Beach Camping Near Lake Caroline, Virginia, US: 12 Best Beach Campsites 2025

Looking to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature? Hipcamp has got you covered with over 700 camping options near Lake Caroline, Virginia. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the serene beauty of Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), explore Camp Shenandoah Meadows (295 reviews) with its stunning views, or unwind at Private Paradise on Rivers Bend (210 reviews). With an average price per night of $50 and options as low as $12, you can find a campsite that fits your budget. Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, showers, and the freedom to bring your pets. Explore the great outdoors with activities such as paddling, boating, and swimming. Get ready to experience camping like never before!

97% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature? Hipcamp has got you covered with over 700 camping options near Lake Caroline, Virginia. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the serene beauty of Private Farm Minutes to Cville (354 reviews), explore Camp Shenandoah Meadows (295 reviews) with its stunning views, or unwind at Private Paradise on Rivers Bend (210 reviews). With an average price per night of $50 and options as low as $12, you can find a campsite that fits your budget. Enjoy popular amenities like potable water, showers, and the freedom to bring your pets. Explore the great outdoors with activities such as paddling, boating, and swimming. Get ready to experience camping like never before!

97% (1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

99%

(1035)

47mi from Lake Caroline · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Brightwood, VA

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)

2. Sharp's Island

97%

(72)

32mi from Lake Caroline · 1 site · Lodging · Richmond, VA

NEW IN 2025: There is a beautiful cabin for guests to use. Sleeps 5 easily. Also new is the outdoor kitchen and bar. Check out @sharpsislandrva on Insta to see pics! NOTE: The parking situation has changed due to construction! The parking information in the pictures is not correct (but Hipcamp won't let me delete them). Contact Andy at 804-212-6639 for parking instructions. There is no bridge to Sharp's Island, but we can rent you a canoe or kayak. It's super easy. Sharp's Island is so named because the Sharp family of Richmond owned it as far back as the 1850s. The old brick foundation you see in the pictures is all that remains of a house that was built on the island in 1895 and stood for 75 years! We consider ourselves stewards of an amazing historic, ecological, geologic, and recreational asset, and we would love to have you add your story to this island's long history! Learn more about this land: One-of-a-kind really only begins to describe 1-acre Sharp's Island! For starters, this is the only legal camping option in the city of Richmond. You read that correctly. This is your own private island, and it's right in the heart of downtown RVA! The Piedmont meets the Coastal Plain right here at Sharp's Island. That makes for amazing fishing, especially during the spring shad and striper runs. Some other incredible things about camping at Sharp's Island: You can motor up to it from Ancarrow's Landing, canoe over from the trail just below Mayo Bridge, or make this the destination for your downriver raft/kayak trip; at summer river levels there are oodles of great swimming holes along the banks; fire pit ready and waiting for you. And lots more!

3. Seven Islands River Front Campsites

99%

(608)

50mi from Lake Caroline · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Arvonia, VA

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.

4. Breezy View

98%

(25)

45mi from Lake Caroline · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mechanicsville, MD

Waterfront property with great sunsets and a relaxing view. Close to Budds Creek and Maryland International Raceway. Located on the Scenic Wicomico River a potomac tributary. The property is close to the Wicomico Shores boat ramp and fishing pier. Also close by is the Wicomico Shores Golf Course, where aside from golfing you can enjoy an amazing burger and a beverage. Come kayak and fish or just enjoy a great sunset and campfire.

5. Circe The Airstream

90%

(5)

34mi from Lake Caroline · 1 site · Lodging · Colonial Beach, VA

Welcome to "Circe," our charming retro Airstream trailer inspired by the enchanting character from Homer's Odyssey. Nestled at Monroe Bay's end, this wanderlust haven offers a unique glamping experience that combines vintage allure with modern comforts. Located within walking distance to James Monroe's Birthplace on the banks of Monroe Bay. The property features a Winery (limited hours) with acres of river and land to explore. The Trailer: Vintage Charm: Step back in time with our beautifully restored 1970s Airstream, meticulously designed to capture the essence of a bygone era. Comfortable Accommodation: Circe offers a cozy and well-appointed interior with a comfortable bed, seating area, and a compact kitchenette. Guests can check in on their own with an access key. You can park in front of the end of the airstream in our parking area. Colonial Beach is 1 mile away to walk or take your car and explore. There is a kayak on the property you can launch and take down the Monroe Bay or bring your own SUP or boat.

6. Fork Creek Acres

96%

(12)

25mi from Lake Caroline · 1 site · Tent · Louisa, VA

Situated about 30 minutes from Lake Anna, this old colonial property features wildlife, quiet, and colonial ruins. We are approximately 25 minutes from civilization where you can shop and dine. We are also about 10 minutes from the nearest country store/gas station. We sell firewood, fresh eggs, and bottled water. We have the capability to help move your gear to the camp site and back to your vehicle if needed. Right now, we only offer primitive camping, but will be offering a cabin later this year. We also have a small private pistol range!

7. Peace of Earth Farmstead & Forest

100%

(51)

3.8mi from Lake Caroline · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Woodford, VA

Our farm is host to wild critters as well as our farm animals. There will always be someone to pet, feed or observe during your stay! We started on this land in 2019 and have been steadily working to create a cooperative farmstead and nature school to share with our community as well as travelers and explorers. Our space is super kid friendly! Enjoy the animals, treehouse and trails :) Mickey, our white and gray outdoor cat LOVES to have visitors and will crawl into your lap if you let him. Please do not feed him!

Camper favorites near Lake Caroline

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Breezy View

98%

(25)

45mi from Lake Caroline · 1 site · Tent, RV · Mechanicsville, MD

Waterfront property with great sunsets and a relaxing view. Close to Budds Creek and Maryland International Raceway. Located on the Scenic Wicomico River a potomac tributary. The property is close to the Wicomico Shores boat ramp and fishing pier. Also close by is the Wicomico Shores Golf Course, where aside from golfing you can enjoy an amazing burger and a beverage. Come kayak and fish or just enjoy a great sunset and campfire.

Circe The Airstream

90%

(5)

34mi from Lake Caroline · 1 site · Lodging · Colonial Beach, VA

Welcome to "Circe," our charming retro Airstream trailer inspired by the enchanting character from Homer's Odyssey. Nestled at Monroe Bay's end, this wanderlust haven offers a unique glamping experience that combines vintage allure with modern comforts. Located within walking distance to James Monroe's Birthplace on the banks of Monroe Bay. The property features a Winery (limited hours) with acres of river and land to explore. The Trailer: Vintage Charm: Step back in time with our beautifully restored 1970s Airstream, meticulously designed to capture the essence of a bygone era. Comfortable Accommodation: Circe offers a cozy and well-appointed interior with a comfortable bed, seating area, and a compact kitchenette. Guests can check in on their own with an access key. You can park in front of the end of the airstream in our parking area. Colonial Beach is 1 mile away to walk or take your car and explore. There is a kayak on the property you can launch and take down the Monroe Bay or bring your own SUP or boat.

Fork Creek Acres

96%

(12)

25mi from Lake Caroline · 1 site · Tent · Louisa, VA

Situated about 30 minutes from Lake Anna, this old colonial property features wildlife, quiet, and colonial ruins. We are approximately 25 minutes from civilization where you can shop and dine. We are also about 10 minutes from the nearest country store/gas station. We sell firewood, fresh eggs, and bottled water. We have the capability to help move your gear to the camp site and back to your vehicle if needed. Right now, we only offer primitive camping, but will be offering a cabin later this year. We also have a small private pistol range!

Peace of Earth Farmstead & Forest

100%

(51)

3.8mi from Lake Caroline · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Woodford, VA

Our farm is host to wild critters as well as our farm animals. There will always be someone to pet, feed or observe during your stay! We started on this land in 2019 and have been steadily working to create a cooperative farmstead and nature school to share with our community as well as travelers and explorers. Our space is super kid friendly! Enjoy the animals, treehouse and trails :) Mickey, our white and gray outdoor cat LOVES to have visitors and will crawl into your lap if you let him. Please do not feed him!

Public campgrounds near Lake Caroline

90%

(5)

Lake Anna Campground

19mi from Lake Caroline · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Anna State Park

Caledon Campground

32mi from Lake Caroline · 1 site · in Caledon State Park

93%

(15)

Westmoreland State Park Campground

38mi from Lake Caroline · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Westmoreland State Park

94%

(9)

Pocahontas State Park Campground

42mi from Lake Caroline · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Pocahontas State Park

100%

(1)

Smallwood Campground

43mi from Lake Caroline · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Smallwood State Park

Stories from the community

Amanda

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Seven Islands River Front Campsites

My partner took me camping for my birthday and he chose the site. The view was spectacular and the hosts were very friendly! There is a really cool train that passes on the other side of the water, and it is so cool to watch. We got a bundle of wood, and it lasted us all weekend. I was on site 2, and the only suggestion I might make is to perhaps make stairs going down to the water level area. I'll be back for sure!

R

Rachel

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Gorgeous location with a private sand beach and awesome fire pit! We absolutely loved this spot! Access was easy and the picnic table was so nice to have. Super private with sounds of the river... what else could you need? Can't wait to come back in warm weather!

H

Heath J

3 weeks ago

16 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Graham's land was beautiful! The site was well maintained, flat and an even space for our truck camping. There was a nice picnic table at each site with a fire box and grate to cook on, all stocked with firewood and even kindling to get started. The river wraps around the sites with giant rocks and a steap forest incline opposite of the site. The hosts were incredibly kind and went far out of their way to help us out. The river was very refreshing (it froze last night) but we still enjoyed the semi polar plunge. It'll be a perfect summer spot with a sandy beach and great rocks to jump off into the water.

A

Ami

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Camping spot was fabulous, right along the river. Would definitely book again!

O

Orice

3 weeks ago

15 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Seven Islands River Front Campsites

Vistas were great, very private and flat site. Easy to navigate to thanks to it being well marked with signage. Will definitely be coming back!

S

Sage

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Sharp's Island

We had a great stay on the island, loved the cabin and bar. The views were beautiful and it was easy to paddle across the river to the island. Andy was very responsive and answered all of our questions. Highly recommend!

D

Dan

November 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Fantastic site! Great location! Stayed with two kids and we had the best time, will definitely be back!

Lots of room and options for setting up.

Jason

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

One of the best spots I've been to. Easily accessible with any vehicle and the site offered a great view (and sounds) of the river and large field on the other side of the river where I saw buck and deer running across several times. The host, Graham, and his son made an initial visit to make sure I had everything that was needed: very friendly and welcoming! There are a few other spots on the land that others were camping on but they were not visible from my spot. This did mean an occasional drive by from other campers, but I didn't mind that at all. Loved the custom made fire box and the option to leave cash for firewood provisions. The picnic table was a nice touch as well. I will definitely keep this one top of the list for future camping!

Joe

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Perfect camping spot for a weekend getaway. Couldn’t beat the wood bundle for $5.00 more than enough to get you through the night and was already waiting for us at campsite. Graham awesome and came to see if we needed anything during our stay. Highly recommended, we will definitely be back.

J

Julie Anne

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Lovely private spot on the river. Very clean and flat for the tent. You can walk down the river a good while!

J

Jamie

October 2025

23 ft Class B

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Site 2 was perfect. Peaceful and secluded. Having 6 cane corsos who just loved the open field and playing in the water along the river. Will definitely return to Paradise on the rivers bend.

J

Jessica

October 2025

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Peace of Earth Farmstead & Forest

Kelly and her family were very kind. I am a traveling vendor and one market ended up having me back on their property around midnight. They were so helpful in making sure I would know where to go and not disturb anyone. Great communication from the beginning and they were very helpful with anything that I needed! Will be going there again!

R

Rachel

October 2025

16 ft car

2 nights at Breezy View

Beautiful spot, will be back! Right amount of space for me and my pup. Cute little beach access and gorgeous foliage in the fall. Stunning sunset/rise and great wildlife - cranes, hawks, and bald eagles!

J

Josh

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Breezy View

Great spot for camping and fishing. We had three tents and a tarp and had a ton of room. Caught a couple of perch and bullhead. Easy instructions to get to the place which felt nice and remote. Great sunset views as well. Watch your step around the banks as high water at some point did some serious erosion. The owner has a set up steps to get down to the beach, which were very helpful. Also if you’re planning on having a fire you may want to bring some wood ahead of time. There is a bunch of ash and some oak around the property that the owner was gracious enough offer up to us, but much of it was older and rotted. Some other reviews mentioned the drag strip nearby which you can hear (along with the occasional shotgun blast from hunters), but neither of those things really bothered us. Country store nearby with coffee, beer, liquor ice and gas. About 90 minutes from DC (no traffic). Closer to 2.5 hours if you leave DC at 3pm during the week. Overall a great spot if you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from the city.

E

Erik

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Amazing property and camp site, it’s my 2nd time here and coming a third time in a couple weeks

M

Matthew

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Tent camping was great at this private paradise. Graham had a tarp already setup for the tent and plenty of firewood for the weekend. Located right on the river with a nice beach area for the dog to play in the water. Also a great fire pit with easy cooking capabilities.

J

Jonny

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Seven Islands River Front Campsites

Beautiful site! The fishing was terrible though. I threw 8 different lures and nothing I did catch two small channel cats off a cut eel.

T

Tanner

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

Took my dog for his first camping trip and he loved it! Easy access to the stream and relatively private between the sites. Would definitely stay here again

T

Tabitha

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

It was beautiful! So quiet..the sound of the river while you slept was so relaxing. The bugs were actually not that bad either. There is a little trail you can walk down to the river or you can walk down to the beach (if no one is at site #1-we got lucky and had the place to ourselves). It ended up raining a little bit on Sunday so we ended up driving to Luray Caverns (about 1 hour drive) and stopped at Bald Top brewery (Caramel Apple Sour was awesome). Thanks for having us Graham!

Gavriela

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Breezy View

We had a wonderful time in this campsite ! The view of the water was serene, the campsite itself expansive and the instructions clear. Shane was responsive and communicated everything clearly. We had a beautiful weekend. Definitely recommend!