Prince William Forest Park dominates the camping landscape near Triangle, Virginia with over 15,000 acres of protected woodland. Located 35 miles south of Washington DC, the area sits at elevations ranging from 200 to 400 feet and receives approximately 40 inches of rainfall annually, creating seasonal diversity for campers. Most campgrounds in the Triangle region offer access to water features, with summer highs averaging 85-90°F and winter nights sometimes dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hiking and exploring Civil War history: At Oak Ridge Campground, trails wind through Prince William Forest Park where history surrounds you. "We spent 5 days camping and exploring the civil war battle areas and other things. Definitely worth exploring. Get your camp on do some hiking, biking, fishin, and also exploring th history of the area well worth it," notes Daniel S.
Disc golf and water activities: Just minutes from the campsite near Triangle, Virginia, Pohick Bay Regional Park offers an 18-hole disc golf course for enthusiasts. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests Rachel L. Water activities abound as well, with one camper noting "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" is available throughout the warmer months.
Seasonal programs and activities: Many campgrounds offer structured activities for visitors. At Bull Run Regional Park, family-friendly programming runs throughout camping season. "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. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," shares Bridget H.
What campers like
Renovated facilities: Campers frequently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at Oak Ridge Campground. "The bathrooms were nice and clean throughout my stay and looked newly renovated," reports Clara K. Another camper noted, "The showers were hot, water pressure and shower heads good. Shower stalls offered more privacy than most, each having a locking door and small dressing area with a bench."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forested areas provide habitat for diverse wildlife. At Smallwood State Park, birdwatching is particularly rewarding. "Eagle haven! Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" exclaims Kathie M. about a nearby park accessible to Triangle residents.
Private camping areas: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites and privacy offered in the region. "The sites are well spaced, and while on the smaller side they're very private with woods between each one. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. The other campers were all respectful and observed pet policy and quiet hours," says Caitlin A. about her experience at Smallwood State Park.
What you should know
Weather and bug considerations: The Triangle area's humid climate affects camping conditions seasonally. "Ticks were really bad. We killed dozens and ended up taking at least one with us when we left... Only because of the ticks, we would not stay here again. We had Deep Woods Off, but seemed to do no good," warns Tracy R. about their experience at Oak Ridge Campground.
Noise factors: Despite the natural setting, some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. At Aquia Pines Campground, "Traffic noise throughout night is present," notes Bill V. Other campers mention hearing activity from nearby Quantico military base and air traffic at certain campsites.
Seasonal operation: Verify opening dates before planning your trip. "Everything was fully operational at our campsite when we visited in early April. Bathrooms were clean and stocked. Sites were nicely kept. Be aware that they do not sell firewood on-site!" advises Kaitlyn H. about her springtime stay at Oak Ridge Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Bull Run Regional Park offers specialized amenities for families. "We stayed at Bull Run Regional Campground on our visit to Washington DC. It was fall and the colors were gorgeous. 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.
Balance of activities and relaxation: Parents recommend mixing structured activities with downtime. "Our family stayed here in a cabin on a long weekend trip to DC. This campground was full of stuff to do and we didn't even get to do a lot of it. We stayed in a cabin for 2 nights and had a great time," notes a visitor to Bull Run Regional Park.
Proximity to educational opportunities: Camping near Triangle provides easy access to DC attractions. "We saw DC during the day but camped each evening. It was amazing!" shares Lisa P. about staying at Oak Ridge Campground. The National Marine Corps Museum is also just minutes away from many Triangle area campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site selection and access: When staying at Prince William Forest RV Campground, choose your site carefully. "Lots are really staggered/set back from each other so feels like you have more space. Average lot size in general, but the set back feels like you have more space," explains Megan K. She adds, "I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained."
Connectivity considerations: RVers needing to stay connected should note varying WiFi quality. "Don't plan on being able to have work zoom calls or really much on it for that matter," advises Megan about Prince William Forest RV Campground, but adds "I can confirm Verizon and Google fi have great service. I would imagine any other carrier would work just as well."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for comfortable setup. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," shares Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park. Aquia Pines receives similar notes about terrain, with one camper noting "Terrain is not flat but our spot was well levelled."
