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Best Campgrounds near Arlington, VA

625 Reviews

Campgrounds near Arlington, Virginia range from developed facilities to more primitive sites, with options primarily located within 30 miles of the city. Cherry Hill Park in College Park, Maryland and Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Virginia represent the variety of camping experiences available, offering tent sites, RV hookups, cabins and glamping accommodations. Lake Fairfax Campground and Pohick Bay Campground provide additional options for visitors seeking established campgrounds with amenities, while Marsden Tract offers more primitive tent camping.

The camping season in this region typically extends from March through October, with some sites like Bull Run Regional Park and Pohick Bay Campground operating year-round. Many mixed-use campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends when demand is highest. According to one visitor, "If you lived in Washington DC, this is where I would ride my bike to every weekend. Bring the family, bring the fishing poles and forget that there is a hyper uptight city just a few miles away." Access to most camping areas requires minimal driving on paved roads, making them accessible for standard vehicles. However, several sites have limited parking, so arriving early is recommended, particularly for popular locations like Swains Lock where visitors noted the parking lot fills quickly by morning.

Public lands near Arlington feature camping opportunities along the Potomac River, providing scenic water views that consistently earn positive reviews. Campers appreciate the proximity to water at several sites, with Swains Lock earning praise for its riverside location. A review mentioned that it offers "a great view and the campsite appears well maintained especially for free." While some developed campgrounds provide full amenities including showers, electricity and water hookups, others like Marsden Tract and Swains Lock offer more basic facilities with fire rings and picnic tables. Most camping areas in the region balance natural settings with relative proximity to urban conveniences, making them popular for weekend getaways from the Washington DC area. Several campgrounds provide family-friendly environments with activities like fishing, hiking, and water recreation nearby.

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Best Camping Sites Near Arlington, Virginia (89)

    1. Cherry Hill Park

    42 Reviews
    Beltsville, MD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 937-7116

    $282 - $999 / night

    "This CG is an awesome 5+++++ place, close to DC and Arlington NVA. The resort is impeccably clean, the entire staff is friendly and knowledgeable."

    "Great camping amenities, soft cushioned sites, with power and water close by. DO NOT GET BASIC TENT SITES AS THEY ARE NEXT TO HIGHWAYS AND VERY NOISY!!! Premium tent sites would be a better choice."

    2. Pohick Bay Campground

    39 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 339-6104

    $37 - $170 / night

    "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 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."

    3. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    32 Reviews
    Greenbelt, MD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 344-3948

    $20 / night

    "If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."

    "The campsite is superb with walking trails, wildlife and the occasional overflying US Presidential Helicopter.

    Easily accessible from close by freeways, and charmingly peaceful"

    4. Lake Fairfax Campground

    25 Reviews
    Reston, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 471-5414

    $30 - $70 / night

    "If you are looking for camping in Fairfax County Virginia, this is it, because there are only a couple to choose from."

    "We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."

    5. Bull Run Regional Park

    42 Reviews
    Iron Gate, VA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 631-0550

    $43 - $100 / 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."

    6. Burke Lake Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Burke, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 323-6600

    "We stayed Burke lake campground for one night last week. It was very peaceful place. The whole camp ground was very clean and well kept."

    "This was my second time going Burke Lake and it was just as enjoyable as the first."

    7. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    31 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 221-7181

    $26 / night

    "Showers are in loop B, which is a 5-7 minute walk. During holiday weekends the sites closest to the shower facilities are fully booked and have less privacy."

    "The Oak Ridge campgrounds at Prince William Forest Park are a lovely little campground just outside Washington DC. The sites were large, the facilities are clean and the staff friendly and helpful."

    8. Cedarville State Forest

    17 Reviews
    Brandywine, MD
    21 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."

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

    9. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp

    4 Reviews
    Fort Belvoir, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 805-3081

    $55 / night

    "Good site, secure location, decent facilities with solid WiFi. Pier within walking distance. Good location, tho our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."

    "It is very clean and there are many amenities close by. The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river."

    10. Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway

    1 Review
    McLean, MD
    9 miles
    Website
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Showing results 1-10 of 89 campgrounds

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Recent Camping Photos near Arlington, VA

240 Photos of 89 Arlington Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Arlington, VA

625 Reviews of 89 Arlington Campgrounds

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders

    Awesome views on the Potomac

    Very cool spot. Amazing sites right on the Potomac. There is a Ale House above the office that delivers for free to your site (2.5 miles away), just tip the driver

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Aquia Pines Campground

    Good stopover near the highway but hidden between the trees

    We where forced land-inwards because of tropical storm Erin (potential hurricane hitting the Outer Banks). So we decided to visit Washington DC and had a stopover here. It was conveniently located. Terrain is not flat but our spot was well levelled. There is a big dog (and an older gentleman) in the office to welcome you. Full hook up was oké and our spot was nicly secluded between the trees.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    A World Away Farm LLC

    Great folks. Inexpensive for full hookup.

    They have a farm with chickens, ducks, horses etc for our 7 yr old to enjoy. She got to feed the chickens, gather eggs and offer carrots to the beautiful horses. Wonderful people ❤️. We will be back next year.

  • Erin W.
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Lake Fairfax Campground

    Nice for a quick weekend

    This campground is nice for a quick weekend and does have pretty trails next to the campground. The sites are largely in more of a meadow and not many are very wooded. Our site, 41, was level and nicely spaced from other sites but many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant. There is a waterpark that is an extra cost which is fun for kids. Bathrooms are well maintained and huge.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Cherry Hill Park

    Can’t beat it

    Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can’t be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5. So $4-9 per person. We rode in all 4 days this way. Personalized, comfortable. Door to door. We saw tons of stuff. No one can say they saw everything. We took the train from Union station to Penn station. Saw the nationals, the orioles. So fun. The park itself has more than most. Mini golf, two pools, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early!! And late!!! Wow! Just can’t be beat. Great sites. So many other things in the park. Splash pad, paved roads for scootering. Just awesome!

  • Caleb S.
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area

    Tabolt island state park

    We had a nice stay overlooking the marsh. The small crabs were skittering around the campsite and birds perched in the marsh. The beach was nice and clean.

  • John B.
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA

    Overcrowded with upkeep

    I hate leaving bad reviews, but I think people should be aware of this campsite. First thing we noticed when we arrived at the campsite was that it was very tight. We had a pull through campsite, but on the camp side it was all dirt and grass that look like it hadn’t been mowed in over two weeks. With the heat and humidity we have been having for the last couple weeks, I knew this was gonna be a buggy site. Then the rains came and everything turned into mud. We had a rug laid down, but the mud and water worked its way through that. We couldn’t enter the RV without tracking mode through it. On days it was raining we spent a lot of time in the camper. That’s when we discovered another issue. On almost all occasions there was no Internet. We had a strong Wi-Fi signal, but no Internet. Upon talking to some of our neighbors who frequented this campsite, they said they had never seen it this bad. The other thing too, was that there was hardly any trash receptacles. Ending this on a good note, we loved how close it was to historical Harpers Ferry, and how convenient it was to be able to walk to the visitor center and catch a ferry. It really is a beautiful area. I would hope that the management of this KOA would address these issues, because I’m sure I’m not gonna be the only one to leave a negative review about this campground.

  • Josey F.
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Greenville Farm Family Campground

    Wonderful!

    We are repeat customers and come here with our troops. Nice mix of RV and tent campers. Quiet. Trails, creek, pool, fishing ponds (back end), batheooms, etc, great rates. No firewood- need to bring your own.

  • L
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Nice Little Campground

    Decent little campground! It was quiet aside from occasional air traffic noise, and while there wasn't much spacing between some camp sites everyone was respectful. My spot was a little difficult to find because the online park map was incorrect, and the spot was basically an extended shoulder of the road. Checking in was a breeze, though!

Guide to Arlington

Camping near Arlington, Virginia, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and easy access to the city. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Greenbrier State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "Great hiking to Annapolis Rocks or the Washington Monument right from the park, no need to drive!"
  • Swimming: Enjoy a swim at the lake near Cherry Hill Park. A visitor mentioned, "The swimming pools were pretty crowded, but we were very happy with our site."
  • Fishing: Try your luck at Pohick Bay Campground. One camper shared, "We spent an entire day kayak fishing on the small lake and clear clean water."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Bull Run Regional Park. A review noted, "The bathrooms are clean and modern. The grounds are well maintained."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors enjoy the helpful staff at Cherry Hill Park. One guest said, "Staff very helpful and really explained the Metro system very well."
  • Nature and Privacy: Campers at Owens Creek Campground love the peaceful setting. A reviewer mentioned, "This place is a great campground to go during summer as it's tucked in the mountains with lots of tree coverage."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Pohick Bay Campground, can be noisy due to nearby traffic. One camper warned, "This place is absolutely the most horrific noisy place; it's like sleeping on the side of the highway."
  • Crowded Areas: Expect busy weekends at popular spots like Cunningham Falls State Park. A visitor noted, "The campsites were relatively small, and close together."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, such as Oak Ridge Campground, lack electric hookups and showers. A reviewer mentioned, "Restrooms have sinks and flush toilets in all Loops. However, Loop C also has showers."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Cherry Hill Park. One parent said, "There is also plenty to do for the kids, like Tractor Ride through the Campground."
  • Safety First: Choose sites that are close to bathrooms, especially for younger kids. A camper at Owens Creek Campground mentioned, "Our site was right next to bathrooms which was also great with the kids."
  • Plan for Crowds: If you're camping during holidays, be prepared for busy sites. A visitor at Cunningham Falls State Park noted, "It was crowded enough that you do not really feel like you are out 'in nature.'"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA said, "The sites were so unlevel that I was not able to get the RV leveled the entire weekend."
  • Use Public Transit: If you're visiting DC, consider using public transport. One camper at Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "We didn't drive to DC at all - just used public transit."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, so check reviews before booking. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground warned about the constant noise from helicopters.

Camping around Arlington, Virginia, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent or an RV. Just remember to check the amenities and plan accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free camping sites near Arlington, VA?

Free camping options near Arlington are limited, but Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers primitive camping with nearby parking for approximately 8 vehicles. The site provides a manageable walk-in experience for those who enjoy a backcountry feel without hiking miles. Another option to consider is Marsden Tract Group Campsite along the George Washington Memorial Parkway, which offers hike-in access with basic amenities including water and toilets. Always verify current fee policies before your trip as regulations may change.

What are the best campgrounds near Arlington, VA?

Cherry Hill Park is a top option near Arlington, offering an impeccably clean resort-style experience with multiple amenities including pools with lifeguards, showers, laundry facilities, and playgrounds. It's conveniently located just a short drive from Arlington. Another excellent choice is Pohick Bay Campground, situated only 25 minutes from Arlington/DC. This campground features water and electric hookups, hiking trails that lead to beach areas, and opportunities for campfires, making it ideal for those who want to balance urban exploration with natural surroundings.

What family-friendly camping options are available near Arlington?

Bull Run Regional Park offers a family-friendly camping experience within easy reach of Arlington. The park provides resort-style amenities with sites suitable for various camping setups, though note that truck bed tents may not be permitted. Another excellent option for families is Cedarville State Forest, which features clean campsites in a family camping loop. The forest setting provides a natural escape while remaining accessible to Arlington. Sites include fire rings and picnic tables, with opportunities to spot wildlife and explore forest trails, making it perfect for families looking to introduce children to camping.

What national park camping is available near Arlington, VA?

Greenbelt Park Campground offers national park camping managed by the National Park Service within easy reach of Arlington. While you'll still hear some urban sounds like helicopters and sirens, it provides a convenient natural retreat with basic amenities. The sites are bare-bones but functional. For a more immersive national park experience, Prince William Forest RV Campground offers clean facilities including bathrooms and a pool, situated within Prince William Forest Park less than an hour from DC. The park provides a good nature getaway while maintaining proximity to urban amenities.

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