Oak Ridge Campground
4.46362 reviewsVISITOR CENTER, 18170 PARK ENTRANCE ROAD, Triangle, VA 22172, USA
Oak Ridge Campground
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rates are $26 for both 'Standard Nonelectric' and 'Tent Only Nonelectric' sites. Additional charges such as reservation fees apply based on booking methods.
About this campground
Just 35 miles from the bustling streets of Washington, D.C., Oak Ridge Campground offers a remarkable transformation from urban chaos to natural tranquility. Nestled within Prince William Forest Park, this 100-site woodland retreat welcomes adventurers with open arms, whether you're pitching a tent under towering canopies or parking your RV beneath star-filled skies. Here, city dwellers discover their scenic escape without venturing far from home, finding solace in rustling leaves and birdsong rather than traffic and sirens.
Oak Ridge Campground accommodates tents, RVs, and trailers, with tent-only sites available in Loop C. Organized group camping is not permitted.
Historical SignificanceThese woods hold stories of American resilience. During the depths of the Great Depression, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived in 1935 with calloused hands and determined spirits, transforming raw wilderness into the accessible haven you see today. Their legacy lives on in every trail they carved and structure they built, reminding visitors that this cherished landscape was born from both natural beauty and human dedication.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Oak Ridge in dramatically different hues. Winter arrives with a hushed blanket of snow, transforming trails into wonderlands perfect for peaceful contemplation. As temperatures climb, summer brings warm days ideal for creek exploration and shaded hammock lounging. Yet it's the shoulder seasons that truly steal the show—spring awakens the forest with wildflower blooms and migrating songbirds, while autumn sets the Piedmont ablaze with fiery maples and golden oaks, creating perfect camping conditions under crisp, clear skies.
Natural Features and SceneryOak Ridge sits at the heart of a living tapestry woven from ancient Piedmont forest. Meandering creeks whisper through the understory, their waters carving gentle valleys between rolling slopes crowned with centuries-old trees. Man-made lakes mirror the sky, adding serene focal points to woodland walks. This thriving ecosystem shelters an astounding array of life—46 species of mammals roam these woods, from white-tailed deer to elusive foxes, while 129 bird species fill the canopy with song. Over 900 plant varieties create a botanical wonderland that changes with each passing week.
Geological RegionWithin Prince William Forest Park's preserved 15,000 acres lies one of the most significant Piedmont forest ecosystems remaining in the mid-Atlantic. Ancient geological outcroppings tell stories millions of years in the making, while winding creeks continue their patient work of sculpting the landscape. The gently rolling terrain, punctuated by thoughtfully placed man-made lakes, creates a diverse habitat that represents a vanishing American landscape—making every visit to Oak Ridge a chance to experience a rare and precious natural heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking and grills are available. Several reviews praised the campground for accommodating individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some described as spacious and others as small. "Site was spacious enough for 6 people."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site and loop. Loop C is frequently cited for its tent-only sites with higher privacy, while Loops A and B are noted for closer spacing between sites.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSelect Loop C for tent camping and Loop B for proximity to showers. Some sites near bathrooms are brightly lit and less private.
Best CampsitesSites in Loop C are preferred for greater privacy and tent-focused layouts. Sites in Loop B are close to bathrooms and showers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:30 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights camping during a calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of six people per site
Groups
Organized group camping is not permitted. Maximum occupancy per site is six people and three tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into three loops: Loop A for RVs, Loop B for mixed use, and Loop C exclusively for tents. Each site has a picnic table, grill, lantern post, and parking spur.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 1st to December 1st seasonally
Reservation PlatformsReservations are processed via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all bookings must be made in advance online.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations (midnight one day before check-in).
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Oak Ridge Campground include hiking, biking, orienteering, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The campground serves as a launching point for many trails and activities within Prince William Forest Park.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound with 37 miles of trails. "The South Valley, Oak Ridge, and Farms to Forest Trails all begin at the campground entrance." Trails feature forest landscapes, streams, and occasional ferns. Trails are described as "forest, with some ferns, and a few places where you cross the stream."Fishing
Fishing is available in approximately 18 miles of streams and two small lakes. Quantico Creek supports species such as bluegill, pumpkinseed, largemouth bass, and channel catfish.Biking
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy 21 miles of paved roads in the park, including the 12-mile Scenic Drive. Mountain biking is available on 10 miles of gravel fire roads. "Mountain biking is also available on gravel fire roads."Wildlife viewing
The campground provides opportunities to view 46 species of mammals, over 129 species of birds, and various reptiles and amphibians.Cultural and Educational Programs
The visitor center offers orienteering maps and compasses for loan, and ranger talks are occasionally held. "We participated in one of the ranger talks while we were there."Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to seasonal closures of some campground loops. Activities are primarily hiking-oriented during this time.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking are not mentioned as available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings using USDA-certified bug-free firewood. Foraging for wood less than 6 inches in diameter within the campground is permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include local wildlife like bears and occasional military noise from Quantico. The park enforces strict firewood policies to prevent invasive species.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Quantico is the closest town with emergency services, including a hospital and police station. Onsite rangers can assist with emergencies within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1st to December 1st annually
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling dumpsters are located at the campground entrance and near Loop B. Some reviewers noted difficulty finding these facilities.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately 18 miles of streams are accessible within the park. Two small lakes (Quantico Creek watershed) support fishing and water activities.
Common complaintsComplaints include inadequate enforcement of quiet hours, occasional overcrowding on weekends, and challenges with site cleanliness. Some reviewers mentioned unmaintained fire pits and noisy neighbors.
HostCamp hosts are present seasonally and assist with firewood delivery and site issues.
Campground Map
VISITOR CENTER, 18170 PARK ENTRANCE ROAD, Triangle, VA 22172, USA
Driving directionsFrom Washington, D.C., and points north, take I-95 south to exit 150-B toward VA Route 619/Joplin Road. The park entrance is the second right. It is an additional 15-20 minute drive from the park entrance to Oak Ridge Campground. From Fredericksburg, Virginia, and points south, take I-95 north to exit 150 toward VA Route 619/Joplin Road. Turn left at the bottom of the exit ramp and continue on VA Route 619 West approximately 1/4 mile to the park entrance. Washington Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport are approximately 45 minutes drive-time from Prince William Forest Park. Baltimore/Washington International Airport and Richmond International Airport are 90 minutes away.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. GPS devices may attempt to navigate on closed gravel service roads; the main park entrance on VA 619/Joplin Road should be used instead. There are no bus services directly near the park.Nearby places
Quantico (5 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Fredericksburg (30 miles, approximately 45 minutes), Washington, D.C. (35 miles, approximately 60 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies are accessible at the 7-Eleven across Route 1, approximately 20 minutes from the campground. Groceries, firewood, and camping essentials should be acquired before arrival.
Camper Reviews
4.5
362 reviews
Oak Ridge Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground’s cleanliness, proximity to Washington, D.C., and well-maintained facilities. However, some complaints include noise from neighboring campers and military drills.
Review Summaries
Based on 362 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include clean bathrooms, spacious sites, and proximity to hiking trails. "The bathrooms were spotless," and "Sites are spacious."
Based on 362 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include lack of firewood for sale, noisy neighbors, and limited privacy in certain loops. "Sites are very close together," and "There is no firewood for sale."
Based on 362 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring approved firewood to avoid scarcity, choose Loop C for privacy, and avoid weekends for a quieter experience. "Bring everything you need; the town is a 25-minute drive."
Based on 362 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Campground experiences vary by season—off-season camping is quieter and less crowded, while peak season can be noisy with close site proximity.
Based on 362 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms were immaculate, and all facilities worked well." "Loop C tent-only sites offer higher privacy—highly recommended for solo or couple campers." "Great proximity to Washington, D.C. and...
Based on 362 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop C sites are frequently praised for privacy and tent-only designation, while Loop B is noted for access to showers. "Loop C is nice for tents and for peace and quiet."
Based on 362 reviewsAccessibility Features
Few reviews specifically address accessibility, although accessible parking and grills are mentioned.
Based on 362 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many reviewers found the campground pet-friendly. "We stayed with our two dogs, and felt comfortable the whole time."
Based on 362 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025