Equestrian camping options near Lorton, Virginia remain limited, with most nearby campgrounds lacking dedicated horse facilities. While some sites accommodate horses on nearby trails, campers should contact parks directly about specific equestrian policies before arrival. The area has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for camping with horses.
What to do
Disc golf course access: At Pohick Bay Campground, campers can enjoy an 18-hole disc golf course within the park boundaries. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes Rachel L., who considers this her "go-to weekend camping spot."
Hiking trail exploration: Bull Run Regional Park offers extensive hiking trails through wooded areas. "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," writes Bridget H. The park's trail system connects various recreational areas.
Boating opportunities: Multiple watercraft options exist at Pohick Bay Campground during summer months. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," says Anne K. Kayak rentals are available with hourly rates, allowing campers to explore the bay and surrounding waterways.
Wildlife observation: The parks surrounding Lorton provide habitat for various wildlife species. "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," reports Ben J. about his experience at Cedarville State Forest. Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Proximity to DC: Pohick Bay Campground offers a convenient location for those visiting the capital. "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," writes Josh J.
Eagle sightings: Wildlife enthusiasts appreciate the bird watching opportunities at Pohick Bay. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" reports Kathie M., highlighting the bald eagle population in the area.
Family activities: Campgrounds near Lorton regularly schedule organized events for children. According to Ben G., "They informed us that they had a scavenger hunt for the kids going all weekend, they had an outdoor movie scheduled for Friday night, a campfire story time scheduled for Saturday night and crafts scheduled for Sunday morning."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. "The bathhouse is standard but also has laundry and an outdoor dish washing station," notes Ben G. about Pohick Bay Campground. Another camper at Bull Run Regional Park states, "Bathrooms don't look like much from the outside, but the inside is very nice. Clean, hot water, and good water pressure."
What you should know
Aircraft noise: The proximity to Andrews Air Force Base and other airports means regular aircraft noise. "It's close to a Naval base, and therefore you constantly hear airplanes, and helicopters at all times," notes Kasey M. about Cedarville State Forest.
Ticks and mosquitos: Insect protection is essential, especially during summer months. "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers," warns Ben J. Another camper advises, "Bring bug and tick spray - definitely need it!"
Firewood availability: Most campgrounds provide firewood for purchase, with varying delivery methods. "The ranger delivers firewood to your site within about 10-15 min of calling, which was very convenient. Cost was $5 for 8 logs," reports a camper at Cedarville State Forest.
Military ID requirements: Some campgrounds near Lorton operate on military bases with restricted access. "Need military id and reservations to go," notes M.B. about Andrews AFB Military FamCamp. Civilians should verify access policies before making reservations.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Bull Run Regional Park includes water recreation facilities perfect for summer visits. "This is definitely a family campground. So my activities for kids and places to run around. Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," says Anne K.
Playground proximity: When selecting a site at Pohick Bay, consider locations near play areas. "We got a site on thr inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious," reports Ben G., noting this arrangement was convenient for their 1 and 3-year-old children.
Weekend programming: Campgrounds frequently offer structured activities for children on weekends. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," shares Bridget H. about her experience at Bull Run Regional Park.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy during peak periods. "This place is packed full of people who like to stay up late and make lots of noise. Park rules aren't very well enforced," cautions Kelli T. about Pohick Bay Campground. Families with young children might prefer weekday visits for quieter conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Bull Run Regional Park has varied site conditions requiring preparation. "Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure)," notes Kristen M. Another camper mentions, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Hookup availability: Electric connections are available at most campgrounds in the area. "The site had water and electric which was nice," reports Ben G. about camping at Pohick Bay. Most inner loop sites at Cedarville State Forest provide 30-amp service.
Site selection for larger rigs: Some sites have obstacles that make maneuvering difficult. "Site 6 was good but not for larger rigs. We have a pop up and had to navigate around a tree that would have been very difficult for larger rigs. Site 5 or 7 wouldn't have that problem," advises a camper at Cedarville State Forest.
Dump station access: Campgrounds typically provide sanitary dump stations near exit points. "Dump station and trash were just outside of the loop," notes a reviewer at Cedarville State Forest, making departure procedures more efficient.
