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 Forest National Park adventure.

89% (14 reviews)

Discover the serene beauty of Prince William Forest Park.

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Stay at a public campground in Prince William Forest National Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Prince William Forest National Park

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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. so please be respectful of hours when you come in for a shower. No showers after 10 pm 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 dumpster up the hill 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. Three of our spots require walking away from your vehicle, short distances. We have four drive-in sites that will accommodate two or three vehicles. We do not allow RVs or trailers on our main farm due to our narrow mountain driveway. Wisteria Camp has a private driveway therefore can accommodate small RV/Trailers. Camper vans are welcome at the main farm! Our farm store includes our Animal Welfare Approved products such as Eggs, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Lamb and Dairy, as well as produce, jams, coffee 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 (20 minutes) and Old Rag Mountain (10 minutes) trailheads in the Shenandoah National Park as well as many vineyards and breweries. A few offerings on the farm. Tasting in the 1850s Chestnut log cabin, tubing trips, breakfast and picnic lunches, Animal experiences and Yoga. Please inquire about renting the property for private small events.

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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.

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Cross Creek Farm

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

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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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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1850's Greenock Farm, plus 4WD site

4 sites · RVs, Tents45 acres · Lothian, MD

Learn more about this land: 45 acre Historic farm, several sites to choose from depending on adventure wanderlust (including a 4WD drive site). Please read full description of the property. Located on private gravel lane, approximately 1/2 mile off county road. Either corn or soybeans with a woods backdrop. Secluded and private, yet 25 minutes to downtown Annapolis, 10 minutes to the Bay, great for cycling, paddleboarding, kayaking all 10/15 minutes from farm. Lots of great waterfront restaurants close by as well. DC 45 minutes, Baltimore 1 hour. Check out individual sites for description, each has its own personality. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. First listing actually has several options. For large campers/coach/fifth wheelers the area by the tractor shed will be the best. Around the corner there's two other choices both with firepits which will accommodate units up to 40 feet depending on your backing/maneuvering skills. Field of Dreams and Sycamore Ridge will accommodate campers under 25 feet with some backing/maneuvering skills. For those with 4WD and an off-road camper/trailer/tent choose Off the Grid, two entrances for easy access, travel along a logging road to an open site with fire pit. Suitable during dry conditions and not responsible for damage to vehicle or camper. Great spot for those who truly want to be in the woods off the beaten path, site takes about 5 minutes to reach due to low speed access. All sites as mentioned have no toilet/outhouse...for #2 please pack out or dig a hole, no presents needed for me or fellow campers.

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Bald Eagle Farm on the Patuxent

3 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Brandywine, MD

Bald Eagle Farm has been in our family for three generations. Today two generations still live and operate the family farm. We once raised tobacco and cattle and have now converted to growing hay and grain. My family wants to share the views and the experience of sleeping under the stars on our beautiful secluded farm. You will hear nothing but the wind, birds, frogs and insects while you doze off or enjoy the dark sky and camp fire. We live on the farm so we are always here to help you out if needed. We can provide you with the firewood you need and water from our deep well. We are here to make your stay as comfortable as possible and provide a restroom in the case of an "emergency". Recently named a finalist for 'Best Hipcamp in Maryland'! Thank you SO much for your support and we look forward to hosting you in 2022. There are three campsites on the farm, one by the pond and two by the river. Very secluded and all sites include , firepit, log bench, and a picnic table that seats 3-4 people. PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN FIREWOOD. AT THIS TIME WE ARE OUT FOR THE SEASON. The original river campsite has been moved to a more remote spot so that all campers can access the pond and pier to the river. Farm encompasses nearly 300 acres on the Patuxent River. There is access to the river on high tide via our private creek (must bring your own canoe or kayak) and 150 acres of marshland. Over 100 acres of woods to walk through and a pond for wildlife watching. Local Spots to Visit: Canoe/Kayak/Fishing: Clyde Watson Boating Area, Patuxent River Park, Patuxent Wetlands Park, Cedar Haven Fishing Area Hiking: Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Patuxent River Park, Cedarville State Forest, Rosaryville State Park, Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, Maxwell Hall Park Places to Eat: Hardesty Haven Cafe, Moreland's Produce & Market, Cedarville Grocery. (Highly recommend packing well, we are approx. 20 minutes from a grocery store) Places to Drink: Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Romano Vineyard & Winery, Janemark Winery & Vineyard

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Camping at Wilderness Run

2 sites · RVs, Tents175 acres · Locust Grove, VA

Learn more about this land:Rustic campsite near cool running creek. Located on the same farm as Wilderness Run Vineyards and 1781 Brewing Co. RV/ Truck Camping in field within walking distance to live music in the evenings.

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Button Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Germantown, MD

The Button Farm Living History Center is a hands-on education facility dedicated to preserving the history of the Underground Railroad. It is operated by the Menare Foundation through a long term lease agreement with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Several of us who work for the non-profit live in the Button Farm house and share the land with our pigs, geese, chickens and lots of wildlife. We're a close drive to Germantown and all the basic amenities of modern life, but when you come down our drive, you enter a world of natural beauty and rural quiet. When booking, keep in mind that all persons--regardless of age or whether or not they intend to spend the night--must be paid for. Our restroom includes hand sanitizer.

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Labyrinth, Trails and Solitude

11 sites · RVs, Tents116 acres · Orange , VA

116 acres of hills and dells. Miles of hiking trails marked and well maintained. A small pond and beautiful labyrinth. Over 50 acres of deep wilderness woods. General Lee and his troops once camped here. But they cleaned up pretty good, so all you can really see is the old spring and wagon road. This is a working herb and small fruit farm. We have been experimenting with all kinds of exotic herbs and trees. Some make it, many don't. We sell dried herb teas. In addition we have 5 different kinds of bamboo. We use the bamboo for so many things. In the 5 people per site we are considering adults, not children... bring a whole crew of kids (try to have enough supervision - if there is such a concept!) The kids have such a great time out here... it is amazing. They love the labyrinth! It seems like we made this place for the kids in ourselves and when actual kids see it they go wild. The last bunch were running and yelping with their picked flowers all round and round in the labyrinth for hours! Also, if you want peace and quiet - and we have children booked - we will put you out at one beautiful remote campsites away from all the kids running and singing.

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Camping on the Hazel River

7 sites · Lodging, 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.

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Casa Vargas

6 sites · RVs, Tents104 acres · Culpeper, VA

Bring your tent, travel trailer or RV to our farm, Located 5 miles from the town of Culpeper VA, 22 miles from skyline drive, some of the best wineries, breweries, and many more tourist attractions. Here you can spend some quality time with family and friends, go for a hike, bike ride, horse back riding, stargaze or just do nothing. We are 1 mile down a dirt road on 104 acres, our sites are very private and secluded.

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.