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The best camping near Dismal Swamp State Park

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

Discover Dismal Swamp State Park's unique history and natural beauty.  

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Community favorites near Dismal Swamp State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Dismal Swamp State Park

90%
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Big House Farm

10 sites ¡ RVs, Tents100 acres ¡ Chesapeake, VA
We are located in Chesapeake VA back in a more rural section. We own a poultry farm and have 40 acres of pasture and 60 acres of trees. There’s tons of wildlife and plenty of farm work if your up for it! This is a private and. Plenty of restaurants, shopping and beach around. We live on the property and around to help with any questions or needs.
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$50
 / night
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(16)

Meet at the Creek

1 site ¡ Lodging4 acres ¡ Chesapeake, VA
Our property is located in Deep Creek Chesapeake, VA on the intercoastal waterway/dismal swamp canal. We have 4+ acres of natural beauty at the end of a gravel road. Though we are not far from the city, nature definitely is the main character around here. The waterway is brackish (salt and fresh) so there is a wide array of wildlife to enjoy. Bald eagles and heron fly over daily and we often see otters, foxes and raccoons and birds galore. Guests have access to kayaks and dock (2 story) for fishing and/or relaxing. Water views from any spot on the property. We also have chickens, ducks and two friendly dogs that would love to meet you.
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$75
 / night
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(71)

Spruill Farm Conservation Project

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents110 acres ¡ Roper, NC
(Note: no fireworks, crackers, sparklers, or garbage burning are permitted) Tip: check out the 'Phases of the Moon' calendar in photos before booking! The Spruill Farm belonged to the Spruill Family for over a hundred years and has just been set up as conservation easement protected land. It includes hardwood forest, swamp, a beautiful swimming beach* on the Albemarle Sound - one of the largest freshwater sounds in the world-, acres of farmland, vegetable garden and perhaps the largest fig orchard for hundreds of miles around. The purpose of the Spruill Farm is to further environmental research, promote ecological education and sustainable practices, and provide access for the public to the ever-diminishing shoreline experience. Please enjoy the incredible sunsets and woodland views, while respecting the serenity of this unique gem on the inner-banks. Wildlife on the property include Red Fox, River Otter, and 95 species of birds, including Bald Eagles (2 nests on the farm), nesting Osprey, Wood Ducks. Visit the 'Spruill Farm Conservation Project' on inaturalist(dot)org to see all 95 species, and upload any images from your observations. Because it is a nature preserve, please read the guidelines and rules closely if you choose to book with us. *Note: the shoreline changes with the wave action and the seasons. This makes the Bobby Wilkins shoreline trail so beautiful- always changing. If your expertise and interests coincide with the mission of the Farm, feel free to propose collaborative projects to julia@thepeanutfactory.org
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$35
 / night

Private Primitive Tent Site

1 site ¡ Tent1 acre ¡ Elizabeth City, NC
Surrounded by trees, this is a perfect spot to unwind and get back to nature. While large enough to host multiple tent sites and camping groups, we limit the availability to just one group at a time, in order to provide you with the most private experience possible. Enjoy the quiet of nature without traveling far from so many additional activities! After you spend the day kayaking on the Dismal Swamp, site seeing in Portsmouth, VA, or spending your day on the Outer Banks fishing, the downtown is just a 5 minute bike ride away! Elizabeth City is an up and coming downtown, with more than 7 wine bars and breweries, 5 coffee shops, and many unique restaurants, all within walking distance of each other, the downtown is perfect place to both start your day with a fresh cup of coffee, and end it with a beer and friends. This is a beautiful, PRIMITIVE campsite. There is currently no electricity or running water. It is a “pack it in/pack it out,” campsite. Leave nothing behind but the nature the way it was when you arrived. “Cat holes,” and “pig holes,” are not authorized and will not be tolerated. For your convenience, a camping toilet will be provided as well as a camping sink. Seasonal activities close by include: Strawberry Picking Apple Picking Gem Mining Kayaking Beach Fishing Boating Duck Hunting Deer Hunting Site Seeing in Portsmouth/Norfolk Museums Aquariums Dinner Cruises Busch Gardens Monster Truck Shows Dixieland Speedway/Motocross H20 Water Park Elizabeth City, NC Sipping Trail Elizabeth City, NC Hot Cocoa Trail Farmers Markets
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$50
 / night

Scarlett’s Waterfront

1 site ¡ RV, Tent1 acre ¡ Hertford, NC
Hello, this property is located right on the water in beautiful downtown Hertford ! There is a local bar the “Taphouse” walking distance from our property, coffee shop, Bakery, Pharmacy where they sell amazing ice cream, local park with slides and swings in walking distance, antique store, and this property is right beside a beautiful fishing pier that has access to kayacks that you can rent. We are pet friendly so we would be happy if you bring your pets they will love the area to! This is the best spot in town, We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
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$25
 / night
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(20)

Country Living at Its Best!

1 site ¡ RV, Tent46 acres ¡ Suffolk, VA
This 46-acre horse ranch is located in the Whaleyville township of Suffolk. We are off of Highway 13, five miles from North Carolina state line. The 46 acres include 15 acres of pasture that host horse and sheep, and 31 acres of surrounding woods for hiking, camping, horseback riding and ATVs. A unique wildlife swamp borders the rear of the property.Learn more about this land:Enjoy country tranquility on this 46-acre horse ranch! 15 acres of pasture host horses and sheep. 31 additional acres available for camping, hiking, ATVs, and hunting. Unique wildlife swamp borders the property. Great star gazing!Located in the Whaleyville township of Suffolk, off of Highway 13 and 5 miles from North Carolina state line.
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$65
 / night
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(4)

Cypress Cove Retreat

22 sites ¡ Lodging14 acres ¡ Harrellsville, NC
We want to share our slice of the Chowan River with those who will respect fellow campers as well as wildlife. We have a hobby farm which includes goats, chickens and ducks as well as our guard dog, Bailey (Great Pyrenees) and some country cats. Learn more about this land: Book with this link: https://app.fireflyreservations.com/kiosk/property/CypressCoveRetreat We have a boat ramp for small boats, beach has pier to fish, swimming in the river, peaceful getaway you won’t want to leave. Full hookups as well as primitive land with well water faucet if you need water also dump station access. Overnight as well as long term stays are welcome. Primitive tent sites on the beach. Call office for details. 757.803.8496
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$45
 / night
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(138)

Solitude at Thornton Farm

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres ¡ Wakefield, VA
Peace and quiet equals “Solitude at my farm. I’m just like you. I want to camp at a quiet place in the country where it’s plenty of acres and no houses to look at and a clean bathroom and shower. Well it’s here. I’m Located in Wakefield Virginia. If you’re traveling to Virginia Beach I’m one hour away. From my farm there is a free ferry in Scotland where the ferry departs to Williamsburg just 30 minutes. At my farm I have 5 sites for tent/camping so it’s spaced appropriately apart I have 2 Rv sites totally away for their privacy and a new mini house also properly spaced away. All have a clean picnic table and a fire pit. 100 feet away you’ll find that clean bathroom, shower and a wash station for hygiene. You’ll see the love I put into this and because I love it and my prior guests love it, which means it may be right for you also. In the town of Wakefield you’ll find gas stations, dollar stores, a Value food market and if you want (to go) food we have that also. Plus it’s home to The Virginia Diner. Amenities include toilet access, a shower, trash disposal, picnic tables, and potable water. Pets are allowed, as are campfires.
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$44
 / night

DeVane and Co. LLC

2 sites ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Suffolk, VA
Come stay with us in "Vera" our Class C RV, for a stationary stay. Visit our cozy area of Suffolk, Virginia within walking distance to Nansemond River, Hilton Garden Suffolk Riverfront Conference Center and Main Street (think Farmers Market Saturdays and countless festivals and parades). Have furry friends? We welcome up to 2 pets on our property. We don't go anywhere without our fur babies, Henry and Olive. Come visit us! We'd love to have you! *Reach out if you are interested in renting "Vera", our Class C RV for a travel trip (separate website).
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$154
 / night
Saved 1 time

The Good Day Farm

1 site ¡ RV, Tent18 acres ¡ Suffolk, VA
Come park your RV on our gorgeous 18 acre property in central Suffolk, VA. Enjoy the our small farm of kune kune pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, and ducks. The quiet, private site is surrounded by 12 acres of wooded trails to explore. When you’re ready to explore off the farm, you can quickly get to beaches, attractions and historical sites. But you always return to the serenity of the farm.
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$65
 / night
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(3)

Evans Family Farm

15 sites ¡ RVs, Tents700 acres ¡ Plymouth, NC
A small family farm with lots of wildlife and adventure. 700 acres located on the Roanoke River and Conaby Creek. We have 3 ponds great for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. On your stay you are likely to see black bears, deer, and more! We are 5 minutes away from a grocery store and gas station. Join us at our piece of heaven in the middle of nowhere.
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$30
 / night

Captain’s Corner ⚓️

1 site ¡ RV1 acre ¡ Grandy, NC
Welcome to your slice of paradise on the easternmost canal of Walnut Island! This stunning .20-acre corner lot boasts over 200 feet of new bulkhead, offering direct access to the lower Currituck Sound. With a convenient boat ramp just a 200-yard walk away at Barry’s bar and restaurant, you'll have easy access to endless aquatic adventures. Imagine starting your day with a peaceful kayak excursion or setting off on a leisurely boat ride to explore the scenic beauty of Duck and Corolla. After a day of adventure, return to the tranquility of your canal-front oasis, where you can relax and unwind while soaking in the breathtaking sound views. Located in Grandy, this property offers a convenient location near shopping and dining options, ensuring you have everything you need within reach. Plus, with attractions like the H2OBX Waterpark just a 15-minute drive away and the Outer Banks a mere 20 minutes away, you'll have endless opportunities for fun and excitement. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat or an action-packed getaway, this canal-front lot offers the perfect blend of convenience, relaxation, and adventure. Don't miss your chance to make memories in this tranquil corner of paradise!
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$80
 / night

The best camping near Dismal Swamp State Park guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure through Dismal Swamp State Park, a haven for hikers, bikers, paddlers, and nature enthusiasts. Traverse the 21.5 miles of trails, delve into the rich tapestry of the park's past, and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this place home. While overnight stays under the stars aren't on offer, the day-use activities promise a full day of exploration and discovery.

When to go

The best time to visit Dismal Swamp State Park is during the milder months of March to October, when the trails are open from 8am to 5:30pm. Winter offers a serene, frost-kissed landscape, but prepare for shorter days, as the park closes at 4:30pm from November through February.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can influence trail accessibility and comfort.
  • Remember, pets are welcome but must be leashed and attended at all times.
  • Boat and bike rentals are available to enhance your exploration of the park.
  • For your safety, adhere to park rules and stay on designated trails.
  • Visitor center hours vary, so plan accordingly to take advantage of the educational exhibits.

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