Lakeside camping in Washington, DC

Hike tree-covered trails or wander into America’s historical sites while camping near DC.

94% (467 reviews)

United States
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District Of Columbia
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Washington, DC

94% (467 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Washington, DC

Community favorites in and near Washington, DC

Public campgrounds in and near Washington, DC

100%

(4)

Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Prince William Forest National Park

85%

(10)

Oak Ridge Campground

57 sites · RVs, Tents In Prince William Forest National Park

Stories from the community

Michelle

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Little Goat Farm at the Lake

Bob and Susanne’s space was pretty and they were SO kind! We loved meeting their pups and goats! They let us bottle feed the sweet baby goats in the morning. Such a great experience 💛

5 nights at Hawkwood Farm

We love the beautiful space! And our hosts were amazing and so helpful. We would definitely camp here again.

Weekend Trip to Happy Heart Highlands and Alpacas

What can we say about our time at Kim’s place? Restful, relaxing, farm land as far as the eye can see, and oh, the animals! The Highlands are fluffy and sweet, the Angus cows are beautiful, and the Alpacas are adorable! Not to mention all the precious little calves! And peacocks too! We stayed at the Barnyard Bliss site and enjoyed every moment. We became friends with the barn cats who made for great company :) And the view of the cattle pastures was lovely. Kim is a fabulous host who goes above and beyond for her guests! We highly recommend her farm tour - the price is worth the adventure and the memories! One tip for guests - bring cash! Kim offers an array of items, including wood, eggs, charcoal and snacks at a reasonable price. Bu cell service could be iffy depending on your carrier, so the cash app may not work well. We had Verizon and struggled to get bars (although outside the issue with cash app, we didn’t mind and we enjoyed unplugging). No sewer was no issue. The KOA in Harpers Ferry was $20 to dump our tanks - easy breezy. Great camping spot. Don’t wait - book it! You won’t regret it. We will definitely be back!

Weekend Trip to Happy Heart Highlands and Alpacas

My friends and I made a trip down to Harper’s Ferry for Memorial Day weekend this year, the campsite and surrounding farm was beautiful! Kim is an extremely hospital host who genuinely cares for the farm and all of the animals. I would 100% recommend going on the farm tour as that was a highlight of our trip! I definitely will be coming back.

4 nights at Comus Sky Farm

Juanita has a beautiful property. We boon docked in one of the horse pastures and felt like we had the place to ourselves, even on a busy Memorial Day weekend. Juanita communicates well answering all questions quickly. The check-in process could be a little smoother as it was a bit confusing knowing where to camp and where water or electrical hook-ups were located. I am positive Juanita will continue to improve the property and the process.

Weekend Trip to Comus Sky Farm

We had a wonderful experience at Comus Sky Farm. There was plenty of space, the setting was lovely, and the camp hosts (Katy and her partner) were very welcoming. Juanita was chill too : ). The trails for biking and hiking were great. If we come back to this area, we would definitely stay here again!

Weekend Trip to Comus Sky Farm

My friends and family loved tent camping at Juanita's property. There was plenty of space, fire rings to spare, a supply of easily accessible firewood, and a Tack Room with a utility sink, a flushable toliet, and hot water. Since there are multiple spaces for tent camping and RV parking, a neat little community forms and it is a delightful experience. There are multiple trails and a stunning sunset from the trail behind Juanita's house - highly recommend you make the walk. Juanita was about the property while we were there and is a gracious host - offered fresh eggs and veggies if we needed them. She also has chickens, ducks, and a Goose that will follow guests around for walks if you are interested. There were campground hosts while we were there and they are the best - checked in on us regularly, helped us transport wood, made sure we knew the layout, and just overall made us feel so welcome. We will visit again!

Weekend Trip to Comus Sky Farm

The place was great! Loved that we got our own field/paddock to camp in. The hosts were attentive and super nice. We forgot s'more supplies and they asked around and they surprised us with some! The perimeter hiking trail was just perfect for little kids to feel like they were on a grand adventure.

Weekend Trip to Comus Sky Farm

Loved staying here with the family. We were welcomed with open arms, had a whole paddock to ourselves with beautiful views, fire ring and firewood. The owner and manager went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. The property is beautiful and has horses, chickens, ducks and a goose, and the surrounding area is beautiful as well, with Little Seneca Lake 10 minutes away. We’ll be back!

Weekend Trip to Comus Sky Farm

Our first hipcamp experience and Juanita has set the bar really high. Her property is beautiful and she”s very hospitable and friendly. Plenty of space to set up your camp and enjoy!

6 nights at Little Goat Farm at the Lake

LOVE this “Little Goat Farm by the Lake”!!!! I had such a wonderful experience here. Bob and Susane are friendly, gracious, hardworking hosts who were so generous with sharing their space and time. The baby goats were soo adorable and it was wonderful to get out on that beautiful lake to kayak!! I cannot say enough good things and cannot wait to return!

2 nights at Comus Sky Farm

Perfect place to unwind for a couple of days. Plenty of room for our Class B and our dog to stretch his legs. Only 110 for RV’s to hook into but running water and nice bathroom are a definite plus!

1 night at Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

I really loved this location. It's right by the pond, it's very quiet and peaceful. The owner is a very nice person and very accommodating. Everything was perfect! ☺️

Weekend Trip to Hawkwood Farm

This was a great experience! The place was beautiful, from the campsite, to the farm. Aaron and Angela were amazing hosts!

Weekend Trip to Hawkwood Farm

Great property- very quiet- very kind family, right outside of Gambrill State Park

Weekend Trip to Happy Heart Highlands and Alpacas

After hiking on the Appalachian trail, this sight was a lovely reprieve. Very peaceful! Everything was clearly labeled for how to get back to the space and the bathroom facility was perfect.

Weekend Trip to Hawkwood Farm

Such a quiet, peaceful space! Hosts were welcoming.

5 nights at Little Goat Farm at the Lake

This was worth every penny or dollar. We loved feeding the baby goats and bunnies. The chickens were...well...chickens. Lots of goats. It is a little work, but worth the extra time. We enjoyed our time and you will too.

Weekend Trip to Hawkwood Farm

The hosts are very nice and helpful. The path to the camp is very accessible for basically any car. Site is huge and very pretty especially at night and sunrise.

Weekend Trip to Happy Heart Highlands and Alpacas

Kim was so sweet and there to greet us as we pulled onto the farm. The site was well maintained and we had everything we need. Bathroom was clean, plenty of firewood and eggs for sale.

6 top lakeside campgrounds in Washington, DC

99%

(264)

HUNTER'S PARK BY WASHINGTON, DC

22 sites · RVs, Tents27 acres · Damascus, MD

The campground is situated in the wooded area on the back of 27 acre horse farm which is known as "The Stables at Mezza Luna." There is Wi-Fi to all the sites. Every year in the spring there are 4-6 Thoroughbred foals born that eventually will become racehorses. They live on the farm until they are 2 years old and then they go off to begin their racing career. In the daytime, when you are not sitting around your campfire, you can walk the fence lines and visit with the Mares and Foals or just watch them frolic in the fields. Hint! "They love peppermints, carrots and apples." Who knows, you might get to meet a future Kentucky Derby winner. Nearby attractions include: BLACK HILLS REGIONAL PARK (15 minutes) for boating, hiking or biking Vineyard 61 (5 minutes) Stone Silo Brewery (5 Minutes) Leechwood Haunted Forest (5 Minutes) October weekends only There are also chickens and peacocks that are very anxious to receive your love and affection with any type of treat such as raisins. Kids can even go in the chicken coop and pick out their very own egg they can cook for their breakfast. For the energetic campers and kids there are also lots of trails that you can walk or hike on and there is a small stream the kids can play in. There also is a playground with swings, monkey bars, seesaw and trampoline. There is a dumpster in front of the barn for you to place your trash. Please drop off during your stay or on your way out of the property. Don't miss out out on this hidden gem just minutes from our nation's capital.

99%

(276)

Hawkwood Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents91 acres · Myersville, MD

Hawkwood Farm is a historic property in the Catoctin Mountains. The house dates back to 1803. At that time, it is documented that there was a blacksmith shop on the property. There is a functioning blacksmith shop today, as well as an expansive wood working shop. A ;band of rhyolite runs through the property that was used by Native Americans for spear points dating back to the paleolithic period. Presently, we strive to live as sustainably and as closely to nature as possible, being good stewards of the land that we are blessed to call home. If you are looking for lots of open space with a sensational view of the sky then this is the place for you! This site is great for viewing all kinds of celestial events. You will also have access to the rest of what Hawkwood Farm offers including forest trails and an array of wildlife. Pitch a tent, or sleep literally under the stars. ;We are abiding by social distancing procedures, so our contact will be limited at this time. You may be visited by our good natured Labrador Sawdust and our sweet Great Pyrenees Ivory. We are asking that people take their trash with them.

85%

(10)

Little Goat Farm at the Lake

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Nokesville, VA

Sleep with friendly goats & alpacas. Fishing & hiking along the lake or trails. Our farm grows grapes, sunflowers, herbs of lavender, mint, sage, rosemary, and a huge varied plethora of flowers. We have been established for decades. The fishing is great as Va Fish and Game stock the lake each spring with bass, perch, catfish and even walleye. Many trails abound yet you can walk to a country general store from the farm. Mobile home living here is like no other as you don’t have nosy neighbors within an arms length away. You have the opposite with tranquility, and fresh air. Your senses become keener and nights allow you to sleep in the quiet country. No dogs unless owner agrees prior to arrivals

Lucky Duck Farm

1 site · RV, Tent16 acres · Shenandoah Retreat, VA

This property is located near major thoroughfares to conveniently access all the local activities. Some of the closest attractions are the Shenandoah river, Cool Springs Park for biking and bird watching & Civil War History. The camp site is walking distance to the Bears Den and Ravens Rock trailheads. There are small businesses for local food and entertainment and AT trail supplies all with in walking distance. Within a 5-10 mile radius you will find many breweries and wineries for day and evening time entertainment. Historical Winchester and Leesburg are each a 25 min drive. The campsites are level and come with separate eating area. The campsite has pond views and fire circle for cooking. If you need something just ask

99%

(114)

Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

2 sites · RVs, Tents139 acres · Westminster, MD

Welcome to our fifth generation, mini-valley, woodland, and rolling hills. Empty Cupboard Farm has been family owned since 1918. It is presently planted in soy and corn. Wildlife abounds, including deer, small mammals, and geese. Bald eagles and Heron even take a pond dip periodically. Woodland trails are accessible and new tree plantings can be observed. We welcome RVs under 30'. It will be too hilly for anything longer. (Be aware: inclement weather is not your friend here if your vehicle can't handle potentially slippery conditions.) Enjoy the following activities: Mountain biking, pedal onlyPond fishing. (Sorry, no swimming in the pond; but an "An open to the public", private pool is 13 miles/20min. As is the Y. Lawn games and a fire pit are available. So are the stars at night; cloud permitting. Consider the free star gazing app, SkyView Lite, even in the day and under clouds. Don't miss our stunning sunsets at the "Red Door," our entrance. Historical towns within 10 miles any direction are reached over rolling countryside. Gettysburg is less than 20 miles. Baltimore is less than an hours ride by open highway. Blue Ridge mountains 18 miles. Taneytown, 1836, has an extraordinary antique store that is a delight to browse; as well as fine dining, drive through, an open air beer garden and close by grocery stores. Homemade ice cream is found at Baugher's and Hoffmans in Westminster. Baugher's Orchard has "pick your own" available. There is a mini farm animal petting zoo at the orchard. Additional things to see: Boating in Carroll County Maryland. Local wineries Ski Liberty Carroll is a full service county whatever your needs. Check out carrollcountytourism.org to learn more No lions, tigers, and Oh my! However, be aware that small critters may try to steal your food. No recent bear sightings. Geese visit occasionally. Coyotes are seen periodically. All hunting rights are reserved for long term clientele; therefore, hiking on the farm may be curtailed if they are present during hunting season. (November- January) Consider using Sky View Lite on line to watch the sky.

97%

(59)

Happy Heart Highlands and Alpacas

3 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Rohrersville, MD

Peaceful camping with privacy on a 160-acre historic farm! Minutes from Harpers Ferry, Antietam Battlefield and the C&O Canal to name a few. We are within an hour of Gettysburg and within an hour and a half of DC if you're planning a day trip. We have a prime central location with close access to so many things to do. This beautiful property is nestled in a valley between Elk Ridge and South Mountain with incredible sunrises, sunsets and starlit night skies. Walk out to the fishing pond, or follow the trails around the pastures to meet the cattle grazing. We have Scottish Highlands and Black Angus grazing as well as Alpacas. We also have beautiful peacocks on the property. We are a working farm so expect to see tractors and you may even see us baling hay or tending to the cattle. You may smell some animal smells which we work at keeping to a minimum but again, we are a working farm. It’s a true farm experience. Also, please keep in mind that during warm weather you may encounter some bugs. Gnats and flies are always a possibility and of course at times they can be worse than others. That can always be a possibility when camping or being outdoors. Bring bug spray, citronella and anything else to help with insects. If you stay by the pond you may hear frogs which personally I enjoy hearing but some may not. Consider bringing a generator and run a fan if you think the sound might bother you or some way to block sounds. We enjoy talking to our guests so feel free to stop us for a chat. At the RV sites you have 30 and 50 amp power as well as water. All the water spickets are potable and drinkable.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

89%

(14)

Prince William Forest National Park

Dumfries, Virginia

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Lakeside camping in Washington, DC guide

Overview

Camp, glamp, or stay in a rental cabin near the capital of the United States. The area around Washington DC offers campers the chance to explore nature-diverse landscapes and the nation’s most notable landmarks. Set up shop at Greenbelt Park for well-maintained campsites not far from the White House. Or journey farther to Virginia for Shenandoah National Park and Prince William Forest Park, both of which offer on-site camping and RV sites, as well. The DC area is a perfect spot for a weekend getaway to nearby parks along the Potomac River—on both the Maryland and Virginia sides. With cityscapes and nature to explore, Washington DC campers will find it easy to balance urban amenities with epic natural adventures.

Where to go

Greenbelt Park

Cozy up for camping less than 15 miles from the White House. With over 170 campsites, Greenbelt Park is the perfect urban camping getaway. It features flower-filled hiking and equestrian trails and Sweetgum Picnic Area, which has a playground for kids. Full hookups, fire pits, potable water, and picnic tables offer RVers and tent campers alike a comfortable home base near the nation’s capital while exploring local nature, historical sites, and NASA Goddard Visitor Center.

Shenandoah National Park

Venture to Northern Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park, less than two hours from Washington DC. Rolling hills, hiking trails, and waterfalls wisp through the land, creating epic views and scenic sites. Traverse a piece of the Appalachian Trail and get a glimpse of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Featuring over 600 RV and tent sites, Shenandoah National Park also offers permit-only backcountry camping. It should be noted that there are no electrical hookups in the park, though campers can find seasonal dump stations and potable water.

Prince William Forest National Park

Pull into Prince William Forest National Park for a perfect blend of history and nature. Preservation and conservation remain top priorities for the park, which was nominated for the National Register of Historical Places. With 15,000 acres to explore, the park features miles of hiking along tree-covered trails with off-road biking options and orienteering classes too. Find two on-site campgrounds and clusters of historic cabins in the park. Campsites include fire pits, potable water, and picnic tables surrounded by lush forest.

When to go

Experience the beauty of changing seasons in Washington DC. The area's subtropical climate creates hot and humid summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures reach an average of 85°F, while winter weather brings lows in the mid 20s. DC area summers are perfect for hiking, biking, and late-night stargazing, though the humidity means mosquitoes and other bugs are prevalent—bug spray, mosquito nets, and after-bite relief products may be necessary.