The best star host campgrounds near Amherst, Virginia

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Amherst, Virginia, Hipcamp has over 1,000 options to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your RV, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your outdoor getaway. With top campsites like Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), Camp Shenandoah Meadows (295 reviews), and Savage Acres on Craig Creek (269 reviews), you can trust that you'll be staying in some of the best spots around. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like cooking equipment, potable water, and showers. And with activities ranging from exploring historic sites to wildlife watching and swimming, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

99% (4.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

If you're looking for a camping adventure near Amherst, Virginia, Hipcamp has over 1,000 options to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or parking your RV, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your outdoor getaway. With top campsites like Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), Camp Shenandoah Meadows (295 reviews), and Savage Acres on Craig Creek (269 reviews), you can trust that you'll be staying in some of the best spots around. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like cooking equipment, potable water, and showers. And with activities ranging from exploring historic sites to wildlife watching and swimming, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

99% (4.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. James River Depot

98%

(828)

26mi from Amherst · 6 sites · Tents · 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.

2. Why B Square mountain yurt rentals

98%

(245)

77mi from Amherst · 3 sites · Lodging · Pilot, VA

Blue Ridge Yurts is a woman-owned company in Floyd, Virginia, started by my mother, Sharon. We were staying at Treebones, a yurt 'glampground' in Big Sur, California, and fell in love with yurts together. My mom said, "I think I could build one of these," and the company was born! She does all the woodworking, using sustainable practices, with locally-sourced wood, and her best friend Kathy does the fabric end of things. I was one of her early guinea pigs, and love my yurt property dearly <3 This 24' yurt sits on a beautiful private acreage off an end-state maintenance road, with biking and hiking trails just a 20 minute drive from the touristy town of Floyd, Virginia. There's a steam shower sauna, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a deck overlooking the mountains with a table and seating. Enjoy!

3. Meili Mtn - Tye River Waterfall

97%

(57)

19mi from Amherst · 1 site · Tent, RV · Tyro, VA

A beautiful, convenient yet very private property on the Tye River will be your base camp for all your favorite area attractions. (Pronounced Mae-Lee) Camp, hike, fish, and relax on 35 heavily wooded acres in the Washington and Jefferson National Forest. The property was bought in 2021 and new features are being added for the ideal hipcamp getaway. Stay tuned for more details and picture as they become available. Learn more about this land: This is your perfect, fully unplugged, rustic back country getaway. Conveniently located directly off Route 56 and across from the Tye River, yet heavily wooded with hiking access to a stunning private waterfall and stream. Only 1/2 mile upstream from Crabtree Falls and about 5 miles to the 3 Ridges/Priest Mountain trailhead on the AT. Also easy drives to many of our favorites like: St Mary's Wilderness - Blue Mtn Barrel House - Trager Brothers Coffee - Basic Necessities Cafe - Spy Rock - Wintergreen - The Brewing Tree - White Rock Falls - Blue Ridge Parkway - Montebello General Store (public restroom for customers) - Sweet Bliss Bakery - Jefferson & Washington National Forest - Tantivy Lavender Farm and so much more. This back-country location has multiple tent sites available* with no amenities and very limited to no cell coverage. We are allowing some camping near the waterfall on an 8x8 wooden tent platform or feel free to camp at a few other spots on the property we will share during booking. (no other campfire site are permitted on the property, although we have a firepit at 2 locations). *Please note that there is NO camping available at the waterfall.

4. Sunset Springs Farm

98%

(26)

11mi from Amherst · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Arrington, VA

Enjoy gorgeous sunsets of the Blue Ridge, fresh mountain air, and a plethora of activities in the area while staying at our farm. Being just a 4 minute drive from both Blue Mountain Barrel House and Saunder's Orchard Farm Market, you can begin your adventure and expand on from there. Within a 30 minute driving radius are some of the most incredible wineries and breweries, restaurants, orchards, hiking trails, hunting/fishing areas, and so much more. (See a more detailed list of activities below) For those coming for events in the area, we are 1 mile from Route 29 and equidistant between Charlottesville and Lynchburg (30-35 mins). There is a firepit available and wood can be purchased upon request. **Important (for your safety): Pulling out of our driveway can be difficult due to low visibility of oncoming traffic. Vehicles often speed on our road so please be sure to quiet your car and roll the windows down when pulling out of our driveway to better hear if a vehicle is approaching. Nearby Food and Drink - Blue Mountain Barrel House: Great brews and food with live music on certain nights (4 mins) - Vitos Pizza: Italian restaurant with 2 locations in Lovingston and Amherst (5/15 mins) - El Mariachi: Mexican restaurant with 2 locations in Lovingston and Amherst (5/15 Mins) - Lovingston Winery: Vineyard (6 mins) - The Briar Patch Restaurant: Traditional American cuisine from sandwiches to seafood/steaks (15 mins) - Wood Ridge Brewery: Brews and food with a full golf driving range (15 mins) - Devil's Backbone Basecamp: Original Devil's Backbone Brewery with American cuisine, also starting the 151 Brewery and Winery Trail (18 mins) - Iron and Ale at Wintergreen / Stoney Creek: Traditional American cuisine from sandwiches to seafood/steaks (25 mins) - The Farmhouse at Veritas: Veritas' winery and restaurant with a fine dining pre fixe menu (30 mins) Local Shopping and Entertainment - Saunder's Orchard Farm Market: Selling produce, jams/butters, homemade ice cream, butchered meats, and more (4 mins) - Seaman's Orchard: A gorgeous orchard with pick your own strawberries, cherries, and more. (6 mins) - Virginia Blue Ridge Railway Trail - Nelson County: A seven mile graveled trail following the piney river with easy access. Great for horses, hiking, fishing, and cycling. The river is stocked with trout at certain times of the year. (8 mins) - Priestview Hunting Preserve: Upland game bird hunting from fall to spring seasons (8 mins) - Tye and Piney Rivers: Hiking and fishing for stocked trout (Distance varies so look at Department of Wildlife for best locations) - Winton Farm: Golf Course (15 mins) - Poplar Grove: Golf Course (20 mins) - Stoney Creek: Golf Course (30 mins)

5. Diamond Heritage Nature Sites

100%

(10)

49mi from Amherst · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Palmyra, VA

Are you ready to start planning your next adventure? We invite you to enjoy the great outdoors here at Diamond Heritage Estate and experience nature up close. Explore the unique greenery surrounding our rustic and peaceful site. And get to know the special wildlife that calls it home. Wake up to the sound of birds chirping, fall asleep watching the stars. Book your stay today. Located 10 minutes from I64 and 5 minutes from Rt.15 and Rt.53. Lowes, Walmart and other resources within short driving distance. 45 minutes to Short Pump, Virginia. Several wineries and breweries within 30 minute drive. We are located within 10 minutes of the county's largest and only public park called Pleasant Grove. There you can go biking, hiking, visit the dog park, watch wildlife and if sports activities are going on watch and enjoy them. The Rivanna River is approximately 5-7 minutes away from your site(s) where you can fish, tube, canoe and kayak at the public boat landing. There is also a local family owned grocery store across the street. NOTE: In order to be respectful of our neighbors, quiet hours are from 10pm until 8 am. This means please attempt to keep sound levels within your designated camping area. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. *** Use of external generators are from 8am until 11pm. *** Host may request you leave the premises for any unruly or unapproved behavior and a refund will not be given. Contact Host for any activity that is currently approved by law in Virginia and the host requirements. Apparel and other merchandise is available to purchase.

Stories from the community

Jeff & Barb

2 weeks ago

13 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Diamond Heritage Nature Sites

Ryant has set up a really nice place to camp! It is quiet and beautiful. And the wide open sky, with virtually no light pollution provides an amazing view of the stars!! The first night we were there, it was crystal clear and we could see stars that we had never seen before. The second night, there was a bit of haze and it made a really awesome halo around the Moon! If you're into history, he has done research, and continues to do so, and has great stories about the history of the property and what he is in the process of uncovering. I would highly recommend that you check it out. He's a great guy and can relate to your needs, as he loves to camp as well. I was very impressed by the investment he has made in equipment to help out campers who might not be as prepared as they should be. It's only going to get better, as he has big plans for improving, even beyond the excellent property that it already is. You won't be disappointed. Rightly so, he expects respect of the property and other campers, but isn't that the type of place you want to go? It is definitely one of the things that are high on my list. We'll definitely be back!

R

Rachel

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Diamond Heritage Nature Sites

My friend and I had an amazing time camping on Ryant’s property! The site was very spacious and Ryant offered many supplies to us for us such as firewood, lounge chairs, and tiki lamps. He was very friendly and welcoming when we first arrived as he showed us around the site and told us the story behind his property. The highlight of the trip was Ryant’s “glamper” tent which he offered us when we arrived. It’s an elevated platform with a tent and storage unit on top. It made our stay all the more comfortable and easy! I would 10/10 recommend this property to anyone wanting to camp for cheap and receive great care and service from Ryant.

W

William

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to James River Depot

This place is a wonderful place to camp. Basics are covered like firewood and a porta-john with none of the fluff. Also… beautiful views and the river is steps away

Cherylynn

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to James River Depot

Wendy's Hipcamp was amazing! The location along the James River was absolutely stunning. Our site felt secluded from the other sites and had plenty of space for hanging out. We loved waking up and walking right down to the river to enjoy our coffee. The location is close to Natural Bridge State Park and Wendy's recommendation for Natty B Cafe was the perfect spot to grab food in the area.

M

Meagan

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at James River Depot

Nice location on the water with large sites. It was helpful to have firewood there, and the porta potti was sufficient and stocked with toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Scott

November 2025

15 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Sunset Springs Farm

There's only a few nearly level spots - but the view MORE than makes up for the effort you expend to get your camper stabilized. Plus there's an existing, well-placed fire pit, and the hosts made sure to provide us plenty of dry firewood. Plus the location is convenient to plenty of hikes, activities, etc. What more do you need? Definitely recommended.

Scott

November 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Sunset Springs Farm

There's only a few nearly level spots - but the view MORE than makes up for the effort you expend to get your camper stabilized. Plus there's an existing, well-placed fire pit, and the hosts made sure to provide us plenty of dry firewood. Plus the location is convenient to plenty of hikes, activities, etc. What more do you need? Definitely recommended.

H

Hannah

October 2025

Tent

1 night at James River Depot

Beautiful view of the river, I loved my stay at spot #5 :) Check in and communication were smooth, I felt safe as a woman traveling alone, would definitely recommend.

G

Gina

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to James River Depot

We arrived late but it was easy to find a vacant site, and we quickly set ourselves up in #4. Peaceful night watching an amazing display or stars over the James River. Convenient portajohn nearby was much appreciated. In the morning we had breakfast then packed up to go off on adventures. This was a perfect spot to land for a night, and we’ll definitely come again next time we’re in the area.

B

Bill

October 2025

Tent

1 night at James River Depot

Another great overnight stay at James River. Always worth it.

J

Jacob

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Springs Farm

I really enjoyed car camping here! The area had a little slope, but perfect for what I needed. Would definitely go back.

W

William

October 2025

Tent

1 night at James River Depot

Great place to camp overnight, clean campgrounds with river access and bathrooms. Just be aware of trains that run through the night.

T

Tara

October 2025

22 ft Class B

1 night at Sunset Springs Farm

Absolutely beautiful place, field surrounded by trees with a view of the mountains. Lots of space. Nice little fire pit spot. Hosts were friendly and accommodating while also giving us complete space. Highly recommended, I would definitely stay here again. Thank you so much, we really enjoyed our stay!!

G

George

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at James River Depot

My favorite place to camp! Been many times, and is a great place to visit all season.

Jim

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at James River Depot

This was our 3rd year in a row staying at this site!! The best ever!

C

Christian Elijah

October 2025

19 ft Class C

1 night at Sunset Springs Farm

Amazing property with plenty of space. The fire pit is a clutch addition as it gives some community to the camping.

Lauren

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Sunset Springs Farm

Easy to get to, nice open space! Happy with our experience there!

J

Jeremy

October 2025

Tent

7 nights at James River Depot

This was a great experience. I stayed on site 5. The sites were spread out and far apart enough to not disturb one another. It was extremely peaceful and beautiful. I even got the treat of seeing a few otters catch some breakfast in the river. The toilets were clean and well kept. The fire wood was easily accessible at a good price. I will be back next year and will be referring a few co workers that have already inquired about my stay.

Haley

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to James River Depot

What an awesome and unique find. We camped at site 4, which had a beautiful view of the river (with great access), was near a porta potty (clean with TP & sanitizer), and near the wood stack (freshly split). I appreciated the hanging QR code to purchase more wood if needed. The sites are nicely spread apart and sandwiched btw two active train tracks that are beautiful to watch and listen to at night. Great hiking trails within a 15min drive. Truly a 20/10 weekend and we’re excited to come back in the spring!

L

Lee

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Springs Farm

The view is spectacular. I've been twice and most likely will return again.