- Waterfall Camping
The best waterfall camping near Forest
98% (1.1K) • 336 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Forest
Arcadia Sanctuary
1. Arcadia Sanctuary
97%
(372)
24mi from Forest · 14 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$23
/ night
Twin Poplar Farm
2. Twin Poplar Farm
99%
(87)
27mi from Forest · 3 sites
The Farm is located on 65 private acres of Woods and Field on the Tye River. This is a place for people who love nature and want to be out in it. We have chosen to prioritize conservation over ease of access, so though the sites are all walk in only [or paddle in!] this means you will camp on the grass or leaves not the gravel of a parking lot.
There are only 3 sites on the land so you can soak up nature without noisy neighbors.
"Twin Poplar" refers to the Tulip Poplar's extraordinary tenacity, after being cut down, like the Phoenix who returns to life after death, a Poplar will often regrow as two "twin" trunks. A chance for a new life and growth!
For more follow us on Instagram @TwinPoplarFarm
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from
$50
/ night
Meili Mtn - Tye River Escape
3. Meili Mtn - Tye River Escape
97%
(57)
35mi from Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
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. The waterfall site is no longer available for rustic camping but stay tuned for a glamping option in fall of '26. (no other campfire site are permitted on the property, although we have a firepit at 2 locations).
*Please note that there is NO rustic camping available at the waterfall any more.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$54
/ night
Jefferson National Forest
4. Jefferson National Forest
98%
(28)
National forest 112mi from Forest · 488 sites
Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Blue Ridge Parkway
5. Blue Ridge Parkway
91%
(34)
National park 111mi from Forest · 250 sites
Buckle up for 469 miles of driving perfection along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wilderness Adventure
6. Wilderness Adventure
98%
(526)
43mi from Forest · 49 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Savage Acres on Craig Creek
7. Savage Acres on Craig Creek
98%
(649)
50mi from Forest · 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
from
$41
/ night
Shirley's River Retreat
8. Shirley's River Retreat
100%
(29)
51mi from Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Bring your own Camper,RV,Tent,Hammock, or just a sleeping bag under the stars, at this secluded primitive campground reconnect with nature at this unforgettable riverfront escape. Alleghany Outdoors is right down the road and you can rent kayaks, tube, paddle boards, to float on the lake or down the Jackson River, they also rent electric bikes fancy a ride down the Jackson River Scenic trail . With an epic 80’ Falling Springs Falls right down the road, along with the amazing manmade Lake Moomaw.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$38
/ night
George Washington National Forest
9. George Washington National Forest
99%
(51)
National forest 58mi from Forest · 487 sites
Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Douthat State Park
10. Douthat State Park
97%
(17)
State park 46mi from Forest · 58 sites
Can’t decide between lake or mountain? Douthat—one of Virginia’s original state parks—has both.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
98% (1.1K) • 336 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Forest
Arcadia Sanctuary
1. Arcadia Sanctuary
97%
(372)
24mi from Forest · 14 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$23
/ night
Twin Poplar Farm
2. Twin Poplar Farm
99%
(87)
27mi from Forest · 3 sites
The Farm is located on 65 private acres of Woods and Field on the Tye River. This is a place for people who love nature and want to be out in it. We have chosen to prioritize conservation over ease of access, so though the sites are all walk in only [or paddle in!] this means you will camp on the grass or leaves not the gravel of a parking lot.
There are only 3 sites on the land so you can soak up nature without noisy neighbors.
"Twin Poplar" refers to the Tulip Poplar's extraordinary tenacity, after being cut down, like the Phoenix who returns to life after death, a Poplar will often regrow as two "twin" trunks. A chance for a new life and growth!
For more follow us on Instagram @TwinPoplarFarm
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from
$50
/ night
Meili Mtn - Tye River Escape
3. Meili Mtn - Tye River Escape
97%
(57)
35mi from Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
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. The waterfall site is no longer available for rustic camping but stay tuned for a glamping option in fall of '26. (no other campfire site are permitted on the property, although we have a firepit at 2 locations).
*Please note that there is NO rustic camping available at the waterfall any more.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$54
/ night
Jefferson National Forest
4. Jefferson National Forest
98%
(28)
National forest 112mi from Forest · 488 sites
Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Blue Ridge Parkway
5. Blue Ridge Parkway
91%
(34)
National park 111mi from Forest · 250 sites
Buckle up for 469 miles of driving perfection along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Wilderness Adventure
6. Wilderness Adventure
98%
(526)
43mi from Forest · 49 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Savage Acres on Craig Creek
7. Savage Acres on Craig Creek
98%
(649)
50mi from Forest · 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
from
$41
/ night
Shirley's River Retreat
8. Shirley's River Retreat
100%
(29)
51mi from Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Bring your own Camper,RV,Tent,Hammock, or just a sleeping bag under the stars, at this secluded primitive campground reconnect with nature at this unforgettable riverfront escape. Alleghany Outdoors is right down the road and you can rent kayaks, tube, paddle boards, to float on the lake or down the Jackson River, they also rent electric bikes fancy a ride down the Jackson River Scenic trail . With an epic 80’ Falling Springs Falls right down the road, along with the amazing manmade Lake Moomaw.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$38
/ night
George Washington National Forest
9. George Washington National Forest
99%
(51)
National forest 58mi from Forest · 487 sites
Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Douthat State Park
10. Douthat State Park
97%
(17)
State park 46mi from Forest · 58 sites
Can’t decide between lake or mountain? Douthat—one of Virginia’s original state parks—has both.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Daniel
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Awesome spot at Maple site on Ned’s land. Tons of space to set up our tent and camp. There were a couple of paths that led right down to the creek which our pup was able to play in. We went In March so there weren’t really any bugs and the weather was perfect. There were lights Ned hung up for the site but we weren’t sure how to cut them on. They weren’t really needed tho it was a nice touch. Thanks for a great quick getaway!
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R
Rachel Claire
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
The camping spot is beautiful. I also booked last minute AND came after dark and Ned was so kind to show me where to go (as well as helping me to navigate around trees).
Between the lovely location and the wonderfully kind hosts, this is a great spot. Bonus that is super close to the Dragon’s Tooth trail parking lot.
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L
Liz
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Awesome space! Great owners and clean campground.
See moreT
The Family
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Beautiful! We are definitely coming back multiple times. The scenery was beautiful! Hidden treasures too!
See moreM
Matt
March 2026
Tent
With kids
This is an excellent camping site that feels secluded, but is not too far off the beaten path. My two young boys (5 and 7) had an awesome first real night out in the woods. They kept saying "this is the best day ever". A bonus being able to share it with my dad/their grandfather.
Ned came down to greet us after we'd arrived with a warm smile and could not have been more welcoming. We made camp, prepared dinner, sat around the fire, marveled at the maple sap collection operation, made up stories, skipped rocks, found toads, and slept under the stars. What a lucky group of guys we are to get to do that, and thanks to Ned for providing the opportunity.
The night after our trip I learned that many of our friends in Roanoke have also stayed at Savage Acres and we're now excited to plan a whole shindig with a bunch of families. Maybe when the weather is warmer and we can take advantage of the natural lazy river and firefly entertainment.
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R
Raven
March 2026
16 ft car
With pets
We had an amazing trip getting to stay at Ned's place!! It was nice listening to the river while hanging out by a fire each night. Tent sites were easy to access and conveniently located near other outdoor activities.
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K
Kevin
January 2026
Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary
We had an absolutely incredible stay at this mountain yurt in Amherst, Virginia. We came in the winter months (because we’re a little crazy) and ended up getting stuck during a snowstorm — and somehow that made the whole experience even more unforgettable.
The hosts were beyond amazing. They went out of their way to make sure we were safe, comfortable, and taken care of the entire time. True hospitality. 11/10.
If you’re looking for peace, quiet, and a place to unplug and reset — this is it. Whether you want tranquility or you’re just trying to find yourself for a bit, this place delivers.
Also, we have to give a special shoutout to Buddy the dog, who kept us company and made the whole stay even better. Such a good boy and the perfect mountain host assistant.
And a big thank-you to the workers who helped us get out of the snow — we seriously appreciated the help more than you know.
Awesome place, awesome people, awesome experience. We’d recommend this stay to absolutely everyone.
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Joe
January 2026
Tent
Marc is great! Communication with him is easy and prompt.
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Brett
November 2025
Tent
With pets
My girlfriend and I absolutely loved our stay at Creekside Woods. The location right by the creek was incredible! Literally some of the clearest, most majestic water I’ve ever seen. It made the whole campsite feel peaceful and almost magical.
We were also just minutes away from multiple entry points to the Appalachian Trail and close to iconic hikes like Dragon’s Tooth and McAfee Knob, which made the trip even better (and made me realize how out of shape I was :D). The campsite itself felt surprisingly secluded, even with the leaves down, giving us plenty of privacy and quiet time to recharge.
The hosts were super accommodating and responsive, making everything from check-in to checkout seamless. Overall, we had an amazing experience and will definitely be back. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a beautiful, relaxing nature getaway.
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M
Michael
November 2025
16 ft car
Great little place. Plenty of space between campsites for privacy.
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M
MaryAnn
November 2025
Tent
Group trip
Great spot and Fran is very accommodating. Beautiful, quaint, the animals, very clean bathrooms and star filled sky were amazing.
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T
Tyler
November 2025
Tent
Great place to view the mountains and a beautiful view. The hosts are very kind I had a great visit.
See moreL
Lauren
October 2025
3 nights at Savage Acres on Craig Creek
Awesome camp sites and very friendly and helpful host!
See moreS
Sam
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Great site, we had some care trouble and couldn’t make it all the way up to crows nest and stayed at one of the sites at upper balcony. We were the only ones there and it felt very private. Walked up to crows nest the next day and it was very pretty. Bathrooms and facilities were well taken care of and there was plenty of wood.
See moreJ
Jessie
October 2025
Tent
We camped at Far Far Away and it was a great time. The bathrooms were clean and tidy and not a far walk from the site. We were visited by Buddy the pupper several times during our stay and he was an awesome addition to our company. Its a wonderful place to unplug from life, sit back and enjoy the beauty that mother nature has to offer. Fran was wonderful and was just a text away if we needed anything. Looking forward to our next stay at the Sanctuary!
See moreR
Rick
October 2025
Tent
Very private and quiet. The river is beautiful. Lots of recreation in the area the host was professional, courteous and attentive. I’d gladly return!
See moreB
Ben
October 2025
22 ft campervan
With kids
Ned was a great host. The camp site was private and spacious. We added on some excellent fresh produce and maple syrup from his farm. The site is only a few minutes away from great hikes.
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Eric
October 2025
Tent
Group trip
This site was great to stay at. Just a few steps from the river in the woods. The hike down into the river isn’t too long, but i’m glad I packed in a ruck backpack. Stephanie’s son did a great job leading us down to the site and answering our questions.
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H
Heidi
October 2025
Tent
With pets
So enjoyable! 10/10! Accommodating host for needs upon arrival and was there if needed after. The Maple Knoll area was enchanting - we were lucky to have such a gorgeous view of the 3rd day past Harvest Moon and the colors of the trees were doing their amazing change from - day 1 to day 4 it was pretty noticeable. Even some novice campers were with us and they had a pleasant time. We made buttermilk pancakes one morning and Savage Acres maple syrup now holds my top favorite, so glad I added that extra! We will definitely return in the warm months to enjoy the private swim hole with the gorgeous rock formation. So happy to have found such a pleasant camping spot in Savage Acres as our first booking on HipCamp.
See moreA
Andrew
October 2025
Tent
With pets
We really enjoyed or stay! The site was remote and was in a nice clearing where we could spread out, relax, and enjoy!
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