E
Ethan L.
Traveler
TravelerGraves Mountain Farm Campground
Graves Farm
Beautiful spot. The campsite is across the street from the lodge. G-Maps and Apple will take you to the lodge however. Loved the Freeform and “make your own” spot vibe
Camping near Catharpin, VA
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Several campgrounds near Catharpin, Virginia provide options for diverse camping experiences within the northern Virginia region. Bull Run Regional Park offers established sites for tent camping, RVs, cabins, and glamping accommodations approximately 8 miles from Catharpin. Lake Fairfax Campground in nearby Reston accommodates tent and RV camping with showers and electrical hookups. Other mixed-use campgrounds in the vicinity include Pohick Bay Campground in Lorton and Burke Lake Park in Fairfax Station, both featuring a range of accommodation types with varying levels of amenities.
Reservations are recommended for most developed campgrounds in the region, particularly during the peak season from spring through fall. Bull Run Regional Park and Pohick Bay Campground remain open year-round, while other facilities like Lake Fairfax operate seasonally from March to September. Campsites at Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park are available from March through October with basic amenities including picnic tables and drinking water. Most campgrounds in the area feature fire rings, though fire restrictions may apply during dry periods. The majority of sites provide access to toilets and many offer shower facilities. According to one visitor, "The grounds were beautifully manicured and incredibly clean. Very close to downtown, which has great shops and restaurants."
Campers frequently mention the convenient location of these campgrounds relative to Washington DC and nearby attractions. Prince William Forest Park offers a more secluded nature experience with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. Burke Lake Park receives positive reviews for its expansive recreational features, including a 5-mile trail around the lake, fishing opportunities, and additional family-friendly amenities. A visitor noted that Burke Lake has "a great lake for fishing and boat rentals, a paved path to walk around the lake and a fantastic playground." While many campgrounds in the region have sites situated close together, visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities and proximity to both outdoor recreation and urban conveniences. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, making these campgrounds suitable for those needing to stay connected.
Best Campgrounds near Catharpin (129)
1. Bull Run Regional Park
"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."
from $39 - $100 / night
Check Availability2. Lake Fairfax Campground
"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."
from $30 - $70 / night
Check Availability3. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
"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."
from $26 / night
Check Availability4. Burke Lake Park Campground
"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. Pohick Bay Campground
"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."
"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."
from $37 - $170 / night
Check Availability6. Greenville Farm Family Campground
"Trails, creek, pool, fishing ponds (back end), batheooms, etc, great rates. No firewood- need to bring your own."
from $60 / night
7. Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park
"Adjacent to Prince William Forest, near shops and restaurants, and less than an hour away from Washington, DC. Good nature getaway from the city."
"Stayed here for a week while working nearby. Easy to get to and set up. Office was closed when we arrived but arrival paperwork was posted outside office door."
8. Hillwood Camping Park
9. Fairfax County Burke Lake Park
"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. Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA
"We were able to walk or ride our bikes to the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and access the C+O Canal Tow Path from there."
"We set up camp at Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday as our launchpad to visit the historic sites in and around Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Frederick, Maryland. "
from $40 - $80 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 40 min from Washington, DC
- 50 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr 9 min from Baltimore, MD
- 1 hr 20 min from Hagerstown, MD
Recent Camping Photos near Catharpin, VA
337 Photos of 129 Catharpin Campgrounds
Charyssa G.
Bull Run Regional Park
Jason F.
Lake Fairfax Campground
Glen W.
Burke Lake Park Campground
Ethel B.
Horsepen Branch Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Jarmonay N.
Chisel Branch Hiker-Biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Janelle
Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
Emerson K.
Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway
Chrystal P.
Marsden Tract Group Campsite
Shari G.
Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Marvin D.
Chopawamsic Backcountry Camping — Prince William Forest Park
Shari G.
Marble Quarry Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Katie M.
Sky Meadows State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Catharpin, VA
948 Reviews of 129 Catharpin Campgrounds
- BBernard D.
ScoutNorth Fork Resort
Do not camp here!
I camped here on the 4th of July weekend in 2026. The lot was over $70 and the lot was a gravel lot in full sun, and our air conditioner could not keep up with the heat, because of the conplete lack of shade. These are the only lots available to campers. The water was toxic and brown out of the tap, and our water tank happened to be empty. We complained to the office, and they refused to help us by obtai i g some bottled water that was potable, and the manager basically said screw you. They didn’t care and claimed the water passed a water test. I run a campground myself and am very familiar with these issues, and guarantee this would not pass a potability test. I am reporting them to the local health dept and to the state liscensing department. If they think they can just blow me off, they are picking a battle with the wrong guy. O well, their mistake!!
Jeremy G.TravelerJoint Base Andrews Military FamCamp
Could be a great campground but......
There are some good things about this Famcamp. It's like a diamond in the rough. If the military would spend some time and money on it, it could be a great campground. One of the greatest points about this campground is its location. You are so close to downtown D.C.! Every RV site (as far as I saw) was a level concrete pad. All sites, except for tent sites, have full electricity. Most sites have sewer and water. Sites 12-18 should be mainly used for the smaller travel trailers. I had an interesting time getting my 35' 5th wheel into the site. Even though I got my RV into the site, I don't have much room for my truck. My site has a picnic table, fire pit, and a grill. Everything is rusted beyond repair. My grill was filled with cigarette butts and my fire pit had trash in it. There is some shade. My site has two trees at the front of the pad on both sides of the RV. My bedroom stays nice and cold and I have a good view for my Starlink in the rear. The sites are close to each other, but there is some space. The good thing is that we are surrounded by the golf course. You don't get much noise from the base, because of the location, and because the FamCamp is surrounded by trees. You can hear the busy road outside the fence but I don't hear it much inside the RV. Every once in a while you'll hear an aircraft... but this is an air base, it's expected. We were told the community laundry was not working and to use the base laundry mat. Finally, one of the best parts about the campground, is the lady at outdoor rec that is in charge of the Famcamp. She is very nice and helpful. She will try to assist you with anything you need from directions to useful tips.
MG S.
GuideShenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park
Difficult to Find a Spot!
As we got through Shenandoah Nat’l Park, we learned that all the campgrounds were full. So we ended up getting a backcountry camping permit in the southern district between Ivy Creek and Loft Mountain along the Appalachian Trail. It was so difficult to find a good spot in this specific area. If you have a 1-2 person tent, it may be easier. We ended up “hiking” about a quarter mile from the Loft Mountain Camp Store on the Frazier Trail to the A.T. Set up right there at the corner on the flattest spot we could find. Ended up being a great night! It gets super windy up there and some of the trees creak deeply. Thankfully no downed trees!
- MG S.Guide
Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Great Camp!
This is a good campground! The spot we picked thankfully only had one neighbor — and they didn’t even show up! Of course the kids around us were noisy throughout the night, but that’s to be expected. Not sure the quiet times are strictly enforced. The wind gets really heavy in there!
Nancy W.
LegendAndy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground
Great State Park Campground! Would be a 5 if there was sewer.
We absolutely loved our stay at this state park. The sites are spacious with plenty of room for your RV (no matter what the size) and plenty of room for a screen room on your patio. Unlike in many private campgrounds, campsites are well-spaced out giving you some privacy so you don’t feel like you are on top of your neighbor. A scattering of trees provides some shade and privacy. The road in and out of the campground was steep but since it was paved we didn’t have a traction issue.
We stayed in site 10 which was a gravel back-in site. It was plenty long enough for our 45’ RV and tow car. Each campsite has an expansive patio with large firepit, picnic table, and raised grill for cooking. Our patio was on the side next to the road which was a little close to traffic but we still loved siting there, especially in the evening with a campfire. A few sites were paved and some were double sites which would be great if you are traveling with friends.
The park itself has numerous gravel/dirt trails along the river and throughout the park. The longest one travels all along the Shenandoah River, and you can access it directly from the RV campground. One day we walked the trail to the visitor center which has an amazing overlook near the visitor center. Inside are exhibits which were interesting and informative about the area. If you are looking for more and diverse trails, you are just minutes away from Shenandoah National Park. Don’t miss out on the famous Skyline Drive in Shenandoah.
The town of Front Royal is about 15 minutes away and where you will get cell/mobile data service and there are restaurants and supplies. We love the burgers at Spelunkers and wished we had more time to visit the Virginia Beer Museum. Chester Gap Cellars has great wine and incredible views. The only downsides of this park are that there is no sewer and no Verizon service. Even without those amenities, we loved our stay and would definitely come back.
Phillip H.GuideHarpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA
Harper’s Ferry KOA
The sites are close together. The park was not full Mother’s Day weekend. It is a very nice park. The bathhouses were clean. The amenities were good although we didn’t utilize them. The national historic site was very close and we walked over day 1 rode our bikes day 2. The C&O canal is accessible but you must walk your bike across the lower town bridge and carry it down the stairs. This section of the trail was very good and we completed 38 miles.
Wes T.ScoutAndy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground
Favorite Campsite in VA
Clean facilities, each site has plenty of space. Never had an issue with noisy neighbors. Excellent access to the river. 10/10
- JJames T.Scout
Cornerstone
Great spot for relax
I have a great spot right by the river. It is away from all noise but the flow of water. Right on the river
Guide to Catharpin
Camping areas near Catharpin, Virginia provide diverse backcountry and established site options in the rolling hills of northern Virginia, where elevations range from 250-400 feet. The region's moderate climate supports camping from March through November, with summer temperatures frequently reaching 90°F. Most campgrounds experience high humidity in summer months, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for tent camping.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Bull Run Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course that appeals to beginners and experienced players. A visitor mentioned, "The park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds" (Tom C. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Mountain biking trails: Lake Fairfax Campground offers extensive trail networks for mountain biking enthusiasts. "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" (Amy B. at Lake Fairfax Park).
History exploration: Visit nearby civil war sites and historical buildings within a short drive of campgrounds. One visitor noted that there's "Lots of history near by so check out the old battle fields and buildings that housed troops during civil war. Very cool stuff" (Daniel S. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Appalachian Trail access: Sky Meadows State Park provides backcountry camping with access to the Appalachian Trail about 3 miles from the campsites. "We didn't get to check out the Appalachian Trail - but it was only a few miles from the campsites" (Russ L. at Sky Meadows State Park Campground).
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many visitors appreciate the well-designed sites at Bull Run Regional Park. "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" (Roberta K. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness consistently receives high marks at several campgrounds. At Bull Run, one camper raved, "I'll go again just for the showers... They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had" (Yvonne B. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Proximity to DC: Campers value having natural surroundings while being close to the nation's capital. "If you're in Northen VA close to DC this is a great quick getaway camp site... Overall great site to get outdoors and not have to travel a long time" (Adrian F. at Lake Fairfax Park).
Family-friendly amenities: Burke Lake Park gets high marks for its recreational options. "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. There is a carousel and a kiddy train, frisbee golf, a regular golf course" (Alexis at Fairfax County Burke Lake Park).
What you should know
Campsite access challenges: Some campgrounds require hiking to reach sites. At Sky Meadows, "It's about a mile hike in to the campground, which sits in the woods in the park... Sites are large enough for three one person tents. Pit toilets, no showers, cell service" (Amy S. at Sky Meadows State Park Campground).
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads, shooting ranges, or aircraft. One camper noted that Bull Run "is not quite. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away" (Drew M. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Site leveling: Prepare for potential leveling issues at some campgrounds. At Lake Fairfax, "many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant" (Erin W. at Lake Fairfax Park).
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Weekend stays at Bull Run have "a 2-night minimum stay. Even mid-week. In APRIL for gosh sakes!" (Stuart O. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Many campgrounds feature water recreation opportunities. Oak Ridge Campground receives praise for its peaceful setting: "The campground isn't too far from where I live but its far enough and quiet enough for a weekend getaway. The bathrooms were nice and clean throughout my stay and looked newly renovated" (Clara K. at Oak Ridge Campground).
Educational opportunities: The region's historical significance provides learning experiences for children. At Bull Run, families enjoy structured activities: "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" (Bridget H. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Playground access: When selecting a campsite near Catharpin, check playground proximity. One camper at Bull Run noted "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located" (Yvonne B. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Weather preparation: The area experiences high humidity and occasional heavy rainfall. After rain at Bull Run, a camper reported "a fairly heavy day of rain. Couple inches, I suppose, but nothing Biblical. The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite" (Stuart O. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many RV sites at campgrounds near Catharpin have varying degrees of levelness. At Bull Run, "Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that" (Roberta K. at Bull Run Regional Park).
Hookup options: Research utility connections when booking. At Pohick Bay Campground, "Nice layout, not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help" (Robert P. at Pohick Bay Campground).
Check-in procedures: Campgrounds have different arrival protocols. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, "Easy entry after dark. Sites were mostly level" (Bille W. at Prince William Forest RV Campground).
Loop selection: At many campgrounds, different loops offer varying experiences. At Oak Ridge, "There are three loops, front to back. Loop A are walkin only sites for RVs and tents. Loops B and C reservable. Loop B sites are for large families or groups. Loop C is more remote" (Tracy R. at Oak Ridge Campground).
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Catharpin, VA?
What camping is available near Catharpin, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Catharpin, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 129 campgrounds and RV parks near Catharpin, VA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Catharpin, VA?
Which is the most popular campground near Catharpin, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Catharpin, VA is Bull Run Regional Park with a 3.9-star rating from 43 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Catharpin, VA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Catharpin, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Catharpin, VA.
What parks are near Catharpin, VA?
What parks are near Catharpin, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Catharpin, VA that allow camping, notably Prince William Forest Park and National Mall & Memorial Parks.
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