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Best Campgrounds near Great Falls, VA

814 Reviews

You'll find several camping options near Great Falls, Virginia that work well for weekend trips. Shenandoah River State Park Campground has both tent and RV sites right along the Shenandoah River for easy water access. Lake Fairfax Campground sits just four miles from Great Falls and puts campers close to the lake and several hiking trails. Fall brings colorful leaves to the area while spring has milder temperatures, making both seasons good times to visit. Deer and many bird species live around Great Falls, so keep food secured to prevent unwanted visitors to your campsite. Most camping areas have restrooms and picnic tables, and some include shower buildings. Campers looking for a more basic outdoor experience tend to prefer Shenandoah River State Park, while families often choose Lake Fairfax for its playground and water park. Always check if the campgrounds are open during your planned visit dates, as some close seasonally. Both tent and RV campers can find good spots that match their camping style near Great Falls.

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Best Camping Sites Near Great Falls, Virginia (110)

    1. Lake Fairfax Campground

    25 Reviews
    Reston, VA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 471-5414

    $30 - $70 / night

    "There is a cool skate park right near the campground which is great if you like to use it, but can get a little loud in the evening. They also had on spot lights once dark."

    "Checked out the Mtn biking trails, skateboard park, Great Falls National Park is only a few miles away. Also went golfing at Top Golf. Super clean restrooms."

    2. Bull Run Regional Park

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

    $39 - $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."

    3. Cherry Hill Park

    42 Reviews
    Beltsville, MD
    19 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. Little Bennett Campground

    23 Reviews
    Clarksburg, MD
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 528-3430

    "We prefer hiking as a family and staying away from crowds and this camp site wasn’t crowded or felt busy. It’s a quick drive from NOVA but just far enough where you feel away from it all."

    "We live in Montgomery County and this is a nice camping get away close to home."

    5. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    32 Reviews
    Greenbelt, MD
    22 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. Burke Lake Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Burke, VA
    17 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."

    7. Pohick Bay Campground

    39 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    25 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."

    8. Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway

    1 Review
    McLean, MD
    5 miles
    Website

    9. Camping by the Creek in Woods

    2 Reviews
    Great Falls, MD
    4 miles
    +1 (240) 595-5000

    $45 - $55 / night

    "Awesome site tucked away in mature woods. Quiet. Easy paved access. Near C&O Canal, biking, hiking across street in Block House Park. Lovely attentive host."

    10. Button Farm

    1 Review
    Poolesville, MD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (240) 579-5112

    $30 / night

    "You are able to drive right up to the camp area and we kept our car right next to our tent. There are nearby chickens, geese and pigs. "

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814 Reviews of 110 Great Falls Campgrounds

Guide to Great Falls

Camping near Great Falls, Virginia, offers a fantastic escape into nature with plenty of options for families, RVers, and tent campers alike. With beautiful parks and campgrounds nearby, you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and relaxing in the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers have noted that “there are numerous hiking trails that vary in difficulty and distance” at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground. The breathtaking views make it a must-visit for nature lovers.
  • Fishing: The Shenandoah River is perfect for fishing. One visitor mentioned, “Hiking, fishing, breathtaking views, tons to do in the area!” while staying at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground.
  • Water Activities: If you’re looking for some fun on the water, Pohick Bay Campground offers access to a water park, which is a hit with families. Campers appreciate the “discount at the water park which was a very reasonable 5 dollars per person.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers rave about the cleanliness of the facilities. One reviewer at Greenbrier State Park Campground said, “The bath houses & sites are always clean, camp hosts are friendly and park rangers are present and helpful.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many visitors enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. A camper at Owens Creek Campground shared, “This is a great quiet little camping ground which was my son’s introduction to camping.”
  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the spaciousness of the sites. A review from Codorus State Park Campground noted, “The sites are fairly large and they do have some full hook up sites which is nice.”

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground mentioned, “This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A reviewer at Mathews Arm Campground pointed out, “There is no electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm, and no cell service.”
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Cherry Hill Park advised, “It is an especially good Campground to stay at if you are planning on visiting Washington DC.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. Bull Run Regional Park has a playground that’s great for younger campers.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. One family at Pohick Bay Campground enjoyed the “long bike trail along the road.”
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Greenbrier State Park Campground mentioned the convenience of the camp store for snacks.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA noted, “The sites were so unlevel that I was not able to get the RV leveled the entire weekend.”
  • Use Public Transport: If visiting DC, consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles. Campers at Cherry Hill Park found it convenient to use the Metro.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA mentioned, “Definitely crowds up on the weekends but the amenities are endless!”

Camping near Great Falls, VA, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a fun family adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is camping allowed in Great Falls Park?

No, camping is not allowed within Great Falls Park itself. The park is a day-use only area with no overnight facilities. However, you can camp nearby at Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite, located along the C&O Canal just a few miles from Great Falls. This campsite offers road access while maintaining a natural setting and is popular with visitors looking to explore the Great Falls area. Another option is Marsden Tract Group Campsite, which provides primitive camping along the Potomac River within the George Washington Memorial Parkway system and is relatively close to Great Falls.

What activities can I enjoy while camping near Great Falls?

The Great Falls area offers numerous outdoor activities for campers. At Lake Fairfax Campground, you can enjoy hiking trails, a skate park, and it's just a few miles from Great Falls National Park's spectacular views. The area is perfect for fishing in the Potomac River, mountain biking on local trails, and wildlife photography. Brunswick Family Campground provides easy river access for kayaking and tubing. Beyond water activities, the region offers historic sites to explore, rock climbing opportunities, and scenic biking along the C&O Canal towpath. During summer months, Lake Fairfax's water park is a hit with families looking to cool off after a day of hiking.

What campgrounds are available near Great Falls, VA?

Several campgrounds serve visitors to Great Falls, VA. Prince William Forest RV Campground offers a clean facility with bathrooms and a pool less than an hour from DC, making it convenient for Great Falls visitors. Greenbelt Park Campground provides a basic NPS camping experience relatively close to Great Falls. Other options include Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA, which features shaded sites, a pool, and family activities while providing access to both historic sites and recreational opportunities on the Potomac River near Great Falls. For those seeking more amenities, Bull Run Regional Park offers water, toilets, and both drive-in and walk-in sites.

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