The best camping near Prince William Forest National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Prince William adventure.

89% (14 reviews)

Discover the serene beauty of Prince William Forest Park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Prince William Forest National Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Prince William Forest National Park

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Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground

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

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(10)

Oak Ridge Campground

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

Top-rated campgrounds near Prince William Forest National Park

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Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

4 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · Brightwood, VA

Welcome to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend!Campsite has a firepit, picnic table, river frontage with beach, and fishing hole. Campers can enjoy hiking and the many breweries and wine vineyards in the Shenandoah. Great access point for kayaking. Firewood available (reasonable rates)close to:-Scenic Skyline DriveThorton Gap entrance (33 miles)Swift Run Gap entrance (29 miles)-Shenandoah National Park (50 miles)-Many great VineyardsPrince Michele (3 miles away)Early Mountain (10 miles away)DuCard (16 miles)Barboursville (24 miles)Horton’s ( 25 miles)Old Rag Mountain which was voted #10 in the Top 25 hikes in the world,(20 miles)Historic homes of Founding Fathers Thomas Jefferson (Monticello - 41 miles) or James Madison (Montpelier- 21 miles)

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Cross Creek Farm

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Southern Gateway, VA

**** Limited time - Baby Goats born mid-March will be here through June *** Originally part of Blake Farm, built in the 1930's. Blake Farm was subdivided into 5 acres farmettes in the 1990's. The original farmhouse is next door, now known as Agape Farms. The forest has reclaimed much of the original Blake Farm land. Visit over 4 acres of available land, from the pastures, to the wooded creek, or the very back edge of the farm abutting deep woods. Spend relaxing time petting the Nigerian Dwarf goats, Rhode Island Red chickens, and the super-friendly livestock guard dogs (Thomasina, Bucky, and Sarge). We are also located adjacent to Agape Farms, with its horses, ducks, and chickens. All this in horse country just minutes from I-95 and an hour from Washington, DC or Richmond, VA.

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Little Sparrow Farm

3 sites · Tents55 acres · Stafford, VA

Unique property! Primitive camping in an old growth forest with the convenience of being right in town. Wildlife is abundant on this conserved land which hosts 3 springs, creeks, large trees, huge fire pit, and meadows. The best part is, it's all within 5 minutes of restaurants, stores, and the conveniences of modern life!

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Bears Den Campground

5 sites · Tents66 acres · Bluemont, VA

Set up your tent in our remote but easily accessible campground, 100 yards off the Appalachian Trail. Roast marshmallows by the fire pit and watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Individual site capacities are varied! Please take note of this when selecting your site upon checkout. Site #1 is on a hilly slope and accommodates 4 campersSite #2 accommodates 8-10 campersSite #3 accommodates 4 campersSite #4 accommodates 6-8 campersSite #5 accommodates 6-8 campers About the property Located on a 66-acre plot just five miles from the Shenandoah River, our property offers amazing access to hiking and the outdoors while also keeping civilization within striking distance. Bear Chase Brewery is just a half mile walk across the street, and we are 15 miles from Purcellville. The land and lodge used to be the summer home of a trained opera singer, whose singing could be heard throughout the mountain. Your Host lives onsite in the stone house that also acts as a hostel for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Built in the 1930's all from locally sourced hand-hammered stone, the house is open every night from 5pm - 9pm. Note that we offer several campsites relatively close to each other, so you should expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. About the listing Pitch your tent in a forested area just a short walk up from where you’ll park your car. Enjoy unbeatable proximity to hiking and panoramic views while still having basic amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. You’ll have access to a composting pit toilet, and can access potable water from the tap in the lodge. That’s also where you can access hot showers. As noted above, we host Appalachian Trail thru hikers on the property, so you may see them hanging around or sleeping in the bunkhouse near the shared facilities. For meals, we have picnic tables, and you are encouraged to cook over the fire pits that accompany each site. Please practice Leave No Trace practices during your stay, as the property has raccoons and other critters who will be drawn to any food scraps that are left behind. Pets are allowed! Please keep them on leash during your stay. Trash can be disposed of in the bins onsite. Additional details to note Expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. No kitchen equipment is provided, so campers must bring their own supplies if they'd like to cook. We do not offer WiFi, but there is good cell reception for all common carriers.

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Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Etlan, VA

Welcome to our small Farm and Inn, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Madison County, Virginia. Located just minutes from Shenandoah National Park, we offer intimate nature-inspired cottages and camping on our 120-acre working farm. Enjoy an evening under the stars with fireflies and a campfire after a long day hike, fly fishing on one of our beautiful trout steams or touring the local vineyards and breweries. We currently offer one cottage and a few campsites for our guests. Our campsites are all private, located acres apart with tables, chairs, firepits, some elevated sleeping areas, some hammock spots and a few with a roof. Many of our spots require walking away from your vehicle, short distances. We have three drive-in sites that will accommodate one or two vehicles. We do not allow RVs or trailers due to our narrow mountain driveway. Camper vans are welcome! Our farm store includes Animal Welfare Approved products such as Eggs, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Lamb and Dairy from the farm as well as produce, jams and mushrooms and other items from our local community. We offer camping essentials, local art, bike rentals, farm experiences and tours. The property has miles of trails along mountain spring-fed streams, a small pond and access to three private acres on the Robinson River, a stocked Trout stream, just 2 miles down the road. Our property is centrally located to White Oak Canyon and Old Rag Mountain trailheads in the Shenandoah National Park as well as many vineyards and breweries. Please check in with us about current rentals and camp availability. We are in the process of restoring an 1850s Chestnut log cabin, which will be available for our guests to rent as well as other cottages.

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(5)

Pyrite Mine Historic District

1 site · RV, Tent13 acres · Dumfries, VA

Cabin Branch Pyrite Mine Historic District privately owned 13 Acres. Creeks. Hiking, Mountain Biking, Camp Fire, Tables, Chairs, Grills. Is part of the National Park. Near Marine Museum. Rose Gaming Emporium. Soon to be Metro to DC and NFL indoor Stadium and Also coming soon to Lorton Worlds Largest Indoor Ski Resort

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Narrow Gate Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Washington, VA

We are a working farm, scenic setting with a 200 year old farm house, quiet and peaceful, nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge mountains. Close to historic sites, such as Monticello, Montpelier, and the Manassas Civil War Battlefield. Luray Caverns and Sky Line Drive can be found 30 to 40 miles west. We are one hour southwest of D.C. and one hour northeast of Charlottesville. During your stay you can sample from one of the many wineries/breweries in the area. If your traveling with your horse, we have indoor stalls and turnout available. Or if your interested in getting up close and personal with one of our horses, some mounted time could be arranged.

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Charity’s Hope Family Farm Resort

16 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Port Tobacco Village, MD

Enjoy the perfect retreat for families, couples or anyone looking for rest and relaxation among a quiet, breath-taking location. This revived historic farmland is an icon in the area. Located just 30 miles outside of Washington DC, features a grand Victorian home on 20-acres w/ modern amenities. This small “farm resort” features pasture areas with alpacas, mini-cows, horses, goats, pigs, ducks, chicks, bunnies, barns, a private pond for fishing, and more. Come experience it yourself. We have an amazing list of free and paid amenities and attractions including go kart, golf cart, kayak, inflatable pontoon, golf simulator, fishing, hiking, farm tours, 20-foot inflatable outdoor movie screen and projector, Bluetooth speakers, pool toys, basketball hoop, kick ball, cabanas, giant checkers, small moonbounce, board games, and much much more. Ask our hosts for our onsite Amenities and Attraction List.

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A World Away Farm:Serenity + nature

14 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Elkwood, VA

The land was marched across by Civil War soldiers on ther way to Gettysburg. They were on their way from Brandy Station to cross the Rappahannock River at Kelly's Ford. Much later there were horses in the fields, a well and spring were hand dug, a pond created and slowly buildings were built and expanded, but no barns as it was not really farmed. This meant no chemicals have been used on the land for over 60 years and perhaps ever. The plan is to keep it organic, but do something with it. Ideas are welcome. Relic hunters have found confederate bullets, a belt buckle and an early 1900 Ford logo. Fresh eggs and seasonal vegetables maybe available. Indoor games, frisbees, and horseshoes as well as paper for fire starting in the bathhouse. Nearby Activities under 15 miles- April: Gnarley Hops and Barely Fest- craft beer festival May - October: Sundays Flying Circus stunt shows with Biplane rides offered August: Hot Air Balloon Fest September: Hop N Hop Block party- music and BBQ October: Culpeper Air Fest, free, 2 miles, stunts and precision flying, WWII planes, Harrier Jet and more. Day Trips: Washington DC by car, Amtrack or catch the VRE in Manassas, Oatfields Plantation; Skyline Drive; Monticello; Mt Vernon; Williamsburg; Frederick, MD, Harper's Ferry, WV Civil War Sites: Brandy Station and the Graffiti House, Wilderness, Chancellorsville, Cedar Mountain, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Ox Hill. Days trips to Harpers Ferry, Antietam or Frederick MD and the Civil War Medical Museum

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LEONI ISLAND WATERFRONT SITE +MORE

3 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Rock Point, MD

FARM ZEN is a family owned land that welcomes all with love and good energy. We hold space for you at our Leoni Island Private Water Front site and our secluded Forest Tree Star Site There are over 100 acres you can explore at your leisure. It will truly feel like you are walking through the forest. Our Tree Star Site is very easy to access with string lights on the trees to enhance your camping experience. The main road leads directly to the Leoni Island waterfront site where you set up your chairs, play music, and even catch a fish! Learn more about this land: TreeStar is located only an hour awayfrom DC! Tucked away just off the main trail, TreeStar is an amazing peaceful oasis in the woods. Surrounded by trees, Treestar provides multiple areas were a group of friends or the lone explorer can set up for the night. TreeStar is a great location for Tent Campers and Vehicle Campers. Set up your tent on an open plot or pull your truck or camper directly to the site. Once night settles in don’t forget to look up and gaze at the stars that appear just through the rising treetops. If it’s a cloudy night or you're looking for additional ambiance, you have the option to turn on the battery powered string lights that have been set up throughout the campsite. As an added touch, this time of year you’ll also find seasonal decorations hung through out the trees. This set up gives you the option to glow up the area as a finishing touch with the stars and campfires. Located on over 50 acres of forested unpopulated land campers have the opportunity to roam the campgrounds to the right of the main trail. While exploring you could hike down and visit the original barns to the property, catch a glimpse of the deer living on the property, and hit the main trail that leads down to... Leoni Island!!! our waterfront campsite which has become a Maryland favorite with its amazing view, moving waters. perfect sunsets, some things you just cant put into words. Enjoy and take lots of photos to share, you'll love it. Check out our Instagram for additional photos and videos of @farmzen_

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Burton Family Farm a place to relax

10 sites · RVs, Tents49 acres · Fredericksburg, VA

Learn more about this land: The Burton Family Farm is a beautiful spot to relax and get in touch with nature. This area is full of history and things to do, Civil War Battlefields, George Washington’s childhood home, Ferry Farm, Mary Washington House, Chatham, Kenmore, Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, Rising Sun Tavern, James Monroe Museum & Memorial Library, Rappahannock Railroad Museum, Chancellorsville Battlefield, Shannon Air Museum, United States National Slavery Museum, within minutes to Rocky Pen Run Reservoir, Motts Run, & not far from the Rappahannock River, local brewery’s, river activities, hiking, biking, visit Fred! Pitch your tent under the beautiful star filled sky! There is a pond, woods, relic hunting, wildlife and lots of fresh air! This is the perfect weekend getaway. We are very close to 95, right of Rt 17, 10 mins to historical Fredericksburg, FRED, 1 hour south of Washington DC, NOVA, 1 hour north of Richmond. RVA, Less than 5 minutes to shopping, gas and restaurants, but you would never know once you are on the farm. Come fall in love with our slice of heaven! We look forward to meeting you!

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Camping on the Hazel River

6 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Rixeyville, VA

Located on the scenic Hazel River, River Hills is 70 acres of private family property. The owners are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the land and the Hazel River. This land has been in the family for over 200 years. The owners live on the property. Nestled within the embrace of nature’s tranquility lies a secluded camping site on private property, where serenity reigns supreme. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, this hidden gem offers a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The gentle melody of the nearby river serves as a soothing soundtrack to the outdoor adventure that awaits. Campers can pitch their tents on soft, grassy patches beneath the sprawling canopy of stars, finding solace in the symphony of crickets and rustling leaves. As dawn breaks, the golden rays of sunlight filter through the foliage, illuminating the picturesque landscape and inviting explorers to embark on nature trails and riverside strolls, forging unforgettable memories amidst the untamed beauty of the wilderness. Those who visit River Hills are awed by the beauty and serenity. There are wide open fields and miles of well-maintained trails in the woods. In a time where open land is disappearing, we are determined to keep our land as natural as possible and to have it remain in the family. This is not an inexpensive task. All proceeds are used to maintain and improve River Hills.

The best camping near Prince William Forest National Park guide

Overview

About

If you can’t decide what to do first at Prince William Forest, don’t fret. At 15,000 acres, the park has a lot of options, from kicking up your feet in a cabin, to getting gritty on off-road bike trails. Or you could sign up for one of the many orienteering courses offered and point yourself in the right direction. And if you’re looking for a place that’s packed with history, Prince William’s got you covered. This park was nominated to the National Register of Historic Places, and preservation and conservation remain a priority. In fact, in the 1950s, five beavers were released here to revitalize a dwindling population. They were so excited to end up in such a beautiful forest that their population thrived. So, follow the beaver’s lead on this one and visit Prince William Forest! It’s a dam fine park. Oh, and don't forget to pack your binoculars for some of the finest birding in northern Virginia.

Notable campgrounds

Oak Ridge Campground: A favorite for its easy access to hiking trails and serene woodland setting.
Chopawamsic Backcountry Campground: Ideal for those seeking a rustic and remote camping experience.
Cabin Camps: Historic retreats offering a unique stay amid the park's rich history and natural beauty.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak seasons, as campgrounds fill up quickly due to the park's popularity.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on the park's website for cancellations to snag a last-minute reservation.
Explore nearby camping options if the park's campgrounds are fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Prince William Forest Park is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is stunning. Summer offers lush greenery but can be hot and crowded. Winters are quiet but can be cold, with some facilities closed or limited.

Know before you go

Check the latest safety guidelines and park alerts before your visit for a smooth experience.
Some areas may be closed due to weather or maintenance, so verify open sections in advance.
The park is accessible from 8:30am to 5pm, but check for any seasonal changes in operating hours.
Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a map, as amenities may be limited in certain areas.
For a hassle-free visit, familiarize yourself with the park's rules, especially if you're bringing pets.