Camping near Occoquan, Virginia offers access to the Potomac River watershed with elevations ranging from 10 to 250 feet above sea level. The area typically experiences mild spring and fall seasons with hot summers where temperatures can reach 90°F. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round, though winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures.
What to do
Hiking trails: Prince William Forest Park provides multiple trail options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "Great hiking, biking, wildlife. A.P Hill is huge!" notes one visitor at Military Park Fort AP Hill Champs Camp RV Park.
Historical exploration: The region contains significant Civil War and Revolutionary War sites within short driving distance. "Civil War National Parks nearby. DC just up the road. National Marine Corp Museum just around corner," mentions a camper at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities on nearby rivers and creeks. "There is a pier out into the river to fish on. The outdoor recreation center has bait, snacks, and drinks," reports a visitor to Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Water activities: The Potomac watershed supports kayaking, canoeing and swimming. "The base outdoor recreation center has equipment to rent such as kayaks and canoes to explore the Potomac river," shares a Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp guest.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive positive comments at several parks. "The showers were hot, water pressure and shower heads good. Shower stalls offered more privacy than most, each having a locking door and small dressing area with a bench," reports a camper at Oak Ridge Campground.
Quiet camping: Despite proximity to urban areas, several campgrounds maintain a peaceful atmosphere. "It was quiet and comfortable. The facilities were very clean, and when needed, well lit," writes a reviewer about Oak Ridge Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Campgrounds serve as convenient bases for DC-area sightseeing. "We stayed at Bull Run Regional Campground on our visit to Washington DC. It was fall and the colors were gorgeous," notes one visitor to Bull Run Regional Park.
Natural setting: Many campsites maintain wooded surroundings despite urban proximity. "The sites are very shady, which certainly comes in handy in the Virginia heat," mentions a camper at Thousand Trails Harbor View.
What you should know
Military base access: Several RV sites near Occoquan, Virginia require military credentials. "Access to DoD folks only," notes a reviewer at Military Park Fort AP Hill Champs Camp RV Park, while another mentions you "need military credentials" at Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp.
Reservation requirements: Weekend bookings fill quickly during peak seasons. "Get your camp on do some hiking, biking, fishin, and also exploring th history of the area well worth it," advises an Oak Ridge camper.
Noise considerations: Military training and air traffic affect some campgrounds. "We stayed 5 days, including a weekend. Saturday was the noisiest day with all the group camping activities," reports a visitor to Oak Ridge Campground.
Campsite spacing: Site privacy varies widely between campgrounds. "Sites are nicely spaced out and there are only 15 in the only camp loop," notes a Smallwood State Park reviewer, while another camper writes, "The sites are CLOSE, but the bathrooms are very clean!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Nice pool and bath house... playground is in very good condition," notes a Prince William Forest RV Campground visitor.
Family-friendly activities: Organized events keep children entertained at some parks. "They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides. Great family friendly campground," shares a Bull Run Regional Park camper.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences for children. "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes," mentions a camper at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to restrooms when traveling with young children. "The site was large, almost perfectly level, and wooded. It was also right next to the bath house, which was great for the kids," shares a Smallwood State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. "Most sites were level. Easy entry after dark," mentions a Prince William Forest RV Campground visitor.
Transportation options: Several campgrounds offer convenient access to DC transportation. "The park itself has more than most. Mini golf, two pools, arcade, 24 hour laundry, a store and office open early! And late!" reports a visitor to Cherry Hill Park.
Hookup variability: Electric service varies between campgrounds, with some offering limited connections. "I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained," notes a Prince William Forest RV Campground camper.
Spacing considerations: Many RV sites near Occoquan have limited separation. "Lots are 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," reports a visitor to Prince William Forest RV Campground.
