Fredericksburg / Washington DC South KOA Holiday Blog
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Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Coming from the South:
Take Thornburg Exit 118, turn left onto Mudd Tavern Rd towards US Route 1 (Patriot Hwy). Turn right. Drive for 4 1/2 miles North on US Route 1 to Virginia 607 Guinea Station Rd (just past Massaponax High School) Turn right onto Guinea Station Rd. Follow signs 2 1/2 miles, KOA will be on your right.
Coming from the North:
Take Spotsylvania Exit 126. Turn right onto US Route 1 (Patriot Hwy). Follow highway for approximately 4 miles, there will be a large KOA sign, take the next left onto Virginia 607 Guinea Station Rd. Follow signs 2 1/2 miles, KOA will be on your right.
Are you looking for an active outing or a family-friendly tour of historic landmarks? How about some fun in the sun or an autumnal scenic drive? Whatever you want out of your mini-vacation, these are some of the best weekend getaways in Virginia.
Organizing your weekend vacation around a festival is an easy way to make sure you fill each day with memorable activities. Virginia has plenty of annual events to satisfy any interest or hobby. Gather your friends and hit the road to attend:
Be sure to check for any recent updates to festival events and schedules before leaving on your trip.
Hiking, bicycling or riding a horse through a state or national park is a great way to experience the beauty of Virginian lands while staying active and getting fresh air. Some of the most popular protected areas in the state include:
While parks are always available for self-guided tours and solo exploration, check posted itineraries to see if any live demonstrations or educational programs are taking place during your weekend trip.
No weekend in Virginia is complete without some history. Whether you are eager to learn more about the country’s earliest days or are looking for a new way to bring history to life for your child, you have several options. For example, you could:
Road trips are the perfect way to experience more than one destination per weekend getaway, and fortunately, Virginia is full of scenic drives and interesting pull-off points. Stock your car with road snacks, create a playlist and enjoy a drive on any of these popular trails:
With more than 300 wineries to explore, Virginia is a great place to celebrate special occasions, like a birthday bash, bachelorette party or upscale date. One of the most romantic weekend getaways in Virginia is participating in one of the state’s many wine trails and learning more about how they produce wine while sampling some of each vineyard’s best offerings.
Though Virginia Beach is easily the state’s most popular beach — more on it later — Virginia is full of beautiful coastal destinations. If you are looking for a more laid-back experience, consider a visit to:
Virginia’s underground caverns are a great place to explore, regardless of the time of year. The most famous underground caverns in the state are the enormous Luray Caverns, which feature mind-boggling views of underground lakes, frozen limestone crystals, unique rock formations and even the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the world’s largest instrument. The organ is stalactites, and the sound produced is a one-of-a-kind experience you will not forget. Other Virginia caverns include the Shenandoah Caverns, Endless Caverns and Grand Caverns.
If you are looking for a non-beach getaway to escape the summer heat, Virginia has some great freshwater swimming holes throughout the state. Bring your kids, dogs or fishing gear and enjoy a refreshing dip in any of the following:
With cities, small towns and historic hot spots, Virginia has what you need for any type of weekend getaway. These are 10 of the best weekend trips in Virginia, fit for travelers of all ages!
For one of the best weekend trips in Virginia, visit the country’s largest outdoor living museum at Colonial Williamsburg. Here, you can dive deep into 18th-century history, including authentic homes and businesses. See an 18th-century courthouse in operation and learn how early Americans worked their lands and gardens. Visit the Revolutionary War complex to see the Public Armoury, or visit the weaver to see how they would make clothes and tapestries.
Make sure you stick around long enough to see the march of the Fifes and Drums when a uniformed regiment marches along Duke of Gloucester Street while playing their instruments. Every season brings something unique to the colonial experience, but the area is famous for its bold autumnal colors and sparkling white winters.
There are many Kampgrounds of America Campgrounds near the Williamsburg area as well, making it easy to stay close to the action while having a comfortable place to return to each night.
Arlington is another historic Virginia staple, but with exciting urban features — like food trucks, trendy restaurants, breweries and dozens of arts and culture centers. It is a top travel destination for all ages. While in Arlington, you can:
Plus, Arlington is a short drive away from Washington, D.C., which can round out your weekend trip if you want to see even more landmarks and historical places.
With nine KOA Campgrounds near Arlington, it is easy to find a campground in a convenient location that meets your needs. Stay close to the Arlington area or venture into nearby states, such as West Virginia and Maryland, for a memorable camping experience.
Natural Bridge State Park is in Natural Bridge, Virginia, located about an hour’s drive from Lynchburg. The park got its name from the naturally occurring 215-foot tall limestone bridge carved over Cedar Creek. The bridge is a spectacle to see, but it is not the only awe-inspiring formation in the park.
There are also seven miles of wooded hiking trails and the 30-foot Lace Falls. Depending on the time of year, you may be able to watch a history program to learn more about early life in the area.
Built in 1734 and inherited by George Washington in 1761, the Mount Vernon estate is a 21-room home featuring 18th-century design and furnishings. Take a guided tour through the house to learn the history behind specific architectural choices and learn more about America’s first president. There are additional learning opportunities around the home, too, including a blacksmith shop, smokehouse, horse stable, spinning house, gristmill and several intricate gardens. You can even visit George and Martha’s final resting place and watch a wreath-laying ceremony.
Whether you are visiting Mount Vernon alone or with your family, there are plenty of KOA Campgrounds nearby that offer a comfortable place to stay for your Virginia weekend trips. Spend the day immersing yourself in history and come home to a clean and comfortable campground.
Middleburg is a small town established by a Colonel of the Revolutionary War in 1787. Since then, it has become the place to go for a slow-paced, relaxing vacation in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful countryside. Horses and equestrian events are popular here, and there are several wineries and vineyards within a 30-minute drive. While dining and sightseeing your way through the village, you will not want to forget your camera — the stone buildings, quaint streets and farmland are picture-perfect, no matter the season.
Charlottesville is a mash-up of urban culture, sweeping countryside and historic charm. Spend a weekend here and make time to do the following:
There are multiple KOA Campgrounds in the Charlottesville area, including Charlottesville KOA Holiday, which is a short distance from downtown.
Virginia’s capital city is a must-see destination for locals and out-of-state visitors. It is rich with history and museums and colorful and exciting, with trendy restaurants and bars. Hop on a trolley and tour the city’s colorful murals, or visit any of these popular Richmond attractions:
You can also spend your weekend exploring the Richmond Beer Trail to sample the area’s world-famous craft beers and brewing companies.
There is much more to explore in Richmond when you book a stay at one of the many nearby KOA Campgrounds.
Virginia Beach has a pristine coastline, family-friendly amenities and endless entertainment. It has seven distinct districts, each with its own flavor and recreational opportunities for travelers of all types and ages.
You can spend your weekend lounging in the warm sun and listening to the waves, or you might consider the following:
Keep the fun times going when you book a stay at one of the many KOAs near Virginia Beach. All campgrounds have numerous amenities for individuals, couples and families to make their vacation memorable.
Wolf Trap, near Vienna, is widely known for the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, which houses the Filene Center and the Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, each set against a 117-acre wooded backdrop. Hundreds of concerts and performances take place here each year, spanning genres and art forms. When you are not taking in a show or participating in an educational program, you can hike the surrounding park — a trek especially worth the journey during the peak of autumn, when the park changes into vivid shades of orange, yellow and red.
Also in Wolf Trap is the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, a 95-acre display garden with lakes, forest, flowers, walking trails and special interest attractions, such as the Korean Bell Garden and an 18th-century log cabin.
There are more opportunities to explore your natural surroundings with nine KOA Campgrounds nearby. All campgrounds are less than 100 miles from Wolf Trap and offer plenty of opportunities to spend time outside.
Appomattox is a history buff’s dream vacation spot, considering it is the home of the famous Appomattox Court House, where General Lee surrendered to the Union during the Civil War in 1865. The Court House is available for tours, as is the nearby American Civil War Museum. While in Appomattox, you can fish or hike at Holliday Lake State Park or visit the blooming lavender gardens at Evergreen Lavender Farm. Shop for locally-made goods and art pieces at the Appomattox Vintage and Artisan Markets, and take home a souvenir to commemorate your trip.
If you need more time to take in everything Appomattox offers, there are multiple KOA Campgrounds available for you to enjoy. Spend the day immersing yourself in history and your nights relaxing or taking advantage of amenities like a pool or yard games.
The phrase “Virginia is for Lovers” may have recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, but it is a sentiment that rings just as true today as it did back then. With towering mountains, lulling waves and sparkling city skylines, Virginia is one of the most romantic places to go for a weekend escape with your significant other.
Alexandria, a historic city on the Potomac, has a habit of attracting some of the country’s most devoted hopeless romantics due to its quaint cobblestone streets, vibrant nightlife opportunities and swoon-worthy riverside location. You can mold your romantic Alexandria outing to fit your style as a couple — laid back and relaxing, refined and upscale or fun and casual.
Reconnect with each other when you participate in any of the following Alexandria traditions:
KOA has multiple campgrounds in the Alexandria area, making it easy to find a comfortable place to stay close to the many attractions of Alexandria. Regardless of which campground you choose, there are many amenities available, such as pools and fire pits for s’mores.
The Elizabeth River Water Trail is a 10.5-mile urban destination in Norfolk that is a popular spot for walking and jogging. It offers unparalleled views of the sparkling Elizabeth River, as well as dozens of trail markers that speak about the local history and culture. It is a unique experience and a great fit for couples who like to stay active together or want a leisurely place to walk the dog while exploring the rest of Norfolk.
When you are not walking the trail, visit the Norfolk Botanical Garden or browse the Hermitage Museum and Gardens for a peaceful, nature-inspired weekend getaway.
Your nature-inspired weekend continues when you book your stay at one of the many KOAs near Norfolk. Take in scenic views and multiple opportunities to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
Maymont is a 100-acre estate located in Richmond popular with couples and anyone interested in an inside look at life in the Gilded Age. The estate was owned by James and Sallie May Dooley, millionaires, who established the state and gardens to compete with the other beautiful homes that were popular with wealthy families at the time. While the inside of the mansion is opulent, lavish and refined, the gardens are even more breathtaking. With streams, ravines, gazebos and endless trees, bushes and flowers in bloom each season, it is the perfect romantic backdrop for a weekend anniversary outing or a way to celebrate your relationship.
You can also visit the Robins Nature Center and the Maymont Farm, which are home to several types of animals and animal habitats, including horses, sheep, ducks, chickens, bison, black bears, elk and bobcats.
Blandy Experimental Farm and the State Arboretum of Virginia is a 172-acre reference garden and a natural area used by the University of Virginia. When you are here, choose from one of four relaxed walking trails, including Willow Trail, which winds around picturesque Lake Arnold.
The Arboretum has all types of displays to see, including the Pollination Garden full of wildflowers, the Herbaceous Gardens and the Virginia Native Plant Trail. Enjoy the sight of more than 5,000 trees and shrubs, all of which attract hundreds of birds and other small animals. If you are an artistic couple, Blandy Farm is the ideal place for photography or sketching together.
Off the coast of Virginia, on the other side of Chincoteague Bay, lie the Chincoteague and Assateague Islands, home of the wild Chincoteague ponies. These horses have called the islands home for hundreds of years and offer visitors stunning views as they walk in the surf. Visit during the annual Pony Swim event for festival foods and games and watch as herds of ponies swim in the ocean waters.
While the Chincoteague ponies are the highlight, there are plenty of other couple-friendly activities. For example, you could:
Another great way to enjoy the wonder of Chincoteague is by booking a stay at one of the KOAs nearby. All KOA Campgrounds are clean and offer spacious sites with plenty of amenities to make your fun weekend trips in Virginia even more memorable.
Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, sneak away for a romantic escape or plan a fun-filled trip for the whole family, there is a KOA Campground for you. With more than a dozen locations in Virginia, your destination is never too far.
Reserve a stay at any of the following KOA locations:
When planning a weekend trip, you probably do not want to worry about too much preparation or planning before you go. That is why camping in a cozy cabin or opting for a more unique accommodation is the ideal way to stay. At KOA, every campsite has access to restrooms with hot water, laundry facilities and plenty of on-site activities and features to enhance your stay.
Enjoy a safe, comfortable getaway with any of the following:
Great weekend getaways in Virginia start by booking a stay at KOA. Reserve your campsite to start planning the vacation of a lifetime today!
About the Author: Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.
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