Five Spots for a Weekend in the Great Outdoors -- Car Optional

Activities abound for campers at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston, including fishing and spending time at the water park. (By Don Sweeney -- Fairfax County Park Authority)

A native Washingtonian, Cunningham says part of the fun of Greenbelt Park is when kids from the city visit and realize how close they live to campgrounds. He also says the park attracts foreign tourists who are surprised to discover its proximity to the Metro.

"It's so close it is unbelievable," Cunningham says. "They can't believe [it] once they look at their little books."

How far is it from Washington? About 12 miles from downtown.

How do I get there? Ride Metro's Green Line to Greenbelt, then hop on the C2 Metrobus. The bus will stop at the park entrance.

Cost?$16 per night.

What else do I need to know? The campground includes showers and bathrooms. Reservations recommended during the summer. Call 301-344-3944 or visit http://www.nps.gov/gree.

Lake Fairfax Park

1400 Lake Fairfax Dr., Reston

Why should I go? Lake Fairfax is one of the best-suited campsites for visitors who have children and don't want to travel too far. "Nobody is going to be bored at Lake Fairfax," says Judy Pedersen, public information officer for the Fairfax County Park Authority.

She might have a slight bias, but she's probably right. In addition to all the fun one can have on a lake, there is a water park and an antique carousel. "If you have young children, that is such a perfect combination," Pedersen says.

Not enough for you? The park's stage hosts free concerts and other performances throughout the summer, and the Reston Zoo is nearby. This coming weekend features Fourth of July fireworks starting at 9:15 p.m.

How far is it from Washington? About 20 miles.

How do I get there? Take Metro's Blue or Orange line to Rosslyn, then transfer to the 5A Metrobus toward Dulles Airport. At Tysons Westpark Transit Station, transfer to Fairfax Connector Bus 574 toward Reston Town Center. Get off at Baron Cameron Avenue and Lake Fairfax Drive, about three blocks from the park entrance.