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Best Campgrounds near Fairfax, VA

649 Reviews

Regional parks surrounding Fairfax, Virginia provide established camping options within a short drive of Washington DC. Lake Fairfax Campground in Reston and Burke Lake Park in Fairfax Station offer family-friendly sites with amenities like fishing, boat rentals, and hiking trails. Pohick Bay Campground in Lorton features waterfront access and both tent and RV sites. Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville maintains year-round camping with full hookups for RVs and separate tent areas. Most campgrounds in the region are managed by either Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NOVA Parks) or Fairfax County Park Authority, with a few national park options slightly farther out.

Reservations are essential at most campgrounds in the Fairfax area, particularly during summer weekends and holiday periods. Many sites require booking weeks or months in advance through recreation.gov or county reservation systems. Weather conditions remain relatively mild from April through October, though summer humidity can be significant. As one camper noted, "If you are looking for camping in Fairfax County Virginia, this is it, because there are only a couple to choose from." Campground regulations vary between jurisdictions, with some NOVA Parks facilities prohibiting certain camping setups like truck bed tents. Cell service is generally strong throughout the region, and most campgrounds are accessible via paved roads suitable for all vehicles.

Campers frequently mention the convenience of these parks for quick weekend getaways while noting their proximity to urban areas. Burke Lake Park receives praise for its amenities despite closely spaced sites. According to one visitor, "BLP has a great lake for fishing and boat rentals, a paved path to walk around the lake (about 5 miles) and a fantastic playground." Noise from nearby roads, aircraft, and occasionally shooting ranges can be heard at some locations. Heavy rainfall may cause drainage issues at certain campgrounds, particularly at Bull Run where one camper reported "lots of standing water at our campsite" after a storm. Most facilities offer clean bathrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings, though site privacy varies considerably between locations.

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Best Camping Sites Near Fairfax, Virginia (96)

    1. Bull Run Regional Park

    42 Reviews
    Iron Gate, VA
    10 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."

    2. Lake Fairfax Campground

    25 Reviews
    Reston, VA
    8 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."

    3. Pohick Bay Campground

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

    $37 - $170 / 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."

    4. Burke Lake Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Burke, VA
    6 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."

    5. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

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

    $26 / night

    "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."

    "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."

    6. Cherry Hill Park

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

    $282 - $999 / night

    "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."

    "That being said, I’m sure there were a few campers who didn’t like being right next to the walkway to the bathrooms and showers. The park is broken down in to various sections and slightly tiered."

    7. Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    17 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    17 miles
    +1 (703) 221-2474

    "Adjacent to Prince William Forest, near shops and restaurants, and less than an hour away from Washington, DC. Good nature getaway from the city."

    "Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located."

    8. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    32 Reviews
    Greenbelt, MD
    24 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"

    9. Fairfax County Burke Lake Park

    2 Reviews
    Fairfax Station, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 323-6600

    "BLP has a great lake for fishing and boat rentals, a paved path to walk around the lake (about 5 miles) and a fantastic playground."

    "i’ve camped here too many times to count, love being surrounded by nature!"

    10. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp

    4 Reviews
    Fort Belvoir, VA
    14 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."

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649 Reviews of 96 Fairfax Campgrounds

Guide to Fairfax

Camping near Fairfax, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "Hiking, fishing, breathtaking views, tons to do in the area!" This park has great trails for all skill levels.
  • Fishing: The Mathews Arm Campground is close to Shenandoah National Park, making it a perfect spot for fishing. A reviewer noted, "This park has some good hiking and river access."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Westmoreland State Park Campground, you can enjoy the beauty of nature. One visitor said, "The campground has a ravine behind it, something to be cautious about with pets/kids."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathhouses. A review for Pohick Bay Campground stated, "The bathrooms were cleaner than any other campground we have stayed in."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of Owens Creek Campground. One camper shared, "This is a great quiet little camping ground."
  • Family-Friendly: The Cherry Hill Park is known for its family-friendly environment. A visitor mentioned, "There is also plenty to do for the kids, like a Tractor Ride through the Campground."

What you should know:

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A review for Mathews Arm Campground noted, "The sites were all small and very close together."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have electric hookups or showers. For instance, Owens Creek Campground lacks electric hookups and showers, which some campers found challenging.
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for potential noise from nearby roads or other campers. A review for Bull Run Regional Park mentioned, "This place is absolutely the most horrific noisy place."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly options like Greenbrier State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "There is one dog-friendly loop. All of the bathrooms are well maintained and water is available."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan activities that cater to all ages. One camper at Westmoreland State Park Campground mentioned, "The camp store is well stocked and had decent hours."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A visitor at Cherry Hill Park noted, "The camp store is very well stocked with camping stuff, food, and beer."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA mentioned, "The sites were so unlevel, close together, and the whole infrastructure in need of repair."
  • Use Public Transport: If visiting DC, consider using public transport. A camper at Cherry Hill Park said, "There is a Bus Stop right by the Entrance to the Campground that will get you into Washington DC."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A review for Pohick Bay Campground stated, "This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7."

Camping around Fairfax, Virginia, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Fairfax, VA?

Fairfax County offers limited but quality camping options. Lake Fairfax Campground stands out as the primary camping destination within Fairfax County itself, offering numerous activities and amenities. Just outside Fairfax, Bull Run Regional Park provides additional camping opportunities, though some campers note the additional fees beyond the base camping rate. For those willing to venture slightly further, Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park and Fort Belvoir Travel Camp offer alternative options within reasonable driving distance. These campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring both natural areas and the Washington DC metropolitan region while staying close to Fairfax.

Are there tent camping options near Washington DC in the Fairfax area?

Yes, several tent camping options exist within easy reach of Washington DC from the Fairfax area. Greenbelt Park Campground offers a bare-bones National Park Service camping experience with the benefit of being extremely close to DC, though you may hear urban sounds like helicopters and sirens. Prince William Forest RV Campground provides a clean, comfortable option less than an hour from DC with amenities like a pool. Other notable tent-friendly options include Brunswick Family Campground along the river and Cedarville State Forest, both offering more natural settings while maintaining reasonable proximity to the capital. Most of these campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak season.

What amenities are available at Lake Fairfax Park Campground?

Lake Fairfax Campground offers a variety of amenities for campers visiting Fairfax County. The campground provides standard facilities including restrooms, water access, and designated camping sites suitable for both tents and RVs. Beyond the campground itself, Lake Fairfax Park features numerous recreational opportunities including fishing in the lake, hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. A major highlight during summer months is the Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole water park located within the park. The campground's location provides convenient access to nearby shopping, dining, and attractions in the Fairfax area, making it a practical base for exploring both natural areas and urban amenities in Northern Virginia and the greater Washington DC region.

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