg," reports Jennifer K. about Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA. The area contains over 40 marked historical sites within a 15-mile radius of downtown.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate when vegetation creates natural separation between camping areas. "Sites are nicely spaced and level," notes Bonnie S. about the Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA. The campground offers sites that feel private despite being in a developed setting.
Direct water access: Riverside camping with easy water entry points ranks highly in camper reviews. "Great spot right next to the Rappahannock River, plenty of place to set up camp. It was super easy to get down to the water and there was plenty of spots to explore," writes Nicholas S. about his experience at Rappahannock River Campground.
Star-gazing opportunities: Campsites with natural clearings provide excellent night sky viewing. "Stargazing through the hole in the trees was very nice," mentions Derek E. about his stay at Rappahannock River Campground. Light pollution decreases significantly at campgrounds more than 10 miles from Fredericksburg proper.
What you should know
Military training nearby: Some campgrounds may experience noise from nearby military installations. At Military Park Fort AP Hill Champs Camp RV Park, "sometimes you hear military field training going on (live ranges, helicopters, and ospreys - but I don't mind)," explains James P. Special access requirements also apply: "Must have proper government ID to access post."
Highway noise considerations: Campgrounds closer to major highways often have ambient traffic sounds. Aquia Pines Campground sits "tucked right in between I-95 and Rte 1" according to Jenna G., who notes "if you're looking to get away from traffic noise this ain't your spot."
Primitive facilities at some locations: Rappahannock River Campground offers a more rustic experience with limited amenities. "Very primitive, tent only camping. Nothing near it and very private," states Jon R. At this location, "the bathrooms are more like outhouses and the showers are a drive from the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Certain campgrounds organize regular children's events. At Lake Anna State Park Campground, "there are opportunities for motor boating, kayaking, swimming, hiking, fishing, etc." according to Myron C., who found the park "ADA accessible with the lantern hangers having lower hooks for those in wheelchairs."
Playground proximity: When camping with children, sites near playground facilities reduce walking distance. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse," shares Ben G. about Pohick Bay Campground, adding "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."
Swimming options: Several area campgrounds feature water recreation facilities. Wilderness Presidential Resort has "indoor and outdoor pools, a lakeside beach, a well stocked campground store and two fishing lakes and a fishing pond to choose from," according to Dan & Karen M., making it versatile for family swimming regardless of weather.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should note that not all sites provide naturally level parking. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, "sites were mostly level," reports Bille W., who found it an "easy entry after dark." However, Pohick Bay Campground has more variable terrain with "not all sites are level (half)," according to Robert P.
Power reliability concerns: Some campgrounds may experience electrical issues. Eugene M. reported at Wilderness Presidential Resort: "While camping at this resort we had several issues with the shore power for our RV." Consider bringing a voltage regulator for sensitive equipment.
Hookup availability: Campgrounds vary significantly in their hookup options. Rappahannock River Campground has no electrical hookups, while KOA sites typically offer full hookups. For those needing full service, "They have great showers and the other amenities look great," notes Thomas S. about Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA, though he cautions it's "a bit off the beaten path for the traveler. This is nice but an extra 20min in and out from the main route."
