The best forest camping in Virginia

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Looking to escape to the great outdoors and immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than camping in Virginia with a forest setting! With over 1440 options available in Virginia that offer a forest experience, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the game, Blackwater Birds and Bees (601 reviews), Camp Shenandoah Meadows (295 reviews), and Savage Acres on Craig Creek (269 reviews), to name a few. Enjoy popular amenities such as trash disposal, campfires, and toilets, and indulge in activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. With an average price per night of $45 and options as low as $5, camping in Virginia's forested areas has never been more accessible. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience!

97% (13.9K) 3,968 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Virginia

South River Farm Campground

1. South River Farm Campground

94%
(135)
Front Royal, VA · 37 sites · Tents, Lodging
Glamp in a Furnished Yurt or Camp Riverside at South River Farm!! Wake up by the Shenandoah! At South River Farm Campground, you can choose your own adventure - bring your own tent to our designated dispersed tent camping area or settle into a fully furnished riverside yurt perched above a scenic bend of the river. Just minutes from downtown Front Royal, Skyline Drive, and Andy Guest State Park, our property offers the perfect blend of nature and convenience. Tent Camping: Spacious designated sites, each with a fire pit, access to riverfront relaxation. Riverside Yurts: Furnished and ready for you - featuring solar lighting, a hammock, picnic table, fire pit, grill access, and cozy riverside vibes. Both options include access to a fully functional bath house - new in 2026!! Please note - there’s no electricity or running water on individual yurt or tent sites, but that’s part of the charm. ✨ Whether you’re glamping under the stars or pitching your own tent, South River Farm offers a peaceful riverside escape that’s close to everything but feels a world away.
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Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

2. Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

99%
(1092)
Brightwood, VA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend!Campsite has a firepit, picnic table, river frontage with beach, and fishing hole. Campers can enjoy hiking and the many breweries and wine vineyards in the Shenandoah. Great access point for kayaking. Firewood available (reasonable rates)close to:-Scenic Skyline DriveThorton Gap entrance (33 miles)Swift Run Gap entrance (29 miles)-Shenandoah National Park (50 miles)-Many great VineyardsPrince Michele (3 miles away)Early Mountain (10 miles away)DuCard (16 miles)Barboursville (24 miles)Horton’s ( 25 miles)Old Rag Mountain which was voted #10 in the Top 25 hikes in the world,(20 miles)Historic homes of Founding Fathers Thomas Jefferson (Monticello - 41 miles) or James Madison (Montpelier- 21 miles)
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Picnic table
Lakefront!! Kayaks Available.

3. Lakefront!! Kayaks Available.

99%
(143)
New Canton, VA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
**Fires are allowed at all sites, fire ring provided** Experience the ultimate outdoor retreat on our stunning 56-acre property in Buckingham County, Virginia. With a combination of pristine waters, abundant wildlife, and serene camping sites, this is the perfect getaway for nature lovers, anglers, and adventurers. Water Features 25-Acre Lake: The centerpiece of the property, this expansive lake features deep areas, a submerged dam, natural springs, and peaceful coves. It’s fully stocked with Bass, Crappie, Catfish, and Brim, offering exceptional fishing opportunities. Two Additional Ponds: Explore two smaller ponds, one of which features a covered gazebo and dock, perfect for relaxing, fishing, or soaking in the views. Waterfront Campsites Lakeside Tent Sites: Each campsite is located along the water, providing stunning views and direct access to the lake. Easy Setup: Guests can drive their vehicles directly to the campsites for convenience. Kayaks Provided: Complimentary kayaks are available for exploring the lake’s hidden gems. Wildlife Haven Often described as an outdoorsman’s paradise, the property is alive with diverse wildlife and offers incredible opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Wildlife Sightings: Regular visitors include deer, eagles, ducks, geese, frogs, turtles, and beavers. Birdwatching: Enjoy spotting majestic eagles and other bird species in their natural habitat. Activities and Amenities Fishing: Cast a line in the lake or ponds for a relaxing and rewarding experience. Boating: Explore the lake’s tranquil waters with provided kayaks. Relaxation Spaces: Take in the views from the gazebo and dock by the pond, or unwind at your campsite by the water. Stargazing & Campfires: Evenings bring clear skies and the perfect setting for fireside chats. Whether you’re fishing, kayaking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this property is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of nature. Book your campsite today and experience the serenity and adventure of this unique property!
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Jefferson National Forest

4. Jefferson National Forest

98%
(29)
National forest in Virginia · 488 sites
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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George Washington National Forest

5. George Washington National Forest

99%
(52)
National forest in Virginia · 487 sites
Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia
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Blackridge Camper Hill

6. Blackridge Camper Hill

100%
(1)
La Crosse, VA · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Blackridge Camper Hill where miles of pine trees meet a 2 acre pond for a private stay in a quiet, history filled area of Southern Virginia. We are 247 acres and have easy access for any size rig. We are pet friendly on leashes and have designated areas. Additional covered parking is available. Book our 30' Keystone RV with all the comforts, or park your RV for the stay! Hook up your RV to our water, electric, and WiFi. Fish, Kayak, Paddle board, Run RC cars and boats at the pond, or simply sit under an umbrella at the dock and catch some sun. Hike to Haddie's Hole or Great Creek right on our 247 acres Visit Rosewood Winery just 4 miles away Boat in Lake Gaston just 10 miles away East at 313 Franklin in South Hill just 7 miles away
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Crooked Mountain

7. Crooked Mountain

99%
(349)
Floyd, VA · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Crooked Mountain – Camping Near the Blue Ridge Parkway | Floyd, VA www.crookedmtn.com Crooked Mountain is a family and Veteran-owned farm, campground, camp store, and small event venue located just ½ mile off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Mile Marker 159 near Floyd, Virginia. We designed Crooked Mountain to be a unique basecamp for travelers exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, especially those traveling by van, car, motorcycle, bicycle, or with small RVs. With easy access from the Parkway and scenic mountain roads nearby, it’s a great stop for road trippers, vanlifers, and anyone on two wheels exploring Southwest Virginia. The campground currently offers 15 campsites across the farm: • 7 sites on Pine Creek (Sites 1 & 12 have electric) • 5 field campsites with open views of the surrounding hills • 3 field sites with electric near the pond (Sites 13–15) Electric sites provide 30/20 amp power only. There are no water or sewer hookups at campsites. Guests can enjoy the natural setting of the property and access our hiking trail, fishing pond (catch n release for a fee) and other amenities on the farm while staying here. Our camp store offers tourism information about Floyd and the surrounding area (including local motorcycle/bicycle maps and routes, along with artisan goods, camping essentials (things you may have forgotten), snacks, drinks, coffee, ice, firewood and more. During the summer months we also open our fields for a You-Pick flower experience, where guests can purchase a container and create their own bouquet. Flower season typically runs July through September. Crooked Mountain is located along The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, and the town of Floyd is just 4 miles away, offering live music, local restaurants, breweries, galleries, and the famous Friday Night Jamboree at the Floyd Country Store. Whether you're traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway, riding Floyd’s scenic backroads, or just exploring the region, Crooked Mountain is a great place to stop and stay awhile. Come "Ride. Camp. and Explore" Crooked Mountain in Floyd, VA!
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Thunder BRidge

8. Thunder BRidge

99%
(728)
Natural Bridge Station, VA · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. We also don't offer longterm rentals as we focus on short term camping.
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City Camp on Reedy Creek

9. City Camp on Reedy Creek

99%
(579)
Richmond, VA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Come take a load off at this forested Richmond retreat overlooking Reedy Creek. Set up a tent, car camp, or bring your small trailer to one of two sites on a unique property backed up to 20+ acres of woods. Imagine a hidden gem where you can relax to the sounds of rushing water and chirping birds, but can walk or bike to coffee shops, breweries, restaurants, parks or the river. If you are coming into Richmond for a Brown's Island event we are a five minute Uber to an access point using the Potterfield walking bridge (it's a beautiful walk across the James River to the island). Each campsite includes 3 level spots to pitch tents (see dimensions below), and a connected space to park one car, van or small trailer. The large parking space can be used as a fourth tent footprint if needed. There are additional parking spaces. Each site has a fire pit (with firewood on site), a grate to grill over the fire, a picnic table, and a hammock. There is a shared outbuilding with a composting toilet, hand washing sink, outdoor shower (solar warmed), and space to change privately.  Campsite W ~  Tent footprints: 1) 10' x 12' 2) 10' x 13' 3) 9' x 10' Campsite E ~ Tent footprints: 1) 15'x16' 2) 10' x 15' 3) 9' x 10' **Pricing is based on groups of up to four adults or two adults with children. For groups of five to seven adults there is an additional charge of $10 person per day. For groups of eight or more we suggest you reserve both sites and have the entire camp to yourselves. Campsites W and E are about 80' apart. Both are around 100' to the creek. The spots can accommodate a total length (towing vehicle plus trailer) of up to 35 ft. There is an outdoor spigot with potable water and hoses for clean up. The woodlands and creek adjacent to the campsites have trails that are accessible to the public. You and your furry friends are welcome to use these paths, but know that others may be using them too. Richmond has so much to offer and we are just a hop, skip, and a jump to many wonderful attractions - kayak or sunbathe on the James River, walk or bike on trails around the city, rock climb, dine, imbibe. PLEASE NOTE* These sites are on a private property with a house that is visible to campers, but we give our guests complete privacy and don't plan to interact unless you need something from us. While you are on a 2 acre property backed up to a 20 acre wooded area, we are still in the middle of the city and you will hear city sounds. This is a safe space. We do not discriminate based on anything that makes you...you.
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Occoneechee State Park

10. Occoneechee State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Virginia · 18 sites
From 1250-1670, Occoneechee Indians lived on an island on the Roanoke near what is now this park.
Campfires
Picnic table
Smith Mountain Lake State Park

11. Smith Mountain Lake State Park

100%
(9)
State park in Virginia · 24 sites
A relaxing lake with an ice cream boats making deliveries? Count us in! RV hookups and cabins, too!
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John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir

12. John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir

90%
(5)
Park in Virginia · 430 sites
Discover the serene beauty of John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir.
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Electrical hookup
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Prince William Forest National Park

13. Prince William Forest National Park

89%
(14)
National park in Virginia · 63 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Prince William Forest Park.
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Savage Acres on Craig Creek

14. Savage Acres on Craig Creek

98%
(684)
Catawba, VA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
In a remote valley just north of Roanoke VA, along the banks of Craig's Creek, the property includes mature hardwood forest, pasture, and an 1830s log cabin where we live. We love to share this special place with visitors, and have some basic amenities for campers. The campsites are at the edge of a large pasture and just a few steps from the creek and our big swimmin' hole. Totally secluded in a remote valley - barely a house in sight (but our cabin is a short walk through the woods if you need something), no cell service for most providers, but within a short drive of Roanoke and Blacksburg, and countless outdoor recreation opportunities.
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Bears Den Campground

15. Bears Den Campground

95%
(1224)
Shenandoah Retreat, VA · 5 sites
Set up your tent in our remote but easily accessible campground, 100 yards off the Appalachian Trail. Roast marshmallows by the fire pit and watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Site #1 is on a hilly slope and accommodates 4 campersSite #2 accommodates 8-10 campersSite #3 accommodates 4 campersSite #4 accommodates 6-8 campersSite #5 accommodates 6-8 campers About the property Located on a 66-acre plot just five miles from the Shenandoah River, our property offers amazing access to hiking and the outdoors while also keeping civilization within striking distance. Bear Chase Brewery is just a half mile walk across the street, and we are 15 miles from Purcellville. The land and lodge used to be the summer home of a trained opera singer, whose singing could be heard throughout the mountain. Your Host lives onsite in the stone house that also acts as a hostel for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Built in the 1930's all from locally sourced hand-hammered stone, the house is open every night from 5pm - 9pm. Note that we offer several campsites relatively close to each other, so you should expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. About the listing Pitch your tent in a forested area just a short walk up from where you’ll park your car. Enjoy unbeatable proximity to hiking and panoramic views while still having basic amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. You’ll have access to a composting pit toilet, and can access potable water from the tap in the lodge. That’s also where you can access hot showers. As noted above, we host Appalachian Trail thru hikers on the property, so you may see them hanging around or sleeping in the bunkhouse near the shared facilities. so please be respectful of hours when you come in for a shower. No showers after 10 pm For meals, we have picnic tables, and you are encouraged to cook over the fire pits that accompany each site. Please practice Leave No Trace practices during your stay, as the property has raccoons and other critters who will be drawn to any food scraps that are left behind. Pets are allowed! Please keep them on leash during your stay. Trash can be disposed of in dumpster up the hill Additional details to note Expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. No kitchen equipment is provided, so campers must bring their own supplies if they'd like to cook. We do not offer WiFi, but there is good cell reception for all common carriers.
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Hippie Hollow

16. Hippie Hollow

99%
(159)
Floyd, VA · 54 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Live music: -Wednesday afternoons in June July and August -3rd Saturday of the Month starting in May -Or Check Hippie Hollow FB page for live music event schedule: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576581639034 Adjacent to trout stocked Dodd Creek for fishing and swimming 2 miles from downtown Floyd fire wood can be gathered or purchased Bring your dogs, blast your music, and enjoy the pleasant mountain weather. Electricity and fresh mountain spring water hookups available New restroom is in operation
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Arcadia Sanctuary

17. Arcadia Sanctuary

98%
(381)
Buena Vista, VA · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Stoney Creek Campground

18. Stoney Creek Campground

98%
(133)
Bedford, VA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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 ( firewood sold here) 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.
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Full hookups
The Guinea Farm, Field, and Forest

19. The Guinea Farm, Field, and Forest

98%
(343)
Diggs, VA · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
The Guinea farm is 18 acres of field and forest on the rural middle peninsula. Only 1 mile from 2 separate secluded dog friendly beaches and a boat launch. There is very little traffic or light pollution here, nature is at your fingertips. Come visit the farm and experience agritourism at it's finest. Pick your own veggies in the community garden and meet the Guinea fowl! Enjoy the wilderness and learn about the local ecosystem here on the middle peninsula. There are 3 sites spaced out across the 18 acres set apart for privacy. Wisteria Treehouse site closer to the entrance gate. Trilogy Micro Cabinz is in the pines 700' beyond that and separated by dense forest. Stargazer Tiny cabin is an off grid rustic camping cabin on the back side of the property. Each site is surrounded by several acres of forest and close to the edge of a large field. There are roaming guinea fowl that may come make a very loud appearance as they canvas the property eating bugs. Deer, Turkeys, Bald Eagles, foxes, and other wildlife are common guests also. Mid-summer is what I call frog season, Tree frogs are abundant and provide a wonderful soundtrack. There are free to use bicycles, an axe throwing board, and cornhole boards available. 4 miles from shopping and dining in Mathews Virginia, 15 miles to Gwynn Island. Gwynn's Island is an island located in the Chesapeake Bay off of Virginia's Middle Peninsula. The island is located in the northeast part of Mathews County, south of the mouth of the Piankatank River. It is connected to the rest of the county by a swing bridge over Milford Haven.
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Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

20. Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

99%
(605)
Etlan, VA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our small Farm, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Madison County, Virginia. Located just minutes from Shenandoah National Park, we offer intimate nature-inspired cottages and camping on our 120-acre working farm. Enjoy an evening under the stars with fireflies and a campfire after a long day hike, fly fishing on one of our beautiful trout steams or touring the local vineyards and breweries. We currently offer one cottage, glamping and a few campsites for our guests. Our campsites are all private, located acres apart with tables, chairs, firepits, some elevated sleeping areas, some hammock spots and a few with a roof. Three of our spots require walking away from your vehicle, short distances. We have four drive-in sites that will accommodate two or three vehicles. We do not allow RVs or trailers on our main farm due to our narrow mountain driveway. Wisteria Camp has a private driveway, it can accommodate small RV/Trailers. Camper vans are welcome at the main farm! Our farm store includes our Animal Welfare Approved products such as Eggs, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Lamb and Dairy, as well as produce, jams, coffee and other items from our local community. We offer camping essentials, local art, bike rentals, farm experiences and tours. The property has miles of trails along mountain spring-fed streams, a small pond and access to three private acres on the Robinson River, a stocked Trout stream, just 2 miles down the road. Our property is centrally located to White Oak Canyon (20 minutes) and Old Rag Mountain (10 minutes) trailheads in the Shenandoah National Park as well as many vineyards and breweries. A few offerings on the farm. Tasting in the 1850s Chestnut log cabin, tubing trips, breakfast and picnic lunches, Animal experiences and Yoga. Please inquire about renting the property for private small events. Winter Camping: Please note that we can received significant snowfall in our area. 4WD may be required during the winter months.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field