The best camping near Douthat State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Douthat State Park adventure.

97% (17 reviews)

Can’t decide between lake or mountain? Douthat—one of Virginia’s original state parks—has both.

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Community favorites near Douthat State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Douthat State Park

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Douthat State Park Campground

58 sites · RVs, Tents In Douthat State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Douthat State Park

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James River Depot

6 sites · Tents30 acres · Glasgow, VA

An active hay field nestled between the river and the railroad. A great place to enjoy some R and R. We love to float the James and there is easy access to the river on our property. A beautiful field as well as some trees for added shade. Fun to hear the trains and the water as you get amazing views of the night sky.

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Green Acres

13 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Clifton Forge, VA

This property has 8 sites MESSAGE US FOR DETAILS REGARDING OUR AMENITIES AND FACILITIES. Check us out on Facebook at... GREEN ACRES VA CAMPING ... if interested in tent sites. Read the top post for instructions on renting tent sites. We are officially permitted and licensed by the State of Virginia to operate and run a campground. Please read individual site descriptions for specific details for the sites. Not all sites are the same. There is also info available at our facebook page. We have a Charcoal Grill (includes spatula, tongs and turning fork) available to rent for $10 (fee is for entire length of stay). Come camp on the peaceful banks of the Cowpasture river. This is a great place to come to get away from the noise and just relax. The river depth along the property ranges from a few inches to 6ft. Most sites offer partial shade. Open field area for playing games. Large communal fire pit beside the river. We also have a communal Shelter that has two booth style tables under it. Nearby places of interest including Falling Springs waterfall, Humpback Bridge, Lake Moomaw, Douthat State Park...all within less than an hours drive. Only a few minutes from the closest town, incase you need food, supplies, fuel, etc. Please note that not all cellular providers have service at this location. I know that Verizon does. Pack trash out with you.

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Thunder Bridge

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Natural Bridge Station, VA

Situated at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and bordering the Jefferson National Forest, Thunder BRidge has scenic, large, private tent sites and cabins in the woods for those who want to experience camping at its finest. Many of the sites border Elk Creek. Our RV sites are large, flat and at the edge of the forest in a well kept open green space. Our 100 acres was originally a camp built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the "30s and early '40s, then a boys' juvenile detention center and Big Brothers'/Big Sisters' camp, which closed in 2009. The tent sites and cabins are in the forest, away from the buildings out front, but you're free to walk around and check out the historic site. We'd like to share the camp with others and see it come back to life. All within a short driving distance are the Natural Bridge, wineries, breweries, Natural Bridge Zoo, Safari Park, Dinosaur Kingdom, Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, James River, historic Lexington, Devil's Marbleyard, Glenwood Horse Trail, swimming holes, etc. We have river access 2 miles up the road if you'd like to fish or put your kayak or canoe in. Truly, there is something nearby for everyone. We'd be happy to give you recommendations of things to see and do.

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Camping at Lazy River Farm

3 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Iron Gate, VA

Learn more about this land: Lazy River Farm has so much to offer. Tents sites are in a wooded setting, on a beautiful hill, spread out for privacy. Camp sites also have fire pits with wood ready for you at your site. Camp sites can be accessed with a 4 wheel drive vehicle or all wheel drive, a short walk up to your site. With easy access down to the river, you can cool off in the beautiful Cow Pasture River. Glamping in the Vardo Wagon is another option, with its close proximity to the river and cozy interior. Rent kayaks or paddle boards if you want to go on beautiful floats that wont disappoint you, (paddle boards and kayaks are available for free if you paddle near the farm) drop in a line to fish, or simply sit by the river and listen to the soft rapids. Lazy River Farm is a working farm, with lovely Scottish Highland Cattle as well as pigs, chickens and horses. Your welcome to come and pet the animals or even possibly help feed them. Nearby there are vineyards and breweries, the beautiful historic Masonic Theater, C&O heritage center, miles of back roads to explore, as well as local restaurants. Lazy River Farm and Gala Adventures offer many activities, on and off the farm. Contact us directly for a full range of what we have to offer, or have questions regarding any site.

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Beaverdam Falls

3 sites · Lodging65 acres · Covington, VA

Nestled on a private 65-acre farm in the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia, Beaverdam Falls is located on VA SR-311 (Kanawha Trail) in the Sweet Springs Valley. Nestled in the old community of Earlehurst, between Covington & Roanoke, Beaverdam Falls are an historic series of waterfalls on private property. The Falls are at the headwaters of Dunlap Creek and are the terminus for the Sweet Springs. Available for guest stays & recreation, are the Upper Falls portion. Surrounded by the verdant George Washington National Forest, the Upper Falls, displays a constant waterfall of around 40-feet in height, & decorates the final mile stretch of the Sweet Springs, both on our property. Additional beautiful cascades pepper our tract of Beaverdam Falls as well. This private tract of unparalleled Virginia countryside will simply astonish your expectations. As the source of the Falls, Sweet Springs Creek, serves as a long, unique home for trout, calcified travertine rock, chalybeate water, and ancient beaver dams (as well as active ones!). Beaverdam Falls is a rare place for the lack of stone and the centuries of beavers who have left their trace in & on our creek—and swamp, the Stick Marsh, which has an active beaver dam. Be careful! They do bite!

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Mane Gait Equestrian Center

2 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Natural Bridge, VA

Mane Gait is conveniently located right off route 81 and can accommodate large rigs. You won't find better views of the blue ridge mountains on this gorgeous working horse farm. We have hiking trails through beautiful private scenery for beginners to advanced hikers. Pets are welcome if leashed! Picnic area on site as well as laundry machine. We are 10 minutes from downtown historic Lexington Virginia that provides great restaurants and lots of history in the charming town of Lexington. Site 2 should be booked for smaller campers around 25 feet. Site 1 is better for larger campers.

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Waltons Campground LLC

7 sites · Tents1 acre · Clifton Forge, VA

Located just minutes off exit 29 on I-64 in the beautiful, eastern end of Alleghany County is the newly formed Waltons Campground. This cozy, family owned and managed area offers seven rustic tent campsites and one additional site that can accommodate a small camper not exceeding 15ft in length. Providing a great balance between primitive and comfortable, Waltons Campground offers county furnished, potable water and a non-flush toilet. Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring and lantern hanger for your convenience. Parking for one vehicle per site is included within the interior of the campground with additional parking available to the left of the exit. We do not have a shower facility. Less than 1000 ft across Nicelytown Road you will find the Sharon Park and public access to the pristine Cowpasture River where many kayak, fish, and play all summer long. The charming small town of Clifton Forge is 4 miles away. Less than 10 miles away, Douthat State Park hosts a lake for swimming and fishing, numerous hiking trails, and many other family friendly activities. Your reservation is not site specific unless you are bringing a small camper. Campsites 1-7 are tent sites, picked on arrival. Campsite 8 is the only camper site. You may conveniently pay for your stay using Venmo to WaltonsCampground or pay on arrival by driving one half mile up to 4618 Nicelytown Road. You will find a drop box on the side of the firewood stand. Drop your envelope with the reservation name and amount due. Need firewood for your stay? We have $5 bundles, $10 bin and $20 bin options available for purchase. You may use the cash drop box for this, as well. For GPS directions please use 4017 Nicelytown Road, Clifton Forge, VA. The campground entrance is directly across from this address. Enter from Nicelytown and exit on Firehouse Circle. Call 540-210-5521 or message us on Facebook to make your reservation today! We look forward to seeing you!

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River Trail Hollow

19 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Hillsboro, WV

-This Campground can only accept vehicle heights less than 10 feet (In order to fit under the Greenbrier River Trail bridge at Stamping Creek) GREENBRIER RIVER and TRAIL (GBRT) steps from your campsite -PEACEFUL, quiet, NO big rigs, NO generators, limited occupancy -DARK, no unnecessary lighting, fireflies are spectacular -COUNTRY STORE with rentals, beer, food, supplies - 0.5 mi -PET FRIENDLY -MARLINTON restaurants, shopping, tavern - 12 mi by road, 10 mi by trail -WATOGA STATE PARK, lake and pool - 5 mi -THE BEACH in Seebert yards away -Active MAPLE FARM on premises - https://hillsboromaple.com/ -TENT, VAN, POP-UP, tear drops, small trailers 10 FEET in height or less (must clear GBRT bridge to access) LOCATION: At junction of the Greenbrier River, Greenbrier River Trail and Stamping Creek, sits on approximately 40 wooded acres. Convenient to all Pocahontas County Attractions - Highland Scenic Hwy, Cass Scenic Railroad, Greenbank Telescope, Beartown SP, Falls of Hills Creek, Snowshoe Mountain Resort and more - https://pocahontascountywv.com/ AMENITIES: Primitive sites Porta-john Bath House Tables and fire rings at each site Firewood - 1st crate FREE, $5 per additional crate. COUNTRY STORE: Jack Horner's Corner - 0.5 miles downriver along Greenbrier River Trail. Open 7 days a week, 9am-9pm, Apr-Oct. Tubes, bicycle & kayak rentals. Fast food, soft-serve, craft beer, grocery, supply & souvenir sales. (304) 653-4515 CELL SERVICE LIMITED: 1-2 bars (good enough to text) at the beach; 2-3 bars (maybe a call) at store; Full signal at 219 (2 miles away)

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Mountains,Woods,Ponds, Natural

20 sites · RVs, Tents300 acres · Lewisburg, WV

Learn more about this land: We have 4 ponds on our property we have open areas, wooded areas, we raise cattle, sheep and chickens. All of the acreage has mountainous views. Our town of Lewisburg is 15 minutes away. Lots to do and enjoy. We sell beef, eggs, firewood, and seasonal vegetables. We also have a Porta potty now on the property for use.

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Camping in the shade on the river

1 site · RV, Tent60 acres · Eagle Rock, VA

Learn more about this land:Very secluded spot right on the river. Large fire pit. 12by40 pavilion. Great area for wade fishing. Right between to state boat ramps one 20 min upstream is the Iron gate ramp one an hour down stream is the Glen Wilton boat ramp. Picknick tables on site.

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Love Ridge Mountain Lodging

24 sites · Lodging, Tents17 acres · Lyndhurst, VA

Love Ridge Mountain Lodging--NEAR SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARKExperience the beauty of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Shenandoah National Park and the Appalachian Trail. Take a dip at nearby Sherando Lake and stop in to some of the many local food and craft beverage hotspots. Then retreat to your own mountain cabin or campsite.Situated at 2,800 feet in the hamlet of Love, Virginia, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging borders the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 16. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat to the mountains or a jumping off point for exploring central Virginia, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging is the perfect choice.CABINSIndulge in a romantic getaway at one of our Blue Ridge Parkway Cabins, creating lasting memories with your loved one. 4 of our cabins are pet friendly.FAMILIESOur family cabins sleep 10+ and are the perfect place for kids to connect to nature and and an opportunity for busy parents to relax. PET FRIENDLYSelect from our four mountain cabins and campsites that offer a dog-friendly experience, ensuring a great space for both humans and their four-legged companions. View White Rock Cabin, Meadow Mountain Cabin, Sherando Cabin or Spy Rock Cabin for a pet-friendly cabins.HOT TUBSSome cabins offer a private hot tub, while a number of the smaller cabins offer jetted in-room tubs.GRILLS and FIREPITSGuests love the convenience of private outdoor grills for cooking and communal firepits.EXPERIENCES FOR YOUR STAY AND ONLINE STORERent an e-bike and cruise the parkway, take in the night skies around Love Ridge. Love Ridge has a variety of experiences to choose from. Our online store has a variety of food options. Advance notice may be needed for some items, so book early.

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Arcadia Sanctuary

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents83 acres · Buena Vista, VA

Arcadia is the name we gave to our 83-acre mountainside retreat center for Earth-Based Spirituality. It’s nestled on the south-eastern slope of 4000-foot Mount Pleasant in Central Virginia, convenient to I81. (Note, there is a town called Arcadia off I81, but that is not us. Not to confuse.) We have a mountain creek with waterfalls, towering Beech and Sycamore trees, Witch Hazels leaning over the water, trout, crayfish, snakes, salamanders, and all the rest. We have about 2000 feet of the vertical mountainside with trails to explore. (But the stage and most of the camping is down closer to creek-level.) There are more sites higher up the mountain if you like more isolated camping. More of a trek to the bathrooms/showers/freshwater. We have one of the finest private stages on the East Coast with a top-notch sound system and a natural amphitheater which is like a single pie wedge of a Stadium that has regular live performances throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Our yurt is regularly booked as a unique glamping experience. There are chickens, ducks, turkeys, and guinea fowl free-roaming. Two dogs, nine cats, and several humans are blessed to call this home.

The best camping near Douthat State Park guide

Overview

About

The 50-acre Douthat Lake is the epicenter of its namesake state park, framed by the forested slopes of the Allegheny Mountains. Take to the water to cruise or kayak, rent a hydrobike or stand-up paddleboard, or fish for bass, trout, and crappie in the lake and streams. There’s plenty for landlubbers to explore, too, with more than 40 miles of wooded trails ready to hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride. Spending the night? Choose from four campgrounds dotted throughout the park, including equestrian camps with stables, rustic cabins, and plenty of RV/tent sites, some right by the lake.

Notable campgrounds

Best for family campers: Whispering Pines Campground has 23 sites with electric and water hookups, space for up to 50-foot RVs, and a playground nearby.
Best for horse lovers: Beaver Dam Campground has equestrian camping with covered stalls available for rent.
Best for water activities: Lakeside Campground has 19 RV/tent sites with gravel pads and electric hookups.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve a cabin or a campsite at one of the park’s four campgrounds online.
Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance and must be made at least one day before arrival.
Campsites can book up fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of six months in advance.

When to go

Peak season at Douthat State Park is April through October, and this is the most popular time for hiking, camping, and water sports. Outdoor activities are enjoyable year-round, but summer visitors have the added bonus of a swimming beach (open from Memorial Day to Labor Day) and trout-stocked waters (twice weekly through the high season). Whispering Pines is the only campground open year-round, but cabins are also available for winter rentals.

Know before you go

Douthat State Park is just over an hour’s drive north of Roanoke.
Day-use parking fees and camping reservation fees are charged at Douthat. State fishing licenses and equestrian permits are also required.
Facilities include a visitor center and gift shop, camp store, restaurant, restrooms, and picnic areas. Cell phone service is patchy throughout the park, but free wifi is available near the bathhouse.
You can bring your own non-gasoline-powered boats to Douthat, and boats and watercraft are available to rent in season. Swimming is only permitted at the swimming beach.
There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Douthat State Park. The swimming area is also accessible.