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20 Best Places to Camp Within 2 Hours of Washington, DC

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Washington DC

The nation’s capital provides visitors and residents alike with plenty of activities to partake in while out and about. Being home to many sites to see, DC draws a large crowd of visitors every year. The states surrounding DC provide many places to camp and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re going to the city or you call it home, here are some places to camp for all kinds of campers!

Washington DC

Washington DC is full of beautiful trees to provide shade on walks.

1. Hollofield Campground

Guests of Hollofield Campground have beautiful scenery to look forward to when they park their RVs here. Right near the headquarters to The Patapsco Valley State Park, campers can find out a lot of information about where they are staying as well as what activities are available to them. While there is not anywhere to set up tents, campers can still feel reconnected with nature while fishing or swimming in the nearby river. After spending some time in the river, guests can warm up at the fire rings provided at most campsites. Located right in the middle of suburban Baltimore, Hollofield Campground is perfect for any kind of camper! 

Pros:

  • Electrical hookups
  • Fire rings
  • Picnic tables
  • Fishing
  • Pet-friendly
  • Swimmings
  • Pavilions
  • Restrooms 

Cons:

  • No tent campsites
  • No wifi

2. Cherry Hill Park

This campsite prides itself on being the closest campground to Washington, DC, and on being family-owned and operated for 100 years. Campers have the opportunity to choose from RV sites, tent sites, log cabins, glamping pods, yurts, and cottages! All campers have access to free wifi, as well as laundry and bathhouses. There are many activities for guests to participate in to keep occupied, such as swimming, fishing, and playing mini-golf. The only downside to this campground is that it can get very crowded.

Pros:

  • Full hookups
  • Free wifi
  • Multiple ways to camp
  • Pools and spas
  • Mini-golf course
  • Fishing
  • Camp market
  • Walking trails
  • Laundry
  • Bathhouses

Cons:

  • Can get crowded

3. Adventure Bound Camping Resorts- Washington DC

This campsite offers several ways to camp, as well as many things to do. Whether you want to sleep in a tent, an RV, or a cabin, campers are able to swim in the pool or hike the nature trail. Don’t want to leave your dog at home? Bring it! There is a fenced-in dog park for your best friend to play in. While it is about 40 minutes away from DC, this campground provides its guests with a great experience!

Pros:

  • Swimming pool
  • Full hookups
  • Tent camping
  • Cabins
  • Hiking and biking trail
  • Camp store
  • Pool
  • Dog park

Cons:

  • No wifi

4. Marsden Tract Group Campground

Located right next to the Potomac River in Maryland, this campground has a lot of things for those who love being outside. Between fishing, rock climbing, hiking, and biking, adventure junkies won’t get bored! While there are no flush toilets, the activities available make up for it! Hikers and rock climbers will love this campground!

Pros:

  • Fishing
  • Rock climbing
  • Hiking
  • Tent camping
  • Picnic tables
  • Fire rings

Cons:

  • No flush toilets
  • No wifi
  • No RV hookups

5. Horsepen Branch Hiker Biker Campsite

This campsite is perfect for those who want to do a one-day getaway for hiking and biking along the beautiful trails Maryland, DC, and Cumberland offer. After waking up in your tent, get ready to enjoy the beautiful nature earth provides us with. Whether you want to bike along the trails or hike them, both are easily enjoyable when surrounded by tall trees and green grass.

Pros:

  • Tent camping
  • Biking and hiking trails
  • Picnic tables
  • Grills

Cons: 

  • No flush toilets
  • Only one night per stay
  • No RV hookups
  • No clean drinking water
  • No wifi

6. Bayshore Campgrounds

Located on the Chesapeake Bay, this campground has a lot of water activities for campers to enjoy. There is a spot for campers who brought their boat to put it into the bay, as well as a game room for those who want more of a glamping experience. Guests can go kayaking, sailing, or fishing in the bay. The campground can get crowded because it is very popular, but the experience it provides while next to the water makes up for it!

Pros:

  • RV and tent sites
  • Fishing
  • 2 bathhouses
  • Pet-friendly
  • Dump stations
  • Fire pits
  • Game room
  • Recreational courts

Cons:

  • Can get crowded
Maryland river.

Maryland rivers are beautiful for camping.

7. Washington DC / Capitol KOA Holiday

This spot of the camping chain has many things to do and many ways to camp. Whether you want to rough it or glamp, KOA has everything you could want. Located close to a shuttle that will take campers into DC, this campsite has a pool, free wifi, nature trails, and a dog park! Propane, fire wood, and bikes are also available for guests to purchase!

Pros:

  • Dog park
  • Pool
  • Pavilion
  • Wifi
  • Nature trail
  • Multiple campsites

Cons:

  • Can get crowded

8. Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday

Located in West Virginia, this KOA has a lot of things for guests to do when staying there. After going swimming in the pool, campers can have dinner under the pavilion. There is an indoor arcade for those who love playing video games and a mini-golf course for those who love to play mini-golf. This KOA also offers free pancakes!

Pros:

  • Multiple campsites
  • Pavilion
  • Wifi
  • Mini golf course
  • Swimming pool
  • Bike rentals
  • Free pancakes
  • Indoor arcade

Cons:

  • Can get crowded

9. Treehouse Camp at Maple Tree

This campground in Rohrersville, Maryland will fulfill all your childhood dreams of sleeping in a treehouse! All sites have fire rings, grills, and picnic tables. The facilities have private, hot showers and indoor bathrooms! The camp market has ice, food, firewood, and anything you might have forgotten! And, pets are welcome! The camp pavilion is great for having dinner with your whole group. Don’t forget to go hiking through the Appalachian trails!

Pros:

  • Hiking trails
  • Tent campsites
  • Treehouse camping
  • Pet-friendly
  • Fire rings
  • Picnic tables
  • Camp store
  • Restrooms and showers

Cons:

  • No RV sites

10. Lake Fairfax Park Campground

While camping on beautiful Lake Fairfax, campers can expect to be surrounded by gorgeous scenery. Guests can choose to pitch a tent or hook up an RV for their camping trip. There are bathhouses with hot showers, flushing toilets, and potable water spigots. And, each campsite has a grill/fire ring combo and a picnic table! 

Pros:

  • Showers and bathrooms
  • Flush toilets
  • Picnic tables
  • Fire rings
  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Tent camping
  • RV hookups

Cons:

  • No resort-style amenities

11. Greenbelt Campground

If you love to go hiking, this campground is perfect for you! Greenbelt Park offers miles of trails that will make every hiking enthusiast happy. The backcountry of Maryland has a lot to do in nature, especially this campground. It is surrounded by beautiful wildlife for all guests to view. If you want to reconnect with nature, this campground is for you!

Pros:

  • Tent camping
  • Showers
  • Hiking trails
  • RV parking
  • Dump stations
  • Grills

Cons:

  • No resort-style amenities
  • No electric RV hookup
  • No wifi

12. Travel Camp

This camp is about seven days a week all year long! It’s located along the shore of the Potomac River, and it offers two ADA-accessible fishing piers. There is wifi and cable tv, as well as pull-in and back-in parking pads. While the washers and dryers are coin-operated, the beautiful view of the river will make up for it! This campsite is perfect for military families who are ready to go on an adventure!

Pros:

  • RV rental
  • Cabin rental
  • Wifi
  • Fishing piers
  • ADA accessible
  • Golf course

Cons:

  • No bathhouses
  • No tent camping
  • Only available to anyone with a military affiliation
  • Coin-operated laundry
A man playing golf

Many campgrounds around the DC area are near golf courses.

13. Camp Meade RV Park

When staying at Camp Meade RV Park, guests can expect many activities to be available to them. Campers can go sightseeing, shopping, fishing, boating, or sailing! If you don’t have a boat, there is boat rental available! There is a game room, playground, and volleyball courts! This campsite has so many fun activities for people who are affiliated with the US military!

Pros:

  • Boating
  • RV hookups
  • Fishing
  • Showers
  • Laundry
  • Picnic area
  • Store

Cons:

  • No tent camping
  • Only available to anyone with a military affiliation

14. Oak Ridge Campground

This campsite is in Prince William Forest, so there is a lot of wildlife for campers to encounter. There are miles of hiking trails for every hiking enthusiast to enjoy. There are about 100 camping areas for people to camp in, and all the restrooms are handicapped-accessible. Every campsite has a picnic table, grill, parking slip, and lantern post! This campground is perfect for those who love to hike!

Pros:

  • Tents and RVs
  • Picnic tables
  • Grill
  • Restrooms

Cons:

  • A limited number of showers
  • No hookups

15. Hillwood Camping Park

This long-term camping site is available for those who are needing to stay around the DC area for an extended period of time. The park offers a wide range of amenities, including bathhouses, laundry rooms, picnic tables, fishing ponds, and full-service mail. It has several ranges of hookups for every kind of RV! The closest metro station is only 17 miles from the campground! If you have business in or around the DC area but don’t need to move there, this camping park is perfect for you!

Pros:

  • Full RV hookups
  • Fishing 
  • Laundry
  • Bathhouse
  • Mail service
  • Picnic tables

Cons:

  • No wifi
  • No tent camping
  • No market

16. Little Bennett Campground

This campsite in Clarksburg, Maryland is the largest natural gem in Montgomery County. The park is spread over 3,700 acres and is home to over 25 miles of nature trails, which are accessible by hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding! There are 14 historical sites for campers to visit and learn about! There is also an 18-hole golf course! If you want to learn something and play some golf, Little Bennett is perfect for you!

Pros:

  • Hiking trails
  • Picnic tables
  • Pet-friendly
  • Golf course
  • Historical sites
  • Multiple camping sites

Cons:

  • No showers 
  • No flush toilets
  • No wifi

17. Aquia Pines Camp Resort

Located in Stafford Virginia, this camp resort has so many amenities that you’ll hardly feel like you’re camping at all! With a pool, playground, and mini golf course, this campground is really like a resort. It offers all types of ways to camp, and it has a market if you forget anything you need! The only bad thing about this camp is that it can get crowded, but the experience you gain will be worth it! 

Pros:

  • RV hookups
  • Rentable cabins
  • Tent camping
  • Wifi
  • Pool
  • Playground
  • Market
  • Restrooms
  • Mini golf
  • Pet-friendly

Cons:

  • Can get crowded

18. Bull Run Campground

This campground is located in Bull Run Regional Park and is home to hundreds of activities and adventures for campers to participate in! There is Atlantis Waterpark for campers to cool off in after a full day of hiking the surrounding trails or playing disc golf through the wilderness! The Occoquan Watertrail is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, or just swimming! Campers can even learn a little bit at the Civil War Exhibit! 

Pros:

  • Multiple camping sites
  • Disc golf course
  • Waterpark
  • Playgrounds
  • Various lengths of stay

Cons:

  • No wifi
  • No showers
  • Camp store is limited access

19. Breezy Point Beach & Campground

While this campsite is only open for the summer months, the activities on the water make up for it! Campers can swim, tan, and fish! Kids can build sandcastles or search for shark teeth along the shore. The campground spans a half-mile of beach surrounded by the Chesapeake Bay, and it is perfect for those who love to go fishing and crabbing. Be careful of the jellyfish though!

Pros:

  • Multiple campsites
  • Beach access
  • Bathhouses
  • Fishing
  • Grills
  • Picnic areas

Cons: 

  • No boats, jet skis, or trailers
  • No smoking allowed
  • Only open during the summer months
  • Jellyfish
  • No pets allowed

20. Greenville Farm Family Campground

This campground is located on a 200-acre working farm, and it has 43 acres of woods for campers to enjoy. Campers have full access to all of the farm, so feel free to roam around and view farm operations! There are water and electrical hookups for RVs, as well as 30 and 50 amp hookups. Campers can fish in the stocked pond, even if they don’t have a license! There are also pools and playgrounds for the kids!

Pros:

  • Stocked ponds for fishing
  • Farm access
  • Bathhouses
  • Full RV hookups
  • Laundry
  • Pool
  • Picnic tables
  • Camp store
  • Firewood

Cons:

  • No tent camping
  • No wifi

Final verdict: 

Cherry Hill Park offers the most to do and the most ways to camp. You have multiple options to camp in: cabins, tents, and RVs. After playing a round of mini golf, guests can soak in the pool. Forgot something at home? There’s a camp market available to all campers. While it is very popular in the peak season and can get crowded, the camping experience Cherry Hill Park offers will be worth it! After being around for 100 years, the family who owns the park knows exactly how to make your stay unforgettable!

 

Bonus tip: Check out this video to find out fun things to do in DC!

 

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Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

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As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

 

Choosing Your Adventure

 

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

 

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

 

Plan a Camping Trip

 

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

 

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

 

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

 

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

 

Map Your Route

 

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

 

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

 

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

 

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

 

Pack Smart

 

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

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BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

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BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

 

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The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

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The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife. 

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes. 

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint. 

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