When my family and I first considered a staycation near Washington, DC, we weren’t sure what to expect. We’ve always loved traveling, but we needed something simple yet fulfilling between the busy work schedules, the kids’ school activities, and the endless list of chores. That’s when we decided to explore some of the hidden gems within a short drive from home. Little did we know that a staycation could feel as exciting as a far-off adventure.
Our first choice was Cherry Hill Park in Maryland. I remember the kids’ excitement as we pulled up to the cozy cabin, surrounded by nature, yet with all the modern conveniences we needed. The next stop was the Wilderness Presidential Resort in Virginia, where we immersed ourselves in relaxation and a bit of local history. Finally, we discovered the unique charm of Timberline Glamping in Williamsburg, where luxury and the great outdoors seamlessly blended into one unforgettable experience.
These three spots have now become our go-to escapes, each offering a different flavor of adventure without the hassle of long travel. Staycations have officially won us over, proving that the best vacations are sometimes the ones closest to home.
1. Cherry Hill Park, Maryland
When we first stumbled upon Cherry Hill Park, we were looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Washington, DC. Little did we know that this family-friendly campground would become our go-to spot for reconnecting with nature without straying too far from the city. Nestled just 30 minutes from Washington, DC, Cherry Hill Park offers the perfect blend of convenience and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal choice for families like ours who want to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Our first visit was in the early spring, and we were immediately struck by how close the park was to everything. It’s not every day you can explore the Smithsonian museums by day and unwind by a campfire at night. The proximity to the city is a huge plus, allowing us to take quick day trips to Washington, DC, without the usual stress of traffic and parking. The shuttle service to the Metro was a game-changer—convenient, efficient, and perfect for families with kids in tow.
What truly makes Cherry Hill Park stand out is the variety of accommodations. Whether you’re pulling up in an RV, pitching a tent, or looking for the comfort of a cabin, there’s something here for everyone. We opted for a cozy log cabin on our first stay, complete with all the modern amenities we could ask for—WiFi, a full kitchen, and cable TV. It was the perfect balance of rustic charm and modern convenience, which meant everyone was happy (and well-connected).
The kids couldn’t get enough of the park’s activities. They spent hours splashing around in the pools and racing down the water slides while my spouse and I enjoyed a relaxing soak in the hot tub. We also took advantage of the mini-golf course and the playgrounds, ensuring there was never a dull moment. And for those days when we didn’t feel like cooking, the on-site café had plenty of delicious options at a very affordable cost.
One of the best parts of Cherry Hill Park is the community feel. The staff is incredibly friendly and always ready to help, whether planning a day trip into DC or delivering firewood to your campsite. The park comes alive on weekends with seasonal events, from tractor rides to outdoor movies, making it a lively and welcoming environment for families.
If you’re considering a stay at Cherry Hill Park, I can’t recommend it enough. The proximity to Washington, DC, wide-ranging accommodations, fun pools during the summer season, and countless activities make it a perfect destination. It’s no wonder we keep coming back—it’s the place that feels like home, even just for a weekend.
Insider tips: It’s pet-friendly and not crowded like many other places near Washington, D.C., which was very pleasant for us to find out!
For anyone interested, here’s how you can reach them:
- Website: Cherry Hill Park
- Address: 9800 Cherry Hill Road, College Park, Maryland 20740
- Phone: (301) 937-7116
- Rates: Vary depending on the season and accommodation, so check their website for the latest prices.
- Hours: Open year-round
Our stays at Cherry Hill Park have given us some of our favorite family memories, and I’m sure it will do the same for you.
2. Wilderness Presidential Resort, Virginia
When we first decided to visit Wilderness Presidential Resort in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, we were looking for a change of scenery. We had no idea that we were about to discover one of our favorite family vacation spots. As soon as we drove into the sprawling 600-acre resort, surrounded by lush forests and tranquil lakes, it was clear that this was no ordinary getaway. The blend of nature, history, and family-friendly activities made it feel like we had stumbled upon a hidden gem just waiting to be explored.
Our first stay was in one of their newly renovated lakefront cabins. Waking up to the sight of the sun glistening on the water right outside our window was magical. The cabin had all the comforts of home—a fully equipped kitchen, cozy bedrooms, and a private deck where we enjoyed our morning coffee while soaking in the peaceful surroundings. It was the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, which made it easy for us to relax and unwind.
But what makes Wilderness Presidential Resort special are the endless activities. We spent our days kayaking on the lake, testing our courage on the zip line, and even trying out the ropes course. The kids couldn’t get enough of the mini-golf course, and the year-round ice-skating rink was an unexpected delight (even though it was not real ice). For history buffs like us, the resort’s proximity to Civil War sites added a fascinating educational element to our stay. And with family-friendly events like music festivals and craft fairs happening throughout the year, there was never a dull moment.
If you’re thinking about visiting, here’s some helpful information:
- Book your trip: Wilderness Presidential Resort
- Address: 9220 Plank Road, Spotsylvania, VA
- Rates: Pricing varies depending on the season and accommodation type, so it’s best to check their website for the most accurate rates.
- Hours: Open year-round
Wilderness Presidential Resort has become our go-to spot for a quick yet fulfilling family getaway. Whether you’re looking to dive into outdoor adventure, learn history, or relax by the lake, this resort truly has something for everyone.
3. Timberline Glamping, Williamsburg
We previously stayed at a Timberland Glamping in GA and loved it. So, I was excited to find a location in Virginia. Let me tell you. When we discovered Timberline Glamping in Williamsburg, our family had been searching for the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and comfort. We were drawn to the idea of glamping—combining the beauty of nature with the luxuries of a hotel—and this location seemed to have everything we wanted. Situated within Chickahominy Riverfront Park, just minutes from historic Williamsburg, Timberline Glamping offered a unique staycation experience that felt exciting and relaxing.
The moment we arrived, we knew we’d made the right choice. The 140-acre park along the Chickahominy River was stunning, with serene water views and endless greenery. But what stood out were the Safari Tents. These weren’t your typical camping tents—they were fully furnished with all the comforts of home. We stayed in a Deluxe Safari Tent with a king bed, two sets of bunk beds for the kids, air conditioning, and even a Keurig coffee maker. It was like stepping into a cozy, well-decorated cabin with soft rugs, ambient lighting, and everything we needed to feel at ease.
The activities available in and around the park made our stay truly memorable. We spent our days kayaking on the river, fishing off the dock, and exploring nearby hiking trails. In the evenings, we gathered around the campfire to roast marshmallows and tell stories while enjoying the peace and quiet that comes from being surrounded by nature. The proximity to Williamsburg allowed us to easily venture out for a day of exploring historical sites. Still, honestly, we were just as content staying at the campsite and soaking in the simple pleasures of glamping.
If you’re considering a stay at Timberline Glamping, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort, and it’s ideal for families who want to combine relaxation with adventure. The kids loved the experience, and we appreciated the thoughtful touches that made our stay comfortable.
Insider tips: This campground offers a pool and splash pad for kids to enjoy during the summer season. It’s walkable from the safari tents, and they only charge a small fee to enter. I believe we pay $6 per child to enjoy the pool.
For those interested in checking it out:
- Website: Timberline Glamping, Williamsburg
- Address: 1350 John Tyler Hwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185
- Phone: (757) 304-6688
- Rates: Starting at $154 per night, plus taxes and fees.
- Hours: Open year-round
Our time at Timberline Glamping in Williamsburg was nothing short of magical.
If you made it to the end, I want you to know that finding the perfect staycation near Washington, DC, doesn’t have to be challenging, especially when you have options like Cherry Hill Park, Wilderness Presidential Resort, and Timberline Glamping in Williamsburg. These destinations offer the perfect balance of outdoor adventure, family-friendly activities, and comfort, all within a short drive from the city. So, the next time you plan a quick escape, consider staying close to home and making the most of these fantastic staycation spots. Your family will thank you for it!
