Prince William Forest Park offers camping experiences within a mature oak-hickory forest at elevations from 200 to 500 feet above sea level. The park's 15,000 acres contain several streams and creeks that provide natural habitats for diverse wildlife, including over 38 species of mammals and 100 bird species. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from March through October when temperatures average between 50-85°F.
What to do
Disc golf adventure: Bull Run Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course perfect for beginners and experienced players. As Rachel L. notes, "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."
Fishing opportunities: Smallwood State Park provides excellent fishing access along Mattawoman Creek. "Smallwood State Park offers a more intimate setting for camping. There is only 1 circle for camping with tents and cabins intermingled. The sites are moderately separated giving some privacy. They are in short distance from the water," explains Teresa K.
Kayaking and canoeing: The Rappahannock River Campground offers direct river access for water activities. "Great spot right next to the Rappahannock River, plenty of place to set up camp. Had water on site with a fire pit and picnic table too! It was super easy to get down to the water and there was plenty of spots to explore," shares Nicholas S.
History exploration: The region contains significant Civil War sites and historical landmarks. Daniel S. from Oak Ridge Campground explains, "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."
What campers like
Quiet midweek camping: Oak Ridge Campground offers peaceful weekday camping experiences with fewer crowds. Paul A. shares, "I took my daughter (4.5 yr old) for her first campout, at her request. We had a great time. Bill, the host on duty was wonderfully hospitable. We found a few other people there mid-week, and it was quiet and comfortable."
Stargazing opportunities: Burke Lake Park Campground provides clear night skies away from city lights. Derek E. from Rappahannock River Campgrounds notes the "stargazing through the hole in the trees was very nice," highlighting similar night sky viewing potential in the area.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. Kathie M. from Pohick Bay says, "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!"
Free firewood: Some campgrounds offer complimentary or affordable firewood. Tracy R. mentions, "Free firewood is available behind the host's site" at Oak Ridge Campground, while Derek E. notes at Rappahannock River Campgrounds he "purchased 10 large pieces of wood for $5 which is a way better deal than any of the places where I live."
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping temperatures. Summer can be hot and humid with occasional thunderstorms. Kaitlyn H. from Oak Ridge Campground reports, "Everything was fully operational at our campsite when we visited in early April. Bathrooms were clean and stocked. Sites were nicely kept. Be aware that they do not sell firewood on-site!"
Tick precautions: Several campgrounds report tick issues, especially in summer months. Tracy R. warns, "Ticks were really bad. We killed dozens and ended up taking at least one with us when we left... Only because of the ticks, we would not stay here again. We had Deep Woods Off, but seemed to do no good."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby facilities or roads. Josh J. notes about Pohick Bay, "Nice and quiet here during winter more so during week than weekends," while Kristen M. mentions Prince William Forest RV Campground is "close to Prince William Forest which is a fantastic National Parks forest... Close to major road not far from the freeway."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. Some offer modern facilities while others are more rustic. Jon N. at Rappahannock River reports, "My biggest complaint is just that there isn't a whole lot to do in this area. Shenandoah and GWNF are about an hour drive."
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Bull Run Regional Park offers organized family events throughout the camping season. Ben G. shares his experience at Pohick Bay: "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."
Water features for kids: Several parks offer water recreation options during summer months. Anne K. notes, "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer" at Pohick Bay Regional Park.
Pet-friendly trails: When camping with pets and children, look for trails that accommodate both. Bridget H. says about Bull Run, "This campground was full of stuff to do and we didn't even get to do a lot of it. The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt."
Playground access: Select campsites near playground facilities for convenience with children. Clara K. mentions about Oak Ridge, "The campground isn't too far from where I live but its far enough and quiet enough for a weekend getaway. The bathrooms were nice and clean throughout my stay and looked newly renovated."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Prince William Forest RV Campground has terrain variations requiring leveling equipment. Cheryl D. warns, "Caution though, the back row is steep. We were unable to get our Super C level. The rain created red clay mud so the dogs were a mess - actually became sort of comical. All in all it was a beautiful and clean location. Try and reserve row E if you need full hook up."
Pull-through accessibility: Several campgrounds offer convenient pull-through sites. Laura G. describes Prince William Forest RV Campground as a "Snug campground with nice, clean bathroom and pool. Adjacent to Prince William Forest, near shops and restaurants, and less than an hour away from Washington, DC. Good nature getaway from the city."
Cell service coverage: Connectivity varies by location. Kristen M. reports about Prince William Forest RV Campground, "Att coverage is good. Playground is nice," which is important information for RVers who need to stay connected.
Distance to DC attractions: Several pet-friendly campgrounds provide convenient access to Washington DC. Mike H. from Fort Belvoir notes it's "Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river. Eagle's nest were interesting. Some sites are a little unlevel, front to rear, but definitely manageable."
