Grayson Highlands State Park Campingmouth Of Wilson
Photo Credit: Kyle LaFerriere,
Grayson Highlands State Park Campground offers basic campgrounds with beautiful views, but that is just the beginning. The park is the gateway to the states highest peak, Mount Rogers, and also an entry to the Appalachian Trail. You can hike, bike, and even ride a horse along the trails. And dont be surprised if you come across some interesting wildlife while venturing through the region wild ponies roam the park freely. There is power at the sites but no water from November-March, and also no bathrooms or showers, so be prepared to really rough it while camping.
North Bay Shore Campground
The North Bay Shore Campground is a family-oriented campground situated along the canals of Virginia Beach that lead into the North Bay. Catering more to families, the campground offers several different amenities and activities that can be enjoyed by campers of all ages. Theres a a seasonal, kid-friendly swimming pool and a playground with play-sets, swings, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, and more. The recreation room offers cable television, ping pong, air hockey, pool, and foosball. Other activities include fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. Many of the sites are located along the waterfront, allowing for fishing right from the campsite.
3257 Colechester Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, Phone: 757-426-7911
You are reading “25 Best Campgrounds in Virginia” Back to Top or More weekend getaways, what to do near me, must see attractions, stuff to do near me
New River Trail State Park
New River Trail State Park is a highly popular location that swells with hikers, bikers, fishermen, swimmers, canoeists, and horseback riding enthusiasts in the late spring through early fall.
The park offers three primitive campgrounds: Cliffview, Millrace, and Double Shoals. None of the campgrounds have vehicular access, showers, or washing facilities, so this is another one for those who are happy to spend a few days shorn of luxuries and creature comforts if it means getting a little more seclusion and peace in return.
Both Cliffview and Millrace sites have fire pits, lantern posts, picnic tables, drinking water, non-flush toilets, and also offer canoe and bike rentals. The Double Shoals site, however, it entirely frill-free, remote, and the only amenities youll enjoy are those youre able to carry in with you!
- Access points include Allisonia, Chestnut Yard, Cliffview, Dannelly Park , Draper, Dora Junction , Foster Falls, Fries, Galax, Gambetta, Hiwassee and Ivanhoe
- Those camping at Millrace should be aware that the New Rivers current is unpredictable and potentially dangerous
- Campers must bring their own water to Double Shoals Campground
- Reservations are required and same-day reservations are permitted at Millrace and Cliffview campgrounds
- Double Shoals is an honor-system campground with a self-pay system onsite for first-come, first-served use for its two primitive sites
Recommended Reading: Best Foam Mattress For Car Camping
A Riverside Stay In Russell County Va
Known as one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, theres no better place to spend a night out in nature than beside the Clinch River in Russell County, Va.
Cleveland RiverBend Campground is a quiet getaway, perfect for the laid back camper. With both RV and primitive sites available, you can choose how you sleep. Amenities include restroom and shower facilities, as well as electric, water, and an onsite dump station for RVs.
From the campground, access the walking trail and boardwalk that connects to Town Park via a suspension bridge. For more outdoor excursions, try the three-mile trail out to Tank Hollow Falls at Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve or get on the river at one of the nearby boat slips.
Plan your upcoming trip around a local festival to experience the music, food, and culture of southwestern Virginia. From guided canoe trips and hikes to festival food and local craft drink tastings, Clinch River Days, scheduled for June 4-5, is an annual tradition highlighting the rare and endangered freshwater mussels that call the scenic river home. Or visit the following weekend and celebrate all things bluegrass, country, rock, and gospel music at the Lebanon Cedar Fest, scheduled for June 12-13.
ExperienceRussell.com
Stay at a water-front cabin at Wilderness Presidential Resort.Photo courtesy of the resort.
First Landing State Park
Phone:
Located on Cape Henry, which separates the Atlantic Ocean from the southern shore of Chesapeake Bay, First Landing sprawls over nearly 3000 acres south of Fort Story Army Base.
This is the spot where the first colonists landed in 1607. Those colonists went further inland to found Jamestown. Now First Landing is Virginias most popular state park.
- With nearly 20 miles of hiking trails through marshes, lagoons, and forest and 1.5 miles of beach on Chesapeake Bay, the park is great for families, especially with children.
- And dont forget your dog. Pets are welcome in all of Virginias state parks.
- First Landing has cabins as well as electric hook-up campsites.
- There are boat ramps, picnic areas and a store.
- Since the park is tucked into a corner of Virginia Beach City, there are restaurants, shops, movie theaters, and even several amusement parks nearby.
- Cape Henry Lighthouse is great for exploration.
This campground is perfect for people who enjoy camping but prefer being close to civilization.
You May Like: Spread Creek Dispersed Camping Area Map
The Best Coastal Campgrounds In Virginia Beach Va
Perfectly located at the sweet spot where the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean meet, the vibrant city of Virginia Beach attracts visitors of all ages with its flourishing culinary scene, rich history, and variety of outdoor adventures. Experience everything from the lively and bustling Town Center district to remote areas surrounded by nature when you visit coastal Virginia.
Camping is the perfect way to get the most out of your beach retreat. Fall asleep to the sounds of the bay at First Landing State Park. With over 200 tent and RV sites, plus a number of cabins and yurts, its just a short stroll across the boardwalk to reach the beach. Hike or bike 20 miles of trails through bald cypress swamps, lagoons, maritime forests, and shoreline at Virginias most-visited state park before turning in for the night. The more adventurous camper will enjoy the solitude and undeveloped coastline at False Cape State Park. The four primitive campgrounds located on Back Bay and the ocean require anywhere from a five to eight mile hike or bike from your car. Inexperienced campers and young children are not recommended due to the remote nature of the sites.
Get a taste for the sweet life by the water on your next camping trip to Virginia Beach.
VisitVirginiaBeach.com/Outdoors
Cover photo by Joshua Anderson courtesy of UnsplashSpecial advertising section.
Hungry Mother State Park
Hungry Mother State Park is a great option for campers, especially if you want options on how to stay. Hungry Mother is located in Marion, Virginia, and easily accessible from Interstate 81. Hungry Mother offers a variety of stay options such as tent camping, RVs, Cabins, and Yurts.
Aside from Camping, this park has a beach, hiking and biking trails, boat rentals, an amphitheater, and showcases annual events. This park is only a ten to fifteen-minute drive from Downtown Marion Virginia where you can enjoy local shopping and dining options.
Recommended Reading: Red Top Mountain State Park Camping
Top 10 Campgrounds And Rv Parksvirginia
Virginia is a place of rich history, astounding natural beauty, and local culture. Located in the southeastern United States, this fantastic state has everything from wondrous mountain views to gorgeous Atlantic coastlines. This vast array of picturesque views makes it a popular vacation spot, especially for campers. Luckily, there are amazing RV trailer parks all over Virginia. In this article, weve narrowed those down the ten best Virginia RV parks and campground comparing the daily, weekly, and monthly rates, reviews, and amenities. If youre interested in taking a trip to beautiful Virginia, this list is the perfect starting place. Simply take a look at the parks, and choose your favorite!
76 Harvest Hosts Locations in Virginia
A membership program that invites self-contained RVers to have unique overnight stays.
- Discounts: Good Sam Club
How Do I Obtain A Camping Authorization
Camping authorization can be obtained from the Go Outdoors Virginia website or any DWR license agent. You will need to obtain a free customer ID number if you have not previously registered with Go Outdoors Virginia. Camping authorizations are located under Special Licenses in the online license catalog.
Recommended Reading: Best Dispersed Camping In North Carolina
Bridgeport Area Attractions And Activities
For those camping at Trumbull Lake Campground, the greater Bridgeport area offers a number hiking trails, lakes, and mountains to explore. To the south is Mono Lake with all its wonders.
- Bridgeport Reservoir is known as an excellent fishing destination.
- Travertine Hot Springs is a soothing 103 degrees.
- Bodie State Historic Park is a favorite with history buffs, photographers, and the public in general.
- To the south are Mono Lake and the scenic June Lake Loop.
- Twin Lakes are known to produce many of the largest brown trout on record.
- Hike into the Hoover Wilderness from one of many trailheads within easy distance of Bridgeport.
- Hike from the Upper Twin Lake to scenic Barney Lake.
Can I Camp In A Travel Trailer Or Recreational Vehicle
Yes, but understand that WMA roads are not suitable for long vehicles or trailers. Keep in mind that no amenities are provided . Some WMAs may not allow travel trailers or RVs due to the size and design of access roads and parking. Be sure to check the posted rules for your selected WMA on the DWR website.
You May Like: Camping World Of Poteau Poteau Ok
Backcountry Campingshenandoah National Park
For the avid outdoors enthusiast, it doesnt get any more primitive than backcountry camping while hiking the Appalachian Trail. Very few areas in the park are off-limits to overnight stays, and park campers get a front-row seat for discovering Virginias amazing scenery and wildlife. A word of caution: Backcountry camping in Shenandoah National Park is not for beginners. Preparing for an overnight trip in the mountains of Virginia requires experience, survival skills, and the right tools and supplies. Make sure you are fully aware of the risks and rules to backcountry camping before you plan your trip to the park.
Campgrounds In Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia is a haven for many folks who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of D.C. Camping here is a calm way to spend a weekend or longer, and the only thing that should bring stress to your life is choose between the several campgrounds. Here are the 8 best spots for camping Northern Virgina:
8 of the Best Spots for Camping Northern Virginia
Washington, D.C. is a densely populated location, but as you go west into Northern Virginia, the populace begins to thin off. As a result, there are several forested areas that provide unique camping experiences. Because there are so many alternatives, finding the finest camping locations in this area of the state might be difficult, but here are a few suggestions:
1. Pohick Bay Regional Park Campgrounds
Camping in Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, Virginia, on the banks of the Potomac River, is second to none. Boat rentals, a disc golf course, a swimming pool, and hiking trails are just a few of the amenities available at the campsite, which is also near to a golf course. Tents and RVs are welcome, and there are a few cottages available for rent.
4. Wilderness presidential resort
If youre looking for the best place to go camping in Virginia, you cant go wrong with Wilderness Presidential Resort.
Whether youre looking for a tent site, RV site, or cabin rentals near Washington DC, Wilderness Presidential Resort has something for you on its 600 acres of beautiful woodland and lakes.
5. Mathews Arm Campground
Recommended Reading: Best Fire Pits For Camping
Historic Cold Sulphur Springs Campground
Goshen, VA, is home to the Historic Cold Sulphur Springs Campground, a rustic spot with tent and RV sites and some of the regions best pond fishing. The campground is peaceful and surrounded by dense forests, yet its close enough to Goshen that youre never far from amenities or additional supplies. Theres also outstanding hiking nearby, as youre only a short drive from the Goshen Pass Trailhead.
Lake Fairfax Park Campground
Lake Fairfax is more like a pond than a lake, but its central location in Reston, not far from Dulles International Airport, makes it a popular spot. This park features an array of fields, a skate park, a pump track, boat rentals, and waterslides to use during your stay. The campsites sit in a wooded area with hiking trails, providing you with the illusion of spending time in the wilderness despite being in the middle of a metro area.
Also Check: Best Camping In New York State
Pohick Bay Regional Park
A second family camping site managed by Nova Parks, Pohick Bay Campground offers 150 sites near the Potomac River. The park is 24 miles south of Washington DC, so it’s a good base for exploring the city.
Pohick Bay is a great place to go camping with kids with lots of amenities to enjoy, including the Pirate’s Cove Waterpark. We booked three adjacent sites here for a fun camping weekend with neighbors.
Pohick Bay Regional Park is situated on the Mason Neck Peninsula, a haven for bald eagles and other birds and wildlife. The park offers excellent paddling and fishing in Gunston Cove and the Potomac River. Rental boats including jon boats, kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, and stand-up paddleboards are available seasonally. There is also a public boat launch and shore access where you can launch your own kayak or canoe.
Tip: Hiking trails at Pohick Bay are poorly marked and can be difficult to follow. They also get very muddy if there has been any rain. We prefer the trails down the road at Mason Neck State Park, but there is an additional entrance fee.
Find more Northern Virginia Hidden Gems Rich in Nature and History.
Camping In Northern Virginia
Choose a Destination & Book Your Sites
Searching for parks in your region is a fantastic place to start. When youre considering different parks, consider the following:
- How far away is it? Parks further from the city tend to be less busy, but they also involve more driving.
- What facilities are there? Decide what facilities you want and what is available.
- What things are there to do? While camping is itself an activity, search for hiking / paddling / activities in the area.
- How popular is it? I suggest Googling something along the lines of most popular parks in your location. There is usually a reason a park is so popular be it beauty, facilities, proximity. Decide how much solitude youd like on your camping trip, as popular parks tend to be busier.
You will almost certainly need to make a reservation in advance, depending on your destination. If this is the case, make a reservation for a campground or a camping permit.
The best time for camping
Although the actual time of the year may vary depending on your location and hobbies, this advice is applicable to the United States, Canada, and Western Europe as a whole. If this is your first time camping, I strongly advise you to do so during the summer.
Other considerations:
How Long to Make Your Trip
Camping Equipment List: What Equipment is Needed for Camping?
- Camping Bag
Camping bag is one of the most important pieces of equipment during your camping trip. It needs to be durable, waterproof and lightweight.
- Sleeping Bag
Don’t Miss: Best Camping In Southern Utah
Is There Free Camping/boondocking In Northern Virginia
Hike-in primitive camping sites in Prince William Forest and Shenandoah National Park are free but campers must still pay park entrance fees. Backcountry permits and registration are required.
Need some gear for your camping expedition? Check out Good Wolf Gear, at Sunset Park in Herndon. They are a local gear exchange with great deals on gently used and new camping equipment, clothes, and food. We picked up a basic 4-person tent for just $15!
Camping is fun, whether you plan a quick overnight close to home or a longer stay in nature. Virginia campgrounds offer a nice range of experiences and amenities for residents and visitors to the DC area. No matter which campground you choose we wish you happy camping and a great time in the Northern Virginia area.
Follow us on , , , and for more fun travel in and from Northern Virginia.
Virginia Fishing Resorts & Trips
Fishing – Resorts and Lodges in Virginia
With the Atlantic Ocean at your side and miles of rivers and lakes, Virginia could be your best fishing vacation. Fish up some bass, perch, and pike in the winding rivers. Those who want to try saltwater fishing can stay at the Surfbreak Oceanfront Hotel, where youll be close to the 1,000 foot Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. You can even grab a deep sea charter for a fishing excursion, just make sure to have a license! At the House Mountain Inn, indulge in a fly fishing adventure. Their fly fishing expert has over 30+ years of experience and will lead all skill levels to the best spots. You can also fish in their stocked ponds! An onsite marina at Smithfield Station makes it easy for you to embark on a fishing vacation, which has also been recognized by Chesapeake Bay Magazines Best of the Bay awards. Have your perfect fishing vacation in Virginia!
Plan your trip to Virginia
Select a region using the map to your right or pick one from the drop down below.
Select a region below to explore Resorts & Lodges in that destination.
Also Check: Where Is Spread Creek Dispersed Camping
Best Virginia Campgrounds: Pocahontas State Park
Pocahontas State Park is located about twenty minutes from Richmond, Virginia and offers several campsites with hookups for water and electricity, as well as grills and picnic tables at all campsites. Amenities available to campers in the Pocahontas State Park campground include restroom facilities with hot showers, as well as laundry facilities and an outdoor swimming pool. Guests can also rent canoes, paddle boats, kayaks, paddle boards, and rowboats, during the warmer months of the year. In addition to camping, the park provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can bring their own boat for a fee.
10301 State Park Rd, Chesterfield, VA 23832, Phone: 804-796-4255
Day trips from, guided vacations, essential facts, solo destinations, vacation spots for seniors, pictures, bar, what is open near me, good places, top 10 state park, prayer, lighthouse, shores, waterparks, state park, vegan, food around me, indoor pools, hike, black sand beach: Champaign, Naperville, Rockford, Dude Ranch in New York, Mountains in Virginia, Fairfax, Lynchburg, Things to Do in Yakima, Washington State islands, Washington State mountains, Washington State vacations, Things to Do in Shreveport, Covington, New Orleans weekend getaway