DC State Fair

Onsite camping is not offered at the DC State Fair, but you can find campgrounds on the perimeter of DC and beyond into Virginia and Maryland.

For nature enthusiasts, a stay in the beautiful Shenandoah National Park due west of DC offers mountain views and (in Autumn) stunning fall colors. Prince William Forest to the south of DC also offers camping for RV's and tent campers alike, in addition to miles of hiking and biking trails. For military veterans and their families, the surrounding areas of Virginia and Maryland offer several military RV campgrounds.

DC's neighboring states offer incredible fall weather and foliage with a mix of pine, oak and maple trees. Deer and chipmunks are particularly common to the area, while birdwatchers will love searching for hawks, warblers, wrens, and orioles.

The DC State Fair location changes each year, so check the website for the most up-to-date location details. Getting around the fair is relatively easy as this metropolitan fair does not take-over as much real-estate as rural agricultural fairs.

Guests can sometimes navigate around the fair using bicycles or stand-up scooters for rent throughout the district. Download the appropriate app ahead of time to be prepared and make hopping on and off these motorized vehicles easier. Wear good walking shoes to avoid foot fatigue since seating options may be limited in this city setting.

The DC State Fair typically takes place in the fall, but be sure to check the website for an up to date and time. Weather in DC during September is still warm with temperatures reaching into the 80's during the day. Once the sun goes down, expect temperatures to drop into the lower 60's. Bring layers and check the week's weather forecast ahead of time. Wear sunscreen to fend off harmful rays while perusing the fair. Also, bring a poncho or raincoat in the event of unexpected showers.

The DC State Fair prides itself on being a sustainable event and encourages visitors to pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. DC Water will have a filling station to refill your container throughout the day. Consider bringing a reusable shopping bag to carry home your fair buys. As an urban fair, many vendors and artists will likely accept credit cards, but always come prepared with cash to make quick purchases easier.

As an urban fair, hospitals and ambulances are never far away. Always be prepared with documentation that you may need to show doctors in the event of an emergency. Toilets on site are likely to be port-a-potties. If you need a restroom, you may be able to purchase a small item from a convenience store or coffee shop to gain access to their facilities in some locations.

Always check with the campground that you choose to note restrictions on outdoor fires and campfire cooking. If you plan to camp in an urban area, open fires may be prohibited, so remember to check ahead of time for seasonal restrictions. Grocery stores are easy to find in DC and its suburban communities. If you are camping in Shenandoah National Park, be sure to pick up food and drink before heading into the park to avoid extra mountain driving.

DC is home to a thriving foodie scene and diverse multi-cultural cuisines. Dine at a Michelin starred restaurant, or grab a savory food truck meal. DC offers all types of eats, be it ramen, pizza, or tapas. Rooftop bars are popular in the summer and fall and showcase the national icons and memorials of the DC area. Suburban communities are likely to have chain restaurants and local haunts for dining. Shenandoah camping features small mountain towns and local diners.

The DC State Fair highlights local food and drink vendors. Food trucks and food vendors sell their scrumptious creations which are often eclectic and locally influenced, such as seasonal popsicles or burgers featuring locally sourced meat.