Camp Wilson

Camp Wilson is a dedicated group camping facility nestled within the expansive beauty of Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, Virginia. Formerly a historic Boy Scout reservation, this site has evolved into one of Northern Virginia's most sought-after destinations for organized youth groups, including scouts, church organizations, and school clubs. Managed by NOVA Parks, Camp Wilson provides a rustic yet structured environment where groups can immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the Mason Neck Peninsula. It serves as a vital resource for those looking to foster teamwork and outdoor skills while enjoying the serenity of a wooded retreat just a short drive from the hustle of Washington, D.C.

The campground is designed to provide a "back-to-nature" experience with a focus on group dynamics. Unlike the main family campground at Pohick Bay, Camp Wilson is situated in a more remote, tranquil section of the park, ensuring that groups have the privacy they need for their programs. Whether you are planning a weekend of orienteering, a badge-earning scout retreat, or a simple multi-family outdoor gathering, Camp Wilson offers the space and the setting to make it memorable. Its historical roots as a scouting hub are still evident in its thoughtful layout, which emphasizes shared communal spaces and a deep respect for the surrounding environment.

Conveniently located at 6501 Pohick Bay Dr, Lorton, VA 22079, Camp Wilson is exceptionally accessible for residents across the Northern Virginia region. It is situated on the Mason Neck Peninsula, bordered by the Potomac River and Gunston Hall. For local travelers, the park is easily reached via Interstate 95, making it a stress-free trip for groups coming from Fairfax, Alexandria, or Prince William County. While the camp feels worlds away from suburban sprawl, its proximity to the Springfield Metro station and major local thoroughfares ensures that logistical planning for large groups remains straightforward.

Accessibility within the campground is well-managed to accommodate various needs. The facility features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a dedicated parking lot, ensuring that all participants, regardless of mobility levels, can join in the adventure. Navigating the camp is made easier by a network of trails, including a one-mile path that connects the remote Camp Wilson area back to the main park facilities, allowing for a seamless transition between the quiet woods and the more active recreational zones of Pohick Bay.

Camp Wilson offers a comprehensive suite of services specifically tailored to the requirements of organized groups. The management focuses on providing the essential infrastructure that allows group leaders to focus on their programming. From administrative support to basic utilities, the services at Camp Wilson are designed for efficiency and safety. Key services include:

• Professional group reservation management through the NOVA Parks headquarters to ensure your group has guaranteed space.
• On-site park ranger presence and camp store access (located in the main park) for essential supplies like firewood, ice, and charcoal.
• Full-service comfort station access, providing flushing toilets, sinks, and showers with hot water centrally located for all campsites.
• Waste management services, including designated trash disposal areas to keep the campsite clean and deter local wildlife.
• Potable running water available at central spigots for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene.
• A dedicated dishwashing area at the bathhouse to facilitate easy cleanup for large group meals.

The features and highlights of Camp Wilson make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park combines its rich historical character with modern recreational opportunities that appeal to both children and adults. Groups staying at Camp Wilson have the unique advantage of being close to some of the finest wildlife habitats in Virginia. Notable features include:

• Large, wooded tent sites that offer a true forest canopy experience with ample room for multiple tents and group gear.
• An amphitheater and an open play field, available on a first-come, first-served basis for group ceremonies, skits, or field games.
• Dedicated picnic tables, fire rings, and grills at each site, perfect for traditional campfire cooking and evening social gatherings.
• Kid-friendly hiking trails that meander through the woods, offering sightings of bald eagles, ospreys, and other native wildlife.
• Proximity to the Pohick Bay Marina, where groups can rent kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats to explore the Potomac River tributaries.
• Access to the park's wider amenities, including a challenging 18-hole disc golf course and the Pirate's Cove waterpark (seasonal).

For group organizers looking to schedule their next outing, Camp Wilson is available by reservation only. Because it is a popular site for regional scouting events and youth retreats, early booking is highly recommended. You can contact the park authorities through the following channels for information on capacity, rates, and availability:

• Address: 6501 Pohick Bay Dr, Lorton, VA 22079, USA
• Phone: (703) 352-5900
• Alternative Phone: (703) 339-6104

When considering where to host a group event in Northern Virginia, Camp Wilson at Pohick Bay is worth choosing for its rare combination of seclusion and convenience. It offers a level of privacy that is often difficult to find in public parks, yet it provides the high-quality amenities—like hot showers and flushing toilets—that make group management much easier. For scout leaders and youth coordinators, the park’s commitment to "Leave No Trace" principles and its rich natural environment provide a perfect "living classroom" for teaching environmental stewardship.

Furthermore, the value of staying at Camp Wilson lies in its dual nature. It is a place where you can spend the morning on a quiet, guided nature hike and the afternoon enjoying a high-energy waterpark or mini-golf session. This versatility ensures that every member of your group, regardless of their interests, will find something to enjoy. By choosing Camp Wilson, you are opting for a professionally managed, historically significant, and family-friendly environment that celebrates the best of Virginia’s outdoor heritage. It is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a community space designed to build memories that last a lifetime.