Washington, D.C. is a hub for politics, tourists, and business. So, naturally, things can get pretty hectic in terms of crowded city living. Thankfully, the capital is also conveniently located near coastal Virginia and the Maryland countryside. This means residents are never short of options when they want to escape to some peace and quiet in nature. Check out these three campgrounds near Washington, D.C. the next time you want to get away from the city bustle.
Capitol KOA
KOA — Kampgrounds of America — is a chain of privately managed campgrounds throughout the U.S. and Canada. This includes a location between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. During morning traffic, it can take approximately 75 minutes to reach the site. Severn River, which feeds into the Atlantic, is just a short drive from the campground.
A major benefit of staying at Capitol KOA is its many amenities. This includes:
- A dog park
- Firewood for sale
- Paid propane tank rentals
- Paid bike rentals
- Paid tour shuttles
- Wi-Fi access
- Public pavilions
- Free pool access from late May through early September
The campground accommodates RVs and campers up to 90-feet long. Check online for deals and other information about staying at Capital KOA. The site is at 768 Cecil Ave N in Millersville, MD. You can check in any time after noon and must check out by noon on the day you leave.
Cunningham Falls State Park
For a camping experience further removed from the major cities in the coastal U.S., head northwest past Frederick, VA. U.S. Highway 15 will take you directly to Cunningham Falls State Park. Here you’ll find 180 camping options, including nine cabins and dozens of sites for rustic living. The grounds have hot showers and flush toilets, though, so this is neither glamping nor the most rugged camping experience around.
The eponymous Cunningham Falls is a 78-foot waterfall that you can reach following the park’s trails. Plan for some hiking if you want to see this breathtaking sight.
Greenbelt Park
For an option closer to Washington, D.C., head northeast along the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. Though the site is just 13 miles away, it can take roughly 45 minutes to get there during morning traffic. Still, the campsite’s proximity to the metropolis makes it a good choice for people who want to see the capital and other parts of Virginia and Maryland.
This is a national park and a relatively small area. Though there are walking trails, don’t expect the same level of hikes you’ll find at Cunningham Falls State Park. Amenities are basic, but no other campground offers such an easy commute to D.C. and Baltimore.
The cultural and political sights in Washington, D.C. are only part of this area’s charm. The capital is surrounded by many wonderful campgrounds and other green spaces, making it easy for residents and tourists to escape for some time in nature. Make a campout part of your next trip to D.C., or head out to one of these locations when you need a break from urban living.
Image “Camp Cooking” by poly.kiss, used under CC BY 2.0
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