The best river, stream, or creek glamping in Washington, DC

·

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.

98% (383)

Top-rated campgrounds

Earthwalk Ways Retreat

3. Earthwalk Ways Retreat

94%
(26)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fredericksburg, VA
We are a Nature Retreat bordering Nature Conservancy land along a tributary and up and down the Rappahannock River. You can hike along the stream down to the river and up and down the river. You can fish and float the river. There are no trails so a moderate level of fitness and comfort in the forest is needed. You can follow the water ways but it is wilderness. Camping there is primitive but available or you can camp or glamp at Earthwalk Ways Retreat. We are also adjacent to a 50 acre farm on the other side of the creek that is available for hiking. There is a reservoir nearby as well. We are in the midst of the suburbs not far from Fredericksburg, which has some great historic and community places of interest. Our facilities are private and we only rent to one or 2 guests at a time. You can glamp in a trailer, or car camp in a nice campground with power and water or you can go primitive and pack in. All spaces include access to our classical 11 circuit labyrinth and backyard gardens where you can enjoy zen rock garden and other contemplative nature crafts. There are some great extra's here as well including an outdoor jacuzzi and indoor infrared sauna and massage chair. These spa features are another great way to get your zen on here. I offer Forest Bathing and individual retreat support sessions, an quarterly sweat lodge and also vision quest support if people would like to experience a solo nature immersion feast.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Sylvanside Farm Hunt Box

4. Sylvanside Farm Hunt Box

1 site · Lodging · Purcellville, VA
Sylvanside Farm Hunt Box – Historic Charm in Virginia Wine Country Tucked away on our 25-acre historic Quaker farm in Purcellville, Virginia, the Sylvanside Farm Cottage offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by rolling pastures, woodlands, and the beauty of horse country. This cozy stone cottage blends rustic character with modern comfort, making it a perfect base for exploring Loudoun County’s wineries, breweries, and outdoor adventures. Inside the Cottage: • One comfortable bedroom with fresh linens provided. • A welcoming living area with vintage farmhouse details. • Small kitchenette for simple meals and morning coffee. • Private bath stocked with essentials. On the Farm: • Greet our gentle Clydesdales and other farm animals in the nearby paddocks. • Take a walk to the pond deck for birdwatching or an evening glass of wine. • Enjoy star-filled skies and the glow of fireflies after dark. • Woods and pastures surround the cottage, offering privacy and quiet. Nearby Attractions: • Over a dozen wineries, cideries, and breweries within 15 minutes. • Access to the Appalachian Trail, Shenandoah River, and Harpers Ferry (30 minutes). • Historic downtown Purcellville (5 minutes) for dining, groceries, and shops. Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend, a quiet solo getaway, or a countryside escape, the Sylvanside Farm Cottage offers a unique combination of history, comfort, and natural beauty in the heart of Virginia’s wine country.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$225
 / night
Circe The Airstream

6. Circe The Airstream

90%
(5)
1 site · Lodging · Colonial Beach, VA
Welcome to "Circe," our charming retro Airstream trailer inspired by the enchanting character from Homer's Odyssey. Nestled at Monroe Bay's end, this wanderlust haven offers a unique glamping experience that combines vintage allure with modern comforts. Located within walking distance to James Monroe's Birthplace on the banks of Monroe Bay. The property features a Winery (limited hours) with acres of river and land to explore. The Trailer: Vintage Charm: Step back in time with our beautifully restored 1970s Airstream, meticulously designed to capture the essence of a bygone era. Comfortable Accommodation: Circe offers a cozy and well-appointed interior with a comfortable bed, seating area, and a compact kitchenette. Guests can check in on their own with an access key. You can park in front of the end of the airstream in our parking area. Colonial Beach is 1 mile away to walk or take your car and explore. There is a kayak on the property you can launch and take down the Monroe Bay or bring your own SUP or boat.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$81
 / night
The Agape

8. The Agape

100%
(19)
6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Queenstown, MD
The Agape is located on 20 acres and over 2000' of shoreline in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, with breath taking sunsets every evening. Pull up your RV [or rent ours], pitch a tent, kick up your feet and relax by the water. Soak in the sounds of nature and the sight of wild birds, from the Osprey, Bald Eagle and even the Great Blue Heron. We are a pack it in, pack it out leave-no-trace camping site. There are no hookups, but during your stay, feel free to patronize the entire property. The views of the Wye River from the dock are absolutely beautiful and peaceful! There is also plenty of water for fishing, crabbing and even a small, man-made beach! OUTDOOR POOL AND RAFT USE - The outdoor pool is closed indefinitely. There is a 4-person raft and a 2-person inflatable kayak available, for an additional fee per day. Both require PRIOR APPROVAL and a WAIVER to utilize.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$110
 / night
Eddie Mae's Tiny Cabin

9. Eddie Mae's Tiny Cabin

100%
(4)
1 site · Lodging · Harpers Ferry, WV
Welcome to Eddie Mae's Tiny Cabin. Just 90 minutes from Washington DC and Baltimore. Nestled in a residential neighborhood on 1 1/2 acres with winter views of the Shenandoah River. Just 7.5 miles from Historic Harpers Ferry, 9 miles from Charles Town Races/Slots, close to Harpers Ferry Adventure Center, River Riders, multiple hiking areas and many wineries and breweries. You will still get the privacy you long for on our wooded spot with a large area cleared out in the middle . Are you looking for a unique stay while still enjoying the modern comforts of home? Then this is for you! Eddie Mae's is just 288 SF. It has a 250 gal. water holding tank, 5 gal. hot water heater and dry flush toilet. The couch turns into a queen bed, the loft has two twin beds. The property has access to the river walking distance where you can relax, float on tubes (provided) or bring your own kayak. There is also a firepit with Adirondack chairs, a gas grill, lounge chairs and indoor and outdoor games for your enjoyment. 1 pet is allowed for an additional fee. Please message me for details. We're thrilled to host you at our tiny cabin! We just wanted to give you a heads up that while our cabin is cozy and charming, it's definitely not what you might consider 'luxury'. It's more of a unique glamping and rustic experience, with modified modern accommodations perfect for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature while still enjoying modern amenities. We hope you'll embrace the simplicity and charm of our space and enjoy all that it has to offer. Let us know if you have any questions or if there's anything specific you'd like to know before your stay. Can't wait to welcome you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$175
 / night
Barbara's Serenity

10. Barbara's Serenity

100%
(9)
4 sites · Lodging · Bensville, MD
Escape the chaos of everyday life and experience true relaxation at our hidden gem glamping site! The Indian Rail Trail, Charles County's most exciting recreational trail, is just a 7-minute drive from your tent. This paved, 13-mile-long, ten-foot-wide path is an excellent excursion for bikers of all ages, connecting the small town of Indian Head on the Potomac River to White Plains. The fairly level trail takes riders through mature forests, natural wetlands, and some farmland. During your stay, you can also take a 10-minute walk through the forest on our property to visit a serene creek. Your Signature campsite accommodates up to 6-10 campers. The basic booking includes space for 4 campers, with 2 sleeping on the Queen Bed in the platform safari tent and 2 sleeping in bags on the floor. The site also features a picnic table, fire pit, and Adirondack chairs where you can relax and stargaze at night. Atlantic Kayak Company is a 20-minute drive from the site, offering kayak rentals and guided expeditions. For families, Sky Zone Trampoline Park is a fun activity less than a 10-minute drive from the campsite. A Walmart is conveniently located about 10 minutes away for any supplies you may need, and local produce can be obtained on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the La Plata Farmer's Market (12 min drive) between April and November. The Road To Serenity: Our road is a quaint old country farm road made of grass and a few gravel patches here and there. It is a bit of a bumpy ride, so take it slow and easy as you make your way to our hidden getaway. There is one sharp left turn over a culvert and some dips and mild inclines, so low-sitting vehicles should definitely take it slow. The road narrows as you get closer to the site, but there are reflectors along the way to keep you on the right path. We highly recommend arriving before dark. Parking: Parking is on the grass meadow between the entrance to the meadow and the walking path to the campsite. Reflectors are in place to outline the parking area. Avoid driving beyond the parking area and down steep inclines in the meadow, as softer ground presents a risk for getting stuck. A gorilla wagon is available in the parking area to help transport your belongings to the campsite. Toilet and Shower Set-up: There is a privacy tent that contains a toilet seat over a bucket. Place a bag with absorbent materials in the bucket for your biological needs. A portable automatic shower providing hot water is also available. Pets: For the safety of your pets, ensure that they are treated for ticks prior to camping. Be sure to check for ticks before bringing pets into the tent. Noises and Sounds: This property is located in a rural community, and campers may occasionally experience common city noises such as airplanes flying overhead, distant traffic, or distant firearm shots. It is a great site for city dwellers who enjoy tranquility but not complete silence.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$80
 / night
Little House by The Water

11. Little House by The Water

1 site · Lodging · Bushwood, MD
Serenity - Privacy - Beauty - This little house by the water has it all. New Sealy queen-size mattress, well-equipped kitchen, Cuisinart coffee maker, full oven, glass-topped stove, new refrigerator, and fully screened porch with water view. Perfect for 1 or 2 adults looking to get off the grid and recharge. In St. Mary's County, MD, just 90 minutes south of Washington DC. However, the space is small and it is really a studio apartment as I think the pictures make evident. Guest access Your own kitchen, your own screened porch, our dock, bird watching (eagles, hawks, osprey, martins, bluebirds), deer, rabbits, occasional foxes, wild turkeys, and if you are fortunate, peacocks. St. Mary's City is 40 minutes away and there are numerous restaurants accessible within 20 minutes even though we are out in the hinterland, there are 2 local bars where live bands play on a regular basis within a 10-15 minute drive. Other things to note This is a warm and cozy space, just perfect for relaxing. There is a bookcase full of books on a variety of subjects, from escape reading to serious philosophical essays, and the water is on view 24/7. There is also a VHS player and more than 40 movies available. There is no cable or WiFi access but most phones work here. Reception for T-Mobile is not so good
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$92
 / night

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.

98% (383)

Top-rated campgrounds

Earthwalk Ways Retreat

3. Earthwalk Ways Retreat

94%
(26)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fredericksburg, VA
We are a Nature Retreat bordering Nature Conservancy land along a tributary and up and down the Rappahannock River. You can hike along the stream down to the river and up and down the river. You can fish and float the river. There are no trails so a moderate level of fitness and comfort in the forest is needed. You can follow the water ways but it is wilderness. Camping there is primitive but available or you can camp or glamp at Earthwalk Ways Retreat. We are also adjacent to a 50 acre farm on the other side of the creek that is available for hiking. There is a reservoir nearby as well. We are in the midst of the suburbs not far from Fredericksburg, which has some great historic and community places of interest. Our facilities are private and we only rent to one or 2 guests at a time. You can glamp in a trailer, or car camp in a nice campground with power and water or you can go primitive and pack in. All spaces include access to our classical 11 circuit labyrinth and backyard gardens where you can enjoy zen rock garden and other contemplative nature crafts. There are some great extra's here as well including an outdoor jacuzzi and indoor infrared sauna and massage chair. These spa features are another great way to get your zen on here. I offer Forest Bathing and individual retreat support sessions, an quarterly sweat lodge and also vision quest support if people would like to experience a solo nature immersion feast.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Sylvanside Farm Hunt Box

4. Sylvanside Farm Hunt Box

1 site · Lodging · Purcellville, VA
Sylvanside Farm Hunt Box – Historic Charm in Virginia Wine Country Tucked away on our 25-acre historic Quaker farm in Purcellville, Virginia, the Sylvanside Farm Cottage offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by rolling pastures, woodlands, and the beauty of horse country. This cozy stone cottage blends rustic character with modern comfort, making it a perfect base for exploring Loudoun County’s wineries, breweries, and outdoor adventures. Inside the Cottage: • One comfortable bedroom with fresh linens provided. • A welcoming living area with vintage farmhouse details. • Small kitchenette for simple meals and morning coffee. • Private bath stocked with essentials. On the Farm: • Greet our gentle Clydesdales and other farm animals in the nearby paddocks. • Take a walk to the pond deck for birdwatching or an evening glass of wine. • Enjoy star-filled skies and the glow of fireflies after dark. • Woods and pastures surround the cottage, offering privacy and quiet. Nearby Attractions: • Over a dozen wineries, cideries, and breweries within 15 minutes. • Access to the Appalachian Trail, Shenandoah River, and Harpers Ferry (30 minutes). • Historic downtown Purcellville (5 minutes) for dining, groceries, and shops. Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend, a quiet solo getaway, or a countryside escape, the Sylvanside Farm Cottage offers a unique combination of history, comfort, and natural beauty in the heart of Virginia’s wine country.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$225
 / night
Circe The Airstream

6. Circe The Airstream

90%
(5)
1 site · Lodging · Colonial Beach, VA
Welcome to "Circe," our charming retro Airstream trailer inspired by the enchanting character from Homer's Odyssey. Nestled at Monroe Bay's end, this wanderlust haven offers a unique glamping experience that combines vintage allure with modern comforts. Located within walking distance to James Monroe's Birthplace on the banks of Monroe Bay. The property features a Winery (limited hours) with acres of river and land to explore. The Trailer: Vintage Charm: Step back in time with our beautifully restored 1970s Airstream, meticulously designed to capture the essence of a bygone era. Comfortable Accommodation: Circe offers a cozy and well-appointed interior with a comfortable bed, seating area, and a compact kitchenette. Guests can check in on their own with an access key. You can park in front of the end of the airstream in our parking area. Colonial Beach is 1 mile away to walk or take your car and explore. There is a kayak on the property you can launch and take down the Monroe Bay or bring your own SUP or boat.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$81
 / night
The Agape

8. The Agape

100%
(19)
6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Queenstown, MD
The Agape is located on 20 acres and over 2000' of shoreline in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, with breath taking sunsets every evening. Pull up your RV [or rent ours], pitch a tent, kick up your feet and relax by the water. Soak in the sounds of nature and the sight of wild birds, from the Osprey, Bald Eagle and even the Great Blue Heron. We are a pack it in, pack it out leave-no-trace camping site. There are no hookups, but during your stay, feel free to patronize the entire property. The views of the Wye River from the dock are absolutely beautiful and peaceful! There is also plenty of water for fishing, crabbing and even a small, man-made beach! OUTDOOR POOL AND RAFT USE - The outdoor pool is closed indefinitely. There is a 4-person raft and a 2-person inflatable kayak available, for an additional fee per day. Both require PRIOR APPROVAL and a WAIVER to utilize.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$110
 / night
Eddie Mae's Tiny Cabin

9. Eddie Mae's Tiny Cabin

100%
(4)
1 site · Lodging · Harpers Ferry, WV
Welcome to Eddie Mae's Tiny Cabin. Just 90 minutes from Washington DC and Baltimore. Nestled in a residential neighborhood on 1 1/2 acres with winter views of the Shenandoah River. Just 7.5 miles from Historic Harpers Ferry, 9 miles from Charles Town Races/Slots, close to Harpers Ferry Adventure Center, River Riders, multiple hiking areas and many wineries and breweries. You will still get the privacy you long for on our wooded spot with a large area cleared out in the middle . Are you looking for a unique stay while still enjoying the modern comforts of home? Then this is for you! Eddie Mae's is just 288 SF. It has a 250 gal. water holding tank, 5 gal. hot water heater and dry flush toilet. The couch turns into a queen bed, the loft has two twin beds. The property has access to the river walking distance where you can relax, float on tubes (provided) or bring your own kayak. There is also a firepit with Adirondack chairs, a gas grill, lounge chairs and indoor and outdoor games for your enjoyment. 1 pet is allowed for an additional fee. Please message me for details. We're thrilled to host you at our tiny cabin! We just wanted to give you a heads up that while our cabin is cozy and charming, it's definitely not what you might consider 'luxury'. It's more of a unique glamping and rustic experience, with modified modern accommodations perfect for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature while still enjoying modern amenities. We hope you'll embrace the simplicity and charm of our space and enjoy all that it has to offer. Let us know if you have any questions or if there's anything specific you'd like to know before your stay. Can't wait to welcome you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$175
 / night
Barbara's Serenity

10. Barbara's Serenity

100%
(9)
4 sites · Lodging · Bensville, MD
Escape the chaos of everyday life and experience true relaxation at our hidden gem glamping site! The Indian Rail Trail, Charles County's most exciting recreational trail, is just a 7-minute drive from your tent. This paved, 13-mile-long, ten-foot-wide path is an excellent excursion for bikers of all ages, connecting the small town of Indian Head on the Potomac River to White Plains. The fairly level trail takes riders through mature forests, natural wetlands, and some farmland. During your stay, you can also take a 10-minute walk through the forest on our property to visit a serene creek. Your Signature campsite accommodates up to 6-10 campers. The basic booking includes space for 4 campers, with 2 sleeping on the Queen Bed in the platform safari tent and 2 sleeping in bags on the floor. The site also features a picnic table, fire pit, and Adirondack chairs where you can relax and stargaze at night. Atlantic Kayak Company is a 20-minute drive from the site, offering kayak rentals and guided expeditions. For families, Sky Zone Trampoline Park is a fun activity less than a 10-minute drive from the campsite. A Walmart is conveniently located about 10 minutes away for any supplies you may need, and local produce can be obtained on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the La Plata Farmer's Market (12 min drive) between April and November. The Road To Serenity: Our road is a quaint old country farm road made of grass and a few gravel patches here and there. It is a bit of a bumpy ride, so take it slow and easy as you make your way to our hidden getaway. There is one sharp left turn over a culvert and some dips and mild inclines, so low-sitting vehicles should definitely take it slow. The road narrows as you get closer to the site, but there are reflectors along the way to keep you on the right path. We highly recommend arriving before dark. Parking: Parking is on the grass meadow between the entrance to the meadow and the walking path to the campsite. Reflectors are in place to outline the parking area. Avoid driving beyond the parking area and down steep inclines in the meadow, as softer ground presents a risk for getting stuck. A gorilla wagon is available in the parking area to help transport your belongings to the campsite. Toilet and Shower Set-up: There is a privacy tent that contains a toilet seat over a bucket. Place a bag with absorbent materials in the bucket for your biological needs. A portable automatic shower providing hot water is also available. Pets: For the safety of your pets, ensure that they are treated for ticks prior to camping. Be sure to check for ticks before bringing pets into the tent. Noises and Sounds: This property is located in a rural community, and campers may occasionally experience common city noises such as airplanes flying overhead, distant traffic, or distant firearm shots. It is a great site for city dwellers who enjoy tranquility but not complete silence.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$80
 / night
Little House by The Water

11. Little House by The Water

1 site · Lodging · Bushwood, MD
Serenity - Privacy - Beauty - This little house by the water has it all. New Sealy queen-size mattress, well-equipped kitchen, Cuisinart coffee maker, full oven, glass-topped stove, new refrigerator, and fully screened porch with water view. Perfect for 1 or 2 adults looking to get off the grid and recharge. In St. Mary's County, MD, just 90 minutes south of Washington DC. However, the space is small and it is really a studio apartment as I think the pictures make evident. Guest access Your own kitchen, your own screened porch, our dock, bird watching (eagles, hawks, osprey, martins, bluebirds), deer, rabbits, occasional foxes, wild turkeys, and if you are fortunate, peacocks. St. Mary's City is 40 minutes away and there are numerous restaurants accessible within 20 minutes even though we are out in the hinterland, there are 2 local bars where live bands play on a regular basis within a 10-15 minute drive. Other things to note This is a warm and cozy space, just perfect for relaxing. There is a bookcase full of books on a variety of subjects, from escape reading to serious philosophical essays, and the water is on view 24/7. There is also a VHS player and more than 40 movies available. There is no cable or WiFi access but most phones work here. Reception for T-Mobile is not so good
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$92
 / night

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The best river, stream, or creek glamping in Washington, DC guide

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.

Popular Washington, DC glamping styles