12 Best Private Campsites Near Buena Vista, VA, US 2025

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Buena Vista, Virginia? Hipcamp has over 280 private camping options available in this area, catering to your specific land tag preference. Whether you're looking for a private farm, a riverside paradise, or a riverfront camping spot, there is something for everyone. Prices start as low as $17 per night, with an average price of $45. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews, such as Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), Private Paradise on Rivers Bend (210 reviews), and Seven Islands River Front Camping (131 reviews). With popular amenities like campfires, pet-friendly sites, and potable water, and activities such as surfing, whitewater paddling, and climbing, you'll have an unforgettable camping experience in the United States.

99% (344)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Buena Vista, Virginia? Hipcamp has over 280 private camping options available in this area, catering to your specific land tag preference. Whether you're looking for a private farm, a riverside paradise, or a riverfront camping spot, there is something for everyone. Prices start as low as $17 per night, with an average price of $45. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews, such as Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), Private Paradise on Rivers Bend (210 reviews), and Seven Islands River Front Camping (131 reviews). With popular amenities like campfires, pet-friendly sites, and potable water, and activities such as surfing, whitewater paddling, and climbing, you'll have an unforgettable camping experience in the United States.

99% (344)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Thunder BRidge

99%

(688)

13mi from Buena Vista · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Natural Bridge Station, VA

Starting December 1, or first night below freezing we will be closing down Bath House and only access will be at outhouses. Only sites near outhouses will be open and there will be no access to water. 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. Most of the buildings out front are artist studios (currently for 16 artists). We like to share the camp with others and watch 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. If you are a star gazer you won't be disappointed by our dark sky. We want to share our property with those who want to stay for more than one night, so we do not accept inquiries of single night stays.

2. Altamont Farms

96%

(12)

30mi from Buena Vista · 8 sites · Lodging · Concord, VA

Welcome to Altamont Farm, where nature's grandeur meets rustic elegance! Perched atop Goin Hill, our Sunset Pavilion beckons with breathtaking views of the James River and the majestic Appalachian Mountains. This off grid cabin has a cozy Outhouse, a fenced front yard for your furry friends, and a charming glass-enclosed cedar room with a queen-size bed suspended from the ceiling. Warm yourself by the real wood-burning parlor stove or step onto the small deck to savor the outdoors.

3. MountainTop

100%

(44)

49mi from Buena Vista · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sugar Grove, WV

Closed for the season--September 1-May 15. Live sustainably, enjoy life. Enjoy our family's 32 acre eco-wonder property that features forested mountain walking trails, two small ponds, seasonal waterfall, and the Potomac River that runs through it. Perfect private retreat for nature enthusiasts, writers, artists, musicians, contemplatives, and small families. MountainTop got its namesake over 30 years ago for the small mountain plateau that resides at the top of the property, just a short hike from the cabins and campsites. One can easily find the soothing voice of water nearby at the seasonal waterfall or alongside the flowing river. Rejuvenate with friends, families, nature lovers, and contemplatives. Mountaintop offers superb stargazing, swimming, fishing, hiking, strenuous mountain biking, camping, serenity, peace, and connective nature immersion. There are currently three sites: the MountainTop Cabin (sleeps up to 4); the Retreat Cabin (sleeps up to 4): and the Fern Grove campsite (sleeps up to 4). You can book a cabin or the campsite for your family, or the whole place for a small group by booking each site--that will ensure privacy. Last year we hosted wellness retreats for small groups at this little oasis tucked in the mountains of gorgeous West Virginia. "When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe." John Muir Note: All wheel drive or 4-wheel drive needed to cross river. 1 hour from downtown Harrisonburg, Virginia. 1 hour 40 minutes from Charlottesville. 3 hours from Washington, D.C.

4. 4 Mile Rock Meadow

99%

(58)

18mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · RVs · Montebello, VA

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, near Crabtree Falls in Montebello, Virginia, lies a one-of-a-kind campsite. Located on 60 acres of hardwood forest, the site boasts a mountain top meadow at the crest of Fork Mountain. Adventure seekers will love the onsite hiking and bird watching opportunities, while biking, fishing, and horseback riding can be enjoyed in the nearby vicinity. As a unique feature, this campsite offers an unobstructed view of the stars, making it a perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts. Welcome to your very own Dark Sky campsite! 4 Mile Rock Meadow offers Designated Fire Pit 2 Water Pumps 2 Electric Hookups Picnic Tables Pet Friendly Area Privacy Dark Sky Area The state road leading to the property is narrow for the last 1.5 miles.

5. Twin Poplar Farm

99%

(87)

25mi from Buena Vista · 3 sites · Tents · Amherst, VA

The Farm is located on 65 private acres of Woods and Field on the Tye River. This is a place for people who love nature and want to be out in it. We have chosen to prioritize conservation over ease of access, so though the sites are all walk in only [or paddle in!] this means you will camp on the grass or leaves not the gravel of a parking lot. There are only 3 sites on the land so you can soak up nature without noisy neighbors. "Twin Poplar" refers to the Tulip Poplar's extraordinary tenacity, after being cut down, like the Phoenix who returns to life after death, a Poplar will often regrow as two "twin" trunks. A chance for a new life and growth! For more follow us on Instagram @TwinPoplarFarm

6. Beaverdam Falls

98%

(119)

48mi from Buena Vista · 4 sites · Lodging · 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!

7. Buttermilk Bluff

100%

(4)

34mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Timberlake, VA

RV, Overland or Tent campsite on 60 acres with expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Peaks of Otter. Located 25 minutes from Liberty University in Lynchburg and 50 minutes from Roanoke, it's a great place to bring your RV and visit LU's campus while getting to enjoy the outdoors. Buttermilk Bluff is also conveniently located between Smith Mountain Lake and the Blue Ridge Parkway, the location is a short drive to lake amenities, the Appalachian Trail or one of Bedford counties favorite hikes, Sharp Top Trail. It's a perfect place to get to spend one on one time with family and nature. An abundance of wildlife including deer, turkey, hawks, owls and the occasional black bear can be seen. Enjoy exploring Buttermilk Creek which surrounds the property on two sides while having the entire 60 acres to yourself!

8. Nealand Farm

100%

(35)

47mi from Buena Vista · 3 sites · Tents · Scottsville, VA

Nestled on 65 acres of rolling hills, Nealand Farm offers a perfect balance between pastoral beauty, farm experiences, and modern convenience. Visitors can hike through our broadleaf forests, explore two different creeks, and wander through pastures. Sharp-eyed guests may spot our pair of resident Cooper's hawks. You'll be staying on an active sustainable farm and homestead. We can arrange for interactions with goats, dogs, chickens, and cows, and we offer tours of our gardens during the growing season. You can relax on a hammock or on our front porch. We often feel like we're in the middle of nowhere, but it's a 3-minute walk through the woods to a grocery store, post office, food, and more. Historic downtown Scottsville and access to the James River are about a mile down the road. The campsites are located in an area with views of both beautiful sunrise and sunset, and they're mostly shaded throughout the day. You'll have access to our toilet trailer (compost toilet and sink), electricity (our property is 100% solar-powered), and wifi that reaches the campsites. There are no campfires at the campsites, but all campers can use our firepit area and the patio with a picnic table. Our free range chickens and Livestock Guardian Dog have access to campsite areas. The dog is very friendly, but if that's a problem, let us know and we can move him to prevent access. Because we are an active farm, we strictly prohibit pets.

9. Camp McFender

100%

(24)

36mi from Buena Vista · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Appomattox, VA

Camp McFender was started in 2020 by offering our friends and guests a place to relax, camp, mountain bike, hike, fish, and swim to name a few. With 91 acres of rolling hills, gorgeous views, highland cows, and 2 creeks, it's the perfect escape. - Over 7 miles of hiking/mountain biking trails. - Bent Creek and a natural spring with a zip line, swimming hole, and multiple rock beaches. - Lookout points to enjoy the sunrise, sunset, and dark sky for star and planet viewing. - Highland cows that you can pet and feed (contact us first to visit them). - 13 miles from Holiday Lake State Park. - 8 miles from Bent Creek/James River boat ramp. - 15 miles from James River State Park. - 6 miles from Appomattox Court House National Park. - 10 miles from downtown Appomattox. - 33 miles from Farmville. - 28 miles from Lynchburg.

10. Camp 4everyoung

100%

(4)

50mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sandy Level, VA

3/4 of mile to Leesville Lake (Walking Distance), lake access has small boat ramp, picnic tables, grass area to relax and enjoy the day at the lake. The 10 acres offers a large fire pit and hang out area, plenty of room for walking or hiking the property. Very nice full outdoor bathhouse with hot water and composting toilet. 5 min ride to Smith Mountain Lake Dam visitors center, 15 min to Magnum Point Marina, 25 mins to Rocky Mount, Va and Gretna, VA. Hiking, fishing, biking, golf all with 25-30 mins. https://www.smithmtn.com/ https://business.visitsmithmountainlake.com/list

Camper favorites near Buena Vista

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

4 Mile Rock Meadow

99%

(58)

18mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · RVs · Montebello, VA

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, near Crabtree Falls in Montebello, Virginia, lies a one-of-a-kind campsite. Located on 60 acres of hardwood forest, the site boasts a mountain top meadow at the crest of Fork Mountain. Adventure seekers will love the onsite hiking and bird watching opportunities, while biking, fishing, and horseback riding can be enjoyed in the nearby vicinity. As a unique feature, this campsite offers an unobstructed view of the stars, making it a perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts. Welcome to your very own Dark Sky campsite! 4 Mile Rock Meadow offers Designated Fire Pit 2 Water Pumps 2 Electric Hookups Picnic Tables Pet Friendly Area Privacy Dark Sky Area The state road leading to the property is narrow for the last 1.5 miles.

Twin Poplar Farm

99%

(87)

25mi from Buena Vista · 3 sites · Tents · Amherst, VA

The Farm is located on 65 private acres of Woods and Field on the Tye River. This is a place for people who love nature and want to be out in it. We have chosen to prioritize conservation over ease of access, so though the sites are all walk in only [or paddle in!] this means you will camp on the grass or leaves not the gravel of a parking lot. There are only 3 sites on the land so you can soak up nature without noisy neighbors. "Twin Poplar" refers to the Tulip Poplar's extraordinary tenacity, after being cut down, like the Phoenix who returns to life after death, a Poplar will often regrow as two "twin" trunks. A chance for a new life and growth! For more follow us on Instagram @TwinPoplarFarm

Beaverdam Falls

98%

(119)

48mi from Buena Vista · 4 sites · Lodging · 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!

Buttermilk Bluff

100%

(4)

34mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Timberlake, VA

RV, Overland or Tent campsite on 60 acres with expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Peaks of Otter. Located 25 minutes from Liberty University in Lynchburg and 50 minutes from Roanoke, it's a great place to bring your RV and visit LU's campus while getting to enjoy the outdoors. Buttermilk Bluff is also conveniently located between Smith Mountain Lake and the Blue Ridge Parkway, the location is a short drive to lake amenities, the Appalachian Trail or one of Bedford counties favorite hikes, Sharp Top Trail. It's a perfect place to get to spend one on one time with family and nature. An abundance of wildlife including deer, turkey, hawks, owls and the occasional black bear can be seen. Enjoy exploring Buttermilk Creek which surrounds the property on two sides while having the entire 60 acres to yourself!

Nealand Farm

100%

(35)

47mi from Buena Vista · 3 sites · Tents · Scottsville, VA

Nestled on 65 acres of rolling hills, Nealand Farm offers a perfect balance between pastoral beauty, farm experiences, and modern convenience. Visitors can hike through our broadleaf forests, explore two different creeks, and wander through pastures. Sharp-eyed guests may spot our pair of resident Cooper's hawks. You'll be staying on an active sustainable farm and homestead. We can arrange for interactions with goats, dogs, chickens, and cows, and we offer tours of our gardens during the growing season. You can relax on a hammock or on our front porch. We often feel like we're in the middle of nowhere, but it's a 3-minute walk through the woods to a grocery store, post office, food, and more. Historic downtown Scottsville and access to the James River are about a mile down the road. The campsites are located in an area with views of both beautiful sunrise and sunset, and they're mostly shaded throughout the day. You'll have access to our toilet trailer (compost toilet and sink), electricity (our property is 100% solar-powered), and wifi that reaches the campsites. There are no campfires at the campsites, but all campers can use our firepit area and the patio with a picnic table. Our free range chickens and Livestock Guardian Dog have access to campsite areas. The dog is very friendly, but if that's a problem, let us know and we can move him to prevent access. Because we are an active farm, we strictly prohibit pets.

Camp McFender

100%

(24)

36mi from Buena Vista · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Appomattox, VA

Camp McFender was started in 2020 by offering our friends and guests a place to relax, camp, mountain bike, hike, fish, and swim to name a few. With 91 acres of rolling hills, gorgeous views, highland cows, and 2 creeks, it's the perfect escape. - Over 7 miles of hiking/mountain biking trails. - Bent Creek and a natural spring with a zip line, swimming hole, and multiple rock beaches. - Lookout points to enjoy the sunrise, sunset, and dark sky for star and planet viewing. - Highland cows that you can pet and feed (contact us first to visit them). - 13 miles from Holiday Lake State Park. - 8 miles from Bent Creek/James River boat ramp. - 15 miles from James River State Park. - 6 miles from Appomattox Court House National Park. - 10 miles from downtown Appomattox. - 33 miles from Farmville. - 28 miles from Lynchburg.

Camp 4everyoung

100%

(4)

50mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sandy Level, VA

3/4 of mile to Leesville Lake (Walking Distance), lake access has small boat ramp, picnic tables, grass area to relax and enjoy the day at the lake. The 10 acres offers a large fire pit and hang out area, plenty of room for walking or hiking the property. Very nice full outdoor bathhouse with hot water and composting toilet. 5 min ride to Smith Mountain Lake Dam visitors center, 15 min to Magnum Point Marina, 25 mins to Rocky Mount, Va and Gretna, VA. Hiking, fishing, biking, golf all with 25-30 mins. https://www.smithmtn.com/ https://business.visitsmithmountainlake.com/list

Stories from the community

J

Jessica

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Thunder BRidge

One of the best places we have camped! Clean sites and facilities. Adam was so accommodating and responsive. We hope to go back very soon.

r

russ

November 2025

34 ft travel trailer

With kids

4 nights at Buttermilk Bluff

We thoroughly enjoyed this campsite! The solitude and serene views were truly unmatched. We could see for miles, and the sunsets were amazing. We traveled with two young kids who loved exploring the nearby creek. The host was wonderful—friendly, attentive, and made sure all of our needs were met. Highly recommend!

S

Shane

November 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Buttermilk Bluff

The pictures don’t do the view justice at this place. Perfectly isolated, yet close enough to local amenities to go get something if necessary. The sights and sounds of the area are amazing! We saw deer, wild turkeys, a beaver, and plenty of friendly cows. With minimal light pollution, the night sky was breathtaking. Katie was more patient and accommodating than we deserved. We enjoyed campfires both nights and utilized the well placed utility hookups for our camper. I definitely plan to return and visit some of the local attractions that we learned about and weren’t able to fit into this trip.

B

Bill

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

Great location, close to DMY. Easy to work with management. Added extra spot at the last minute when we ended up with a large group.

E

Emma

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

We had a wonderful time! Very helpful directions from the owner and the cabin was beautiful! We would definitely come back and recommend to others.

Breakfast, with car/tent camping set-up and bathhouse in background.

M

Moon

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

Directions were clear. Camp sites were well kept. Great communication.

V

Victoria

November 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

The camp site was beautiful and had everything we needed. Adam was a wonderful host and extremely helpful. I hope to stay here again!

S

Seth

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

Camp experience was great (aside from the directions pulled from the app not being accurate - had to ask a couple of locals for directions to get un-lost). Adam was super friendly and check-in/out was super simple.

R

Ryan

November 2025

22 ft travel trailer

2 nights at 4 Mile Rock Meadow

Really beautiful spot off the beaten path with great views of the mountains. Nice level spot for the rig and the electric and water hookups worked great. Sam was also really responsive and a great host. Will be back!

B

Brennan

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

Amazing tent camping spot! The brick grill was incredibly convenient and fun to use. The tent space was nice and flat. Would 100% come again

Ava

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

This is a nice, big site. Close to 2 of the outhouses on the property, but well spaced from other nearby sites. My third time at ThunderBridge and great as always!

A

Ariel

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

Excellent place for tent camping. The sites were all very spacious and ĥad plenty of privacy. The bath house was very clean and the showers were good and hot. Adam's firewood bundles are very generous for the price. My family and I will absolutely be staying again.

K

Kandance

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Altamont Farms

What a cozy adventure with beautiful views! The host was available and attentive.

L

Larry

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

Great site, we will be back again. The tent sites and cabins look amazing. We stayed in the RV site with electric and water. It was easy to get to and set up. The only negative is that you are close to the road and get the traffic noise. There is lots of room to roam and let kids and dogs play.

A

Anna

November 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Thunder BRidge

We stayed for 2 nights. Very clean and nice views. Close to attractions.

H

Holly

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

It’s been a few years since we have camped at Thunder BRidge but we absolutely love it. Lots of improvements have been made and Adam continues to keep this facility clean. Bathroom stalls are a little tight but very clean with very hot showers. It would be nice to have a small bench but this may not be possible in the space. The property is fun to explore and sites are large and well spaced apart from other sites. Adam provides quick communication when making the reservation and in the days leading up to your trip.

D

David

November 2025

3 nights at Thunder BRidge

Fantastic Stay – Highly Recommend! We had an amazing experience at this camp! Adam was an outstanding host, super responsive, and went out of his way to make sure we had everything we needed for a great stay. The campsite (Woodpecker1) itself was peaceful, clean, and well maintained, with all the facilities in top shape. You can tell a lot of care goes into keeping the place welcoming and comfortable. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a convenient base for exploring the area, this spot is perfect. Thanks again to Adam for being such an accommodating and thoughtful host. We’ll definitely be back!

c

chris

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

Great location! So much space and quiet. Cabin was very comfortable. Highly recommend

E

Emily

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Thunder BRidge

Our camping trip at Thunder BRidge campground was great! The host, Adam, gave his phone number out and answered texts almost immediately which was super convenient. The tent site we used (Bunny 2) was clean and had a nice fire pit, benches and picnic tables. There was also place to pull your car in close and a pea gravel tent spot. The bathrooms were as clean as a campground bathroom is expected to be and was stocked well. The showers had really nice hot water which was such a nice ending to the day. Another plus was how close the campground is to interstate 81, hiking trails, Natural Bridge and the safari park! Everything about our trip was great! Highly recommend this spot!!