Pohick Bay Regional Park provides multiple camping options near Lorton, Virginia, including tent sites, RV hookups and cabin facilities. Located along the Potomac River, the park sits at 67 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 86°F. Winter camping remains available with temperatures dropping to around 27°F during January nights.
What to do
Disc golf course: 18 holes at Pohick Bay Regional Park offers a course through wooded terrain. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests Rachel L., who rates this activity highly for weekend visitors.
Waterpark adventures: summer splashing provides relief from heat. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," notes Anne K., describing it as a major draw for families visiting Pohick Bay during warmer months.
Wildlife viewing: eagle spotting opportunities abound throughout the area. "Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" reports Kathie M. about her experience watching the park's resident bald eagles.
Hiking trails: extensive network at Bull Run Regional Park connects camping areas with natural features. "We stayed at Bull Run Regional Campground on our visit to Washington DC. It was fall and the colors were gorgeous," shares Roberta K., noting the park's trail system.
What campers like
Proximity to DC: convenient access makes camping practical for city excursions. "Stayed here for 2w while visiting friends in Alexandria. Took me 25-30m to get there so you are far away from bustle of city but not so far that going in to enjoy breakfast or the sights is a feat," explains Josh J. about staying at Pohick Bay.
Private waterfront yurts: unique shelters at Westmoreland State Park Campground provide comfort with views. "Cabin 24 is a 2BR/1BA cinderblock cabin with waterfront views and large yard space," describes RL, detailing the accommodations available beyond traditional yurt camping near Lorton, Virginia.
Clean bathhouses: maintained facilities receive consistent positive feedback. "I'll go again just for the showers," states Yvonne B. about Bull Run, adding: "They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had."
Family-friendly activities: organized events keep children engaged throughout stays. "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.
What you should know
Site leveling: varied terrain requires preparation at some locations. "Not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," notes Robert P. about Pohick Bay's campsite conditions.
Noise considerations: sound sources vary by location. "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," warns Drew M. about Bull Run.
Winter camping options: year-round access at several parks enables off-season visits. "Went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year. Definitely gets windy near the river," shares RL about Westmoreland State Park.
Yurt reservations: advance booking essential for specialized accommodations like yurt camping in Lorton, Virginia area. "Bath houses are heated which is amazing. We had a large group so we rented B49 and B48," continues RL, highlighting the importance of securing sites early.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: multiple options provide kid-friendly spaces throughout campgrounds. "There a water park type thing here. Hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Downfall there's a shooting range near by so can be kind of noisy," notes Daniel S. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Scheduled activities: weekend programming enhances family experiences. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," adds Bridget H., describing the organized events that keep children entertained.
Nature education: ranger programs offer learning opportunities. "So much to do and centered around many historical sites. It's a gem," says AS about Bull Run, referencing the educational components available to families.
Site selection: bathhouse proximity matters for families with young children. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," explains Ben G. about Pohick Bay Campground, highlighting an ideal family setup.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: electric, water, sewer connections present at multiple parks. "Sites are nicely spread out. My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," notes Drew M. about camping at Bull Run.
Premium sites: amenities vary by location and price point. "We had a premium site for seven nights. The site was perfectly level with a fire ring, grill, picnic table and table with three chairs," shares Jonathan B. about his stay at Cherry Hill Park, which offers yurt camping options near Lorton, Virginia.
Loop selection: inner versus outer affects privacy and convenience. "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," explains Roberta K., describing how Bull Run's layout creates a sense of seclusion despite being in a busy campground.
Big rig accessibility: space limitations exist at some locations. "State run park with many amenities. Park has golf frisbe course, decent water park for kids, hiking trails, small creek/river you can explore, playgrounds," notes Tom C. about Bull Run's capacity for larger vehicles.
