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Camping near George Washington Memorial Parkway

566 Reviews

Camping areas near George Washington Memorial Parkway include several developed campgrounds within a short drive of Washington DC. The region includes established facilities like Pohick Bay Campground in Lorton, VA and Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp offering various accommodation options from tent sites to cabins and glamping opportunities. Most campgrounds in this area provide amenities suitable for families and recreational activities, particularly around water features. Public lands and regional parks provide the primary camping infrastructure, with few primitive camping opportunities directly adjacent to the parkway itself.

Reservations are typically required at most developed campgrounds in the region, particularly during summer months and holiday weekends. Many campgrounds remain open year-round, including Pohick Bay and Bull Run Regional Park, though services may be limited in winter. One camper noted, "This is a nice family campground that is 30 minutes from DC. We like going there if we're in the mood to camp, but don't have time for a long drive." Access roads are generally well-maintained, making most campgrounds suitable for both tent and RV camping. Electric hookups, water, and sanitary facilities are common at established sites, though availability varies by campground.

Several visitors mentioned the proximity to water as a key attraction for camping in this area. Pohick Bay Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its waterfront location and family-friendly amenities. A visitor commented, "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites." Campgrounds in the region often feature additional recreational opportunities such as hiking trails, disc golf courses, and water access for boating and fishing. Privacy between campsites varies considerably, with some reviewers noting that certain areas can become crowded and noisy during peak season. Military members should consider Fort Belvoir's RV camp, which offers clean facilities and river views but requires military credentials for access.

Map showing campgrounds near George Washington Memorial Parkway, VirginiaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near George Washington Memorial Parkway (81)

    1. Pohick Bay Campground

    38 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 339-6104

    $33 - $150 / 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."

    2. Cedarville State Forest

    17 Reviews
    Brandywine, MD
    12 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."

    3. Cherry Hill Park

    42 Reviews
    Beltsville, MD
    22 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."

    4. Burke Lake Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Burke, VA
    14 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. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    32 Reviews
    Greenbelt, MD
    20 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"

    6. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    31 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    21 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."

    7. Bull Run Regional Park

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

    $34 - $90 / 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."

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

    18 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    18 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."

    9. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp

    4 Reviews
    Fort Belvoir, VA
    5 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. Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023

    9 Reviews
    Marbury, MD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 432-2267

    $27 - $65 / night

    "They are in short distance from the water. There is a playground, bathhouse, and historical buildings that are accessible to campers. There are hiking trials, but none are two extensive."

    "Nice trails, water sports available, and historic landmarks"

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Recent Camping Photos near George Washington Memorial Parkway

219 Photos of 81 George Washington Memorial Parkway Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near George Washington Memorial Parkway

566 Reviews of 81 George Washington Memorial Parkway Campgrounds

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 2, 2025

    Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA

    Trick or treat night!

    Came in to tent camp 1 night to break up a long drive south, and it happened to be trick or treat night. There were several events during the day for the kiddos that were here. Staff was friendly, Our site was clean, fire ring was empty and our neighbors were playing 90’s hits! Perfect vibe.

  • C
    Oct. 31, 2025

    Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    Beautiful views - steep sites

    caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level.  The rain created red clay mud so the dogs were a mess - actually became sort of comical.  All in all it was a beautiful and clean location.  Try and reserve row E if you need full hook up

  • Amanda S.
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Washington DC / Capitol KOA

    Got bed bugs? They do.

    Stayed in cabin 202 for a Fri- Sun and on our last morning we found a bed bug on our clothing. While they gave a refund it does not come close to cover the time and energy of remediating all of our clothing, sheets, and blankets. We also had to throw out items that could not be cleaned properly and now have to replace them(pillows, shoes, etc). My husband has 23 bites over the course of 2 nights. They burn and itch very badly. I truly hope this was a hiccup for them and they go through correct methods of having the cabin treated properly. 

    UPDATE: A recount of the bites- my husband has 31 bites so far. The remediation of all of our items is exhausting. All the blankets, clothing, suit cases, all the other items we used in the cabin needs to be cleaned. We had to throw out our shoes because they shrunk in the dryer. Spent$$$ replacing shoes for a family for 4. Pillows are not cheap to replace either. I bought a new corset at the renfest this weekend that I'm hoping doesn't get ruined when it goes through the dryer. That too was expensive. So if you're looking to have to spend a bunch of extra money to replace items you didn't want to replace in the first place- I recommend staying here.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Pax River Hog Point Campgrounds — Naval Airstation (Nas) Patuxent River

    Left Early, Won’t Be Back

    When we saw a review of this campground on Rec.gov complaining about the amount of bugs we thought they were being ridiculous, they were not. In addition to an insane amount of bugs making the experience here uniquely miserable — it is not quiet or peaceful. A (clearly quite drunk) group nearby was singing at the top of their lungs until at least 11pm when we made the decision to bail seeing as we weren’t going to be getting any sleep between being eaten alive and serenaded.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Adventure Bound Washington DC

    Nice

    This place is a good place to stay, the laundry room & showers are handy, the pool is large, & it's a 40 minute drive to the capital & the Smithsonian Mall or a 25 minute drive to the closest Metro station. It's crowded but folks are quiet & respectful!

  • 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!

Guide to George Washington Memorial Parkway

Camping near George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and easy access to the sights of Washington, D.C. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the trails: Many campgrounds, like Bull Run Regional Park, have extensive trail systems. One visitor noted, "My son loved the giant playground and full water park at the campground, they even had discounted entry to the water park for campers."
  • Visit D.C.: If you're planning to check out the nation's capital, Cherry Hill Park is a convenient spot. A camper shared, "We stayed a week at Cherry Hill and it had everything we needed for visiting DC."
  • Fishing and kayaking: At Burke Lake Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. One camper mentioned, "The park offers a lake for fishing and kayaking, 5-mile trail around the lake."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground said, "The bathrooms were cleaner than any other campground we have stayed in."
  • Friendly staff: Many campers rave about the helpfulness of the staff. One reviewer at Lake Fairfax Campground noted, "The Rangers were helpful."
  • Community feel: Campgrounds like Cherry Hill Park foster a sense of community. A camper remarked, "There is a generally good sense of community, which is lucky because of how close together the sites are."

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways or airports. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground mentioned, "This place is absolutely the most horrific noisy place, like sleeping on the side of the highway."
  • Site proximity: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Cedarville State Forest noted, "The sites are very small and you sit very close to the camp loop road."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Oak Ridge Campground, may not have electric hookups or showers. A camper mentioned, "No water or electricity!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water parks. At Bull Run Regional Park, one parent said, "There is a giant playground and full water park at the campground."
  • Plan for meals: Some campgrounds have stores for essentials. A visitor at Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "Nicely stocked store, great cafe onsite."
  • Safety first: Always keep an eye on kids near water or trails. A camper at Lake Fairfax Campground advised, "The bathrooms are close by and kept clean."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Prince William Forest RV Campground said, "Sites are paved and mostly level and pull through, HOWEVER, the sites are very small."
  • Be prepared for limited hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A camper at Cedarville State Forest noted, "No sewer access or decent access to Wi-Fi."
  • Plan for noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds further from highways. A visitor at Burke Lake Park Campground mentioned, "The campground sites are pretty close and no much block between sites."

Camping near George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to check the specific amenities and features of each campground to find the best fit for your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near George Washington Memorial Parkway?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near George Washington Memorial Parkway is Pohick Bay Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 38 reviews.

What parks are near George Washington Memorial Parkway?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near George Washington Memorial Parkway that allow camping, notably Fort Washington Park and National Mall & Memorial Parks.

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