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Best Campgrounds near Occoquan, VA

612 Reviews

Campgrounds near Occoquan, Virginia range from established facilities to rustic sites, with several options located within a 30-minute drive of the town. Pohick Bay Regional Park offers one of the most popular campgrounds in the area, featuring sites for tents, RVs, and cabins in a wooded setting along the Potomac River. Bull Run Regional Park and Prince William Forest Park provide additional camping experiences with varying levels of amenities. Most campgrounds in this region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering full hookups for electricity, water, and sewer. The proximity to Washington DC (approximately 25-45 minutes away) makes these campgrounds popular with visitors combining outdoor recreation with urban tourism.

Several campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with peak availability from March through October. Pohick Bay Campground and Oak Ridge Campground at Prince William Forest Park have specific operating seasons, while others like Bull Run Regional Park remain open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds feature comfort stations with showers and flush toilets, though cleanliness and maintenance can vary. The region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for camping. One visitor noted, "We were here to visit DC and it was an excellent spot to stay. It was extremely hot as it was July but the sites had a lot of shade."

Campers consistently mention the balance of natural settings with proximity to urban amenities as a key advantage of camping in this area. While sites at most campgrounds offer fire rings and picnic tables, privacy varies significantly between locations and specific sites. "Some sites are big and beautiful and others you'll barely have room for your tent. Stick to the outer loops and you should be fine," advised one Pohick Bay camper. Family-friendly amenities are common at the regional parks, with playgrounds, water parks, and recreational facilities available at many locations. Military personnel should note that Fort Belvoir offers a dedicated Travel and RV Camp with high ratings. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the area campgrounds, with visitors frequently reporting encounters with raccoons, squirrels, and various bird species.

Map showing campgrounds near Occoquan, VirginiaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Occoquan, Virginia (88)

    1. Pohick Bay Campground

    39 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 339-6104

    $37 - $170 / night

    "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."

    "Pohick Bay Campground in Virginia offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. It's an ideal spot for families and nature lovers."

    2. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    31 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 221-7181

    $26 / night

    "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."

    "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."

    3. Bull Run Regional Park

    42 Reviews
    Iron Gate, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 631-0550

    $39 - $100 / night

    "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."

    4. Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    17 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    7 miles
    +1 (703) 221-2474

    "Adjacent to Prince William Forest, near shops and restaurants, and less than an hour away from Washington, DC. Good nature getaway from the city."

    "Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located."

    5. Burke Lake Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Burke, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 323-6600

    "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."

    6. Leesylvania State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 730-8205

    $15 - $18 / night

    "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..."

    7. Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023

    9 Reviews
    Marbury, MD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 432-2267

    $27 - $65 / night

    "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"

    8. Lake Fairfax Campground

    25 Reviews
    Reston, VA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 471-5414

    $30 - $70 / night

    "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."

    9. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp

    4 Reviews
    Fort Belvoir, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 805-3081

    $55 / night

    "Good site, secure location, decent facilities with solid WiFi. Pier within walking distance. Good location, tho our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."

    "It is very clean and there are many amenities close by. The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river."

    10. Fairfax County Burke Lake Park

    2 Reviews
    Fairfax Station, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 323-6600

    "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!"

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Recent Camping Photos near Occoquan, VA

235 Photos of 88 Occoquan Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Occoquan, VA

612 Reviews of 88 Occoquan Campgrounds

  • j
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Lake Anna State Park Campground

    Nice space

    Great space for rvs and tents. Cabins and yurts available, bath house clean, but toilet paper is thinner than dry onion skin. Beach area is 1/2 mile paved walk. Beach very crowded on weekends.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Aquia Pines Campground

    Good stopover near the highway but hidden between the trees

    We where forced land-inwards because of tropical storm Erin (potential hurricane hitting the Outer Banks). So we decided to visit Washington DC and had a stopover here. It was conveniently located. Terrain is not flat but our spot was well levelled. There is a big dog (and an older gentleman) in the office to welcome you. Full hook up was oké and our spot was nicly secluded between the trees.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    A World Away Farm LLC

    Great folks. Inexpensive for full hookup.

    They have a farm with chickens, ducks, horses etc for our 7 yr old to enjoy. She got to feed the chickens, gather eggs and offer carrots to the beautiful horses. Wonderful people ❤️. We will be back next year.

  • Erin W.
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Lake Fairfax Campground

    Nice for a quick weekend

    This campground is nice for a quick weekend and does have pretty trails next to the campground. The sites are largely in more of a meadow and not many are very wooded. Our site, 41, was level and nicely spaced from other sites but many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant. There is a waterpark that is an extra cost which is fun for kids. Bathrooms are well maintained and huge.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Cherry Hill Park

    Can’t beat it

    Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can’t be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5. So $4-9 per person. We rode in all 4 days this way. Personalized, comfortable. Door to door. We saw tons of stuff. No one can say they saw everything. We took the train from Union station to Penn station. Saw the nationals, the orioles. So fun. The park itself has more than most. Mini golf, two pools, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early!! And late!!! Wow! Just can’t be beat. Great sites. So many other things in the park. Splash pad, paved roads for scootering. Just awesome!

  • Caleb S.
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area

    Tabolt island state park

    We had a nice stay overlooking the marsh. The small crabs were skittering around the campsite and birds perched in the marsh. The beach was nice and clean.

  • Josey F.
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Greenville Farm Family Campground

    Wonderful!

    We are repeat customers and come here with our troops. Nice mix of RV and tent campers. Quiet. Trails, creek, pool, fishing ponds (back end), batheooms, etc, great rates. No firewood- need to bring your own.

  • L
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    Nice Little Campground

    Decent little campground! It was quiet aside from occasional air traffic noise, and while there wasn't much spacing between some camp sites everyone was respectful. My spot was a little difficult to find because the online park map was incorrect, and the spot was basically an extended shoulder of the road. Checking in was a breeze, though!

  • Edward S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA

    Small and quiet

    We stayed here for one night for our travel home. Not far off i95, plenty of signage telling you where to go.

    Once here it's tucked away nicely away from everything, sites feel spacious enough and mostly level on their own.

    Pool facility looks clean and good size for all to enjoy. With a playground right next to it and a small mining operation for the kiddos.

    Will likely be back to explore the area more!

Guide to Occoquan

Camping near Occoquan, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground. Reviewers rave about the "breathtaking views" and "numerous hiking trails that vary in difficulty and distance."
  • Fishing: The Shenandoah River is perfect for fishing. One visitor mentioned, "Hiking, fishing, breathtaking views, tons to do in the area!" at the same campground.
  • Visiting Historical Sites: Check out the nearby historical sites like the Bull Run Regional Park. A camper noted, "Even some National Battle Sites nearby," making it a great spot for history buffs.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the bathhouses. A review for Mathews Arm Campground states, "The bathrooms and showers are very clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness of campgrounds like Pohick Bay Campground. One visitor shared, "During the week was very quiet," making it ideal for relaxation.
  • Family-Friendly: Campgrounds like Greenbrier State Park Campground are noted for being great for families. A reviewer mentioned, "The kids loved the man-made beach and park."

What you should know:

  • Site Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Matthews Arm Campground mentioned, "The sites were all small and very close together," so be prepared for that.
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Oak Ridge Campground do not have electric hookups or showers. A visitor noted, "No water or electricity!" so plan accordingly.
  • Noise Levels: Some areas can be noisy. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground mentioned, "This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7," which might be a concern for light sleepers.

Tips for camping with families:

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA noted, "The sites were so unlevel, close together," which can be tricky for larger rigs.
  • Use Public Transport: If visiting DC, consider using public transport. A visitor at Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "There is a Bus Stop right by the Entrance to the Campground that will get you into Washington DC."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, so bring earplugs. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground warned about the "insane noisy campground," which might affect your stay.

Camping near Occoquan, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just be sure to plan ahead and choose the right spot for your needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best fishing spots at Occoquan Reservoir?

The Occoquan Reservoir offers several productive fishing spots throughout its waters. Fairfax County Burke Lake Park features excellent bank fishing access with a stocked lake known for largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. For those seeking alternative fishing locations, the reservoir shoreline near Pohick Bay Campground provides access to deeper waters where larger fish tend to congregate. The boat ramps and fishing piers at various points along the reservoir offer optimal spots for catching bass, perch, and catfish. Early morning and evening hours typically yield the best results, especially during spring and fall when fish are most active.

When is the best time to visit Occoquan for outdoor recreation?

The optimal time to visit Occoquan for outdoor recreation is late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are moderate and conditions are ideal for water activities. Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite visitors note that these shoulder seasons offer less crowded conditions on nearby waterways. Summer months (July-August) provide warm weather perfect for swimming and boating but expect higher visitor numbers, especially on weekends. Brunswick Family Campground campers mention that spring brings excellent fishing opportunities as water temperatures rise. Fall offers spectacular foliage views, while winter visits provide peaceful solitude but with limited water recreation options due to colder temperatures.

Is camping allowed at Occoquan Regional Park?

Occoquan Regional Park itself does not permit overnight camping, but several excellent camping options exist nearby. Prince William Forest RV Campground offers clean facilities with full hookups less than 30 minutes away. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park provides peaceful, wooded sites with access to hiking trails. While you cannot camp within Occoquan Regional Park boundaries, you can enjoy its day-use facilities including picnic areas, trails, and water access before returning to nearby campgrounds for overnight stays.

What are the boat launch facilities at Occoquan?

Occoquan offers multiple boat launch facilities for visitors. The primary boat ramp at Leesylvania State Park Campground provides concrete launches with nearby parking for vehicles and trailers. Burke Lake Park Campground offers boat rentals and a launch area suitable for smaller watercraft. Additional launch points can be found at several marinas along the reservoir with varying amenities including fuel services, waste disposal, and seasonal dock rentals. Most facilities charge a modest launch fee, and some require reservations during peak summer weekends. Be aware that water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting launch conditions.

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