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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Oak Ridge Campground

57 sites · RVs, Tents 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

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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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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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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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.

80%

(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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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 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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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 2021.There are three campsites on the farm, one by the pond and two by the river. Very secluded and all sites include a bundle of firewood, firepit, log bench, and a picnic table that seats 3-4 people.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 AreaHiking: Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Patuxent River Park, Cedarville State Forest, Rosaryville State Park, Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, Maxwell Hall ParkPlaces to Eat: Hardesty Haven Cafe, Moreland's Produce & Market, (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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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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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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Peace of Earth Farmstead

5 sites · Tents10 acres · Woodford, VA

Our farm is host to wild critters as well as our farm animals. There will always be someone to pet, feed or observe during your stay! Remnants of an old stone mill and 1920's vehicle are a 15-20 minute walk away from camp, right on a creek with a rock scramble and swimming hole! After a good rain, it's common to find old glass bottles, and more artifacts from days gone by. We started on this land in 2019 and have been steadily working to create a cooperative farmstead and nature school to share with our community as well as travelers and explorers. Our space is super kid friendly! Enjoy the animals, treehouse and trails :)

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.