The best camping in Washington, DC with horseback riding

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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.

93% (79)

Top-rated campgrounds

Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

1. Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

98%
(124)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery

6. Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Hillsboro, VA
Welcome to Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery, one of the highest rated farm winery and brewery combinations in Northern VA! Founded as Notaviva Vineyards in 2008, and expanded to include Notaviva Brewing in 2019, we are the world's most original brewery & winery brand. Each of our beverages is paired with a musical genre or lyrical inspiration. Our goal in the founding of our business is to capture the feelings that music can create and put it in our beers, wines, ciders and hard seltzers. Learn more about the origins of the word Notaviva here. We are located on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge mountains near the Appalachian Trail in beautiful western Loudoun County, Virginia, just a short drive from our county seat Leesburg. We are also the nearest winery and brewery to Harpers Ferry, WV as well as the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. Whether you’re looking for beer at a winery, or wine at a brewery, or cider and hard seltzer, we have everything you’re looking for, in addition to the most hospitable staff on the Loudoun Heights Tourism Trail. Just an hour west of Washington DC, and open year-round with seasonal hours, our wide selection of small batch hand crafted beverages is sure to impress.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$44
 / night
Standard fall sunset view. Wildlife, especially bird species abound on this piece of Wild and Wonderful Shenandoah River.

7. Private River - RV or tent

86%
(22)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Shannondale, WV
Learn more about this land: Enjoy in your RV (no power) and/or tent camping with private river access on the Shenandoah River in Harpers Ferry, WV. Numerous amenities combined with peaceful sunrise and sunset views make this site a rare gem. Expect to see all sorts of birds along the river and other wildlife on the property. Conveniently located 6.5 miles from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and 5 miles south of Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. The private bathhouse (Taj Mah Potty) has a clawfoot tub, shower, toilet, sink, small refrigerator and is air conditioned for your convenience. Two sit on top kayaks, life jackets, and paddles are included for use at our private put in. Our site is priced in comparison to an RV site at the KOA in Harpers Ferry. The difference is this is a private site, with 100' of private river frontage, and you are not on top of your neighbor. If you are tent camping feel free to book, but realize this spot is priced according to rv rates.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night
Robins Nest

12. Robins Nest

100%
(1)
2 sites · Lodging · Paeonian Springs, VA
The spaceCottage is built from years of reclaimed lumber and timber raised and cut on our property nearby. We designed the cottage to be a private location, the back deck is surrounding by trees. Learn more about this land:Brand new cottage crafted from all reclaimed materials. Open floor plan with high ceilings are sure to impress. The luxury of this cottage cannot fully be felt until your perfect stay.The spaceCottage is built from years of reclaimed lumber and timber raised and cut on our property nearby. We designed the cottage to be a private location, the back deck is surrounding by trees. Your only complaint will be having to go home the next day. Cleaning precautions for everyone are taken to extreme lengths. All linens, pillows, etc. are completely removed and cleaned. All surfaces receive commercial disinfectant and upon the request of the guest we can cordinate fogging services. We apologize in advance that some normal things are removed completely like printed house manuals. We ask that you remove all trash and a few other things upon departing to help us stay safe as well.The internet cannot be guaranteed if there is a problem with the provider. In a wooded area bugs are normal. Loud noise or Guest not on the reservation will result in immediate termination and removal. We have a zero tolerance policy. Our relationship and safety of our neighbors and neighborhood is of upmost importance to us.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$249
 / night
Prince William Forest RV Campground

16. Prince William Forest RV Campground

31 sites · Dumfries, VA
Discover the charm of Prince William Forest RV Campground, a unique private concession nestled within the stunning landscapes of Prince William Forest Park, part of the National Park System. Our campground offers a serene escape with paved pull-through sites that accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet in length, complete with designated parking for one car beside each site. For your convenience, we also provide limited extra car parking options. Our facilities are designed to enhance your stay, featuring heated restrooms with complimentary showers, a small playground for the little ones, laundry services, and a refreshing swimming pool to enjoy during warmer days. Conveniently located, we are just 21 miles from notable attractions such as Mt. Vernon, Manassas Battlefield, and Fredericksburg. Additionally, the iconic White House is approximately 28 miles away, while Quantico Marine Base is a mere 4 miles from our campground. For shopping and dining, Potomac Mills Mall is only 5 miles away, making it easy to explore the best of the area. Experience the perfect blend of nature and comfort at Prince William Forest RV Campground!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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.

93% (79)

Top-rated campgrounds

Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

1. Views of woods, pond, and sunrise

98%
(124)
2 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery

6. Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Hillsboro, VA
Welcome to Notaviva Farm Brewery & Winery, one of the highest rated farm winery and brewery combinations in Northern VA! Founded as Notaviva Vineyards in 2008, and expanded to include Notaviva Brewing in 2019, we are the world's most original brewery & winery brand. Each of our beverages is paired with a musical genre or lyrical inspiration. Our goal in the founding of our business is to capture the feelings that music can create and put it in our beers, wines, ciders and hard seltzers. Learn more about the origins of the word Notaviva here. We are located on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge mountains near the Appalachian Trail in beautiful western Loudoun County, Virginia, just a short drive from our county seat Leesburg. We are also the nearest winery and brewery to Harpers Ferry, WV as well as the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. Whether you’re looking for beer at a winery, or wine at a brewery, or cider and hard seltzer, we have everything you’re looking for, in addition to the most hospitable staff on the Loudoun Heights Tourism Trail. Just an hour west of Washington DC, and open year-round with seasonal hours, our wide selection of small batch hand crafted beverages is sure to impress.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$44
 / night
Standard fall sunset view. Wildlife, especially bird species abound on this piece of Wild and Wonderful Shenandoah River.

7. Private River - RV or tent

86%
(22)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Shannondale, WV
Learn more about this land: Enjoy in your RV (no power) and/or tent camping with private river access on the Shenandoah River in Harpers Ferry, WV. Numerous amenities combined with peaceful sunrise and sunset views make this site a rare gem. Expect to see all sorts of birds along the river and other wildlife on the property. Conveniently located 6.5 miles from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and 5 miles south of Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. The private bathhouse (Taj Mah Potty) has a clawfoot tub, shower, toilet, sink, small refrigerator and is air conditioned for your convenience. Two sit on top kayaks, life jackets, and paddles are included for use at our private put in. Our site is priced in comparison to an RV site at the KOA in Harpers Ferry. The difference is this is a private site, with 100' of private river frontage, and you are not on top of your neighbor. If you are tent camping feel free to book, but realize this spot is priced according to rv rates.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night
Robins Nest

12. Robins Nest

100%
(1)
2 sites · Lodging · Paeonian Springs, VA
The spaceCottage is built from years of reclaimed lumber and timber raised and cut on our property nearby. We designed the cottage to be a private location, the back deck is surrounding by trees. Learn more about this land:Brand new cottage crafted from all reclaimed materials. Open floor plan with high ceilings are sure to impress. The luxury of this cottage cannot fully be felt until your perfect stay.The spaceCottage is built from years of reclaimed lumber and timber raised and cut on our property nearby. We designed the cottage to be a private location, the back deck is surrounding by trees. Your only complaint will be having to go home the next day. Cleaning precautions for everyone are taken to extreme lengths. All linens, pillows, etc. are completely removed and cleaned. All surfaces receive commercial disinfectant and upon the request of the guest we can cordinate fogging services. We apologize in advance that some normal things are removed completely like printed house manuals. We ask that you remove all trash and a few other things upon departing to help us stay safe as well.The internet cannot be guaranteed if there is a problem with the provider. In a wooded area bugs are normal. Loud noise or Guest not on the reservation will result in immediate termination and removal. We have a zero tolerance policy. Our relationship and safety of our neighbors and neighborhood is of upmost importance to us.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$249
 / night
Prince William Forest RV Campground

16. Prince William Forest RV Campground

31 sites · Dumfries, VA
Discover the charm of Prince William Forest RV Campground, a unique private concession nestled within the stunning landscapes of Prince William Forest Park, part of the National Park System. Our campground offers a serene escape with paved pull-through sites that accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet in length, complete with designated parking for one car beside each site. For your convenience, we also provide limited extra car parking options. Our facilities are designed to enhance your stay, featuring heated restrooms with complimentary showers, a small playground for the little ones, laundry services, and a refreshing swimming pool to enjoy during warmer days. Conveniently located, we are just 21 miles from notable attractions such as Mt. Vernon, Manassas Battlefield, and Fredericksburg. Additionally, the iconic White House is approximately 28 miles away, while Quantico Marine Base is a mere 4 miles from our campground. For shopping and dining, Potomac Mills Mall is only 5 miles away, making it easy to explore the best of the area. Experience the perfect blend of nature and comfort at Prince William Forest RV Campground!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Washington, DC with horseback riding 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.