Prince William Forest Park camping options span from primitive tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds within 20 miles of the park entrance. The region sits in Virginia's Piedmont zone with elevations ranging from 200 to 400 feet, creating moderately hilly terrain for camping. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with peak season from April through October when temperatures average 75-85°F during summer days.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Prince William Forest contains over 37 miles of trails with creek crossings accessible from Oak Ridge Campground. "Beautiful park and campground with many of nice camp sites! Only was able to stay a night here I wish I could have stayed more," notes a camper at Oak Ridge Campground.
Historical sites exploration: Several Civil War battlefields and military museums surround the area. "Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," according to a reviewer at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Kayaking: Mattawoman Creek offers calm water paddling opportunities near Smallwood State Park. "Mattawoman Creek is right there and great for kayaking. We've camped here on 3 separate occasions," shares one visitor about water access.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing piers and creek access points allow for freshwater angling. "There is a pier out into the river to fish on. The outdoor recreation center has bait, snacks, and drinks," notes a reviewer about Fort Belvoir Travel Camp.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds feature updated restrooms with hot showers. "Super clean, very well maintained," mentions a camper about Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp, while another notes "The bathrooms are also clean and have hot showers."
Convenient DC access: Campers appreciate proximity to Washington attractions. "About 17 miles to the closest Rail station to bring you to the mall in Washington DC," shares one visitor at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Site privacy: Several campgrounds offer vegetative screening between sites. "Sites are very well spaced out and there are only 15 in the only camp loop. Sites are private with most having thick foliage and trees between them," explains a camper at Smallwood State Park.
Family amenities: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds and pools. "Playground is nice," states one reviewer about Prince William Forest RV Campground, while another adds "The showers are clean/hot and the playground is in very good condition."
What you should know
Military installation noise: Nearby Fort Belvoir and Quantico produce occasional training sounds. "We stayed in Loop C and could hear activity at Quantico. Lots of air noise too, from both airplanes and helicopters," warns a camper about Oak Ridge.
RV size limitations: Most campgrounds have specific length restrictions. "Caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level," warns a reviewer at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Variable cell service: Coverage varies widely between campgrounds. "Att coverage is good," notes one camper about Bull Run Regional Park, while others report spotty service in wooded areas.
Limited winter services: Some facilities reduce operations during colder months. "All in all it was a beautiful and clean location," notes one camper, adding that weather conditions can affect site conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. "The playground is in very good condition," notes a Prince William Forest RV Campground visitor, while another campground offers a "playground with lots of picnic tables."
Nature programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "We enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares a visitor at Bull Run Regional Park.
Swimming options: Pools provide summer recreation at select campgrounds. "We loved the fishing and woodsy setting," notes a camper at Cherry Hill Park, which features "Pool, playgrounds, game room, 24 hour laundry."
Kid-friendly hiking trails: Look for shorter trails with creek access. "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt," mentions a Bull Run Regional Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require blocks for proper stabilization. "Our site was perfectly level," notes one Oak Ridge camper, though others advise: "Gravel site pad could definitely use some maintenance and fresh material added. Had to put down boards to park our travel trailer."
Navigation considerations: Some campgrounds have tight roads requiring careful maneuvering. "We have a 42' fifth wheel and even though it was tight we made it through with no issues," shares a visitor at Aquia Pines Campground.
Hookup variations: Water and electric connections differ between parks. "Site was full hookups and level. Staff was pleasant and offered information on area," reports an Aquia Pines camper.
Dump station access: Limited facilities mean planning ahead. "Propane and 2 easy dump stations," notes a visitor about Prince William Forest RV Campground's facilities.
