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The best camping near Douthat State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Douthat adventure.

97% (17 reviews)
97% (17 reviews)

Can’t decide between lake or mountain? Douthat—one of Virginia’s original state parks—has both.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Douthat State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Douthat State Park

99%
(515)

James River Depot

6 sites ¡ Tents30 acres ¡ Glasgow, VA
An active hay field nestled between the river and the railroad.  A great place to enjoy some R and R.  We love to float the James and there is easy access to the river on our property.  A beautiful field as well as some trees for added shade. Fun to hear the trains and the water as you get amazing views of the night sky.
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$20
 / night
97%
(178)

Mane Gait Equestrian Center

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents140 acres ¡ Natural Bridge, VA
Mane Gait is conveniently located right off route 81 and can accommodate large rigs. You won't find better views of the blue ridge mountains on this gorgeous working horse farm. We have hiking trails through beautiful private scenery for beginners to advanced hikers. Pets are welcome if leashed! Picnic area on site as well as laundry machine. We are 10 minutes from downtown historic Lexington Virginia that provides great restaurants and lots of history in the charming town of Lexington. Site 2 should be booked for smaller campers around 25 feet. Site 1 is better for larger campers.
from 
$35
 / night
95%
(113)

Camping at Lazy River Farm

3 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents20 acres ¡ Iron Gate, VA
Learn more about this land: Lazy River Farm has so much to offer. Tents sites are in a wooded setting, on a beautiful hill, spread out for privacy. Camp sites also have fire pits with wood ready for you at your site. Camp sites can be accessed with a 4 wheel drive vehicle or all wheel drive, a short walk up to your site. With easy access down to the river, you can cool off in the beautiful Cow Pasture River. Glamping in the Vardo Wagon is another option, with its close proximity to the river and cozy interior. Rent kayaks or paddle boards if you want to go on beautiful floats that wont disappoint you, (paddle boards and kayaks are available for free if you paddle near the farm) drop in a line to fish, or simply sit by the river and listen to the soft rapids. Lazy River Farm is a working farm, with lovely Scottish Highland Cattle as well as pigs, chickens and horses. Your welcome to come and pet the animals or even possibly help feed them. Nearby there are vineyards and breweries, the beautiful historic Masonic Theater, C&O heritage center, miles of back roads to explore, as well as local restaurants. Lazy River Farm and Gala Adventures offer many activities, on and off the farm. Contact us directly for a full range of what we have to offer, or have questions regarding any site.
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$35
 / night
100%
(298)

Thunder Bridge

23 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres ¡ Natural Bridge Station, VA
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. We'd like to share the camp with others and see 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.
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$30
 / night
99%
(70)

Camping in the shade on the river

1 site ¡ RV, Tent60 acres ¡ Eagle Rock, VA
Learn more about this land:Very secluded spot right on the river. Large fire pit. 12by40 pavilion. Great area for wade fishing. Right between to state boat ramps one 20 min upstream is the Iron gate ramp one an hour down stream is the Glen Wilton boat ramp. Picknick tables on site.
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$40
 / night

The Cottage At Stone Soup

1 site ¡ RV, Tent20 acres ¡ New Castle, VA
Welcome to your peaceful retreat nestled in the scenic mountains of Craig County, Virginia. Our 20-acre property offers a private escape surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Jefferson National Forest. Immerse yourself in nature as you listen to the soothing sounds of Barbours Creek, providing a serene backdrop to your getaway. With the vast expanse of the Jefferson National Forest right at your doorstep, the possibilities for adventure are endless. Explore the network of hiking trails that wind through the forest, offering opportunities to discover hidden waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic vistas. For the more adventurous, embark on a climb up the cliffs or venture out onto the Pots Mountain jeep trails for an adrenaline-filled excursion. After a day of outdoor exploration, retreat to the tranquility of your private oasis, where you can relax and unwind amidst the natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether you prefer to lounge by the creek, sip a cup of coffee while taking in the mountain views, or stargaze under the clear night sky, our peaceful getaway offers the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Conveniently located just 7 miles from the historic town of New Castle, you'll have easy access to charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites to explore. Additionally, the nearby towns of Covington and Salem are within a short drive, offering additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and discover the tranquility of our mountain retreat. Whether you seek adventure in the great outdoors or simply wish to relax and recharge, our peaceful getaway provides the ideal setting for your next vacation.
from 
$30
 / night
96%
(28)

Ultimate private camping

1 site ¡ RV, Tent235 acres ¡ Hot Springs, VA
Since Hipcamp called to clarify... we are indeed offering the entire property to only one group at a time. You read that right you can camp anywhere on the property, move around, and feel free to stay multiple nights. This 235.51 acre property has all of the most sought-after characteristics: close to the amenities of Hot Springs and The Homestead resort, total privacy and protection, beautiful trout stream, direct access to hiking and mountain bike trails on the adjoining 3000 acres of National Forest, and a 60-mile sunset view. It offers over 1,000 ft of vertical gain. The property includes a half mile of Cowardin Run. With generally mild winter weather, the property is perfect for experience the magic of the Allegheny Mountains. Significant improvements to the road with addition of culverts and a top coat of stone were done over the 2023-2024 winter. We offer the same low light level as the International Dark Sky Park in Millboro for excellent astronomy and night-sky viewing. *Note: Game trail cameras in use - they are not hidden and are not for the purpose of video surveillance* *Note: During business hours Environmental Specialist, VDOF or USDA may visit to check in on the forest/structures/habitat. *
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$44
 / night
98%
(466)

Wilderness Adventure

92 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents500 acres ¡ New Castle, VA
Wilderness Adventure is more than just a campground. Along with our wide range of camping and lodging options, we also offer free and paid adventure activities like tubing, canoeing, hiking, biking, and more! Don't miss out on our group program offerings like retreats, corporate gatherings, youth groups, and weddings. Camping WA offers private and communal campsites to fit the needs of any size group you are traveling with and has a shared bathhouse with showers and toilets. Drinking water is available from multiple locations Activities for Guests Hiking, mountain biking, and trail running on our onsite trails, Canoeing, tubing, swimming or fishing in our pond, creek sitting, fire pits, sand volleyball, horseshoes, disc golf, corn hole, and endless open space to wander and relax. Basecamp Adventure Activities Canoe Rentals/Shuttle $40/trip/boat Sit on top Kayak Rentals/Shuttle $30/trip/boat Tubing/Shuttle $20/trip/person Mountain Bike Rental $25/half day, $50/full day Area Activities Hiking, Mountain Biking, Gravel Biking, Bikepacking, 4-wheeling, Rock Crawling: Virginia's Triple Crown - Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs Hoop Hole Roaring Run North Mountain/Dragons Back Carvins Cove Mill Mountain Douthat State Park Craigs Creek Food, Summer Events and Festivals Throughout the summer we have delicious made-to-order meals from our Outpost from Friday dinner to Sunday Breakfast. Campstore: 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. (hours vary or by appointment) Check out our event calendar for all upcoming events. Annual Events Include: Camp Reckoning Yoga Venture WA Fest DiscVenture Appalachian Mountaineer Retreat Center, Group Program, Corporate Retreats, Family Reunions https://www.wilderness-adventure.com/groups Whether you’re organizing a group retreat or looking to get away for a weekend with the family in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, let us be your Basecamp for Adventure. Wilderness Adventure offers an extensive list of adventure activities for any group along with easily accessible rentals for quick getaways. 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, ponds for fishing and swimming, canoeing and tubing. Giant Swing, Team Building, Low Ropes, High Ropes, Caving, Rock Climbing, Mountain bike lessons and guided trips, Other Cool Stuff The Swinging bridge Restaurant - Paint Bank VA The Mill Mountain Star - Roanoke VA Lasterday Market - New Castle, VA Lemon & Vale Cakery, New Castle, VA Bibos Pizzeria - New Castle, VA Parkway Brewing Company - Salem, VA And so much more!
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$25
 / night
100%
(7)

Riverwood

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents275 acres ¡ Monterey, VA
Located on the Jackson River with views of Alleghany Mountains up and down valley. Great catch and release fly fishing, star gazing, bird and other nature watching. Located 15 minutes South of Monterey VA and 20 North of Hot Springs VA (where historic hot springs and Homestead resort are located). Come visit and enjoy the beauty. Note, no cell phone service on property. Service available mile south of property on 220 and 5 miles north of property on 220.
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$40
 / night
98%
(443)

Savage Acres on Craig Creek

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents120 acres ¡ New Castle, VA
In a remote valley, along the banks of Craig's Creek, just north of Roanoke VA, 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 Craig Creek and our big swimmin' hole. Totally secluded in a remote valley - no houses or roads 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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$45
 / night
97%
(19)

Longview Yurt Retreat

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Raphine, VA
Welcome to Longview Yurt nestled in the Shenandoah mountains! This is our family retreat we use to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's a wonderful opportunity to disconnect from screens and reconnect with those around you. The yurt has been such a beautiful opportunity for us to simply relax that we decided to share it with like-minded nature-lovers! It is surrounded by nature with a gravel road running along one side of the property and a stream running along the other. The stream is technically on our neighbor's property but you can hear the calming sounds of the water running over the rocks as you relax near the picnic table or further down the property near the tree swing. The yurt is the perfect balance between comfort and camping. There's electricity, mini-frig and coffee maker, actual beds for sleeping, and plenty of space indoors to spread out for a meal or play a board game. However, please note there's NO running water so bring your own for drinking and washing dishes used. Fans are used for cooling the yurt in the summer months; there is no AC. There are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had nearby including Saint Mary's Wilderness (personal favorite!), Crabtree Falls, White Rock Falls, and Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve. Also worth noting is Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery is just 3 miles away!
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$90
 / night
100%
(32)

Green Acres

13 sites ¡ RVs3 acres ¡ Clifton Forge, VA
This property has 8 sites MESSAGE US FOR DETAILS REGARDING OUR AMENITIES AND FACILITIES. Check us out on Facebook at... GREEN ACRES VA CAMPING ... if interested in tent sites. Read the top post for instructions on renting tent sites. We are officially permitted and licensed by the State of Virginia to operate and run a campground. Please read individual site descriptions for specific details for the sites. Not all sites are the same. There is also info available at our facebook page. We have a Charcoal Grill available to rent as an "EXTRA" for $10(covers entire length of stay). Come camp on the peaceful banks of the Cowpasture river. This is a great place to come to get away from the noise and just relax. The river depth along the property ranges from a few inches to 6ft. Most sites offer partial shade. Open field area for playing games. Large communal fire pit beside the river. We also have a communal Shelter that has two booth style tables under it. Nearby places of interest including Falling Springs waterfall, Humpback Bridge, Lake Moomaw, Douthat State Park...all within less than an hours drive. Only a few minutes from the closest town, incase you need food, supplies, fuel, etc. Please note that not all cellular providers have service at this location. I know that Verizon does. Pack trash out with you.
from 
$30
 / night

The best camping near Douthat State Park guide

Overview

About

The 50-acre Douthat Lake is the epicenter of its namesake state park, framed by the forested slopes of the Allegheny Mountains. Take to the water to cruise or kayak, rent a hydrobike or stand-up paddleboard, or fish for bass, trout, and crappie in the lake and streams. There’s plenty for landlubbers to explore, too, with more than 40 miles of wooded trails ready to hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride. Spending the night? Choose from four campgrounds dotted throughout the park, including equestrian camps with stables, rustic cabins, and plenty of RV/tent sites, some right by the lake.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for family campers: Whispering Pines Campground has 23 sites with electric and water hookups, space for up to 50-foot RVs, and a playground nearby. 
  • Best for horse lovers: Beaver Dam Campground has equestrian camping with covered stalls available for rent.
  • Best for water activities: Lakeside Campground has 19 RV/tent sites with gravel pads and electric hookups.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve a cabin or a campsite at one of the park’s four campgrounds online.
  2. Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance and must be made at least one day before arrival.  
  3. Campsites can book up fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of six months in advance.

When to go

Peak season at Douthat State Park is April through October, and this is the most popular time for hiking, camping, and water sports. Outdoor activities are enjoyable year-round, but summer visitors have the added bonus of a swimming beach (open from Memorial Day to Labor Day) and trout-stocked waters (twice weekly through the high season). Whispering Pines is the only campground open year-round, but cabins are also available for winter rentals.

Know before you go

  • Douthat State Park is just over an hour’s drive north of Roanoke.
  • Day-use parking fees and camping reservation fees are charged at Douthat. State fishing licenses and equestrian permits are also required.
  • Facilities include a visitor center and gift shop, camp store, restaurant, restrooms, and picnic areas. Cell phone service is patchy throughout the park, but free wifi is available near the bathhouse.
  • You can bring your own non-gasoline-powered boats to Douthat, and boats and watercraft are available to rent in season. Swimming is only permitted at the swimming beach.
  • There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Douthat State Park. The swimming area is also accessible.

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