Westmoreland State Park Campground provides year-round recreational options on the Potomac River shoreline, with 1,321 acres of mixed hardwood forest and open areas. The park sits on Northern Neck Peninsula where temperatures range from lows of 27°F in January to highs of 89°F in July. Campsites generally have 30-amp electric hookups with tent sites located in both open and wooded areas.
What to do
Hiking and trail exploration: Westmoreland State Park Campground offers multiple trail options for different skill levels. The campground connects to hiking paths that traverse the forested landscape. According to one visitor: "We loved the sharks' teeth display in the shop and when I was there they were working on putting bones together of a whale that was found!"
Wildlife observation: Pohick Bay Campground offers opportunities to spot bald eagles and other wildlife along the Potomac River. Located about 30 miles from Montross, the park provides both water and forest habitats. A camper noted: "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!"
Winter camping: When most tourists avoid the area, winter camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. A visitor to Westmoreland State Park Campground explained: "Went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year. Definitely gets windy near the river. Nothing a big pot of camp soup or chili can't help!"
Swimming and water activities: Most campgrounds in the area provide water access with varying amenities. Some offer boat rentals while others have designated swimming areas. A visitor to Westmoreland noted: "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Bethpage Camp-Resort offers spacious sites that provide privacy. Located about 20 miles from Montross in Urbanna, campers appreciate the seclusion. A visitor mentioned: "Sites are spacious! Golf cart rentals, pool is incredible for all ages. Employees are super friendly. 50amp & 30amp hookup. Sewer is in 2 locations for each site."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Montross maintain high cleanliness standards for bathhouses and common areas. A camper at Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA remarked: "Staff is friendly and helpful, site was a little tight and we don't have a big camper, squeezed between 2 trees, lake is not much to look at husband was gonna go fishing but it was really hot out."
Weekend entertainment: Many campgrounds schedule activities throughout the camping season. From music to themed events, these add variety to longer stays. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, a camper shared: "This was our second year....we will return next year! Fantastic place one of our top places to camp. Our son still talks about the cardboard boat races from last season!"
Easy access from urban areas: Most glamping close to Montross, Virginia appeals to weekend visitors from Washington DC and Richmond. A visitor to Pohick Bay Campground commented: "We had a great time here over a long weekend in August. The check in is a breeze and the staff is super nice and helpful. They gave us a great intro to the park as we were first timers."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: During summer months, especially weekends, campgrounds reach capacity. Many visitors recommend booking well in advance or camping midweek. According to one Westmoreland visitor: "Westmoreland felt a little crowded at full capacity. Had to wait for restrooms and the beaches were well used. They did have great trails, a lot of scheduled events for all ages, a pool and boat rentals and competitive prices."
Transportation considerations: Some campgrounds offer shuttle services to nearby attractions. At Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA, a visitor noted: "Just recently stayed here during a weekend getaway to Kings Dominion. One convenient option that comes with staying is they have a shuttle service to the amusement park that runs by roughly every 25-30 mins."
Off-season operations: Many campgrounds remain open year-round but with reduced amenities. Heated bathhouses become particularly important during winter months. A camper at Westmoreland shared: "Bath houses are heated which is amazing. We had a large group so we rented B49 and B48."
Site selection matters: Not all sites are equally level or spacious. Some campgrounds offer site-specific information when booking. A visitor to Pohick Bay noted: "Sites are spacious and decently level (depends on the site I'm sure). Plenty of playgrounds and trails nearby to keep the family busy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pohick Bay Campground offers multiple play areas within walking distance of campsites. Families can easily supervise children while maintaining camp. According to a visitor: "This is definitely a family campground. So my activities for kids and places to run around. Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer."
Scheduled activities: Many campgrounds organize family-friendly events throughout the week. These range from nature walks to craft sessions. A visitor to Pohick Bay shared: "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."
Water features: Pools and water parks provide entertainment for children during hot summer days. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, a visitor noted: "We love this place! I has everything you need and more! Pros - Golf carts, mini golf, ice cream shop, friendly staff, restaurant, water park - amazing, spacious lots, very secluded, splash pad - fun for small children, small beach, kayaking available."
Weekend timing: Family-oriented glamping options near Montross, Virginia tend to be busier on weekends with more children present. Parents looking for playmates for their children should plan accordingly. One Westmoreland visitor advised: "If you're anything like me, traveling for peace and quiet and solitude, I highly recommend Sunday and Monday nights if you have flexibility with jobs etc."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most campgrounds accommodate a range of RV sizes, but specific loops may have limitations. A visitor to Rainbow Acres Campground noted: "They were super friendly and showed us to our campsite. They have a store onsite with food, drink and fishing tackle. This campground is about 3/4 year rounders."
Hookup variations: Electric, water, and sewer connections differ across campgrounds and even within the same facility. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, a camper pointed out: "50amp & 30amp hookup. Sewer is in 2 locations for each site. WiFi available."
Interior roads: Some campgrounds have tight turns or narrow roads that challenge larger rigs. At Kings Dominion KOA, a visitor observed: "Somewhat tight spots. Stayed for a week or so, not a bad place to be, quiet."
Dump station access: For sites without full hookups, dump station availability becomes important. A visitor to Westmoreland mentioned: "This place was great! My wife and I live in D.c. we brought our dog for an extended weekend. It is really nice for people looking to get out of the city and into the woods, and fast."
