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john L.
Traveler
TravelerHarpers Ferry Campground - River Riders
Stunning veiws
Primitive feel with full hookups. I have a 22' trailer, and it fits fine. I hope you like trains. Plenty of them go by.
Camping near Manassas, VA
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Camping options surrounding Manassas, Virginia concentrate within established regional parks and forest areas, providing primarily developed sites rather than dispersed camping. Bull Run Regional Park represents one of the most accessible campgrounds, offering full-service RV sites, tent camping areas, and cabin rentals within 30 minutes of Manassas. Prince William Forest Park provides additional mixed-use campgrounds with both Oak Ridge Campground and Prince William Forest RV Campground accommodating various camping styles. Most facilities maintain designated tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings while offering a range of hookup options for recreational vehicles.
Access to camping facilities near Manassas remains consistent throughout much of the year, though seasonal closures affect some locations. Oak Ridge Campground typically operates from March through October, while Bull Run Regional Park and Pohick Bay Campground remain open year-round. Most sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and fall foliage season. The region experiences typical mid-Atlantic weather patterns with humid summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Facilities generally provide clean restrooms and hot showers, with several campgrounds offering camp stores selling basic supplies and firewood. A camper noted, "The bathhouses are clean and well maintained. Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that."
The camping experience near Manassas balances suburban convenience with natural settings, though some visitors mention noise as a consideration. Campgrounds in the area provide access to historical sites, particularly Civil War battlefields and monuments that surround the region. Trail systems weave through many of the parks, offering hiking, biking, and nature observation opportunities. Water features appear at several campgrounds, including fishing access at Burke Lake Park and boating options at Pohick Bay Regional Park. According to one visitor, "If you want to just get out of the city and be at a campsite within an hour this is your place, but if you want peace and quiet in nature look elsewhere." The proximity to Washington D.C. makes these campgrounds popular bases for exploring both natural and cultural attractions in the National Capital Region.
Best Campgrounds near Manassas (117)
1. Bull Run Regional Park
"We have lived in northern Virginia for over 30 years and never been to this campground until this month! Very nice campground with friendly staff and friendly campground hosts."
"History buffs will like to explore the park surrounding the campground. Fun little water park within walking distance of all campsites that was great for kids."
from $43 - $100 / night
Check Availability2. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
"Showers are in loop B, which is a 5-7 minute walk. During holiday weekends the sites closest to the shower facilities are fully booked and have less privacy."
"The Oak Ridge campgrounds at Prince William Forest Park are a lovely little campground just outside Washington DC. The sites were large, the facilities are clean and the staff friendly and helpful."
from $26 / night
Check Availability3. Pohick Bay Campground
"We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids."
"We enjoyed sitting around the campfire at night and walking the dogs down to the water. We were right next to a hiking trail that went down to the water and a beach area."
from $37 - $170 / night
Check Availability4. Burke Lake Park Campground
"We stayed Burke lake campground for one night last week. It was very peaceful place. The whole camp ground was very clean and well kept."
"This was my second time going Burke Lake and it was just as enjoyable as the first."
5. Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park
"Adjacent to Prince William Forest, near shops and restaurants, and less than an hour away from Washington, DC. Good nature getaway from the city."
"Stayed here for a week while working nearby. Easy to get to and set up. Office was closed when we arrived but arrival paperwork was posted outside office door."
6. Lake Fairfax Campground
"If you are looking for camping in Fairfax County Virginia, this is it, because there are only a couple to choose from."
"We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."
from $30 - $70 / night
Check Availability7. Fairfax County Burke Lake Park
"BLP has a great lake for fishing and boat rentals, a paved path to walk around the lake (about 5 miles) and a fantastic playground."
"i’ve camped here too many times to count, love being surrounded by nature!"
8. Leesylvania State Park Campground
"Close to me so theres nothing new"
"Good for a day use, parking is full most of the time but have a lot of space to park you may have to walk but you will find one spot..."
from $15 - $18 / night
Check Availability9. Greenville Farm Family Campground
"Trails, creek, pool, fishing ponds (back end), batheooms, etc, great rates. No firewood- need to bring your own."
from $60 / night
10. Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
"They are in short distance from the water. There is a playground, bathhouse, and historical buildings that are accessible to campers. There are hiking trials, but none are two extensive."
"Nice trails, water sports available, and historic landmarks"
from $27 - $65 / night
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Drive Time
- 41 min from Washington, DC
- 54 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr 10 min from Baltimore, MD
- 1 hr 28 min from Hagerstown, MD
Recent Camping Photos near Manassas, VA
312 Photos of 117 Manassas Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Bull Run Regional ParkC
Burke Lake Park Campground
Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest ParkJ
Chopawamsic Backcountry Camping — Prince William Forest Park
Lake Fairfax Campground
Pohick Bay Campground
Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway
Marsden Tract Group Campsite
Horsepen Branch Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite — Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
Rappahannock River Campground
Recent Reviews near Manassas, VA
902 Reviews of 117 Manassas Campgrounds
- TTyler D.
GuideGambrill State Park Campground
Great Camp Spot
This is a great camping spot. The sites aren’t too close together and the hosts are very friendly. The only reason I gave it four stars is because we are near a highway so you can hear cars throughout the night. But the crickets make up for it by being as loud as possible. With the fees, it cost $25 for a non-electric site and with access to showers after a long trek I was happy to pay.
Thomas B.
RangerLittle Bennett Campground
Great Potential?
We stayed at Little Bennett starting on Labor Day Monday and left before the weekend, so it is hard to say how this looks when the campground is full of life. They had quite a few activities for families and a pavilion capable of concerts and such, but there was minimal activity during our stay. My biggest complaint is that the gate code changed and we didn't get any notice--so after a long day and a dinner out near Baltimore (nearly an hour away), I had to call the police to get back to my camper. Otherwise, the campsite was relatively spacious and quiet. The bugs were a little rough. Lots of whitetail running around.
Jim M.GuideMathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Ending a great journey with a great campground!!
We started our trip in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, all the way up the Blue ridge parkway and Shenandoah skyline drive. We stayed in NPS campgrounds all the way. Some were less well maintained than others, no power or hookups but the trip was still incredible. Matthews Arm was one of the nicest campgrounds along the way. If you need a lot of amenities than you may not like it but if you just want a peaceful night in the mountains, this place is for you.
- JJoseph G.
ScoutElizabeth Furnace Campground
Good enough
Nice level spots with enough space to park and set up a tent camp site. A few sites big enough for small RV/Trailer/RTT. Host on site- didn’t interact even one time. One site was obnoxiously loud with a speaker and singing. Ironically it was a guy by himself- host did nothing.
No alcohol allowed but nobody cared if discreet.
Bathrooms and showers- free. No super clean but hot water is hot water.
Hannah S.RangerHarpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA
Close to history!
This KOA offers close and cozy get away near Harper’s Ferry Virginia. Technically within walking distance to the National Park shuttle to downtown. Spots are open and spaced out and they offer private showers/bathrooms
Danny S.ScoutHarpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA
It is absoluutly the worst ever experience
The staff is certainly at the office not competent. Someone ran over my house when we were away and damaged it. The WiFi didn’t work any of the day but upon assistance request no one was willing to help. It couldn’t be worse. We have no other words except never a KOA location again.
- NNele T.Scout
South Fork Shenandoah River
Camping Next to shanandoa River
It was a great spot for a little fire and outdoors camping. No permit needed and there are some places around where u can easily rent a kayak to go on the river. You can also park your car easily at this spot.
- SSean D.Traveler
Campsites at Watkins Regional Park
Excellent choice for a Washington visit or local getaway
Based on my stay 3 nights and what I read of Greenbelt Park (the other closeby to Washington campground) I would say this has to be much better and I will stay here again on a future visit. Campground sits inside of a much larger park with great trails, amenities and well maintained. Campground is quiet, lots of trees, forest and yet each space is very large with good spacing and privacy to adjacent sites. High tree canopy at your site so lots of room to spread out. Sites themselves are a little rustic - a mix of grass, gravel and dirt, but not muddy (it rained a good bit prior to my stay) - but in good condition. Shower/toilet block is clean and good hot water and good water pressure. Most sites are flat or near flat and the ones that aren't need minimal levelling blocks. Campground apparently is never full and there was only 1 other when I was there - really hard to believe. There is a neighborhood road up by the sites near the shower block but it is low speed and lightly travelled and I had no disturbance from it. Nice surrounding neighborhood. No signs of vagrants. Park police patrolled multiple times per day and report very little non-camper entry to ther facilities. I felt very safe.Easy access to Eashington - bus stop outside the campground to metro or just drive to the metro (free parking weekend, $6 midweek) and then train (about 8 per hour) into the sites - an hour or less total to get there. For more local people, this seems like a good escape "to the woods" without travelling forever.
Guide to Manassas
Camping sites near Manassas, Virginia offer outdoor experiences within day-trip range of Washington DC, with the prime camping season running from April through October. Most campgrounds around Manassas sit at elevations between 200-400 feet above sea level, with humidity levels highest in July and August. The area receives about 43 inches of annual rainfall, making waterproof gear essential even during summer camping trips.
What to do
Hiking trails: 5-mile loop at Burke Lake Park offers a gravel surface ideal for beginners and families. The trail circles the lake with minimal elevation change, making it accessible for most skill levels. According to Daniel P., "The trail around the lake is a bit under 5 miles, but it's all trail. There is almost no elevation gain, and it is not very technically rigorous."
Explore historical sites: Civil War battlefields within easy driving distance of most campgrounds provide educational opportunities. "There is lots and lots of history around the area. We spent 5 days camping and exploring the civil war battle areas and other things. Definitely worth exploring," notes Daniel S. from Bull Run Regional Park.
Fishing opportunities: Burke Lake provides shoreline access for anglers. "This place is right near my house yet it still feels like you're out in the open," says Jonny D. at Burke Lake Park Campground, making it convenient for quick fishing trips without traveling far from Manassas.
Water activities: Paddle boats and kayaking available at several parks. "There's playground and a beach area for kids and family to all enjoy," mentions Sarah F. about Leesylvania State Park's waterfront facilities.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathrooms: Shower facilities at many campgrounds receive positive reviews. "Best review I can give is of the bathrooms. They're worth staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," writes Yvonne B. about Bull Run Regional Park.
Campsite layout and privacy: Some campgrounds design sites to maximize privacy despite suburban settings. At Pohick Bay Campground, "Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure)," according to Kristen M., who adds, "We would definitely stay again."
Convenience to DC attractions: Proximity to the capital makes these campgrounds popular for mixed urban/outdoor trips. Paul A. from Oak Ridge Campground shares, "We saw DC during the day but camped each evening. It was amazing!"
Camp stores and amenities: Several campgrounds offer firewood sales and basic supplies. "Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located," notes Megan K. about Prince William Forest RV Campground, adding it has "a small pool" and "super friendly" staff with a "great check-in experience."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Many campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads, shooting ranges, or aircraft. "The park is nice, but...you can hear activity at Quantico. Lots of air noise too, from both airplanes and helicopters," explains Tracy R. from Oak Ridge Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We have found municipal campgrounds in Northern Virginia are a bit spendy for being government sponsored... But Bull Run manages to gouge you even more. There are occupancy AND transaction fees that really add up if you're only there a few nights," warns Stuart O.
Seasonal closures: Check operating dates before planning trips. "Oak Ridge Campground is deep at 'end' of Prince William Forest (13 miles from forest entrance gate)," notes Tracy R., which means access may be restricted during off-season periods.
Weather impacts: Heavy rainfall can affect site conditions. "While we were here, there was a fairly heavy day of rain. Couple inches, I suppose, but nothing Biblical. The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite," reports Stuart O. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Several campgrounds offer water recreation facilities for children. "We stayed at Bull Run Regional Park on our visit to Washington DC. It was fall and the colors were gorgeous," shares Roberta K., while other reviews mention the water park options available during summer months.
Playgrounds and activities: Many campgrounds provide structured recreation. "Our family stayed here in a cabin on a long weekend trip to DC. This campground was full of stuff to do and we didn't even get to do a lot of it," reports Bridget H. from Bull Run Regional Park, adding, "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides."
Nature programs: Some parks offer ranger-led activities. "My gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," notes Bridget H., making these campgrounds educational as well as recreational.
Security considerations: Check campground supervision levels. At some locations like Burke Lake Park, one camper warned, "When a bunch of high schoolers decide to party till 3AM, there's no one to call. Your only option is to call 911, but it's not technically an emergency."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require additional equipment for proper setup. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," shares Drew M. from Pohick Bay Regional Park, who still gave the campground 4 stars despite this issue.
Hookup availability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Easy entry after dark. Sites were mostly level," reports Bille W. about Prince William Forest RV Campground, which offers both water and electric hookups.
Length restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. "Almost all sites are pull through and are close together. Most have some tree cover (and some of the trees could use a trim along the roads)," notes Kristen M. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Wi-Fi connectivity: Don't count on reliable internet. "If the campground had better wifi and cable it would get five stars," mentions Rebecca E., showing that even well-maintained facilities may have technology limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the campgrounds near Manassas, VA?
Where are the campgrounds near Manassas, VA?
Several campgrounds are located within a short drive of Manassas. Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park is one of the closest options, offering a tranquil forest setting. Leesylvania State Park Campground near Woodbridge provides waterfront camping with boat-in access. For families, Cedarville State Forest offers clean sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Slightly further but still convenient to Manassas are Brunswick Family Campground along the river and the more remote Mathews Arm Campground in Shenandoah National Park for those seeking a true nature experience.
What camping options are available in Manassas, VA?
What camping options are available in Manassas, VA?
The Manassas area offers several camping options. Bull Run Regional Park provides tent and RV camping with amenities including hiking trails, playgrounds, and a water park for kids. The park also offers cabin rentals for non-campers. Prince William Forest RV Campground caters to RV campers with clean bathrooms and a pool, located near shops and restaurants while still providing a nature escape. For those seeking more primitive camping, the nearby Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park offers drive-in and walk-in tent sites with basic amenities.
How much does camping cost in the Manassas area?
How much does camping cost in the Manassas area?
Camping costs in the Manassas area vary by campground type and amenities. At Greenbelt Park Campground, a budget-friendly NPS option near Manassas, sites typically run $20-25 per night for basic tent camping. More developed campgrounds with full amenities like Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA range from $35-75 depending on the site type and season. RV sites with hookups generally cost more than tent sites, and many campgrounds offer weekly rates for extended stays. Most public campgrounds in the region have lower fees than private operations but may have more limited availability.
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