RV campgrounds near Falls Church, Virginia offer options within 40 miles of the city, providing access to both natural settings and urban amenities. The area sits at the eastern edge of Virginia's Piedmont region, where elevations gradually rise from about 300 feet to 500 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds operate year-round, though water services at some facilities are limited during winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Visit historical sites: Prince William Forest RV Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby historical attractions. "National Marine Corp Museum just around corner. DC just up the road," notes Kenneth H. The campground's location provides convenient access to Civil War National Parks and Washington DC attractions.
Hiking opportunities: Bull Run Regional Park offers extensive trail systems through wooded areas. One visitor mentioned, "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish." The park features family-friendly hiking options suitable for various skill levels.
Water activities: Harpers Ferry Campground provides direct access to the Potomac River. "It is right on the river so you can go swimming right from your campsite!" says Robin W. The campground is part of River Riders which offers "lazy tubing, white water tubing, zip lining, and great kayaking down the river."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cherry Hill Park consistently receives praise for its maintenance standards. "Everything was extremely clean and well maintained. We loved the brick patio with patio furniture," shares John A. The campground offers concrete pads and well-maintained common areas.
Family activities: Lake Fairfax Campground provides numerous recreation options beyond traditional camping. Amy B. notes, "A lot to do: mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too); wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat), skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground, fishing, & canoeing)."
Riverside camping: Campers appreciate the waterfront sites at Harpers Ferry Campground. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS," explains Darcy S., highlighting the natural appeal despite limited facilities.
What you should know
Military-only options: Several RV parks near Falls Church restrict access to military personnel. At Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, "You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river," explains Mike H. These facilities typically offer enhanced security and specific amenities.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. At Lake Fairfax Campground, Erin W. notes, "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."
Noise considerations: Proximity to transportation corridors affects some campgrounds. At Bull Run Regional Park, Drew M. warns, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Burke Lake Park Campground offers additional family amenities beyond camping. "Great place for a quick night out camping in an easy to get to location," says Stephen K. Another camper adds it has a "beautiful lake with a 5-mile gravel walking/running/biking trail around the lake's perimeter."
Educational opportunities: Bull Run Regional Park offers educational programming for children. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon... They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," shares Bridget H., describing the family-friendly activities available.
Playground access: Cherry Hill Park features multiple recreation options for families. "Great sites that are clean and flat for tents... Plenty of trails, water park when in season," notes a visitor, highlighting the amenities convenient for family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: At Thousand Trails Harbor View, choosing the right site matters. "Site was spacious, level and shady. The site next to ours had perfect hammock trees too!" mentions Ariel F. Many reviewers recommend requesting end sites when available for additional space.
Internet connectivity: Harbor View offers reliable connectivity for remote workers. "I work full-time remote and the Verizon service was perfect with our hotspot," reports Ariel F., making this an option for RVers needing to stay connected during their stay.
Leveling requirements: At Fort Belvoir, "Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable," notes Mike H. RVers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks to address terrain variations common at campgrounds throughout the region.
