Pohick Bay Regional Park offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options approximately 5 miles northeast of Occoquan, Virginia. The park sits along a tributary of the Potomac River at an elevation of about 100 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 25-45°F, while summer temperatures average 70-90°F with high humidity levels common from June through August.
What to do
Disc golf course: Pohick Bay Campground has an 18-hole disc golf course for all skill levels. "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., who visited Pohick Bay Regional Park.
Water activities: Seasonal water recreation includes kayaking, fishing, and motorboats at multiple parks. "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats," mentions Anne K. about Pohick Bay. At Leesylvania State Park Campground, the river access provides additional options, as one visitor shares: "This campground was so pretty. It is small, but the price and location near DC cannot be beat. It is directly on Potomac River."
Winter camping: Several campgrounds remain open year-round, providing off-season solitude. "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," says Josh J. about his experience at Pohick Bay Regional Park.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The natural habitat supports diverse wildlife, particularly birds of prey. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" writes Kathie M. about her stay at Pohick Bay Campground.
Yurt camping: Westmoreland State Park offers yurt accommodations with river views. "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night. We only have a small tent and some snacks. Lol but we are having an amazing time. Beautiful and relaxing," shares Sara A. about her experience at Westmoreland State Park Campground.
Camp programs: Organized activities enhance the camping experience, particularly at family-oriented sites. "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," explains Ben G. about his family visit to Pohick Bay Regional Park.
What you should know
Noise levels: Campground noise varies by location and time of year. "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. Showers were clean and campsites seemed well maintained," cautions Kelli T. about her experience at Pohick Bay.
Environmental conditions: Local water quality can change seasonally. "At the time of my visit a couple of weeks ago there was a bit of algae in the water that could cause irritation to stomach and skin, so just be mindful of this. I did hike down to fossil beach but definitely avoided the water," advises a visitor to Westmoreland State Park.
Site layout: Campsite terrain and spacing vary significantly across parks. At Rappahannock River Campground, "The sites are small flat and have everything you need. There are no flushing toilets! Just outhouses that everyone shares. Showers are outside stalls," reports Olivia W.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Families with children can combine camping with water park activities. "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer," mentions Anne K. about her experience at Pohick Bay Regional Park.
Playgrounds and trails: Many campgrounds feature playground access and trail networks suitable for children. At Bull Run Regional Park, "There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish. This park has too many amenities to list. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," shares Bridget H.
Cabin options: Family cabins provide comfortable accommodations for those seeking yurt camping near Occoquan, Virginia. "Cabin 24 is a 2BR/1BA cinderblock cabin with waterfront views and large yard space. One room has two bunk beds, dresser, shelving, a lamp, and two night stands. Other room has a queen bed, shelving, a lamp, night stand, and dresser. Fireplace and screened in porch are lovely," details a visitor about Westmoreland State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research specific site characteristics before booking. "We got a site on the inner loop and it backed to the playground and the bathhouse. The site was spacious. We are tent campers but almost all our neighbors were in an RV or trailer. The site had water and electric which was nice," explains Ben G. about Pohick Bay.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for proper RV leveling. At Louise F. Cosca Regional Park, "Check out your site before booking, some sites are steep but spacious. Close to town but far enough to enjoy yourself. Bathrooms are clean and have decent showers," advises ben S.
Weather considerations: Seasonal weather patterns affect RV camping conditions. "We stay here at least 6 trips a year. Nice layout, not all sites are level (half). Staff are always nice and go out of their way to help," shares Robert P. about his regular visits to Pohick Bay Regional Park.
