Cedarville State Forest offers horseback riding opportunities throughout its 3,510-acre woodland. Equestrian campers frequently access the trail network via designated parking areas at various points around the forest. The brown trail provides one of the most accessible routes for beginning riders, extending about 4 miles through relatively level terrain. Horses are a common sight and sound throughout the forest, particularly near the family camping area, which consists of 30 electric sites that accommodate both tent and RV campers.
What to do
Shooting range access: At The Cove Campground, visitors can use the on-site outdoor shooting range as part of their stay. "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," notes Ben M. The range operates during daylight hours and requires visitors to bring their own targets and ammunition.
Beach and water activities: The Cove Campground offers a small beach area with swimming access during summer months. "There are several different camping areas, and depending on where you end up, you might have a short walk to reach the best fishing spots," reports Karl S. The lake permits non-motorized boats with rentals available on-site.
Disc golf courses: Bull Run Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course through wooded terrain. "Park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds," explains Tom C. The course is free to use and open during regular park hours.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Visitors to Pohick Bay Campground appreciate the well-maintained facilities. "Amenities and such are what you'd expect - clean but not new," reports Kristen M. The bathhouses include hot showers and are located centrally within camping loops.
Wildlife viewing: The forests and waterways near Leesburg offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. At Pohick Bay, campers frequently see native birds. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" mentions Kathie M.
Relative seclusion: Despite proximity to urban areas, Camp Winery offers a more secluded camping experience. "Very beautiful spot, did some tent camping. Close to many cool things in the area too," reports Sammii D. The camp's location provides forest setting while remaining accessible to nearby attractions.
What you should know
Tick precautions essential: Multiple parks in the Leesburg area report high tick populations, particularly during warmer months. At Cedarville State Forest, campers should be especially vigilant. "I've never left this park without at least one tick," warns Bill G. Proper repellent, daily tick checks, and appropriate clothing are strongly recommended.
Variable site leveling: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites requiring preparation. "Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that," advises Roberta K. at Bull Run Regional Park. Bringing leveling blocks for RVs or carefully selecting tent placement helps ensure comfort.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region's campgrounds. At The Cove Campground, "WiFi signal weak and intermittent, even close to router," notes Nancy L. Most forest campgrounds have minimal to no service, while those closer to urban areas maintain better connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Structured activities: Bull Run Regional Park offers organized programs that appeal to families with children. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares Bridget H. Many activities are seasonal, so checking the schedule before arrival is recommended.
Playground access: Consider campsite proximity to play areas when traveling with children. "Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located," mentions Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park. Pohick Bay Campground features multiple playgrounds distributed throughout the camping areas.
Equestrian experiences for children: Several campgrounds permit children to interact with horses under supervision. Young riders can access beginner-friendly trails with gentle grades and wider paths. Cedarville's brown trail provides an entry-level riding experience with minimal elevation changes.
Tips from RVers
Dump station quality: RV campers should note the variable quality of dump stations throughout the region's campgrounds. "They have a new dump station, but the hose has an anti-freeze up in the air with a pull cord valve. This means every time you pull to turn the water on, you get a shower," reports Ben J. about Cedarville State Forest. Bringing extra water for cleanup is advisable.
Site size limitations: Most campgrounds near Leesburg have size restrictions that impact larger rigs. At Camp Meade RV Park, "We had a nice shady spot, what was great with a heat of 94F," notes Rick V. Reservations for specific sites help ensure adequate clearance and hookup accessibility.
Seasonal weather challenges: The region experiences significant summer heat and humidity that affects RV camping comfort. "Nice layout, not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," explains Robert P. about Pohick Bay Campground. RVers should check site exposure and shade coverage when making reservations during summer months.
