Northern Virginia's campground network near George Washington Memorial Parkway offers recreation options within a 30-40 minute drive of Washington D.C. The region includes both federal and regional park facilities, with most campgrounds situated in forested settings at elevations below 500 feet. While equestrian facilities aren't common, several nearby parks maintain multi-use trail systems accessible to day-riding horse owners.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Pohick Bay Campground features an 18-hole course that's popular with campers. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes Rachel L. about this recreation option just minutes from the parkway.
Water activities: Multiple parks offer boating and water recreation options. Anne K. mentions that Pohick Bay provides "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," making it a good choice for water enthusiasts who want to bring their own equipment.
Hiking trails: Cedarville State Forest maintains an extensive network of marked paths. "We hiked the brown trail and it was a nice walk," reports Nurse N., while another camper notes the "decent trails to hike" and "equestrian trails [that] go deep into the woods if you want a longer trail."
Climbing wall: Bull Run Regional Park offers supervised climbing sessions. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon," shares Bridget H., highlighting one of the structured activities available at this facility.
What campers like
Individual bathrooms: Many campers specifically praise the shower facilities at Bull Run. "They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," writes Yvonne B., emphasizing the privacy and cleanliness.
Campfire programs: Organized evening activities receive positive reviews. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," notes a Bull Run visitor, describing the scheduled programming that enhances weekend stays.
Nature programs: Pohick Bay Regional Park offers wildlife viewing opportunities. "Eagles everywhere!" exclaims Kathie M., highlighting the birdwatching potential in this Potomac River location.
Scavenger hunts: Family-friendly activities keep children engaged. "My gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares one Bull Run visitor, pointing to the structured activities that complement camping.
What you should know
Tick prevention: Several campgrounds report high tick populations, especially in warmer months. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," warns Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest, suggesting protective clothing and repellent.
Flight paths: Several campgrounds experience aircraft noise. "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," notes Drew M. about Bull Run's ambient sound conditions.
Military restrictions: Andrews AFB Military FamCamp requires specific credentials. "Need military id and reservations to go," explains M.B., as this facility is not open to the general public without proper identification.
Weather considerations: Rain drainage varies across facilities. "There is even standing water around our site which brings us to...the MOSQUITOS! We tried fans, tiki torches, and many deet free or light deet products before having to buy 100% deet," shares one Cedarville camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Consider site location relative to play areas. "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located," notes a Bull Run camper, suggesting families request sites nearby.
Water park options: Camp Meade RV Park offers secure, on-base camping. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post," mentions Elvin J., noting the added security that benefits families.
Loop selection: Choose camping loops based on group size and noise tolerance. Cedarville State Forest has "multiple loops for groups or individuals," according to Donald G., allowing separation between larger family gatherings and those seeking quiet.
Cabin options: For families new to camping, several parks offer alternatives to tents. "We stayed in a cabin for 2 nights and had a great time," reports a Bull Run visitor, describing an option that requires less equipment and setup.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for RV stabilization. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," shares Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Campsite orientation: Lichtman Camp at Prince William Forest Park offers unique site configurations. While reviews are limited for this horse-friendly camping area, the layout provides more privacy than other regional options.
Water and electric access: Many sites offer partial hookups. "The site had water and electric which was nice," shares one camper, noting the convenience these utilities provide for RV users who don't need full sewer connections.
