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Best Campgrounds near West Mclean, VA

705 Reviews

Several established campgrounds surround West Mclean, Virginia, providing a mix of camping styles within easy reach of Washington D.C. The area features Lake Fairfax Campground in Reston, offering tent and RV sites with electric hookups, while Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville provides cabin camping and glamping options alongside traditional sites. Pohick Bay Campground in Lorton caters to both tent and RV campers, with water and electrical hookups available year-round. Most facilities in this suburban region maintain developed campgrounds rather than primitive or dispersed camping sites.

Access to camping areas near West Mclean varies by season, with many campgrounds operating on limited schedules. Lake Fairfax operates from March through September, while Bull Run and Pohick Bay maintain year-round operations. Reservations are strongly recommended for weekend camping, particularly during summer months when waterparks and recreational facilities attract families. The region features a mix of county and regional park campgrounds with modern facilities, including shower houses, flush toilets, and electrical hookups. Most campsites accommodate both tents and RVs, though dedicated primitive tent camping remains limited. A camper noted, "If you're in Northern VA close to DC this is a great quick getaway camp site. Great sites that are clean and flat for tents."

Campgrounds in the area generally provide good access to water recreation, with several offering proximity to lakes, rivers, and water features. Lake Fairfax includes fishing opportunities and a seasonal water park, making it popular for family camping. For campers seeking a more natural experience, Swains Lock Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite along the C&O Canal offers free first-come, first-served camping with basic amenities. Many campers appreciate the convenience of these locations despite their proximity to urban areas. A recent review described Swains Lock as "a pretty nice site" where "the views of the river are truly stunning." Campgrounds closer to Washington D.C. tend to be more crowded but offer convenient access for weekend getaways without extensive travel time.

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Best Camping Sites Near West Mclean, Virginia (99)

    1. Cherry Hill Park

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

    $282 - $999 / night

    "Great camping amenities, soft cushioned sites, with power and water close by. DO NOT GET BASIC TENT SITES AS THEY ARE NEXT TO HIGHWAYS AND VERY NOISY!!! Premium tent sites would be a better choice."

    "That being said, I’m sure there were a few campers who didn’t like being right next to the walkway to the bathrooms and showers. The park is broken down in to various sections and slightly tiered."

    2. Lake Fairfax Campground

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

    $30 - $70 / night

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

    "We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."

    3. Bull Run Regional Park

    42 Reviews
    Iron Gate, VA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (703) 631-0550

    $43 - $100 / night

    "We have lived in northern Virginia for over 30 years and never been to this campground until this month! Very nice campground with friendly staff and friendly campground hosts."

    "History buffs will like to explore the park surrounding the campground. Fun little water park within walking distance of all campsites that was great for kids."

    4. Greenbelt Park Campground — Greenbelt Park

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

    $20 / night

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

    "The campsite is superb with walking trails, wildlife and the occasional overflying US Presidential Helicopter. Easily accessible from close by freeways, and charmingly peaceful"

    5. Pohick Bay Campground

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

    $37 - $170 / night

    "We have been camping here for nearly 20 years. Each military tour brought us back to this area so Pohick became our second home. Our kids kayak now older but used to walk the trails as little kids."

    "Pohick Bay Campground in Virginia offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. It's an ideal spot for families and nature lovers."

    6. Burke Lake Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Burke, VA
    13 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."

    7. Little Bennett Campground

    23 Reviews
    Clarksburg, MD
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (301) 528-3430

    "We prefer hiking as a family and staying away from crowds and this camp site wasn’t crowded or felt busy. It’s a quick drive from NOVA but just far enough where you feel away from it all."

    "We live in Montgomery County and this is a nice camping get away close to home."

    8. Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park

    31 Reviews
    Dumfries, VA
    26 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."

    9. Marsden Tract Group Campsite — George Washington Memorial Parkway

    1 Review
    McLean, VA
    3 miles
    Website

    10. Marsden Tract Group Campsite

    1 Review
    Cabin John, MD
    4 miles
    Website

    $40 / night

    "Purchasers the camp site is beautiful secluded quiet wonderful if you're looking for that extreme outdoors a no civilization it's a good hike to get to the campsite there's no parking nearby no water"

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Recent Camping Photos near West Mclean, VA

292 Photos of 99 West Mclean Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near West Mclean, VA

705 Reviews of 99 West Mclean Campgrounds

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Manor - Cunningham Falls State Park

    Hot showers! But no dump station

    Campsite We stayed at M17 after staying at M26 for a night. 17 wasn’t as level and so we had to scrunch to one side of the site to get level. It was closer to the bath house. Overall cozy. Bath house It’s in need of some repairs but don’t let that scare you- these showers are hot and the shower wands are a really nice convenience after using cold push button showers. Lantern flies! Invasive Spotted Lantern Flies are everywhere. I squished as many as I could but keep an eye out and check your gear before leaving! Dump station This campsite doesn’t have a dump station so we went to the Cunningham falls site to dump after leaving and they let us dump no problem. Road noise Since you’re near the highway, there is constant road noise and it’s even worse on the trails but it’s quiet otherwise. Deducted one star for no dump station.

  • Amanda S.
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Washington DC / Capitol KOA

    Got bed bugs? They do.

    Stayed in cabin 202 for a Fri- Sun and on our last morning we found a bed bug on our clothing. While they gave a refund it does not come close to cover the time and energy of remediating all of our clothing, sheets, and blankets. We also had to throw out items that could not be cleaned properly and now have to replace them(pillows, shoes, etc). My husband has 23 bites over the course of 2 nights. They burn and itch very badly. I truly hope this was a hiccup for them and they go through correct methods of having the cabin treated properly. 

    UPDATE: A recount of the bites- my husband has 31 bites so far. The remediation of all of our items is exhausting. All the blankets, clothing, suit cases, all the other items we used in the cabin needs to be cleaned. We had to throw out our shoes because they shrunk in the dryer. Spent$$$ replacing shoes for a family for 4. Pillows are not cheap to replace either. I bought a new corset at the renfest this weekend that I'm hoping doesn't get ruined when it goes through the dryer. That too was expensive. So if you're looking to have to spend a bunch of extra money to replace items you didn't want to replace in the first place- I recommend staying here.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Manor - Cunningham Falls State Park

    Great non-electric site, no dumstation

    This site is at the very top of the loop so it has a great cozy vibe and is spaced well away from other sites. The only downside is that the bathhouse is a walk downhill and then a walk back uphill. Surprised there’s no place for someone to park next to the bathhouse - only trails to it- so if you have accessibility needs, consider choosing a site that’s lower in the loop. The site is level and was raked by the hosts before we got there. Really clean and quiet except for some road noise. Showers are SO nice compared to other campsite. Hot water is hot, no push buttons, and there is a shower wand in both stalls. No dump station though!! Dump before you get here. Also if you work remote and depend on service, it’s spotty. Very wooded so Starlink can’t help much. OH- Don’t bother visiting the winery down the road. Ew. Just don’t.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Adventure Bound Washington DC

    Nice

    This place is a good place to stay, the laundry room & showers are handy, the pool is large, & it's a 40 minute drive to the capital & the Smithsonian Mall or a 25 minute drive to the closest Metro station. It's crowded but folks are quiet & respectful!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Watermelon Park Campground

    Beautiful setting!

    This camping ground is for RVs only. It's right on the Shenandoah River so it's a quiet peaceful setting. However it's a long way from any town, has terrible wifi, (the mobile data was slightly better) & doesn't hav a laundry room. The road in is very narrow so our moterhome had a little difficulty getting in, but we made it! There is only a dumping station. This is just info, not a bad review :) they have showers & firewood & the staff is very friendly & helpful! Tubing on the river was closed for the season but that wud have been a great pass time!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders

    Awesome views on the Potomac

    Very cool spot. Amazing sites right on the Potomac. There is a Ale House above the office that delivers for free to your site (2.5 miles away), just tip the driver

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Aquia Pines Campground

    Good stopover near the highway but hidden between the trees

    We where forced land-inwards because of tropical storm Erin (potential hurricane hitting the Outer Banks). So we decided to visit Washington DC and had a stopover here. It was conveniently located. Terrain is not flat but our spot was well levelled. There is a big dog (and an older gentleman) in the office to welcome you. Full hook up was oké and our spot was nicly secluded between the trees.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    A World Away Farm LLC

    Great folks. Inexpensive for full hookup.

    They have a farm with chickens, ducks, horses etc for our 7 yr old to enjoy. She got to feed the chickens, gather eggs and offer carrots to the beautiful horses. Wonderful people ❤️. We will be back next year.

  • Erin W.
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Lake Fairfax Campground

    Nice for a quick weekend

    This campground is nice for a quick weekend and does have pretty trails next to the campground. The sites are largely in more of a meadow and not many are very wooded. 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. There is a waterpark that is an extra cost which is fun for kids. Bathrooms are well maintained and huge.

Guide to West Mclean

Camping near West McLean, Virginia, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and easy access to the bustling city life of Washington, D.C. Whether you're looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Explore the National Mall: Just a short drive away, you can visit iconic sites like the Lincoln Memorial and the Smithsonian museums. Many campers at Cherry Hill Park appreciate its location, saying, "We didn't drive to DC at all - just used public transit."
  • Hiking and Nature Trails: Check out the trails at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area for some beautiful hikes. One visitor noted, "There are many great trails to explore," making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Water Activities: If you're into fishing or kayaking, Pohick Bay Campground is a great choice. Campers have enjoyed the lake, saying, "The lake is great for fishing."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers often rave about the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers. A review from Lake Fairfax Campground mentions, "Great bathrooms all singles with showers."
  • Community Feel: Many visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere at campgrounds. One camper at Bull Run Regional Park said, "There is a generally good sense of community."
  • Convenient Location: Campgrounds like Greenbelt Park Campground are praised for their proximity to D.C., with one reviewer stating, "If you're in the DC area and just want someplace close by for a short camping trip, this fits the bill."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways or airports. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground warned, "This place is so noisy with these helicopters that fly 24/7."
  • Site Proximity: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. One camper at Cedarville State Forest mentioned, "The sites are very small and you sit very close to the camp loop road."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A review of Greenbelt Park Campground noted, "There’s not a ton to do within the park itself."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. Campers at Cherry Hill Park enjoyed the "Tractor Ride through the Campground," which is a hit with kids.
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have stores or cafes. One family at Ramblin' Pines appreciated the "live band on the weekends" and the variety of activities available.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on younger kids, especially near water or trails. A camper at Lake Fairfax Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are close by and kept clean," which is reassuring for families.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review from Bull Run Regional Park noted, "We visited Cherry Hill Park Campground in a Class A Motorhome and while it was tight, we fit no problem."
  • Use Local Resources: Many campgrounds have stores for essentials. One visitor at Ramblin' Pines mentioned, "The camp store is fairly large with some food/beverage items."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Be aware of dump station locations and their conditions. A camper at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area shared, "The dump station is a pipe attached to a manhole cover," which can be tricky.

Camping near West McLean, Virginia, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near West Mclean, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near West Mclean, VA is Cherry Hill Park with a 4.8-star rating from 42 reviews.

What parks are near West Mclean, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near West Mclean, VA that allow camping, notably Rock Creek Park and National Mall & Memorial Parks.

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