RV sites near Great Falls, Virginia provide access to several regional parks within a one-hour drive. The area sits at elevations between 100-400 feet, with the Potomac River creating a natural boundary between Virginia and Maryland. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with higher humidity levels from June through September.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: At Prince William Forest Park, trails connect directly to the campground. "Prince William Forest which is a fantastic National Parks forest," notes one camper, while another mentions that although "there are no trails accessible onsite... it is a slight drive to the main park entrance."
River activities: The Potomac and Shenandoah rivers offer recreation within 30 miles. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing." A visitor observed that "the river is beautifully clean clear and cool," making it perfect for summer cooling off.
Urban exploration: Most campgrounds provide access to Washington DC attractions. A reviewer at Brunswick Family Campground noted they "enjoyed the water park immensely" with kids ranging from 18 months to 13 years old, making it suitable for various age groups.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Lake Fairfax Campground receives consistent praise for its amenities. "Five stars for the restroom facilities. Bright, large, clean and very well maintained," writes one camper. Another adds, "Pretty clean bathrooms and somewhat clean showers. Everyone is very respectful of quiet hours."
River views: Waterfront sites are highly valued. One camper at Brunswick Family Campground mentioned their "spot was on the river with a short walk to the boat ramp and access. It was very quiet, serene, & clean." Another noted that "half of the sites have river views."
Family-friendly amenities: Parks offer facilities for all ages. "Quiet campground with tables and fire rings at all sites. Small, well stocked camp store. Propane and 2 easy dump stations. Nice pool and bath house," remarks a visitor to Prince William Forest RV Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains. The proximity to the tracks means that if the sound doesn't wake you up, the rumbling ground will."
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some parks. At Bull Run Regional Park, "The outer loop campsites are easily more level than the center loop. If leveling perfectly is a concern you may want to call ahead and ask before committing to the inner loop."
Military access requirements: Some facilities restrict access to military personnel. Fort Belvoir Travel RV Camp requires "military credentials" according to visitors, and one reviewer noted, "You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system."
Tips for camping with families
Water features: Look for campgrounds with swimming options during summer months. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails; wooded hikes with water along the trails, skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground, fishing, & canoeing," notes a Lake Fairfax reviewer.
Educational opportunities: Several camps offer access to historic sites. At Cherry Hill Park, "The best park in the DC area! Plan and reserve your DC tours right at the campground. No need to drive anywhere, the tour buses pick you up at the park!"
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. "The showers are clean/hot and the playground is in very good condition," observes a Prince William Forest visitor. Burke Lake Park offers "Swimming, biking, and hiking" plus "Train, carousel, fishing" according to reviewers.
Tips from RVers
Transportation options: Consider public transit for city visits. A Fort Belvoir camper noted it's "Handy to the DC Metro Transit system," while Cherry Hill Park offers "On-site bus shuttle" service to DC attractions, eliminating parking concerns.
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on specific needs. "Sites on the ends are by far larger than the center," advises a Brunswick Family Campground visitor, while 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."
Hookup variations: Electric-only options are common at county parks. Lake Fairfax offers "electric-only sites with 50amp hookups" while Bull Run provides "full hook up RV sites with electric, water, and sewer connections" according to reviewers.
