Camping near Fort Washington Park, Maryland, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and easy access to the city. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.
What to do:
- Visit Washington, D.C.: Many campers use the nearby campgrounds as a base to explore the nation's capital. At Cherry Hill Park, one reviewer mentioned, "We stayed a week at Cherry Hill and it had everything we needed for visiting DC. Staff very helpful and really explained the Metro system very well." This makes it easy to hop on public transit and see the sights without the hassle of city parking.
- Enjoy outdoor activities: Bull Run Regional Park offers a giant playground and a water park, perfect for families. One visitor shared, "My son loved the giant playground and full water park at the campground, they even had discounted entry to the water park for campers."
- Explore nature trails: Oak Ridge Campground — Prince William Forest Park is known for its beautiful trails. A camper noted, "It’s quiet, not very busy at all, and nice sites," making it a great spot for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
What campers like:
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review for Pohick Bay Campground stated, "The bathrooms were cleaner than any other campground we have stayed in," which is a big plus for many.
- Community feel: Many campers enjoy the sense of community at campgrounds. One reviewer at Cherry Hill Park mentioned, "There is a generally good sense of community," which can make for a more enjoyable experience.
- Convenient location: Campgrounds like Greenbelt Park Campground are close to the city while still offering a natural setting. A visitor remarked, "This must be a great getaway for locals," highlighting its appeal for those wanting to escape the city without going too far.
What you should know:
- Noise levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways or military bases. A camper at Pohick Bay Campground complained, "This place is absolutely the most horrific noisy place," so be prepared for some background noise.
- Site proximity: Many campgrounds have sites that are close together. A review for Cedarville State Forest noted, "You’re really on top of your neighbors at this place!" This might not be ideal for those seeking privacy.
- Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Oak Ridge Campground, lack certain amenities like electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "No water or electricity!" so check what’s available before booking.
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. At Bull Run Regional Park, one parent said, "There is plenty to do for the kids, like Tractor Ride through the Campground."
- Plan for meals: Some campgrounds have stores, but it’s good to bring your own food. A camper at Cherry Hill Park appreciated the "nicely stocked store," which can be a lifesaver for last-minute needs.
- Check for discounts: Many campgrounds offer discounts for kids or families. A visitor at Pohick Bay Campground mentioned, "campers get a discount at the water park," making it a budget-friendly option.
Tips from RVers:
- Look for big rig-friendly sites: If you have a larger RV, check for campgrounds that accommodate big rigs. A reviewer at Cherry Hill Park noted, "Big rig friendly, sites excellent," which is reassuring for those traveling in larger vehicles.
- Be prepared for tight spaces: Some campgrounds have limited space for maneuvering. A camper at Prince William Forest RV Campground mentioned, "the sites are very small," so plan accordingly.
- Check for amenities: Make sure to verify what amenities are available, like dump stations and water hookups. A visitor at Lake Fairfax Campground said, "The bathrooms are close by and kept clean," which is a plus for RVers.
Camping near Fort Washington Park, Maryland, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation.