Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe

The best river, stream, or creek camping in Virginia

·

Looking for an unforgettable camping experience near Virginia's scenic rivers? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1,320 options in Virginia that cater to river enthusiasts, you'll find the perfect spot to reconnect with nature. Whether you prefer pitching your tent by the riverbank or parking your RV with a waterfront view, there's a campsite for every style and budget. And with top-rated options like Blackwater Birds and Bees (601 reviews), Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), and James River Depot (305 reviews), you can trust fellow campers' recommendations. Enjoy popular amenities like pet-friendly spaces, potable water, and clean toilets. Plus, you can fill your days with activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and boating. Get ready to embark on your river adventure!

97% (15.3K) 3,116 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Virginia

Crooked Mountain

1. Crooked Mountain

99%
(397)
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
James River Depot

2. James River Depot

98%
(913)
Glasgow, VA · 5 sites
An active hay field nestled between the river and the railroad.  A great place to enjoy some R and R.  We love to float the James and there is easy access to the river on our property.  A beautiful field as well as some trees for added shade. Fun to hear the trains and the water as you get amazing views of the night sky.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Thunder BRidge

3. Thunder BRidge

99%
(780)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir

5. John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir

90%
(5)
Park in Virginia · 430 sites
Discover the serene beauty of John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

6. Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

99%
(1155)
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)
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
South River Farm Campground

7. South River Farm Campground

94%
(176)
Front Royal, VA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Glamp, Camp, or RV Along the Shenandoah at South River Farm Campground! Welcome to South River Farm Campground - a peaceful riverside campground and working farm nestled along the South Fork of the Shenandoah River in Front Royal, Virginia. Whether you’re looking to glamp in a furnished riverside yurt, pitch your own tent at a dedicated numbered tent site, or bring your RV to a full-hookup site, South River Farm offers a relaxing outdoor escape with river access, open farm views, and plenty of room to unwind. Located just minutes from downtown Front Royal, Skyline Drive, Shenandoah River State Park, Andy Guest State Park, local wineries, restaurants, hiking, paddling, and outdoor adventures, our campground feels tucked away in nature while still being close to everything. Our campground offers: 🏕️ Dedicated Tent Sites Bring your own tent and settle into one of our numbered tent sites near the river bottom. Tent sites offer a rustic camping experience with river access, fire pits, and nearby bathhouse facilities. 🌙 Furnished Riverside Yurts Enjoy a simple glamping getaway in one of our furnished yurts, featuring cozy furnishings, solar lighting, a picnic table, hammock, fire pit, grill access, and peaceful riverside vibes. 🚐 Full-Hookup RV Sites Bring your camper or RV and enjoy convenient full-hookup sites with water, sewer, and electric access while still being close to the river and farm setting. 🚿 Bathhouse Access Guests have access to our clean, fully functional bathhouse with restrooms and showers. Please note that individual tent and yurt sites do not have running water or electricity, but RV sites do include hookups. 🌾 Working Farm Setting South River Farm is a working agritourism property with seasonal farm experiences, open fields, river views, walking areas, and peaceful Shenandoah Valley scenery Whether you’re here to fish, float, hike, stargaze, sit by the fire, explore Front Royal, or simply unplug for a weekend, South River Farm Campground offers a peaceful riverside escape that feels close to everything - but a world away. Please note: As part of our authentic riverfront and working farm setting, guests may experience gravel roads, natural terrain, wildlife, farm activity, and occasional train sounds from across the river.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Rivers Edge Trail Camp

8. Rivers Edge Trail Camp

99%
(1149)
Barren Springs, VA · 6 sites
LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp Standing on the New River Trail looking up where the campsites are located will give you the feeling that you truly are sleeping on the edge at Rivers Edge campground. Unique limestone formations can be found on the property. Large birds and even an eagle or two seem to prefer this area for hunting. Watch from a distance as farmers cut hay throughout the summer. This private cliff top setting has 6 newly created camp sites on 5 Acres. These sites are for camper vehicles only. NO TENTS! Enjoy less crowds and more nature! The long range views or the river and farmlands will take your breath away. At the bottom of the drive you have access to the New River and the New River Trail so bring your bike for more fun. Bike the trail, bird watch, or star gaze; the choices are endless. Don't be surprised to see bear, turkey, eagles, deer, or a coyote. PLEASE give us a rating on YELP also if you enjoyed your stay! The direct link to our place on Yelp is https://www.yelp.com/biz/rivers-edge-trail-camp-barren-springs?osq=Camping Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp This is a great spot for people looking for peace and quiet. 26 Minutes upriver of Claytor Lake State Park. There is a zoo in nearby Ft. Chiswell. Each site has full hook ups. No tents are allowed due to lack of toilet facilities. Area grocery stores are located about 30 minutes away in Wytheville, Pulaski and Hillsville. A portion of the profits will be donated to a non-profit! Bookmark the direct link to our site here on HipCamp: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/discover/virginia/rivers-edge-trail-camp
Pets
Full hookups
Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

9. Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

99%
(278)
Vesuvius, VA · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
With 15 campsites, business class WIFI, over 1,000 feet of river frontage, Swedish Lilac Campground is the perfect getaway to reconnect with nature and relax with loved ones. Campsites accommodate RVs and tents with access to bath house, pavilion, dump station, and picnic areas, and is only a 20-minute drive to beautiful historic Lexington Virginia. Hiking, fishing, swimming, dining, and shopping a short distance away which means there is something for everyone at Swedish Lilac Campground. Enjoy being next to the river with the sound and energy of the rushing water. Beyond the river is the railroad track. The train runs sporadically throughout the day and night which adds a rhythmic clatter of times past. Some campers are annoyed while others view this as a plus while others don't even notice the noise from the trains. The riverside sites have a 4 to 6 foot drop to the river which may not be suitable for small children. Remote workers welcome! Fiber optic internet with Wi-Fi access points that cover the entire campground.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Philpott Lake

10. Philpott Lake

80%
(5)
Park in Virginia · 215 sites
Discover Philpott Lake's serene beauty and outdoor adventures.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wilderness Road State Park

11. Wilderness Road State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Virginia · 1 site
Discover the historic charm and outdoor adventures at Wilderness Road State Park.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
New River Trail State Park

12. New River Trail State Park

80%
(5)
State park in Virginia · 32 sites
Travel across Virginia without ever leaving this long, narrow state park! Amazing biking trails.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Paddlers Creekside Campground

14. Paddlers Creekside Campground

99%
(115)
Draper, VA · 6 sites
*TENT CAMPING* We offer primitive camping (tents) along Reed Creek in Wythe County, Virginia. Although we are a primitive campground, we do offer amenities to make your stay comfortable, including portable toilets and trash collection. We do NOT provide potable water or electricity at our sites. We have five regular waterfront sites, one waterfront drive-in truck tent site, and two day use sites. All sites have a firepit and table. We do have additional overflow sites on the property, so if you see that we are sold out, just contact us! There is also a shared common area that includes a picnic table, large charcoal grill, swing set, and several mini libraires. *KAYAK - CANOE - AND TUBE RENTALS, WITH SHUTTLE SERVICE* Rentals and shuttle vans are available on the weekends and holidays (weather permitting). Paddlers property has approximately 1/2 mile of creek frontage. From there you are approximately another 1/2 mile from the New River. You can either start your trip at Paddlers or we can shuttle you to/from other local areas (including Foster Falls and Allisonia boat ramp)! Book your rental with us today, by calling 276-389-8246. We also have some fun spots to go fishing, swimming, or you can tube the creek for 1/2 mile without ever leaving the Paddlers property (this is PERFECT for kids)!! Don't miss out on the Paddler's fun this summer! Book your site and/or rental with us today!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Private Farm Minutes to Cville

15. Private Farm Minutes to Cville

98%
(1443)
Charlottesville, VA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
There is now a policy of no outside pets allowed. If you have an outstanding reservation including a pet and need to cancel you'll be given a full refund. This is an active 55-acre horse farm. About 2/3rds of the property is developed with barns and fenced pastures and the other third is largely undeveloped areas with a loop driveway where most of the camp sites are located. There is a large white house at the far end of the property. The restroom for campers to use is located there. To one side of the driveway, on the way to the house there is a beautiful large swimming pond, complete with beach and gazebo. The property is unique in that you can hardly see another house from anywhere on the property and yet we are only 2 miles from Barracks Rd. Shopping Center, and 4 miles from the University of Virginia.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Savage Acres on Craig Creek

16. Savage Acres on Craig Creek

98%
(723)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

17. Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

99%
(626)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
City Camp on Reedy Creek

18. City Camp on Reedy Creek

99%
(613)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stoney Creek Campground

19. Stoney Creek Campground

98%
(157)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Seven Islands River Front Campsites

20. Seven Islands River Front Campsites

99%
(650)
Arvonia, VA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
NOTICE: Some campers are having navigational problems with their phone’s GPS feature. Having a paper roadmap available for a backup is recommended . 9337 Bridgeport Rd, Arvonia Va.23004. NOTE:We have changed things a bit. We are going with only 2 sites this year. Site 1 is no longer available. Turn at the aluminum canoe placed on top of a large orange road barrier at the edge of our drive way. The canoe is bolding displaying the word HIPCAMP with a red arrow leading the way. Follow the drive down to the river front campsites.. This is due to a yearly Festival held in Scottsville where Historic river . Smallmouth and catfish are biting. Go by a local store and buy night crawlers,worms and a pack of 2/0 hooks and you will catch something . Firewood available per request and delivered for$30.00 a load. Accessible by car or canoe, East End at Seven Islands provides endless fun for the whole family, including your well behaved off-leash dogs. When you arrive take a cooling dip in a quiet “river pool”, relax on your private beach, or see if the fish are biting. Let your kids experience the best the river has to offer by exploring the shallows for crayfish, chasing minnows, or watching for Bald Eagles patrolling the river. Your site is approximately 2 acres, so you will have your choice of where to pitch a tent or place your camper or trailer. Spend your nights stargazing, enjoying a campfire (remember to bring s’mores ingredients), or fishing for catfish. This is an ideal family-oriented campsite about an hour NW of Richmond. Come, enjoy and make some memories! Children 10 and under are free On the other side of the river you might hear a train passing by at different times, both, day and night. Safety Notice: Not accessible by boat, canoe, or kayak when the James River level is 6 feet or higher at Scottsville. At 7.5 - 8 feet, there is not much beach to play on and the river is too dangerous to navigate. You can drive in and camp, but please stay clear of all water activities, including fishing, in these dangerous conditions.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table

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