Fairfax County sits within Virginia's Piedmont region at elevations between 200-500 feet, with average summer temperatures reaching 87°F. Camping options within 30 miles of Fairfax vary from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks with many campgrounds open year-round despite the region's distinct four-season climate. Most tent sites require advance booking from April through October when demand peaks.
What to do
Hiking at Prince William Forest Park: The park offers extensive trail networks accessible from Prince William Forest RV Campground with options for all skill levels. "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.
Water activities at Lake Fairfax: The 20-acre lake provides fishing opportunities while the adjacent water park offers seasonal swimming from Memorial Day to Labor Day. "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," reports Amy B. from Lake Fairfax Campground.
Historical exploration: The region's rich colonial and Civil War history creates abundant sightseeing opportunities. One visitor at Burke Lake Park Campground mentioned, "Located close to George Mason University, host to many high school cross country meets, this park has a beautiful lake with a 5-mile gravel walking/running/biking trail around the lake's perimeter."
What campers like
Clean, modern bathrooms: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-serviced facilities. At Bull Run Regional Park, one reviewer praised, "Bath houses are clean and well maintained. Our site was very level, but I could see that some others were not so much, so you might want to ask about that."
Waterfront access: Sites along rivers and lakes rank highly with campers. At Harpers Ferry Campground, Mikala S. appreciated that "our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water). We love walking and having a nice walk right from our campsite is a big bonus."
Proximity to DC attractions: The ability to camp while exploring Washington DC remains a major draw. "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," reported Jennifer H. at Cherry Hill Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer and fall weekends. "Fall weekends fill quickly at popular locations," many reviewers note.
Train noise: Several campgrounds have nearby railroad tracks. At Harpers Ferry Campground, Sherri C. warned: "The river views were amazing, but face the other way and you're looking at a 15 or so foot CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly range from quick commuter MARC or Amtrak trains to long freight trains."
Site leveling challenges: Particularly for RV camping near Fairfax, Virginia, site conditions vary widely between and within parks. At Bull Run Regional Park, Drew M. noted: "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level."
Seasonal facilities: Water sources and shower availability changes seasonally at some parks. "Not happy about: Promised wi-fi does not even appear as an available signal, Toilet paper roll dispensers empty, Grass 8" high, No hot water at dishwashing sink," reported Robert G. at Prince William Forest RV Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with dedicated activities: Several campgrounds offer organized family programs. One camper at Bull Run Regional Park shared: "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."
Consider pool access: Summer heat makes swimming facilities valuable. At Thousand Trails Harbor View, Samantha G. noted: "The pool is a nice size and includes a kiddie pool. There is a playground with lots of picnic tables and a putt putt (small fee) that's is close."
Look for playgrounds: Family-friendly campgrounds typically include play areas. "Playground is nice," mentioned Kristen M. about Prince William Forest RV Campground, while another reviewer highlighted that it was "in very good condition."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Several campgrounds have navigation restrictions. "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," reported Erin W. about Lake Fairfax Campground.
Electric service variations: Available power connections differ significantly between parks. At Prince William Forest RV Campground, Megan K. explained: "I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained."
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies dramatically between parks for those needing connectivity while RV camping near Fairfax. "If the campground had better wifi and cable it would get five stars," noted Rebecca E. about Prince William Forest RV Campground, while another review mentioned "Verizon and Google fi have great service."
