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Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Bristow, VA

669 Reviews

Burke Lake Park Campground offers primitive camping sites with pet-friendly policies throughout its wooded areas near Fairfax Station, Virginia. This Fairfax County park welcomes dogs at both tent and RV sites, maintaining clean, well-kept grounds with shared bathroom facilities that include showers. While sites lack electrical hookups or running water, communal bathhouses provide these amenities. The campground sits in a quieter section of a larger recreational area featuring a 5-mile trail circling Burke Lake, where leashed dogs can join their owners for walks. Campsites provide fire rings and separate charcoal grills, though they are relatively close to neighboring sites with limited privacy between them.

Several pet-friendly campgrounds within 30 miles of Bristow provide access to the region's outdoor recreation areas. Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville accepts pets at its tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and glamping accommodations, offering year-round access with electric hookups and full bathroom facilities. Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park allows leashed pets at both tent and RV sites from March through October with picnic tables and water hookups available. The campground provides reasonable separation between sites while maintaining proximity to bathroom facilities. Road noise can occasionally be heard from nearby highways at some of these campgrounds, particularly during peak traffic hours. Campers consistently note the contrast between these wooded camping areas and their suburban surroundings.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Bristow, Virginia (71)

    1. Pohick Bay Campground

    38 Reviews
    Lorton, VA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 339-6104

    $33 - $150 / night

    "We enjoyed sitting around the campfire at night and walking the dogs down to the water. We were right next to a hiking trail that went down to the water and a beach area."

    "This is a pet friendly campground. There's a lot to do out at the whole park, and its worth exploring (we just didn't have time). I'm sure its so pretty out near the water."

    2. Bull Run Regional Park

    43 Reviews
    Iron Gate, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 631-0550

    $34 - $90 / night

    "Portable water and dumping station located at the camp store. We stayed at site 146 on the first caul-de-sac off the first loop just another site away from the bath house (which was pretty clean)."

    "Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had. Only draw back is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located."

    3. Lake Fairfax Campground

    25 Reviews
    Reston, VA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 471-5414

    $30 - $70 / night

    "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"

    "If you are looking for camping in Fairfax County Virginia, this is it, because there are only a couple to choose from."

    4. Burke Lake Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Burke, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 323-6600

    "We stayed Burke lake campground for one night last week. It was very peaceful place. The whole camp ground was very clean and well kept."

    "This was my second time going Burke Lake and it was just as enjoyable as the first."

    5. Cherry Hill Park

    42 Reviews
    Beltsville, MD
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 937-7116

    $999 / night

    "Great location with access to all forms of transportation.  Store fully stocked to include groceries.   Two pools. Hot tub.   Play areas to include a game room and miniature golf.  "

    "As we looked around we found that all of the sites, regardless of amenities, were spaced about the same."

    6. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    31 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 221-7181

    $26 / night

    "The Oak Ridge campgrounds at Prince William Forest Park are a lovely little campground just outside Washington DC. The sites were large, the facilities are clean and the staff friendly and helpful."

    "Showers are in loop B, which is a 5-7 minute walk. During holiday weekends the sites closest to the shower facilities are fully booked and have less privacy."

    7. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

    32 Reviews
    Greenbelt, MD
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 344-3948

    $20 / night

    "The park is located away from the camping grounds. It has two play grounds, several picnic tables and a bathroom."

    "If you are really looking for somewhere to feel far away from civilization and see some beautiful scenery, this probably isn't it."

    8. Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    18 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    16 miles
    +1 (703) 221-2474

    "Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located."

    "Adjacent to Prince William Forest, near shops and restaurants, and less than an hour away from Washington, DC. Good nature getaway from the city."

    9. Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp

    4 Reviews
    Fort Belvoir, VA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 805-3081

    $55 / night

    "Super clean Very well maintained Pet friendly... kinda No veteran discounts smh Good for a day or two"

    "Good site, secure location, decent facilities with solid WiFi. Pier within walking distance. Good location, tho our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."

    10. Fairfax County Burke Lake Park

    2 Reviews
    Fairfax Station, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 323-6600

    "BLP has a great lake for fishing and boat rentals, a paved path to walk around the lake (about 5 miles) and a fantastic playground."

    "i’ve camped here too many times to count, love being surrounded by nature!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 71 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Bristow, VA

66 Photos of 71 Bristow Campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Bristow, VA

669 Reviews of 71 Bristow Campgrounds

  • R
    Apr. 24, 2023

    Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA

    Family friendly

    Nice size spots. Lake on site. Playground for kids. Fun bike rentals. Lots of dog walks and a dog park. Camp store has a little bit of everything.

  • Joel R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2021

    Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA

    Very convenient to National Park

    This place is right outside the gate of Harpers Ferry NP. We walked to the shuttle bus stop. It is a very large KOA, and was almost empty when we visited in September. The original site the gave us had a large rut and washed out spot, so we could not get level. I checked in the office and the reassigned another space that was much better. Full hook ups, nice clean shower and bathrooms, playground, pool, large dog park.

  • singinajf@aol.com
    May. 26, 2021

    Ramblin' Pines

    Quiet Spot

    The staff and seasonal campers are all very friendly. The bathrooms are incredibly clean. We love all the games there are to play and the dog park is our favorite spot. Overall, it's peaceful and quiet in a nice, wooded setting.

  • J
    Jun. 26, 2022

    Brunswick Family Campground

    Great but only a few things I noticed

    Overall great camp ground only thing I noticed is at some of the RV sites the hook ups are in crazy spots some are In the neighboring sites area so you have to drag extensions around them. Also the pool and dog park isn’t on site you have to leave to go to it.

  • Linda B.
    Jul. 7, 2019

    Cherry Hill Park

    Actually a 10!!!

    This is a campers dream site.  Everything you can think of is offered here.  You have to check their website to see all.  This is the closest site to Washington DC.  Great location with access to all forms of transportation.  Store fully stocked to include groceries.   Two pools. Hot tub.   Play areas to include a game room and miniature golf.  Pets are pampered here.  Even dog walking service available.

  • Megan K.
    Aug. 17, 2021

    Prince William Forest RV Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    Great spot with hookups by PW park

    If you, like me, hate making reservations over the phone, it was worth it! Quick, simple, painless process. 

    Restrooms/showers: very clean, spacious, centrally located. My spot was in the back row and I didn't mind the walk 

    Lots: 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. It wasn't crowded either way, especially given on a weekend 

    Small pool 

    Wifi: don't plan on being able to have work zoom calls or really much on it for that matter 

    Cell service: I can confirm Verizon and Google fi have great service. I would imagine any other carrier would work just as well. 

    Area: the surrounding area is really bikeable 

    Hookups: I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained. 

    Staff: super friendly; great check in experience They have a dog park but didn't get a chance to check it out. 

    Overall: great experience, would recommend

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 27, 2021

    Cherry Hill Park

    Impressive Campground

    Cherry Hill Park was easy to find and get to basically right off I-95. This was our first time RVing into the WA DC area and we were concerned about traffic getting to the campground(CG). As we arrived, traffic was heavy on I-95 but manageable. Cherry Hill’s and our RV GPS directions were spot on getting us to the park. We were very impressed with this CG from the moment we entered. We picked up our package outside the office(no contact check-in) and went to premium site 93 with FHUs. Back-in was easy. The wifi was very good but the CG was only about a 1/4 full. Cherry Hill has many different ways to stay; cottages, cabins, yurts, glamping pods, premium and regular tent sites in addition to the RV sites. As we looked around we found that all of the sites, regardless of amenities, were spaced about the same. There are a few sites in the CG on the end that will give you a little more yard space like 97(need to be a competent backer), 402, and 1723. We got 2 bars each on Verizon and AT&T. The CG’s cable provided a large selection of channels and worked well. We were impressed with the main laundry facility due to the amount of large washers and dryers, very fair pricing and very clean. The two off leash dog parks(in the same area) were nice plus there’s a well maintained walking trail that goes around this very large CG’s perimeter. We really liked how there are trash receptacles and dog poopy bag dispensers nicely placed all over the CG. Though we didn’t use it, they even have a dog walker service so you can spend a lot of time exploring the DC area without worrying about your pups. About the only draw back was the road noise from the interstate and highway pretty much 24/7, but considering the area that is to be expected. Sites 13-38 and 1500 sites near the premium tent area are the farthest away from the road noise. We would definitely stay here again.

  • Caitlin A.
    Apr. 25, 2021

    Smallwood State Park Campground - TEMPORARILY CLOSED THROUGH JULY 2023

    Private sites with water views nearby

    These campground is a great find. The sites are well spaced, and while on the smaller side they’re very private with woods between each one. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. The other campers were all respectful and observed pet policy and quiet hours. I have a reactive dog and he did well here! We’ll be back!

  • Matt S.
    May. 5, 2025

    Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA

    Location. Location. Location.

    We set up camp at Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday as our launchpad to visit the historic sites in and around Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Frederick, Maryland. 

    We paid$114/night(average per night, including fees and taxes) for Site# 94. A bit pricey considering a lack of elbow room, but it’s a great location and everything is well-kept. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • Location, Location, Location! Close proximity to plenty of historic and tourist places to visit. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Visitor Center is literally next door. Harpers Ferry Lower Town and Bolivar Heights are a few minutes by car(or shuttle from the Visitor Center). Frederick and Antietam are each barely 30-minutes by car. Gettysburg, Baltimore, and DC are about an hour’s drive. 

    • Clean and level gravel site with well-maintained utility hook-ups. 

    • Great campground store filled with food, drinks, camp supplies, souvenirs, and essentials you may need while away from home. 

    • Friendly staff in the office& store. 

    • The whole park is quiet and well-maintained. 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45’ motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air. The nice staff kindly moved us to a FHU site without the patio and furniture. And refunded the difference in price for the lesser site. Thanks for providing the move but ‘premium’ sites should be somewhat level, am I right? 

    • Get cozy, the sites are quite small and tightly packed together. 

    • A $3 per night“Pet Fee” for our small, mostly-indoor dog felt a bit like nickel-and-diming. I realize it only amounted to an extra$12, but he didn’t need any extra gravel. 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a nice campground with lots of great places nearby including Harpers Ferry, Antietam, Frederick, Washington DC, Baltimore, and more.

Guide to Bristow

Potomac River camping areas near Bristow, Virginia provide access to a mix of wooded areas and waterfront sites within 30 miles of the DC metro area. Camping options range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV campgrounds with varying levels of development. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional precipitation.

What to do

Water recreation activities: Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park offers proximity to multiple water activities. "The park is nice, but if youre looking for fishing don't go here, but you can in fact kayak down the creek," notes Jonny D. about Bull Run Regional Park.

Hiking opportunities: The forested areas provide trails suitable for day hikes. "Prince William Forest has too many amenities to list. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides," says Bridget H. Trail systems connect various camping areas with scenic points of interest throughout the region.

Disc golf courses: Several parks in the area feature dedicated disc golf facilities. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," suggests Rachel L. about Pohick Bay Campground, which maintains a complete course within the park boundaries.

Historical exploration: The region contains numerous Civil War historical sites within short driving distances. "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," reports Daniel S., noting these sites make excellent day trips from camp.

What campers like

Proximity to DC: Campsites serve as affordable bases for Washington DC exploration. "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," shares Josh J. about Pohick Bay.

Family-focused amenities: Lake Fairfax Campground provides numerous activities for children. "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)," according to Amy B.

Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "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, and an adequate sized shower curtain, too," describes Tracy R. about Oak Ridge Campground.

Wildlife viewing: Many campers appreciate natural encounters near camp. "Beautiful campground located near the National Harbor. Eagles everywhere! Large clean sites. Great staff!" reports Kathie M., highlighting the birdwatching opportunities at Pohick Bay.

What you should know

Varying site privacy: Site spacing differs significantly between campgrounds and within loops. "The sites are primitive but beautiful. We saw lots of wildlife but had no issues with trash or food (raccoons left everything alone)," notes Lisa P. about Oak Ridge Campground.

Seasonal considerations: Most pet-friendly camping near Bristow operates with reduced services during winter. "Weekdays are pretty quiet in this campground. Living nearby but storing my popup camper elsewhere, I often park my camper here for a few days while I pack it for a trip," explains Becky about Greenbelt Campground.

Noise factors: Many campsites experience some ambient noise from nearby roads or facilities. "BR park is absolutely beautiful. The only drawback is that it is not quite. There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," advises Drew M.

Reservation requirements: Most area campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "This is a NO CASH facility which means you CANNOT pay upon arrival so you will have to do so online," Crystal C. cautions about Greenbelt Park Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Water parks: Several campgrounds feature water recreation areas ideal for children. "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," explains Bridget H. about Bull Run Regional Park.

Playground access: Greenbelt Park Campground provides play areas for younger campers. "Only drawback is that there's only one playground that's awkwardly located," mentions Yvonne B., suggesting families should check playground proximity when selecting sites.

Educational programs: Ranger-led activities often occur on weekends during summer months. "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," shares Ben G. about Pohick Bay.

Mini-train experiences: Burke Lake Park offers a miniature train ride popular with children. "BLP has a great lake for fishing and boat rentals, a paved path to walk around the lake (about 5 miles) and a fantastic playground. There is a carousel and a kiddy train, frisbee golf," notes Alexis.

Tips from RVers

Leveling requirements: Many RV sites require additional blocks for proper leveling. "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," explains Drew M. about Bull Run Regional Park.

Site selection strategy: Prince William Forest RV Campground offers varied site layouts. "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," advises Megan K.

Utility connections: Water and electric hookups vary between campgrounds. "I had a 30amp hookup with no issues. They also have up to 50amp full hookups. All of them looked well maintained," reports Megan K. about Prince William Forest RV Campground.

Wi-Fi limitations: Internet access is inconsistent throughout the region's pet-friendly camping near Bristow. "Promised wi-fi does not even appear as an available signal," notes Robert G., suggesting RVers bring alternative connectivity solutions when visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Bristow, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Bristow, VA is Pohick Bay Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 38 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Bristow, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 71 dog-friendly camping locations near Bristow, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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