The best waterfall campgrounds near Lake Monticello, Virginia

Looking to camp near Lake Monticello, Virginia and chase waterfalls? Hipcamp has over 180 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking an RV, or staying in a cabin, we've got you covered. With options starting as low as $23 per night, you can find the perfect accommodation for your budget. Check out some of our top campsites near Lake Monticello, Virginia: Wilderness Adventure (235 reviews), Buffalo Gap Retreat and Camp (167 reviews), and Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm (126 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendly areas, and toilets, and partake in activities such as whitewater paddling, fishing, and wind sports. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure-filled camping trip near Lake Monticello, Virginia!

98% (855)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Monticello

Looking to camp near Lake Monticello, Virginia and chase waterfalls? Hipcamp has over 180 options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking an RV, or staying in a cabin, we've got you covered. With options starting as low as $23 per night, you can find the perfect accommodation for your budget. Check out some of our top campsites near Lake Monticello, Virginia: Wilderness Adventure (235 reviews), Buffalo Gap Retreat and Camp (167 reviews), and Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm (126 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, pet-friendly areas, and toilets, and partake in activities such as whitewater paddling, fishing, and wind sports. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure-filled camping trip near Lake Monticello, Virginia!

98% (855)

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Monticello

1. Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

99%

(563)

39mi from Lake Monticello · 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.

2. Arcadia Sanctuary

97%

(370)

48mi from Lake Monticello · 16 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.

3. Welcome to Marigold Manse!

96%

(60)

44mi from Lake Monticello · 1 site · Tent

Learn more about this land: Seasonal swim hole in area with waterfall, fun farm animals, well landscaped, backs up to SNF with hiking trails. Pond fishing with fire pit. Clean, well supplied outhouse with hand washing/ tooth brushing station. Outbuilding has small kitchen. Tent sites are very slightly unlevel. Many indoor and outdoor activities within 30 minutes. Local trail riding / horseback. Shenandoah River offers water activities- tubing, kayak, canoe, paddling. Local rentals available. Luray Caverns within 15 minutes. Local restaurants and plenty of rainy day activities. Local zip line course. And much more!

4. Shenandoah National Park

95%

(238)

589 sites · Shenandoah, Virginia

Plan a mountain getaway where Virginia’s Blue Ridge meets the blue sky.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. George Washington National Forest

99%

(51)

487 sites · Deerfield, Virginia

Come and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachia

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

6. Meili Mtn - Tye River Waterfall

97%

(57)

42mi from Lake Monticello · 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. We are allowing some camping near the waterfall on an 8x8 wooden tent platform or feel free to camp at a few other spots on the property we will share during booking. (no other campfire site are permitted on the property, although we have a firepit at 2 locations). *Please note that there is NO camping available at the waterfall.

7. Twin Poplar Farm

99%

(87)

37mi from Lake Monticello · 3 sites · Tents

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

8. Sugar Hollow Outpost

100%

(3)

26mi from Lake Monticello · 1 site · Lodging

Our studio garage apartment is located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains outside of Crozet, Virginia in what is known locally as Sugar Hollow. Our property adjoins both the Moormans River and Grubbs Branch. The entrance to the North and South Fork of the Moormans River trails are only 2.5 miles from our door. We also have hiking trails located on our property. The garage apartment comfortably fits two with two queen-size beds, a sitting area with TV and internet, kitchenette and full bath. There is a mini-split for heating and cooling. Designed for full-time guests.

Public campgrounds near Lake Monticello

96%

(50)

Loft Mountain Campground

29mi from Lake Monticello · 202 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shenandoah National Park

100%

(9)

Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground

37mi from Lake Monticello · 37 sites · Tents, RVs · in George Washington National Forest

95%

(145)

Big Meadows Campground

42mi from Lake Monticello · 221 sites · Tents, RVs · in Shenandoah National Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

J

Julia

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

Super simple super cozy! Instructions were clear, site was quiet and peaceful, and we stayed warm with all the blankets.

Luscious green next to the pond. A great place to camp, be visited by the ducks and listen to the wildlife and the creek nearby

M

MaryAnn

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

Great spot and Fran is very accommodating. Beautiful, quaint, the animals, very clean bathrooms and star filled sky were amazing.

E

Emma

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

Had a great time!! It is a very special property and Jennifer was kind to show us the animals and tell us more about the history. The little cabin was comfortable and had all the basic cooking items we needed as well as plenty of water for dishes/handwashing! We enjoyed a complimentary wine tasting at a nearby winery that Jennifer gave us, but overall just hung out at the property and enjoyed the peace and quiet. Also, the outhouse is difficult to see if you arrive at night, but it is there, just a few feet off the trail by the solar lights :)

L

Laura

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Welcome to Marigold Manse!

Ann and everyone else there are all so so kind and her house/land is beautiful! The animals, especially the cats, were so friendly & loved to be pet. They are adorable! They also have cute ponies, chickens, & ducks. We were able to feed the ponies some apple slices. If you have the chance to visit and stay here you definitely should🐱✨💝 we will be coming back asap

This is our mountain and your campsite will be about a third of the way up it.

T

Tyler

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

Great place to view the mountains and a beautiful view. The hosts are very kind I had a great visit.

K

Kaiya

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

Amazing time and very informative welcoming host!!

View from the campsite of the pony enclosure

C

Carolina and Paul

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Welcome to Marigold Manse!

We loved our time here! Elizabeth was super easy to book with. The campsite is as described, the kitties were cute and plentiful, and we had a great time. We’re excited to go back! Thanks so much Elizabeth!

S

Sam

October 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Arcadia Sanctuary

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.

J

Jessie

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

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!

Eric

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Twin Poplar Farm

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.

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

We really enjoyed or stay! The site was remote and was in a nice clearing where we could spread out, relax, and enjoy!

N

Nolan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

BEAUTIFUL campsite. Really clean bathrooms and showers. Roving campsite cats and dogs were SO sweat. 10/10 lovely experience.

J

Justin

October 2025

2 nights at Arcadia Sanctuary

Great getaway for the family! Finley was great checking us in and made sure we had everything. Great scenery and wonderful creek with a few smaller waterfalls. Really had a nice time. Thank you.

Paul

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Welcome to Marigold Manse!

This place was amazing! The host was extremely welcoming and friendly. Gave us a print out of the layout and wifi password. If you are an animal lover this is the place, 4 mini horses, friendly cats, ducks, chickens and catfish in the pond. Site was well kept. No reception (which we love) but does have wifi. Bathroom is a outhouse and you put woodchips in afterwards. (We're Outdoorsy type so having a place to actually sit is nice. 😂) Close to Shenandoah National Park and Luray Cave. we would definitely stay here again, especially with our kiddos! See you next year!

M

Mary

October 2025

3 nights at Arcadia Sanctuary

We enjoyed being unplugged from tech and fully immersed in nature. The yurt is nestled in the woods away from the main building and other tent sites so there's plenty of privacy and quiet. There's an opening in the trees above where a myriad of stars can be admired from the deck. I recommend opening the windows of the yurt to let in the sunlight and allow air to flow through the space. It was convenient to use the grill for cooking and the dinnerware for our meals. There is only one pot to cook in so if you need additional cookware, I would recommend bringing what you need as well as a sharp knife, peeler and can opener.

L

Laurie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

Our family of four had a wonderful time in Arcadia Sanctuary. The property is very natural and full of beautiful plants, majestic sycamore trees, and lots of cute farm birds roaming around. We enjoyed sitting by the fire and listening to the owls and crickets at night. Buddy the dog checked on us in the mornings as we cooked our delicious fresh eggs. On Saturday, a lively band played from about 4-7 and they invited us to come down to the pavilion for the show. Overall, a very groovy place with good hospitality!

L

Laurie

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Arcadia Sanctuary

Our family enjoyed our weekend in the east village! Fran’s place is natural and full of character. We loved the farm fresh eggs, beautiful trees, listening to the owls at night, and meeting Buddy, the friendly dog. Saturday night, a lively rock band played from 4-7 and we were invited to enjoy the show. 😊 We also had fun fishing in Thrasher Lake, about ten minutes away.

C

Cameron

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

We really enjoyed staying at the Moonshine cabin on Jennifer’s land! It had everything we needed for a lovely stay!

Blake

September 2025

3 nights at Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

We absolutely loved staying in the Moonshine Camp on Jennifer's beautiful land! It was completely private and tucked in the lush woods behind her wonderful farm. We loved the beautiful ferns surrounding the camp, the very comfortable bed, and all of the personal touches added to the cabin. Future guests should be aware there is no electricity or cell service, so bring a power bank and get ready to disconnect. Jennifer provided all the basic amenities to make our stay cozy and homie. We loved meeting and interacting with all of the friendly animals on the farm - highly recommend the snacks and cuddles add-on if you have the time!

M

Manuel

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Welcome to Marigold Manse!

If you’re a cat lover, Marigold Manse is a treat for you! From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the sweetest little welcoming committee of friendly cats (and even a couple of ponies!) who are all under the care of the lovely Ms. Ann (she's really nice!). The place is peaceful, quiet, and full of charm — the perfect backdrop to spend time with your new furry friends. Between the cozy atmosphere, the animals roaming around, and the chance to fish (CAT-fish) in the pond, and there's also a jacuzzi (be sure to ask if available to use). it truly feels like a hidden sanctuary.