The best campgrounds near Buena Vista, Virginia with wildlife watching

Looking to embark on an outdoor adventure near Buena Vista, Virginia? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1,199 camping options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Whether you prefer a secluded private farm like Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), a picturesque meadow at Camp Shenandoah Meadows (295 reviews), or a riverside retreat like Rivers Edge Trail Camp (267 reviews), there's something for everyone. Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, showers, and pet-friendly locations. And if you're into whitewater paddling, surfing, or biking, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in these exciting activities. So why wait? Start planning your camping trip today!

98% (2.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to embark on an outdoor adventure near Buena Vista, Virginia? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1,199 camping options available in the area, you're sure to find the perfect spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. Whether you prefer a secluded private farm like Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), a picturesque meadow at Camp Shenandoah Meadows (295 reviews), or a riverside retreat like Rivers Edge Trail Camp (267 reviews), there's something for everyone. Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, showers, and pet-friendly locations. And if you're into whitewater paddling, surfing, or biking, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in these exciting activities. So why wait? Start planning your camping trip today!

98% (2.7K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Stoney Creek Campground

97%

(103)

26mi from Buena Vista · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Bedford, VA

Learn more about this land: Located 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian trail is a small camping area with a bathhouse that includes a toilet and hot shower. A mountain stream rushes through the campground providing a peaceful and tranquil stay. During the months of November through May I can stock the stream with rainbow trout during your stay. Book a stocking through the hipcamp app experiences for for $55 a day 6 fish limit. Outside enjoy a shady relaxing nap next to the stream. At night enjoy a fire while looking at the stars up above. During the day, explore the Blue Ridge Mountains 5 miles away with very popular hikes and waterfalls. Sharp Top Mt and Flat Top trail heads are 5 miles away. Apple Orchard Falls trailhead 15 minutes away. The James River is 20 minutes away which offers canoeing and kayaking. 5 miles south of the campground is Bedford which has food, shopping and historical attractions. Wineries, orchards and national forest are just minutes away.

2. 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.

3. Camp Cove Creek

95%

(33)

35mi from Buena Vista · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · Faber, VA

Camp Cove Creek is located in rural Faber, Virginia which is 20 minutes from Charlottesville in beautiful Nelson County. In addition to the many natural features like the Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachian Trail and the James River, Nelson is home to Wintergreen Resort and Oakridge Estate and hosts events such as the Lok'n Festival, Camp Jeep, and Overland Expo. Camp Cove Creek was part of my grandparent's Waveland Farm. Originally situated on over 600 acres, the brick antebellum house across the hill was used as a hospital in the Civil War. The camp used to be a horse and cattle farm as well as a flea market and airport with grass airstrip when my mom owned the land. Our vegetable garden was by the swimming hole. The airstrip still maintained as such in order to offer aviation-accessible camping. It is s the future home of Faber Christmas tree farm and features several notable antique vehicles rusting in peace. Some models are of the same make and model featured on TV and film. Camp Cove Creek is easily accessible via Rt 29 and Rt 6 east (Irish Road). Our property sits at the confluence of Bear and Cove Creeks where wading/hiking/tubing is permitted and encouraged (with water shoes). We are continually trying to improve the site by removing old barbed wire, poison ivy, roadside trash, and invasive plant species in addition to planting Christmas Trees, raising 3 kids, and working 2 full time jobs so please forgive our works in progress! This is your 30-acre camping playground! Licensed off-road vehicles, ADV and Dual-sport motorcycles, horses, personal electric vehicles and EVEN PRIVATE PLANES are welcomed! Camp anywhere along it or the creeks bordering it. We encourage walking the route first as it has intentionally been left primitive to provide more of an authentic and fun getaway adventure. Overlanding does tend to scratch paint so enter at your own risk! There is a Volleyball Net and Horseshoe set for use as well. Nearby in the soapstone mining town of Schuyler you can visit the home place of Earl Hamner, best known for his creation of The Waltons TV show. While you're there check out the Waltons Mountain Museum, which happens to be my old elementary school and my parent's former high school. The Rockfish River dam and quarry gardens are really cool too!

4. Jefferson National Forest

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(27)

488 sites · Bluefield, Virginia

Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.

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Electrical Hookup

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5. George Washington National Forest

99%

(51)

487 sites · Deerfield, Virginia

Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia

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Electrical Hookup

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6. Secluded & Private Wooded Campsite

50mi from Buena Vista · 3 sites · Tents · Scottsville, VA

If you enjoy a rustic, primitive tent camping experience and are looking to spend a little more than average so that you are able to camp in a place where there will be no other campers or campsites being utilized during your stay, our campsite may be a good fit for you! For now, it is the only campsite we are offering on our property. We provide the campsite with a table and chairs and a firepit, but outside of that you will need to bring your own amenities, such as water, lights and camping toilet. You may collect wood surrounding campsite to make a fire or purchase a chopped firewood bundle(s) from us. We do have a trashcan at entrance into woods you can put your trash into. We are in Fluvanna County, roughly 5 miles from the historic town of Scottsville. Your campsite will be down a wooded dirt road (4WD required) into our 20-acre wooded parcel which adjoins our 10-acre parcel and farmhouse, that is nearby further down main driveway. While we wish to respect your privacy as much as possible, do keep in mind that you may hear or see things associated with our living on the property and we do have children and animals. Our dogs Brewster and Ruby are friendly and may try to stop by to check things out at some point during your stay, but if that is an issue for you I can make every effort to keep them with us/in the house during your stay. We are roughly 30 minutes from Charlottesville, 20 minutes from Palmyra and 10 minutes from the historic town of Scottsville on the James River where you can float and/or fish, kayak, canoe, tube (outfitters right in Scottsville) rent a kayak, canoe, paddle board or tube from us (must sign liability waiver) or walk around the town of Scottsville & see the historic architecture and visit the novelty shops, restaurants, a bakery, coffee/book shop, thrift/antique mall, art gallery, a mercantile with locally sourced natural and raw foods and beverages. The Rivanna River is also not far. There are several wineries such as Cunningham Creek, Mount Ida and Hardware Hills and a brewery in Scottsville called James River Brewery nearby. Visit some nearby parks, Pleasant Grove or Scheier Nature Area in Fluvanna County and Dorrier Park or Van Clief Nature Area in Scottsville, Walnut Creek Park in Albemarle.

7. 12 Gates Farms

87%

(152)

28mi from Buena Vista · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Montvale, VA

This property was once a 300 acre plus tobacco farm. We are located within two miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian trail via a gated, public, forest road. Hikers should park at their campsite and walk up. The original log cabin was built in the 1850s and now serves as our dining room. The front portion of the house was completed in April of 1861 and the back in the early 1900s. We have plans to eventually turn it into a working farm which produces tinctures, salves and extracts of various native plants. Learn more about this land: Heavily wooded mountain side with flowing creek. Easy access (walking distance) to Jefferson National Forest, National Forest horse trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Trail. (Note: You cannot drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway as the path is an old forest road which has been gated, but you can walk up to it.) We also have a tree house which has AC, heat and electrical connection. You may camp anywhere on the property. There is plenty of frontage on the creek and several tents can go up there. The toilets are flushing, camping toilets with sinks. There are currently no showers available. To find us easily, use what3words.com and enter the words wished.wobbles.shelves. That square is our driveway. The large white square to the right of it is our house. DO NOT USE WAYZ GPS SYSTEM!

8. Warren Ferry Landing

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(219)

44mi from Buena Vista · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Scottsville, VA

Come enjoy Warren Ferry Landing, our expansive and shaded property just steps from the James River! Our property boasts 400+ feet of river frontage for you to enjoy and you can swim, fish, or even launch a canoe directly from our sites. About the property Our property is located adjacent to the historic Warren Ferry crossing of the James River. This is one of two historic ferry crossings near Scottsville, VA! The other, Hatton Ferry, is located a little bit down river from this location. Our property is only 8 miles from Scottsville so if you need to pop into town for something you forgot it is quite easy. There are many other activities that you can partake in nearby or on our property. There is fishing, swimming, hiking, and kayaking all within easy reach of our property. We live onsite (total property acreage is 16 miles) and we can reached over the phone or text. If you have any questions before or during your stay please don’t hesitate to reach out. The owner does reserve the right to use the river access, for activities such as kayak launch/recover, during the stay. Keep in mind that during the night it is possible to hear some train activity from across the river.

9. Why B Square mountain yurt rentals

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(245)

68mi from Buena Vista · 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!

10. Douthat State Park

97%

(17)

58 sites · Clifton Forge, Virginia

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

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11. James River State Park

96%

(15)

25 sites · Arrington, Virginia

Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at James River State Park.

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12. Monongahela National Forest

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(47)

599 sites · Durbin, West Virginia

John Denver knew there was something special about West Virginia and today you can let those country roads take you home to Monongahela National Forest! A super lush and diverse forest awaits hikers and bikers at Smoke Hole Canyon, where a misty morning fog will greet you along the river. Spruce Knob and Seneca Rocks are highly skilled routes for rock climbers wanting a challenge or photographers wanting that perfect panoramic shot! Fish or canoe down the Potomac or meander down the Highland Scenic Byway, there are plenty of campgrounds or overnight forest adventures to keep you here til the moonshine has run dry! Monongahela produces a special kind of mountain majesty, bring your mountain mama self out and explore for yourself!

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Electrical Hookup

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13. Holliday Lake State Park

5 sites · Pamplin City, Virginia

Discover the serene beauty of Holliday Lake State Park.

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14. Camping at Oak Grove

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(21)

11mi from Buena Vista · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lexington, VA

🌲 Welcome to Your Private Getaway! 🌲 Discover Our Hidden Gem: A Private Campsite on 11 Acres! Escape to our peaceful campground, featuring an easily accessible grassy clearing surrounded by year-round beauty and stunning mountain views. Just minutes from downtown Lexington and I-64, our site is the perfect base for adventure! ✨ Why Choose Us? Breathtaking Scenery: Enjoy serene surroundings and gorgeous mountain views. Convenient Location: Close to local hiking trails like Goshen Pass, Chessie Trail, and House Mountain. Explore Local Flavors: Discover Rockbridge County's wineries and brewery scene just a stone's throw away. 🏕️ Amenities: Primitive campsite for tent camping and boondocking Solo Stove for cozy evenings Picnic table for outdoor dining Firewood available for purchase at $5 a bundle 🌟 Book Your Adventure Today! Reconnect with nature and make lasting memories in our tranquil oasis. Your escape awaits!

15. Blue Bird with Heat/AC!!

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(72)

31mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Lodging · Fincastle, VA

Learn more about this land: Enjoy our blue bird converted bus .Two single beds. Kitchen inside. Toilet inside. Grill and fire pit and table outside. Gaze the starry sky far away from city lights. Enjoy and exhale surrounded by the mature oaks. and hardwood forest. Hike Appalachian trail or motorcycle thru Jefferson National Forest. A step above tent camping. IF you are not a camper-- and are looking for a less expensive AirBnB. we are not for you. (No matter what TikTok told you) Showers are in main house and are available when staying 2 nights or more, or to AT thru hikers. Check in after 3:00 or special arrangements.

16. 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.

17. Private A-frame on the Hill

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(8)

22mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Tent, RV · Buchanan, VA

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, our A-frame “Triangle House” sits on 2 private, wooded acres—perfect for a peaceful getaway under the stars. While the house itself isn’t available for overnight stays, Hipcampers are welcome to pitch a tent anywhere on the property’s grassy clearings or car camp in the driveway. Wake up to mountain air, sip your coffee on the spacious porch with mountain views, and wind down at night around the outdoor fire pit—ideal for roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, and stargazing. Good to know: The driveway is steep and gravel, so please plan accordingly—longer camper vans may have difficulty getting up the hill. If you’re looking for a quiet mountain escape with plenty of fresh air, open sky, and cozy camp vibes, this spot is for you!

18. Arcadia Sanctuary

97%

(370)

11mi from Buena Vista · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Buena Vista, VA

Welcome to Arcadia Sanctuary An 83-Acre Mountainside Retreat for Earth-Based Spirituality in Central Virginia Arcadia is our beloved sanctuary for earth-based spirituality, nestled on the southeastern slope of 4,000-foot Mount Pleasant in Central Virginia. Conveniently located near I-81, Arcadia offers a secluded, nature-immersed experience—just a short drive from the modern world, yet miles away in spirit. Please note: There is a town called Arcadia off I-81, but we are not located there. Be sure to follow our directions carefully. A Living Landscape of Forest, Water, and Wildness Our land features a flowing mountain creek with waterfalls, towering Beech and Sycamore trees, and Witch Hazels leaning gracefully over the water. You'll encounter trout, crayfish, salamanders, snakes, and the full chorus of mountain wildlife. With nearly 2,000 feet of vertical mountainside, Arcadia offers trails to explore and camping options ranging from creek side convenience to secluded mountain hideaways. While most of our gathering areas are near creek level, higher sites are available for those seeking solitude—just be prepared for a bit of a hike to the bathrooms, showers, and fresh water. A Natural Amphitheater for Music and Gathering Arcadia is home to one of the finest private stages on the East Coast. Our natural amphitheater—shaped like a pie wedge carved into the mountainside—hosts live performances throughout spring, summer, and fall. With a top-quality sound system and stunning surroundings, it’s a magical venue for music, ceremony, and celebration. Stay With Us: Yurt Glamping, Tent Camping & More Our beautiful yurt is available for rent and offers a unique glamping experience surrounded by nature. For traditional campers, we offer multiple campsites near the creek, as well as more remote locations higher up the mountain. Every stay includes access to the shared amenities: bathrooms, hot showers, fresh water, and community gathering spaces. Meet the Arcadia Community Arcadia is alive with more than just trees and streams. You’ll share space with our free-roaming flock of chickens, ducks, turkeys, and guinea fowl, along with two friendly dogs, nine curious cats, and the human stewards who live and care for this land year-round.

19. Darby Farm

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(69)

46mi from Buena Vista · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlottesville, VA

Come visit us with beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, hiking, fishing and farm animals await you as you relax and enjoy southern hospitality.

20. Glamping with room to roam.

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(42)

38mi from Buena Vista · 5 sites · Lodging · Howardsville, VA

Whisper Creek was founded in 1999. It has been the gathering place for many great friends and camping adventures. WC can hardly be camping, more like Glamping! This is a very private and quiet location. You can settle in knowing that this listing includes a covered picnic area. Which has counter space for food prep and cooking that includes a small sink. But remember, it’s camping so you’ll need to come prepared with a camp stove for cooking, although I do have charcoal and propane grill’s at the picnic area. Fire pit for awesome evening camp fires with free split firewood on hand. All I ask is that you burn it like you split and stacked it. You can gather and relax under the covered picnic area for dinner preparation and/or lounging. We are located within an hour from Wintergreen, numerous wineries, craft beer locations and numerous hiking destinations. Harmony Hut has fresh linens but please bring sleeping bags and/or sheets for the screened in bunkhouse. River access to the James River is a short drive to Howardsville. There you will also find a General Store which offers you the basics, such as Beer, Wine, Ice and a few grocery items. They make the best homemade sandwiches and grilled burgers. Direct river access can be provided via special request. I can also provide shuttling services. But this needs to be mentioned well before your stay as I don't live up there year around.

Camper favorites near Buena Vista

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Darby Farm

100%

(69)

46mi from Buena Vista · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlottesville, VA

Come visit us with beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, hiking, fishing and farm animals await you as you relax and enjoy southern hospitality.

Glamping with room to roam.

94%

(42)

38mi from Buena Vista · 5 sites · Lodging · Howardsville, VA

Whisper Creek was founded in 1999. It has been the gathering place for many great friends and camping adventures. WC can hardly be camping, more like Glamping! This is a very private and quiet location. You can settle in knowing that this listing includes a covered picnic area. Which has counter space for food prep and cooking that includes a small sink. But remember, it’s camping so you’ll need to come prepared with a camp stove for cooking, although I do have charcoal and propane grill’s at the picnic area. Fire pit for awesome evening camp fires with free split firewood on hand. All I ask is that you burn it like you split and stacked it. You can gather and relax under the covered picnic area for dinner preparation and/or lounging. We are located within an hour from Wintergreen, numerous wineries, craft beer locations and numerous hiking destinations. Harmony Hut has fresh linens but please bring sleeping bags and/or sheets for the screened in bunkhouse. River access to the James River is a short drive to Howardsville. There you will also find a General Store which offers you the basics, such as Beer, Wine, Ice and a few grocery items. They make the best homemade sandwiches and grilled burgers. Direct river access can be provided via special request. I can also provide shuttling services. But this needs to be mentioned well before your stay as I don't live up there year around.

Meili Mtn - Tye River Waterfall

97%

(57)

17mi from Buena Vista · 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.

Wilderness Adventure

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(526)

39mi from Buena Vista · 92 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Castle, VA

Our campsites offer beautiful scenery, exciting activities and HOT showers! There are local on-property trails to explore and all the campsite and lodging amenities that make for the perfect family getaway! All of our listings lie on 500 gorgeous acres run by Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing. Bordered by 500 yards of Craigs Creek along the front of our property and mountains in the rear, Wilderness Adventure offers our guests extensive trails to hike and bike, ponds for fishing and swimming, canoeing and tubing. We offer Giant Swing, Team Building, Low Ropes, High Ropes, Caving, Rock Climbing, Mountain Bike lessons and guided trips! Wilderness Adventure is more than just a campground or lodge. Along with our wide range of camping and lodging options, we also offer free and paid adventure activities like tubing, canoeing, hiking, biking, disc golf, and more! Activities for Guests: Hiking, mountain biking, and trail running on our onsite trails, disc golf, canoeing, tubing, swimming or fishing in our pond, creek sitting, fire pits, sand volleyball, horseshoes, corn hole, and endless open space to wander and relax. Basecamp Adventure Activities: Tubing/Shuttle: $20/trip/person Canoe Rentals/Shuttle: $40/trip/boat Sit on top Kayak Rentals/Shuttle: $30/trip/boat Area Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking, Gravel Biking, Bikepacking, 4-wheeling Virginia's Triple Crown - Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs Roaring Run and Hoop Hole North Mountain/Dragons Back Carvin's Cove Mill Mountain Douthat State Park Craig’s Creek Our camp store is open during select hours. You can purchase firewood, ice, sunscreen, beverages, merchandise, and other items you may enjoy during your stay. Other Cool Stuff Nearby: The Swinging Bridge Restaurant - Paint Bank VA Lemon & Vale Cakery, New Castle, VA Bibos Pizzeria - New Castle, VA The Mill Mountain Star - Roanoke VA Parkway Brewing Company - Salem, VA And so much more!

Camping at Lazy River Farm

94%

(160)

22mi from Buena Vista · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. Not at the river. Camp sites also have fire rings with wood available for you to use. Campers are welcome to use any wood that's on the ground near or around your site. Camp sites can be accessed with a high clearance 4 wheel drive vehicle or walk up the hill to your site. With easy access down to the river, by walking or driving, 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. The Gypsy Rose sleeps 2, but can sleep 2 additional guests with a tent. Paddle boards and kayaks are available for free if you paddling near the farm. (Life jackets are limited but are required, so if you have one bring it) 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, pigs, chickens, horses and livestock guardian dogs.. Your welcome to come and pet the animals. Do not feed animals. Do not go into fields or stalls with any of 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. Contact us directly for a full range of what we have to offer, or have questions regarding any site.

Beaverdam Falls

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(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!

Green Acres

97%

(44)

23mi from Buena Vista · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · Clifton Forge, VA

****RT 42 IS NOT CLOSED ---Google Maps is wrong**** This property has 8 sites MESSAGE US FOR DETAILS REGARDING OUR AMENITIES AND FACILITIES. Check us out on Facebook at... GREEN ACRES VA CAMPING .. We are an officially permitted and licensed, by the State of Virginia, 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.

Camping in the shade on the river

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(151)

24mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Tent, RV · Eagle Rock, VA

Learn more about this land: Very secluded spot right on the river. Large fire pit. 12 by 40 pavilion. Great area for wade fishing. Right between two 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.

Public campgrounds near Buena Vista

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Hopper Creek Group Campground

14mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · in Jefferson National Forest

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(5)

Cave Mountain Lake Family Campground

15mi from Buena Vista · 27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

The view from Wildcat Mountain Trail. Don't try to hike the whole trail unless you're in pretty darn good physical condition!

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Cave Mountain Lake Group Campground

15mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · in Jefferson National Forest

North Creek Campground

18mi from Buena Vista · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Jefferson National Forest

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(9)

Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground

23mi from Buena Vista · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in George Washington National Forest

97%

(17)

Douthat State Park Campground

27mi from Buena Vista · 58 sites · Tents, RVs · in Douthat State Park

96%

(15)

James River Campground

31mi from Buena Vista · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in James River State Park

Craig Creek Recreation Area and Campground

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(1)

Craig Creek Recreation Area and Campground

34mi from Buena Vista · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Jefferson National Forest

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(2)

Hidden Valley Recreation Area

36mi from Buena Vista · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · in George Washington National Forest

Morris Hill Campground

36mi from Buena Vista · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in George Washington National Forest

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(1)

McClintic Point Campground

36mi from Buena Vista · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in George Washington National Forest

Greenwood Point Campground

37mi from Buena Vista · 5 sites · in George Washington National Forest

Stories from the community

C

Cameron

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Oak Grove

My husband, dog, and I had a great time car camping on Emmalyn's land. We arrived after dark, but it was still easy to navigate to the site. It is not too far from the highway, and we found it to be very quiet. It was a perfect stopover for our long drive!

Warren Ferry Cabin - a rustic cabin experience. There are 2 cots available inside. Bring your own cots, air mattresses, or sleeping bags to sleeping up to 6. No plumbing available but there is an outhouse on the side of the cabin.

J

Jennifer

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Warren Ferry Landing

The drive to the cabin is on gravel and pretty easy to navigate, it’s kept up very well and is a nice place to stay. They have a wood burner that keeps the cabin warm during winter and cheap wood prices which is amazing $8 a night. Definitely coming back for the summer!!!!

Mark

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Private A-frame on the Hill

Beautiful property nice and peaceful stay. Driveway was easy to get up 2wd is fine.

Mike

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Camp Cove Creek

Very cool place with multiple trails through the property. We chose a spot near the bottom by the creek, it was very peaceful! My girls enjoyed finding all the bikes, sleds, and lights around the property. The nostalgic vehicles are a nice touch! We will happily return👍🏼

J

Jessica

November 2025

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.

Gate removed, signs changed, but I keep this as a reminder of the day we decided to retire back here. "REDUCED SPEED AHEAD" was the sign we needed!

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Steve

November 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Camp Cove Creek

Awesome spot! Love the freedom to roam and set up camp wherever. The subtle ground lighting at some of the sites was a nice touch.

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.

Lauren

November 2025

30 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Green Acres

This is a really neat site located on the Cowpasture River. The camp host is very nice and accommodating!

C

Conan

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Lazy River Farm

Had a great time at this beautiful property. Stayed at Camp Site 2 and had plenty of space. Will definitely stay again in the future.

Luscious green next to the pond. A great place to camp, be visited by the ducks and listen to the wildlife and the creek nearby

M

MaryAnn

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

Great spot and Fran is very accommodating. Beautiful, quaint, the animals, very clean bathrooms and star filled sky were amazing.

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.

A

Austin

November 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Camping at Lazy River Farm

Great camping spot at Site 1, it over looks the valley behind the property is gorgeous to wake up to. As the description says, you definitely need a 4-wheel drive vehicle to get up the hill. It takes someone spotting, but you can navigate through the trees to get your vehicle directly at the site. We arrived in the evening and in the dark it was a challenge. There is a portapotty/outhouse as far as amenities, but no running water at the site. Bring water with you to avoid a long walk. I would absolutely come back and stay again!

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

M

Mark

November 2025

21 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Darby Farm

Very pleasant place to stay with mountain views and a quiet, peaceful farm. There is a water hookup and electric if needed. Would definitely stay 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.

G

Gwyneth

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

We had a wonderful experience! Fran was lovely when we checked in and out! Buddy and Ally (the dogs) kept us company throughout the night and made us feel secure! Mr. Duck and the various cats were also lovely to meet! We were the only campers that night, so it felt very private. Just a heads up that most campsites are directly next to another campsite! I would definitely come back with a larger group and reserve two adjacent campgrounds!