Top 18 Outstanding Camping Locations in Virginia

The diverse landscapes of Virginia make it one of the most visually appealing states in the Southern region. From the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains and the picturesque Appalachian Trail to the coastline and inland lake shorelines, choosing the best viewpoint is a challenge. Nature enthusiasts can flourish within Virginia's borders, whether they enjoy a forest hike over the weekend or kayaking on a midweek waterscape.

Regardless of whether you plan to visit Virginia or already live there as a resident of the Old Dominion, one of the best ways to soak in the scenery is camping. You can choose the classic experience with your partner at a primitive campsite, set up an RV for a family weekend getaway, or gather a group of friends for an overnight glamping adventure in a yurt. Regardless of your preferred type of camping experience, Virginia has a campground to cater to your needs. Below are some of the best camping spots in Virginia.

01of 18## Spacious Skies Shenandoah Vis

Luray

If you are traveling with an RV, Spacious Skies Shenandoah Vis is an excellent choice. This site has 76 RV-friendly campsites, complete with convenient pull-through spaces. They also provide eight tent sites, two deluxe cabins, and four yurts for an ultimate glamping experience. The primary attraction is the Shenandoah Valley National Park, making this campground highly sought after by tourists. Additionally, Spacious Skies offers a dog park, playground, laundry facilities, and two swimming pools. An unusual offer is the jumping pillow and gem mining, which adds a unique twist to your stay in Luray Caverns.

spaciousskiescampgrounds.com/shenandoah-vis, 3402 Kimball Road, Luray, VA

02of 18## Hungry Mother State Park

Marion

Although its odd name may pique your interest, Hungry Mother State Park, named after a mother searching for food for her child, is one of Virginia’s oldest state parks. Established in 1933, this park in Marion is popular due to its lush forest and lakefront beach, perfect for summer activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. Additionally, you can enjoy paddleboarding and hiking to Molly’s Knob, a vantage point with views of three states. Campsites are available for those who prefer a tent, while yurt rentals and cabins offer unique options.

dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/hungry-mother, 2854 Park Boulevard, Marion, VA 24354

03of 18## Hurricane Campground

Sugar Grove

Hurricane Campground at the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area is lesser-known but is a fantastic choice for nature lovers. Located in Southwest Virginia, it is a secret gem for those not interested in RV camping. The nearby 60 miles of the Appalachian Trail is often frequented by wild ponies, and the 27 campsites are ideal for tent camping. Enjoy fishing and hiking nearby, or visit the town of Marion, known for art, dining, and live music.

fs.usda.gov/recarea/gwj/recarea, 2021 Hurricane, Camp Road, Sugar Grove, VA 24375

04of 18## Bethpage Camp Resort

Urbanna

For those visiting the Chesapeake Bay, Bethpage Camp Resort should be your top choice. This family-friendly campground, with over 1000 campsites, has a variety of accommodations, from basic RV sites to cozy cottages. The resort is famous for its numerous activities, such as hay wagon rides, mini golf, and water parks with multiple pools. Guests can also enjoy planned activities like live entertainment and movie nights. Many campers return yearly to enjoy the warm weather, making this a great destination for a summer vacation.

bethpagecamp.com, 679 Brown’s Lane, Urbanna, VA 23175

05of 18## Williamsburg Campground

Williamsburg

Williamsburg Campground is known as a classic KOA-turned-family-owned business. This gated property, now under third-generation management, offers pet-friendly accommodations, including hiking trails, a playground, and a dog park. Partake in the outdoor fire pits or relax by the heated swimming pool. Families will enjoy the disc golf course, jumping pillow, and splash pad. Whether you stay in a tent, yurt, or RV with a patio, this campground offers a variety of options for every type of traveler.

williamsburgcampground.com, 4000 Nman Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188

06of 18## Explore Park

Roanoke

Discover Explore Park, situated right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. This extensive area, part of Roanoke County Parks, sprawls over numerous acres, showcasing various terrains. Wander through the lush rolling hills, embark on hiking trails, and immerse yourself in an unforgettable outdoor experience alongside the river. Challenge yourself by tackling an aerial obstacle course or venture onto one of the numerous mountain biking trails. The park boasts two distinct campgrounds—one boasting yurts, cabins, and RV sites, and the other offering primitive camping and elevated platform sites.

roanokecountyparks.com/231/Explore-Park, 56 Roanoke River Parkway Road, Roanoke, VA 24014

Next up is Algonkian Regional Park, nestled in Sterling. Spanning 838 acres along the Potomac River, this location provides a smorgasbord of recreational activities. Even though traditional camping and RV sites are absent, you can stay in charming riverfront cottages housing anywhere from 4 to 10 guests. Enjoy complimentary admission to Volcano Island Waterpark, and families can explore playgrounds, hiking trails, and miniature golf. A boat launch and fishing spots are also readily available for water enthusiasts.

novaparks.com/parks/algonkian-regional-park, 47001 Fairway Drive, Sterling, VA 20165

Head over to Emporia/I-95 KOA, situated in Emporia. This campground prioritizes nature, offering a variety of accommodations, from tent sites to RV pads with complete hookups, or cozy cabins to house the entire family. Spend your days exploring nearby attractions like historic Petersburg, downtown Richmond, Lake Gaston, or Pamplin Historical Park. Unwind at the campground by swimming, playing basketball, or joining the fun at Water Wars during the summer, and roast s'mores all year round by the fire.

koa.com/campgrounds/emporia, 2940 Sussex Drive, Emporia, VA 23847

Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge serves as the ideal base camp while visiting the enchanting Natural Bridge of Rockbridge County. Choose from various waterfront tent and RV sites, some offering stunning views of the James River. Youngsters will love the splash park, playground, and mini golf, while spending their days canoeing or tubing on the river. Visit the arcade game room in the evening and take your fishing rod to catch catfish and bass in the well-stocked pond.

sunoutdoors.com/virginia/jellystone-park-natural-bridge, 16 Recreation Lane, Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579

Thousand Trails has two locations in our rundown—one in Williamsburg and another in Chesapeake Bay—both offering waterfront indulgence or historical expeditions. Each pet-friendly location provides amusements such as game rooms, playgrounds, miniature golf, pickleball, volleyball, and various other onsite activities. The Chesapeake Bay location boasts full hookup RV sites, tent campsites, and cozy cabins, while the Williamsburg property is conveniently located near prominent historical attractions and amusement parks.

thousandtrails.com/virginia/williamsburg-rv-camping-resort, 4301 Rochambeau Dr, Williamsburg, VA 23188

thousandtrails.com/virginia/chesapeake-bay-rv-resort, 12014 Trails Lane, Gloucester, VA 23061

buschgardens.com/williamsburg, One Busch Gardens Boulevard, Williamsburg, VA 23187

watercountryusa.com, 176 Water Country Parkway, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Devils Backbone Camp, located in Roseland, is a paradise for campers and enthusiasts of the Nelson 151 craft beverage trail. Venture into the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, situated just five miles from the Appalachian Trail. This 71-acre campground offers 24 primitive tent sites, while the bathhouse remains accessible for revelers at all hours. Feast your eyes on 25 full hookup sites and 22 non-electric sites for RVs, allowing you to explore the nearby beverage trail and enjoy a tranquil overnight stay.

dbbringcompany.com/camp-at-basecamp, 30 Three Ridges Lane, Roseland, VA 22967

Lastly, Deer Trail Park and Campground awaits in Wytheville. This quaint campground, nestled on the picturesque Blue Ridge Parkway, offers a diverse range of amenities, from modern facilities to rustic outdoor experiences. Choose from tenting spots or cozy RV pads while enjoying wildlife viewing, hiking, and other rural attractions. Experience a memorable trip in this oasis of tranquility.

*deertrailcampground.com, 622 Deer Trail Park Road, Wytheville, VA 24348

Tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains' lush valleys, Deer Trail Park and Campground is a fantastic spot for soul-searching camper enthusiasts. Though you can seek solace on the hiking trails and marvel at the breathtaking mountain vistas from the shade, the heated pool and playground incentivize social interaction. Stock up at the country store, savor picnic meals in the communal shelter, and share stories after a day of fishing in the well-stocked pond. It's up to you to decipher how to spend your time. Keep efforts to stay connected minimal by limiting park-wide Wi-Fi usage. Accommodations cater to diversified needs with RV setups, cabins, and tent camping sites.

deertrailpark.com, 599 Gullion Fork Road, Wytheville, VA 24382

Endless Caverns RV Resort

Situated near Interstate 81, this gem is a must-visit for those eager to explore underground treasures. Endless Caverns RV Resort welcomes curious RVers from all corners of the nation with its full-service sites, ensuring they're well-equipped to experience the caverns. Stimulate your senses beyond the caves by fishing in the catch-and-release pond, participating in games like horseshoes and volleyball, or indulging in some quality family time by the zero-entry pool. Throughout the year, the resort hosts events, like live music concerts and classic car shows, making each visit even more memorable.

endlesscaverns.com, 1800 Endless Caverns Road, N Market, VA 22844

Small Country Campground

This Small Country Campground in Louisa is a colossal delight for families. Spanning 150 acres, this campground boasts a mini-golf course, a 25-acre lake filled with largemouth bass, and updated amenities like ADA-compliant bathhouses, a dog park, and a convenient store. Regular campers flock to the site for event-laden weekends. Offering diverse camping options and group spaces for up to five tents, Small Country Campground invites you to spend an unforgettable vacation.

smallcountry.com, 4400 Byrd Mill Road, Louisa, VA 23093

Grayson Highlands State Park

Nestled between Abingdon's two wilderness areas, Grayson Highlands State Park welcomes adventurers questing to conquer the highest peak in the state, Mount Rogers. During the leaf-peeping season and summer, the park becomes a popular hub for outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, horse riding, and bouldering, while also providing shelter for feral ponies that add an exotic flair to the adventure. With various campsites available—including one for equestrian campers, reservations are highly recommended due to high demand.

dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands, 829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363

Floyd Family Campground

Surrounding Floyd's thriving live music scene, Floyd Family Campground is a premium location, only 10 minutes away from the heart of it all. The campground features premium and primitive tent sites, dry RV sites, and full hookups for RVs seeking a more comfortable stay. Immerse yourself in nature-filled activities like disc golf, biking trails, archery, and cornhole. Its ADA-compliant bathhouses ensure a pleasant stay for all guests.

floydfamilycampground.com, 2697 Franklin Pike SE, Floyd, VA 24091

Twin River Outfitters

For those longing for a serene escape, Twin River Outfitters is your ticket to a weekend getaway. The driver-friendly campsite allows you to park your watercraft nearby and make the transition from your boat to your accommodations simple. Twin River Outfitters provides add-ons like firewood purchasable at the site and plenty of space for outdoor cooking. Spend your days on the James River, exploring its captivating sights.

canoevirginia.net/campgrounds, 640 Lowe Street, Buchanan, VA 24066

Nport Ns Park Campground

Nestled in natural woodlands, this campground offers a myriad of amenities, including grills, laundry facilities, and a camp store to cater to your needs. Campers can satiate their love for nature by hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, and participating in activities like archery and disc golf. Boat rentals are available for those wanting to take advantage of the lake. Pets are welcome, and the campground surrounds many attractions in the Williamsburg, Virginia Beach, and Norfolk areas.

nnparksandrec.org/camping, 13560 Jefferson Avenue, Nport Ns, VA 23603

Frequently Asked Questions

[Paraphrased from the original text]

Is it possible to wild camp in Virginia? The term 'wild camping' refers to setting up camp within a national forest, avoiding any designated campgrounds, rest areas, or trailheads. Your vehicle can be used for camping at these spots, but it should maintain a distance of 150 feet from the road. Make sure to review the rules beforehand.
Is it feasible to camp for no cost in Virginia? Indeed, certain Wildlife Management Areas and public grounds offer free camping, but a permit may be needed. Ensure you comply with other rules as well, as some areas permit camping solely during activities like hunting, fishing, or boating.

If you're looking for a Southern Living experience and have a passion for travel, Virginia is a must-visit. This beautiful state offers a variety of campgrounds for nature enthusiasts, such as the Spacious Skies Shenandoah Vis in Luray or the Hungry Mother State Park in Marion. Whether you're an RV traveler or enjoy primitive camping, Virginia caters to various preferences. And if you plan to visit one of these campgrounds, be sure to check out SouthernLiving's list of the best camping spots in Virginia for additional recommendations.