RV campgrounds near Mount Vernon, Virginia offer varied camping experiences within 35 miles of George Washington's historic estate. The area features a mix of military, county, and privately operated facilities nestled among the Potomac River watershed. Winter camping options remain available at several locations, with temperatures typically ranging from 25-45°F December through February.
What to Do
Hiking trails at Prince William Forest: Access the national park directly from Prince William Forest RV Campground. "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes. Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," notes Kenneth H.
Fishing opportunities: Smallwood State Park Campground provides water access for anglers. "Mattawoman Creek is right there and great for kayaking," shares Lorraine P. The park includes several docks specifically designed for fishing access.
Historical exploration: Use Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp as your base for exploring George Washington's birthplace. "The outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river. There is a pier out into the river to fish on," mentions Jack R.
What Campers Like
Accessible DC transit options: Cherry Hill Park provides direct transportation into Washington DC. "You get what you pay for. This campground has so much to offer... On-site bus shuttle," notes Beth R. The campground serves as a convenient hub for exploring monuments without driving.
Clean shower facilities: Burke Lake Park receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. "Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. The other campers were all respectful and observed pet policy and quiet hours," states Caitlin A. about nearby Smallwood State Park.
Pool amenities during summer: Bull Run Regional Park offers aquatic options for hot weather relief. "The best review I can give us of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," comments Yvonne B.
What You Should Know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require leveling equipment. "Caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level. The rain created red clay mud so the dogs were a mess," warns Cheryl D. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Military ID requirements: Military Park Fort AP Hill Champs Camp RV Park restricts access to Department of Defense credential holders. "Level lots. Clean facilities. DoD ID required," reports James P. Fort Belvoir also requires military credentials for entry.
Seasonal weather impacts: Spring brings pollen concerns at some facilities. "If you have allergies, avoid spring. EVERYTHING outside was covered in a light haze of pollen. I worked outside several days and had to wipe my computer off a couple times a day," advises Ariel F. about Harbor View.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground availability: Thousand Trails Harbor View includes dedicated play areas. "We stayed here for two nights at the end of April. All the sites are very shady, which certainly comes in handy in the Virginia heat... Everybody was super friendly and we felt very comfortable letting our kids go over to the playground by themselves," shares Em M.
Family-friendly activities: Burke Lake Park offers multiple attractions beyond camping. "Excellent campground and park for families. Swimming, biking, and hiking," reports Amy B. The park includes a mini train ride and carousel specifically designed for children.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby facilities. "I was only stopping for single night. I could not access water as the spigot was broken. Was not informed next door there was a outdoor concert that went until 10pm extremely loud," cautions Lewis B. about Prince William Forest.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity options: Cell service varies between rv campgrounds in Mount Vernon, Virginia. "I work full-time remote and the Verizon service was perfect with our hotspot," mentions Ariel F. about Harbor View, providing crucial information for digital nomads.
Site spacing variations: Smallwood State Park Campground offers more separation between units. "The sites are well spaced, and while on the smaller side they're very private with woods between each one," notes Caitlin A. This contrasts with tighter arrangements at other regional facilities.
Utility access: Some campgrounds have limited full-hookup availability. "Try and reserve row E if you need full hook up," advises Cheryl D. regarding Prince William Forest RV Campground, indicating the specific location of premium service sites.
