A
Al L.
Scout
ScoutWestmoreland State Park Campground
Nice end of summer retreat
It was a well maintained campsite. Clean bathrooms and great hikes to fossil beach.
Camping near Occoquan, VA
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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.
Best Campgrounds near Occoquan (96)
1. 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 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. 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 Availability4. 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."
5. 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."
6. 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
Check Availability7. 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 Availability8. 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 Availability9. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp
"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."
from $55 / night
Check Availability10. 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!"
Drive Time
- 21 min from Washington, DC
- 59 min from Baltimore, MD
- 1 hr 14 min from Winchester, VA
- 1 hr 18 min from Lexington Park, MD
Recent Camping Photos near Occoquan, VA
207 Photos of 96 Occoquan Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Pohick Bay Campground
Burke Lake Park Campground
Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park
Chopawamsic Backcountry Camping — Prince William Forest Park
Bull Run Regional Park
Louise F. Cosca Regional Park
Lake Fairfax Campground
Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway
Marsden Tract Group Campsite
Caledon State Park Campground
Cedarville State Forest
Recent Reviews near Occoquan, VA
614 Reviews of 96 Occoquan Campgrounds
- Jason
GuideAnnapolis MWR Academy RV/Campground
Great spot for Retirees/Active
If you want to be near Annapolis, right on the Severn River...this is it. About 15 RV spots nestled in the woods...with full hook ups. A couple of primitive spots as well. Just a quick 5 min walk to the river...right across from the Academy. NEX, gas within 10 min walk, and 15 min drive to downtown Annapolis. Staff is always great here, and the park is clean....for a park on the woods.
- SSean D.
TravelerCampsites 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.
- BBrian H.Traveler
Pettigrew WMA
Pettigrew WMA - great dispersed camping
Good spot to get away and pitch a tent. Never anyone else there too! Make sure to get a daily ($4) or annual (~$22 I forget) Access Permit on Virginia DWR, as well as special WMA camping license (free)
- Judy W.Guide
Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023
Great Escape! Air conditioned cabins!
What a gem! We found this place as an alternative to staying in DC during 4th of July festivities. Nice spacious sites, cabins were super clean and smelled great! Did I mention they were air conditioned during the hotest week of the summer!
Bathrooms and showers were spotless.
Many things to see and do there. Historic property, big lake (no swimming), boating, fishing, hiking. There is an Art Center with juried displays for sale.
Kat E.ScoutBurke Lake Park Campground
Amenities good
The park is very well maintained, and the campsites have clean fire pits and cooking grills. The restrooms are clean, spacious, and well maintained, and my campsite was large enough to comfortably fit a 6-person tent and a canopy.
However, there were a few concerns during our stay. Despite the campground’s quiet hours policy starting at 10:00 PM, many campers continued to make noise well past that time. I did not notice any campground staff or maintenance personnel making rounds to enforce the quiet hours.
I also felt concerned about security. One of my neighboring campers, who was visiting from South Carolina, told me that his generator had been stolen during the night. He reported the theft to the police, and an official report was filed. Incidents like this made me feel unsafe while camping.
I recommend increasing staff or security patrols, especially during the evening and overnight hours, to enforce quiet hours and improve the safety and security of campers and their belongings. With better enforcement and security, Burke Lake Campground would provide an even better camping experience.
- JJohn S.Traveler
Ramblin' Pines
Weak WiFi
For $90 per night the WiFi should work better. Didn’t connect at all. Had to use the antenna pointed East to get local Baltimore news.
- hheather B.Scout
Cherry Hill Park
Like a resort
This camp ground is like a resort with 2 pools mini golf splash pad and many other amenities
- HHolly B.Guide
Cherry Hill Park
My All Time Favorite…so far
This park is top notch. The grounds are immaculate. The staff is friendly and helpful. They have a lovely gift shop. We were in the 400 sites and it was nice and shady. Though you are close to highways I don’t recall hearing and noise. I love that they have shuttles to DC., walking trails and a large dog park. This is my all time favorite park so far and I need to go back.
Guide to Occoquan
Camping near Occoquan, Virginia offers sites within a 45-minute radius of town, with options ranging from waterfront locations to forested settings. The region experiences typical Mid-Atlantic weather patterns with average summer temperatures reaching the upper 80s and winter lows in the 30s. Most campgrounds in the Occoquan area offer access to water recreation on the Potomac River watershed.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Pohick Bay Regional Park features an 18-hole course among its amenities. "Pohick Bay is my go-to weekend camping spot. Just a few miles outside DC, Pohick Bay is a hidden gem in the area. I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes Rachel L.
Mountain biking: Lake Fairfax Campground provides extensive trail networks suitable for riders. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too); wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat), skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground, fishing, & canoeing)," says Amy B.
Historical exploration: Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park serves as a base for historical sites. "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," explains Daniel S.
Boating options: Multiple boat launches provide water access at several parks. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K. about Pohick Bay, while Smallwood State Park offers "boat launching access" according to Sean R.
What campers like
Urban proximity with natural setting: Bull Run Regional Park balances accessibility with seclusion. "We stayed at Bull Run Regional Campground on our visit to Washington DC. It was fall and the colors were gorgeous. 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," remarks Roberta K.
Shade coverage: Many campsites provide tree cover for summer heat relief. "Best quality: totally in the woods so summer sun doesn't affect you," notes Amy B. about Lake Fairfax. Similarly, "Sites are very well spaced out and there are only 15 in the only camp loop... Campground was very shaded," reports Laure D. about Smallwood State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Pohick Bay Campground offers opportunities for bird watching. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" shares Kathie M.
Site privacy: Campground layouts often provide separation between sites. "Sites are very well spaced out... Sites are private with most having thick foliage and trees between them," notes Caitlin A. about Smallwood State Park Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Weekend bookings fill quickly, especially at Bull Run Regional Park. "There are occupancy AND transaction fees that really add up if you're only there a few nights. But the real kicker is a 2-night minimum stay. Even mid-week. In APRIL for gosh sakes!" warns Stuart O.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. Smallwood State Park Campground has "Bath house was old, and quite buggy, but reasonably clean. No dish washing sink, which was a bummer for me," according to Jen V., while Lake Fairfax gets praised: "Five stars for the restroom facilities. Bright, large, clean and very well maintained," from Tana S.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. "We were in Loop C and could hear activity at Quantico. Lots of air noise too, from both airplanes and helicopters," mentions Tracy R. about Oak Ridge Campground, while Bull Run has "a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," notes Drew M.
Site leveling: Terrain can present challenges at certain locations. "If leveling perfectly is a concern you may want to call ahead and ask before committing to the inner loop," advises Corey B. about Lake Fairfax Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Lake Fairfax Campground features a popular water park. "We enjoyed the water park immensely. Ten of us in total with kids ranging from 18 months old to 13 years old. Everyone enjoyed the water park and the time we spent there," shares Corey B.
Organized activities: Bull Run Regional Park schedules kid-friendly events. "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... They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," reports Bridget H.
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The campground sits in a beautiful Prince William national Forrest. At the sites there are picnic tables, fire pits, and grills which makes for easy cooking and relaxing," notes Daniel S. about Oak Ridge Campground.
Family camping success: Pohick Bay offers multiple family amenities. "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. This was music to our ears as we camp with our 3 and 1 year old," shares Ben G.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Prince William Forest RV Campground offers varied lot arrangements. "Lots are really staggered/set back from each other so feels like you have more space. Average lot size in general, but the set back feels like you have more space," notes Megan K.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. "Our site was the last site available when I made the reservation about 6 weeks prior. Site 9 is next to the bathhouse and across from the dumpsters. Neither was an issue... Our site was perfectly level. Most sites appeared fairly level," reports Laure D. about Smallwood State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds have varying availability throughout the year. "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. Nice and quiet here during winter more so during week than weekends," mentions Josh J. about staying at Pohick Bay during off-season.
Hookup availability: Services vary between parks. "I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained," reports Megan K. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best fishing spots at Occoquan Reservoir?
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?
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?
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?
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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