The best camping in Virginia with swimming

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Looking for a camping spot in Virginia where you can swim? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 1000 options specifically tailored to your swimming preference, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you're looking for a secluded lake or a riverside retreat, we have you covered. And with average prices starting at just $44 per night, there's a camping option for every budget. Don't just take our word for it - check out our top-rated campsites with hundreds of reviews like Blackwater Birds and Bees (601 reviews), Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), and Camp Shenandoah Meadows (295 reviews). Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like campfires, potable water, and even pet-friendly spots. And if you're feeling adventurous, popular activities like biking, off-roading, and wildlife watching are just a stone's throw away. So pack your swimsuit and get ready to dive into your next camping adventure in Virginia!

97% (10.3K) • 2,264 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Virginia

Thunder BRidge

1. Thunder BRidge

100%
(707)
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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Electrical hookup
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Stoney Creek Campground

2. Stoney Creek Campground

98%
(174)
Bedford, VA · 5 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
Private Farm Minutes to Cville

3. Private Farm Minutes to Cville

98%
(942)
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.
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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

98%
(53)
National forest in Virginia · 487 sites
Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia
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Electrical hookup
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Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

6. Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

99%
(643)
Etlan, VA · 9 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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Camp Cove Creek

7. Camp Cove Creek

93%
(45)
Faber, VA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
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 down by the swimming hole. The airstrip still maintained as such in order to offer aviation-accessible camping. It is the future home of Faber Christmas tree farm and features over a dozen 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. It's a work 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! 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 wheel at your own risk, unless it's wet. There is a Volleyball court, soccer field, and now 18 holes of disc golf! 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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
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Rivers Edge Trail Camp

8. Rivers Edge Trail Camp

98%
(797)
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
Savage Acres on Craig Creek

9. Savage Acres on Craig Creek

98%
(741)
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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Chippokes Plantation State Park

10. Chippokes Plantation State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Virginia · 15 sites
Discover Chippokes Plantation State Park's rich history and outdoor splendor.
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Hungry Mother State Park

11. Hungry Mother State Park

100%
(16)
State park in Virginia · 51 sites
Woodland glamping, lake activities, and a sandy beach make this a family favorite.
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Kiptopeke State Park

12. Kiptopeke State Park

100%
(9)
State park in Virginia · 7 sites
This family favorite has seaside cycles, sandy shores, and access to Chesapeake Bay.
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Smith Mountain Lake State Park

13. 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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Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

14. Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

98%
(892)
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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Campfires
Picnic table
Shenandoah Valley MTN

15. Shenandoah Valley MTN

99%
(110)
Stanley, VA · 1 site
SUV with AWD/4WD required* Come and enjoy everything the mountain has to offer and venture off the beaten path to camp here! Located up a mountain road, enjoy the tranquillity of nature and untouched wilderness in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley south of Luray, Virginia. LET ME KNOW IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS!
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Shenandoah NP MTN Field

16. Shenandoah NP MTN Field

98%
(181)
Stanley, VA · 1 site
PRIMITIVE campsite + fire ring 4WD Required
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Campfires
Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

17. Big Dipper Ranch camping - glamping

100%
(276)
Etlan, VA · 4 sites
Welcome to Big Dipper Ranch Come escape to Big Dipper Ranch, where comfortable glamping, mountain views, and incredible stargazing come together in the foothills of the Shenandoah Mountains. I first visited this property 19 years ago. One look at the magnificent Sugar Maple in full autumn color, and I knew I had found someplace special. Today, I’m fortunate to call these 23 acres home—and I love sharing this little piece of Virginia with our guests. Settle into one of our four comfortable, beautifully furnished glamping tents and enjoy a slower pace for a few days. I enjoy personally welcoming guests when they arrive, then giving you the privacy and space to make the property your own—whether that means relaxing by the pond, watching the stars, enjoying a quiet morning coffee, or simply doing absolutely nothing. And when you're ready for adventure, you're in the perfect place. Old Rag Mountain and Whiteoak Canyon are only about 15 minutes away, putting some of Shenandoah National Park’s most beautiful hiking practically in our backyard. You'll also find wineries, breweries, orchards, canoeing, fishing, and miles of beautiful Virginia countryside nearby. Or you may decide you don't want to leave the ranch at all. Spend a warm afternoon swimming in our cool, spring-fed pond, try your hand at fishing, wander the property, or simply sit back and enjoy the mountain views. When evening arrives, build a fire, settle into your chair, and look up—the dark skies here can put on quite a show. Big Dipper Ranch is close enough to Etlan and the surrounding area for necessities and local adventures, but far enough away to feel like you've truly escaped. Come hike, explore, swim, stargaze—or simply slow down for a while. If you have any questions before your visit, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to welcoming you to Big Dipper Ranch.
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Camping at Cloverdale Farms

18. Camping at Cloverdale Farms

100%
(25)
Cartersville, VA · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Cloverdale! Here at the farm, there’s something for everyone: This family-friendly property has gently rolling hills and plenty of wildlife. Fields in the back lend a great view for star gazing and looking up at the Milky Way. If you have a keen eye, you might spot one of our rare and beloved black squirrels that call Cartersville home. If the peace and quiet isn’t enough for you, guests are more than welcome to help in the garden, pick flowers, brush a horse, hang out with the goats and cats, and enjoy fresh produce and eggs while they’re here. Located 5 minutes from the James River, guests can hop over to the boat landing for fishing, tubing and kayaking or check out Blanton and Pleasants, a community staple. If you’re a hiker, there’s Bear Creek Lake and Powhatan state parks about 20 minutes away. Farmville and the High Bridge Trail are 30 minutes away. We have a brewery just a few minutes up the road for those who like to drink. Each campsite includes a grill, table and seating, lighting, an extra table for camping supplies, entertainment, a basket full of essentials such as bug spray, band-aids, fire starters, lighters, etc, a hammock, and a pre-stocked firepit with extra kindling provided. We aim to take the stress out of packing and setting up so you can get to having fun and relaxing sooner.
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Pastimes on Passage Creek Ranch

19. Pastimes on Passage Creek Ranch

100%
(432)
Fort Valley, VA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Voted Top VA site! See Reviews. Pastimes on Passage Creek Ranch is conveniently located at the north end of Fort Valley. The recreational draw to this area is hard to beat in VA, and this property has it all for an amazing outdoor weekend! The ranch comprises 40 acres of lowland acreage designated for the camp, including a 5-acre lake. The Cedar Grove sites 1, 2, and 3 are along the banks of Passage Creek located within a sparse, groomed Cedar grove. They are all a short walk (or drive) to the lake and beach amenities. Each site has varying access to the creek, so check out the site details. These sites are extra large and can accommodate multiple family groups, as well as, travel trailers of all sizes up to off-road motorcoaches in site 1. There are no hookups, so just boondocking. Pack it in, Pack it out. Generators are allowed but please be aware of the other sites and direct the noise away. The Lakeside Mountain Stream site is very secluded, nestled between the mountains and the lake. It overlooks our 5-acre lake with mountain views in the background. It's on the opposite side of the lake from the Cedar Sites. This site has its own dock and is just a short walk down a mowed trail to a beautiful section of Passage Creek. An additional seasonal mountain stream can cascade behind the site and run under it to feed the lake when the conditions are right. It's a delicate site, so the accommodations and group size is strictly limited. Check out the reviews and extensive gallery for many options of this amazing property! Locally, the North end of Fort Valley offers many great hiking trails, trout fishing, rock climbing, horseback riding, and the Elizabeth Furnace day-use park. Taskers Gap OHV/ATV park is a short drive south, and the valley is sandwiched between both forks of the Shenandoah River for those looking to paddle.
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Camp Cedar Creek

20. Camp Cedar Creek

99%
(288)
Middletown, VA · 5 sites
Creekside camping on Cedar Creek, one of the cleanest creeks in America. You'll be surrounded by beautiful scenery with a fire pit at each site. Enjoy birdwatching, wood turtles, wood ducks, eagles, hawks, blue crane, and other wildlife. Campers at Camp Cedar Creek come to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature, and are requested at all times to respect the serenity and quiet enjoyment of nature and others who wish to enjoy. Cell phones optional! Take day trips to wineries, farm markets, orchards, historic sites, and more. Enjoy fishing, hiking, National Forest, biking, solitude and nature. Outdoor shower and port-a-john on site. Cornhole boards, firewood and load-in assistance available upon request for a small fee. Nearby attractions include fishing, hiking, swimming, wineries, biking, orchards, Skyline Drive, and GW national forest. If you would like to fish, Camp Cedar Creek allows fly fishing/catch and release only, and only three (3) fly fisherman per day to ensure a secluded, enjoyable, experience, so if you wish to book to fly fish, please do so early, as spots are limited and book up quickly. To book in advance go to: mattspaidflyfishing.com Fly fisherman will quietly walk the banks and creek as they fish, and campers are requested to allow a fly fisherman to pass through without disturbance as they quietly move through your site to fish beautiful Cedar Creek. Watching them fish, catch and release beautiful rainbow and brook trout can be a relaxing, enjoyable experience. The oral history of Coal Mine Hollow has it that a moonshine still once graced the banks of Camp Cedar Creek. It was run by a recluse, who was always on the move from the Revenuers. A revenuer went missing along Cedar Creek one moonlit night, never to be seen again. The bearded recluse who ran the still, owned two mules, and an old car frame without a motor. Those mules would pull him through the hollow, and up into the mountains, where the revenuers never found him. Some say on a cold, moonlit night, they’ve seen his two old mules, pulling an old car frame past Camp Cedar Creek.
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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