Family Camping Activities for All Ages: Games, Hiking, and Campfire Fun
Explore family camping activities that bring all ages together, from outdoor games and scenic hikes to memorable campfire fun that creates lasting memories.
Nestled in Potomac, Maryland, just a short drive from Washington D.C., Marsden Tract Group Campground offers an ideal retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. This charming campground is part of the National Park system and provides ample space for groups, making it a favorite spot for hikers and bikers exploring the C&O Canal.
Experience nature at its best while enjoying breathtaking views of the Potomac River cliffs. While you'll notice some airplane noise, the serene setting near the river makes it a pleasant camping destination.
Campers have praised Marsden Tract Group Campground for its ample space and proximity to Washington D.C., with several noting that it's less than 10 miles from the city center. Many highlight the beautiful river views, making it a great spot for outdoor adventures.
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Hiking
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Restroom
Running water
Tent sites
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
On-site parking
Dogs allowed
Several Big Sites! Plenty of room for anyone hiking or biking the C & O. Closest campsites to DC less than 10 miles out of town. Note: There is airplane noise throughout the night and it is a bit inland from the rivers edge
A very pleasant place to camp, great views of the cliffs and river
Campsite 1, 2 and 3 are left off of the foot bridge. 4, 5 & 6 are to the right and are closer to the bridge. All camp site areas are big and have a bike rack. Water is just over the foot bridge. We use a fold up wagon to make life easier. Parking was not a big issue, we hade two vans, a pick up nd trailer and a mini van and a Jeep. We also had 3 camp sites book, so not a lot of competition. The walk from parking the campsite was more of a hill and longer than I expected. Lots of steps as well, but doable. Lot so traffic on the tow path, but nothing major. Other than the being in the flight path of the airport, and of course the bull frogs, not a lot of noise. I would Suggest for the the price, if you are a scout troop, renting 1, 2 & 3 OR 4, 5, and 6 so you have the whole are to yourself.
A great little campsite that is about 3/4 of a mile walk from the Carderock Parking area. Take the Billy Goat C trail from the parking lot to the C&O towpath. Then take the towpath until you see the sign on the left for the campsites. This is about 100 feet past the Billy Goat B trail sign. Potable water is up the towpath in the opposite direction of the parking lot across a foot bridge. Great location for scout troops, but a bit of a walk. Lots of nature. Saw a bunch of blue herons while I was there.
"Backpacking lite." An oasis minutes outside of DC, great for testing your gear or just getting into the woods without having to drive or hike a long way.