Hartwood, Virginia sits approximately 50 miles southwest of Washington D.C. in Stafford County, near the Rappahannock River. The area features a mix of dense Virginia forests and open meadows with elevations ranging from 200-300 feet above sea level. Camping options span from primitive riverside sites to full-service campgrounds with seasonal availability typically extending from April through October, though some remain open year-round.
What to do
Riverside activities: At Rappahannock River Campground, visitors can enjoy tubing excursions organized by the campground staff. "This campground is great! Primitive camping at its best. Very friendly staff. We stayed here and went tubing on the Rappahannock River one day. The tubing trip was organized by the same people that run the campground so that was very convenient!" notes Katie M.
Hiking trails: Trails for all ability levels are available within 30 minutes of Hartwood. The wooded terrain offers seasonal wildflower viewing and wildlife spotting opportunities. "The park is nice, but if youre looking for fishing don't go here, but you can in fact kayak down the creek," mentions Jonny D. about hiking options at Leesylvania State Park.
Water recreation: Christopher Run Campground provides direct access to Lake Anna with canoe rentals and swimming areas. "The campground has canoes that can be rented, places to fish, mini golf, and weekly events. It is a great place for the whole family to enjoy," writes Sam M.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of certain campsites in the region. Jon R. describes Rappahannock River Campgrounds as "Very primitive, tent only camping. Nothing near it and very private. An awesome place to relax!"
Proximity to historical attractions: The area's location makes it ideal for combining camping with historical exploration. "This KOA is clean and convenient to the historic sites in the Fredericksburg, VA area and is close to DC. I totally recommend!" explains Chris B.
Star viewing opportunities: Campers regularly mention excellent night sky viewing. "We did go back out to the field at night to do some star gazing and that was beautiful," shares Jon N. about his experience at Rappahannock River Campgrounds.
What you should know
Basic facilities: Some campgrounds offer only minimal amenities. "Great off the grid experience. Showers were hot. Toilets are a porta potty type. Great for a weekend away from all the hustle and bustle. Very relaxing," notes Amanda T. about Rappahannock River Campgrounds.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites in Hartwood require bookings 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends. Weekday availability improves significantly during spring and fall.
Wildlife encounters: Big Meadows Campground offers regular wildlife sightings. "Beautiful, well maintained. Big Meadows Campground was wonderful. Facilities were clean and well maintained. Bear box for food storage. Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife," shares Terri S.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused amenities: Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA offers numerous child-friendly features. "Kid focused park. Lots of activities. Great setting. Nice sites. Very wooded. Big pond. Great store," reports James P.
Swimming options: Several area campgrounds feature swimming beaches suitable for children of different ages. "The beach area is small with a concrete ledge next to the water. It didn't look very safe for small children," warns Tina C. about Christopher Run Campground, suggesting parents with young children should research swimming areas before booking.
Educational programming: Ranger-led activities are available at select locations, particularly during summer weekends. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs. Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground," says Kim L. about the educational opportunities at Big Meadows.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the Hartwood region require additional leveling equipment. "Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure)," advises Kristen M. about Pohick Bay Campground.
Road accessibility: Some campgrounds require navigating narrow roads to reach camping areas. "The location is quiet but it is a bit off the beaten path for the traveler. This is nice but an extra 20min in and out from the main route," notes Thomas S. about Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA.
Utility connections: Bull Run Regional Park offers full-hookup sites with varying amperage options. "Camp ground is nice. Check in was a breeze. The only drawback is that it 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," explains Drew M.
