Forest 1 Campground Lake Fairfax

Forest 1 Campground Lake Fairfax represents a premier outdoor destination for residents and visitors in the Northern Virginia region. Nestled within the expansive 476-acre Lake Fairfax Park in Reston, this campground offers a unique blend of natural serenity and modern recreational convenience. Whether you are a local looking for a nearby "staycation" or a traveler exploring the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, the Forest 1 site provides a spacious and well-maintained environment for group gatherings and traditional outdoor experiences. As part of the Fairfax County Park Authority system, the facility is managed with a commitment to quality, safety, and community enjoyment.

The campground is specifically designed to accommodate various camping styles, with Forest 1 serving as a key location for large group camping. This area is characterized by its lush surroundings and proximity to the park’s many attractions, making it an ideal choice for scout troops, family reunions, and organized community groups. Guests at Forest 1 can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Virginia woods while remaining just minutes away from the urban amenities of Reston and the greater Fairfax County area.

• Large group camping capacity for up to 100 people.
• Proximity to the 18-acre Lake Fairfax for fishing and boating.
• Direct access to extensive hiking and mountain biking trails.
• Walking distance to the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole waterpark.
• Quiet and shaded environment suitable for traditional tent camping.

Location and accessibility are among the strongest features of Forest 1 Campground Lake Fairfax. Situated at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston, Virginia, the park is easily reachable via major regional thoroughfares such as the Dulles Toll Road and Route 7. For those utilizing public transportation, the campground is remarkably accessible from the Wiehle-Reston East Silver Line Metro station, providing a rare opportunity to enjoy a wilderness experience within reach of the city’s transit network. The site itself features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and on-site parking facilities, ensuring that the beauty of the park is available to all visitors regardless of their mobility needs.

The services offered at Lake Fairfax Park are designed to provide a comfortable and functional camping experience. While the Forest 1 area emphasizes a more rustic, non-electric group camping experience, the broader campground infrastructure supports a high standard of cleanliness and utility. From well-maintained bathhouses to specialized recreational facilities, the park ensures that guests have everything they need for a successful multi-day stay.

• Clean and modern restrooms with private shower stalls.
• Potable water stations located conveniently throughout the campground.
• Dump station facilities available for RV users (complimentary for registered campers).
• On-site park hosts and professional management staff to assist with guest needs.
• Wi-Fi access available near the park registration office.
• Pet-friendly policies, allowing leashed dogs to join the camping adventure.
• Campfire rings and picnic tables provided at each designated site.
• Seasonal firewood sales to prevent the spread of invasive species (outside firewood is prohibited).

Beyond the immediate campsite, the features and highlights of Lake Fairfax Park provide endless opportunities for entertainment. The park is home to the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, a popular Western-themed waterpark that features a lazy river, flumes, and interactive water play areas. For those who prefer land-based activities, the park offers a state-of-the-art skate park and a pump track for bikers. The natural beauty of the lake itself is a focal point for many, offering a calm setting for seasonal pedal boat rentals and kayaking.

• The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole (open Memorial Day through Labor Day).
• Eighteen acres of freshwater lake designated for fishing (Virginia fishing license required).
• Marina with seasonal rentals for pedal boats and kayaks.
• A comprehensive network of wooded trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
• Restored antique carousel and multiple playgrounds for children.
• Athletic fields including soccer pitches, a cricket field, and a baseball diamond.
• On-site skate park and bicycle pump track for active recreation.
• Proximity to local Reston attractions, including Bike Lane Brewing and various shopping centers.

For those interested in booking a stay or seeking more information, the administrative office for Lake Fairfax Park can be contacted directly. Reservations for group sites like Forest 1 are highly recommended, especially during the peak season from April through November. The staff at the registration office can provide detailed guidance on camping rules, site availability, and seasonal operating hours for the park’s various attractions.

• Address: 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, VA 20190, USA
• Phone: +1 703-471-5415 (General Information)
• Reservation Line: +1 703-471-5414
• TTY: 711

When deciding where to spend your outdoor time in Northern Virginia, Forest 1 Campground Lake Fairfax is worth choosing for several compelling reasons. Its primary advantage is the "best of both worlds" experience it offers: the tranquility of a deep-woods camping trip paired with the high-energy fun of a modern waterpark and athletic complex. This makes it an exceptional choice for families with diverse interests, as children can enjoy the playgrounds and waterpark while adults appreciate the scenic trails and fishing opportunities.

Furthermore, the group-centric layout of Forest 1 makes it one of the few locations in the region capable of hosting large-scale gatherings in a structured, professional park setting. The commitment to maintaining clean, accessible facilities—specifically the highly-rated private bathhouses—sets this campground apart from more primitive alternatives. By choosing Forest 1 at Lake Fairfax, you are opting for a safe, community-focused, and versatile outdoor environment that captures the very best of Northern Virginia’s natural landscape.