Camping options near Woodbridge, Virginia span numerous parks and regional forests within a 30-mile radius. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity from June through August, while spring and fall provide milder conditions with temperatures between 60-75°F. Campgrounds in this region feature varying levels of tree cover and proximity to the Potomac River watershed, with most locations offering seasonal camping from March through October.
What to do
Disc golf adventure: Pohick Bay Regional Park features an 18-hole disc golf course popular with regular campers. "I'd recommend taking in a game of disc golf on their 18 hole course," notes Rachel L., who calls this park her "go-to weekend camping spot."
Horseback riding: Miles of equestrian trails run through the forested areas of Cedarville State Forest, connecting with deeper woodland paths. According to Ben J., "Equestrian trails go deep into the woods if you want a longer trail," making it ideal for longer excursions with sufficient water supplies.
Water activities: Multiple campgrounds offer water-based recreation, from boat rentals to swimming. Anne K. highlights that at Pohick Bay, "Boating in summer from kayaks to motorboats" provides options for different skill levels, while the "Pirate's Cove waterpark is definitely a highlight in summer" for families seeking more structured water fun.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Oak Ridge Campground in Prince William Forest Park offers abundant wildlife encounters. "Saw a snake, alligator snapping turtle, and rabbits, before we even reached the gates," reports Ben J., highlighting the diverse ecosystem within easy driving distance from DC.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathroom facilities throughout the area. At Lake Fairfax Park, one reviewer awarded "Five stars for the restroom facilities. Bright, large, clean and very well maintained," noting they are significantly better than typical campground bathrooms.
Fishing opportunities: Smallwood State Park provides excellent fishing access with multiple docks. "Mattawoman Creek is right there and great for kayaking," writes Lorraine P., who has camped there multiple times specifically for the water access.
What you should know
Tick prevention: Several campgrounds report significant tick presence, particularly in warmer months. At Cedarville State Forest, one camper noted, "LOTS and LOTS of ticks. I got one, but my wife and dog got about a dozen each. Just bring tweezers." Permethrin-treated clothing and regular tick checks are essential.
Noise factors: Bull Run Regional Park has several noise sources campers should be aware of. "There is a shooting range in the park. It is on a flight path for DCA. And, I66 is not that far away," reports Drew M., though he still recommends the campground overall.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds in the region implement two-night minimum stays, especially during peak season. One reviewer noted at Bull Run that there are "occupancy AND transaction fees that really add up if you're only there a few nights. But the real kicker is a 2-night minimum stay. Even mid-week."
Drainage considerations: After rainfall, water management can be an issue at certain campgrounds. One camper at Bull Run observed during a moderate rain that "The mouths of the metal culverts in our loop were bent downward from campers driving over them, which obstructed the flow. Result was lots of standing water at our campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking a campsite with children, consider proximity to play areas. At Lake Fairfax Campground, "There is plenty of things to do here to keep a family occupied," according to campers, with "playgrounds and trails nearby to keep the family busy."
Educational programs: Several parks offer structured activities for children. At Bull Run, one family noted, "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."
Bathroom convenience: For families with young children, bathroom location matters. One parent camping at Smallwood State Park mentioned, "The site was large, almost perfectly level, and wooded. It was also right next to the bath house, which was great for the kids. There were several paved walking paths leading to the bath house, so no one cut through our site to get to it."
Transportation options: When visiting DC from campgrounds, public transit can save parking hassles. One camper at Oak Ridge Campground reported, "We spent 5 days camping and exploring the civil war battle areas and other things," while another noted they "camped each evening" while seeing DC during the day.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Burke Lake Park Campground and several other campgrounds have sites with variable leveling needs. "The outer loop campsites are easily more level than the center loop. If leveling perfectly is a concern you may want to call ahead and ask before committing to the inner loop," advises one experienced RVer.
Hookup limitations: Most campgrounds in the region offer limited hookup options. "Electric hookup only. Bathhouse was very clean and the staff friendly. Water fill & Dump Station on the beach side of the bathhouse," notes a camper at Lake Fairfax, representing the typical arrangement at many parks in the area.
Site selection for pet owners: When traveling with dogs to pet friendly camping near Woodbridge, Virginia, choosing sites away from high-traffic areas helps manage pet anxiety. Sites backing up to woods rather than playgrounds or common areas provide better buffer zones for reactive dogs.
