Burke Lake Campgrounds

For residents of Northern Virginia, finding a convenient and relaxing escape from the suburban bustle can be a challenge. Thankfully, a true local gem exists in Fairfax Station that provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature without a long road trip: Burke Lake Campgrounds. Part of the larger and beloved Burke Lake Park, this campground offers a straightforward, accessible, and fun outdoor experience that caters to a variety of campers, from seasoned enthusiasts to families on their first overnight adventure. Nestled within a vast, 888-acre park, the campgrounds provide a peaceful setting with a large, beautiful lake as the centerpiece, all while being just a short drive from the core of Fairfax County.

Camping at Burke Lake is a chance to unplug and enjoy a different pace of life. It’s an opportunity to gather around a campfire, tell stories, and listen to the sounds of nature. While some camping experiences require significant preparation and travel, Burke Lake’s proximity makes it an easy weekend getaway. It’s a place where you can spend the day exploring the park’s many recreational offerings and then retreat to a comfortable and shaded campsite for the evening. This balance of activity and relaxation is what makes it a favorite for many local Virginians. The campground is open seasonally, typically from April through October, providing a window of opportunity to enjoy the beautiful spring, summer, and fall weather that Virginia is known for.

The park management, overseen by the Fairfax County Park Authority, works to ensure a pleasant stay for all guests. While reviews from past visitors offer a range of perspectives, the consistent themes point to the park’s many amenities and its prime location as major draws. It's a place where you can create lasting memories, whether it's through a kid-friendly hike, a peaceful evening by the lake, or a full day of activities within the wider park. This guide is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect, helping you plan your next local camping trip with confidence and excitement.

Burke Lake Campgrounds are situated in a prime location at 10405 Burke Lake Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, USA. Its address places it squarely in the heart of Fairfax County, making it incredibly accessible for residents across Northern Virginia and the broader DC metropolitan area. The park's main entrance is conveniently located, providing a straightforward drive from major routes. This accessibility is a major selling point, as it allows campers to spend less time in traffic and more time enjoying the outdoors.

Despite its proximity to a major metropolitan area, the park's expansive size and wooded setting create a surprising sense of seclusion. Once you are inside the park, the sounds of city life fade, replaced by the rustle of leaves and the calls of local wildlife. This provides a genuine natural retreat that is easy to reach. The location is also close to a variety of local services, so if you forget a camping supply or simply want to grab a meal at a nearby restaurant, you're never far from town. This blend of natural beauty and urban convenience is a rare find and contributes to the park's popularity.

Burke Lake Campgrounds offers a host of services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all guests. The facilities are designed to meet the basic needs of campers while still providing an authentic outdoor adventure.

• RV and Tent Sites: The campground offers a variety of sites, accommodating both tents and recreational vehicles. Public data indicates that some sites have RV water hookups and RV sewer hookups, making it convenient for those traveling in campers.

• Restroom and Shower Facilities: The campground is equipped with public restrooms and public showers. Some reviews describe these facilities as small but modern and decently maintained, providing a welcome convenience for campers.

• Running Water: Running water is available at the park, with potable water spigots located near restroom facilities for easy access.

• Camp Store: A camp store is available for basic necessities, including ice and firewood. It's noted that bringing your own firewood is not permitted to prevent the spread of invasive insects, so purchasing on-site is a necessary part of a stay.

• Pet-Friendly: Burke Lake Campgrounds is a welcoming place for your four-legged family members, with a clear policy that dogs are allowed. This makes it an ideal spot for those who want to bring their pets along for the adventure.

• Accessibility: The park is committed to being accessible to all visitors, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot.

Beyond the standard camping amenities, Burke Lake Campgrounds stands out because of the wealth of features and activities available within the larger Burke Lake Park. It’s not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a full-scale recreational destination.

• The Lake: The 218-acre lake is the park's main attraction, offering opportunities for fishing and boating. Visitors can bring their own boats (electric motors or smaller only) or rent a rowboat, canoe, or kayak from the marina. The lake is known for its strong population of largemouth bass, making it a popular spot for anglers.

• Hiking and Trails: A 4.7-mile trail loops around the entire lake, providing a scenic and relatively flat path for hikers, bikers, and joggers. It has been recognized as one of the nation's top urban fitness trails by the American Hiking Society. The park also features other trails, including some that are good for kids.

• Family-Friendly Attractions: The park is packed with activities perfect for families. These include a miniature train, a classic carousel, an 18-hole mini-golf course, and multiple playgrounds. There is also an ice cream parlor, which is a perfect treat after a day of fun.

• Disc Golf: The park features a popular 18-hole disc golf course that is free to use. Discs can be rented or purchased at the Information Center.

• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic tables and grills are scattered throughout the park, offering plenty of spots for a pleasant outdoor meal, whether at your campsite or in a designated picnic area.

For all inquiries, reservations, or additional information about Burke Lake Campgrounds and Burke Lake Park, please use the following contact details.

Address: 10405 Burke Lake Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, USA

Phone: (703) 323-6600

Choosing to camp at Burke Lake Campgrounds is a great decision for those in Virginia looking for a balance of nature and convenience. What makes it a standout choice is its unique combination of a rustic camping atmosphere within a robust and amenity-rich park. While some reviews mention the close proximity of sites and occasional noise, these factors are often a trade-off for the convenience of being so close to home and the sheer volume of activities available. Unlike more remote, primitive campgrounds, Burke Lake offers the security of on-site staff and a wide range of facilities like modern restrooms and showers.

For families, the park is a dream destination. The abundance of kid-friendly activities, from the train and carousel to the hiking trails and playgrounds, ensures that there is never a dull moment. For those seeking a simple escape, the quiet beauty of the lake and the shaded, wooded campsites provide a peaceful retreat. The option for both tent and RV camping, along with essential hookups for RVs, makes it versatile for different types of campers. The accessibility features also make it a more inclusive option than many other campgrounds in the region. Ultimately, Burke Lake Campgrounds is worth choosing because it provides an accessible, enjoyable, and well-rounded outdoor experience right in the heart of Northern Virginia, proving that you don't have to travel far to find a great adventure.

Burke Lake Campgrounds

10405 Burke Lake Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039, USA