Safari tents in Virginia

Iconic hikes, history, and golden beaches await campers in Virginia’s 41 state parks.

100% (209 reviews)

United States
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Virginia

100% (209 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Virginia

Stories from the community

Perri

1 week ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

Perfect glamp spot! The views were great, bed was super comfortable, loved the proximity to a winery, and my dog had the best time swimming in the pond. Can't wait to come back!

Weekend Trip to Sleigh Hill Farm

John’s “glamping by the lake” site features a comfortable and sturdy tent on a small peninsula. We loved the sense of being almost surrounded by the water and greenery. My dogs thought the geese and fish were fascinating. The wine next door was a pleasant add-on that helped our fire-pit cooked food go down nicely.

Weekend Trip to Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

A wonderful stay, in the woods and close to hikes but also a super comfy bed, we will be back!

Leah

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

This was the perfect spot. Very generous host. The spot is special and you won’t find anything else like it!

Bruna

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Firefly tent on the creek bank

I definitely recommend staying in the tent. It is very comfortable and relaxing, and the place is beautiful and peaceful. The tent is equipped with kitchenware, an electric stove and a coffee maker, and everything is very clean and organized. We’ll definitely be back :)

Amanda

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

The Big Dipper Ranch was amazing! I’m sad we only spent one night there. I’d love to come back! Jud greeted us and gave us some insight on things to do and see. We were able to get a sunset hike in and check out the winery down the road. The tent set up was cozy and comfortable. Thanks for the wonderful memories!

Weekend Trip to Firefly tent on the creek bank

We loved our weekend stay, it was the perfect setting for my 2- and 6-year-old boys to explore and enjoy nature. The river is beautiful, and we had the whole place to ourselves, which made it feel like our own private getaway. Inside, the cabin is cozy and inviting, especially with the wood-burning stove—it adds such a warm and charming touch. The kitchen is well-stocked, and the tent is even more spacious and comfortable than the photos. You can really tell that a lot of attention to detail went into making this place special. The compostable toilet takes a little getting used to, but there’s also a traditional toilet available on the property, which is a nice option to have. We had a wonderful time and will definitely be coming back!

Nicole

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Sleigh Hill Farm

We had an amazing time camping over the long weekend, the spot is super private and relaxing, and John was an amazing and attentive host. He even gave us a tour of his property and the future and current sites. The winery next door had some pretty great wines and the owner was very nice. We brought our dogs along and were surprised at how dog friendly the entire place was. Overall we would definitely recommend John and Hollie’s place, and we will definitely be returning as well.

1 night at Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

What a heavenly glampsite! Joined by our good friend and her daughter, we had two 3-year-olds in tow and our trusty dog. Everyone had a blast! Jud is an exceptional host- greeted us upon arrival, gave us the tour, and was super communicative, personable, and accommodating. The property is stunning, especially at this time of year with all the dogwoods and red buds in bloom. We had a sunny, hot day, so the pond was the highlight! We used the kayaks, my husband fished and caught several bass, my little one bravely jumped in the water, and our dog was in heaven swimming for hours! The water was icy cold, but that didn’t stop our water babies. The tents are so comfortable and the charcoal grill and solo stoves at each site make campsite cooking a breeze. The compostable toilets per site offer convenience, comfort, and privacy. We will definitely return! We got rained out for s’mores making, so we need to come back on a dry night to check all our camping must-dos off our list. Thanks Jud, we had such a special visit!

2 nights at Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

My daughters and I loved Big Dipper Ranch, will definitely be coming back for another visit! Tent and accommodations were very well maintained, exactly as advertised. We loved kayaking at the pond! Jud is a wonderful host, very accommodating and responsive. He clearly takes great pride in sharing his beautiful property with his guests.

Holly

April 2025

Weekend Trip to Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

Big Dipper Ranch is nothing short of extraordinary. The tent was cozy and perfect for us. All of the outdoor amenities are amazing. The compost toilet was super clean. The stargazing was incredible. Jud was so friendly and helpful with anything we needed. Will absolutely be back one day!!

Taylor

April 2025

2 nights at Firefly tent on the creek bank

We loved staying at JoDee's place and so did our fur baby! Having the river close by was great. We had plenty of privacy since the other tent sites on the land were not booked. The only thing I would note is that the hot water is limited (which is to be expected, you're in a tent) just don't expect a very long outdoor shower. We will be back if we are ever in the area! We also loved the location, we felt like we were able to hop over to Hillsville, Fancy Gap, Galax, the Blue Ridge Parkway and even Mt. Airy with ease. You're in a central location but it feels secluded.

Weekend Trip to Firefly tent on the creek bank

Great cozy place on the river! Will definitely be back again

Brittni

December 2024

3 nights at Firefly tent on the creek bank

Very good camp site! Very warm in the winter with the stove and the space heaters. Nice to have access to running water as well as a stove. For those seeking complete privacy, there is a driveway at the top of the hill where you are visible from the campfire area but not from the front porch. Lots of great kitchen amenities provided! Would recommend

Weekend Trip to Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

We decided to spend our dog's Gotcha Day at Big Dipper Ranch and we loved it so much! Jud made sure to greet us with a warm welcome during a cold weekend. Our dog enjoyed the open fields and being able to play fetch off leash in large distance. We were amazed with the number of shooting stars we saw. We are definitely considering coming back next year, maybe on a warmer weekend.

Katia

November 2024

Weekend Trip to Blevins Family Vineyards

It is a beautiful place and has everything you need for a calm and peaceful getaway. We had a blast! Highly recommended.

Rachel

November 2024

Weekend Trip to Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

Our night of glamping was amazing!!! The vibes were seriously fantastic - the tent had string lights insight and out, and the site came with a lovely firepit and grill. Jud was super friendly and gave us a space heater for the cold night too! Excited to come back!

Juliana

November 2024

3 nights at Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

We had a wonderful time staying at Big Dipper Ranch! Jud was an amazing host and ensured we had everything we needed. The tent was very cute and the views on the ranch were beautiful. We can’t wait to come back!

4 top safari tents sites in Virginia

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(227)

Other options in Virginia

Chickahominy Riverfront Park

79 sites · LodgingWilliamsburg, VA

Chickahominy Riverfront Park stands out as a premier camping destination, offering over 80 diverse campsites that cater to both small families and large groups. Nestled along the scenic banks of Gordon Creek, many of these sites provide breathtaking views, enhancing your outdoor experience. The campground features a variety of accommodations, ranging from basic tent sites to fully equipped RV sites with complete hookups. While there are no cabins available, campers can enjoy the convenience of two bathhouses, each equipped with outdoor sinks for added comfort. To ensure a pleasant stay, please note that each campsite has a maximum capacity of six people, with no more than four adults allowed per site. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance, allowing you to plan your getaway with ease. For peak weekends such as Memorial Day, July Fourth, and Labor Day, a minimum three-night stay is required, typically from Friday to Sunday. You can conveniently reserve your campsite online or by calling 757-258-5020. For further details on park fees, please refer to our website. Remember, payment is required at the time of reservation to secure your spot in this beautiful natural setting.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Safari tents in Virginia guide

Overview

Whether you want to dive into Civil War history, follow in the footsteps of former presidents, or drive the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia rarely disappoints. The birthplace of America has thousands of miles of Atlantic coastline and more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state. Still need convincing? Virginia’s 41 state parks boast more than 600 miles of trails and 1,800 state campsites, leading the way to forested mountains, rambling rivers, and beaches. Camping is a year-round affair, whether you prefer fall foliage hikes, pitching a tent on the beach, or snowshoeing from a cozy winter cabin.

Where to go

Central Virginia

Gleaming lakes and pine-clad foothills characterize the central Piedmont region, known for its lakeside camping, canoe and kayak trails, and Civil War sites. Pocahontas State Park is just a half-hour drive from the state capital, Richmond, where multi-use trails are popular for biking and horseback riding. Also within a short drive, Bear Creek Lake State Park offers easy access to Cumberland State Forest trails, while James River State Park has RV, tent, and canoe-in campsites.

Atlantic Coast & Chesapeake Bay

Wide beaches and fishing villages pepper the coast of Chesapeake Bay, Virginia’s top choice for beach lovers. You can pitch your tent right on the beach at First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park, camp on the grounds of Chippokes Plantation State Park, or get on the water at York River State Park.

Shenandoah Valley & The North

The dense woodlands are the star attraction in Shenandoah National Park and along its renowned Skyline Drive. The closest state campgrounds can be found in Shenandoah River State Park, a popular spot for summer hiking, canoeing, and picnicking, while further south, Douthat State Park has a swimming beach, waterfall hikes, and mountain biking trails.

Appalachian & Blue Ridge Mountains

The rugged Appalachian Mountains fringe Virginia’s southwestern borders, merging into the wooded slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Grayson Highlands State Park is the gateway to the region’s two most popular hikes: the Appalachian Trail and Mount Rogers. Alternatively, paddle the scenic waterways of New River Trail State Park, book a cabin in the woods in Hungry Mother State Park, or escape the crowds at Clinch River State Park.