I am trying to plan a camping trip soon for a few friends and I. Having backpacked in the GWNF before and having loved it, I'd like to try some car camping there.

My main question is if alcohol is allowed in campsites in the Elizabeth Furnace camping area or the Brandywine camping area.

Also, what other areas are within 2.5hrs of DC?

To the best of our knowledge alcohol is okay in Elizabeth Furnace cg but recommend you do so with thought and consideration. Elizabeth is the closest but Camp Roosevelt cg is also convenient. Both have excellent trails. There are other campgrounds in the area but they didn't meet our specs so we don't have any data. You need to call the District folks about them. It is a beautiful area - enjoy!

My wife/partner forgot to suggest you go to our website for detailed info. about developed camping in the GW - click on icon upper left of this page and select the GW. You'll find descriptions about both Elizabeth Furnace and Camp Roosevelt . . . Fred