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The best camping near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

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

100% (8 reviews)
100% (8 reviews)

A relaxing lake with an ice cream boats making deliveries? Count us in! RV hookups and cabins, too!  

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Community favorites near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Smith Mountain Lake 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.
from 
$20
 / night
100%
(1)

Welcome to Kashmir!

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Henry Fork, VA
Welcome to my Kashmir! Kashmir is 5 acres of beautifully wooded forest in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia! Formerly moonshine territory, the property features the remnants of bootlegging history with an overgrown hidden road in the back of the property that leads to a quaint little stream. Bring your metal detector to dig up a piece of prohibition history! Forage for your dinner with a variety of mushrooms, wild strawberries, and field garlic. Add some flavor with wild white thyme, wild carrot, or alfalfa. Enjoy delicious dewberries from the plethora of brambles on the property! We are located a mere 20 minutes from Smith Mountain Lake, where you can enjoy
from 
$5
 / 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.
from 
$45
 / 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.
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(5)

Bishop Creek

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents77 acres ¡ Lynch Station, VA
We have a 77 acre farm that we just bought last year. We have a fenced off area down by the creek that is secluded and ready for you to camp. Watch the calves play or come pet our new piglet! We have a power hookup for 2 campers. We are right across the road from the Staunton river and only a few miles away from the public boat launches. We have a few kayaks that can be rented out as well!
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$35
 / night
98%
(171)

Why be Square?! Blue Ridge Yurt

2 sites ¡ Lodging1 acres ¡ Pilot, VA
Blue Ridge Yurts is a woman-owned company in Floyd, Virginia, started by my mother, Sharon. We were staying at Treebones, a yurt 'glampground' in Big Sur, California, and fell in love with yurts together. My mom said, "I think I could build one of these," and the company was born! She does all the woodworking, using sustainable practices, with locally-sourced wood, and her best friend Kathy does the fabric end of things. I was one of her early guinea pigs, and love my yurt property dearly <3 This 24' yurt sits on a beautiful private acreage off an end-state maintenance road, with biking and hiking trails just a 20 minute drive from the touristy town of Floyd, Virginia. There's a steam shower sauna, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a deck overlooking the mountains with a table and seating. Enjoy!
from 
$121
 / night
85%
(81)

12 Gates Farms

10 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Montvale, VA
This property was once a 300 acre plus tobacco farm.  The original log cabin was built in the 1850s and now serves as our dining room.  The front portion of the house was completed in April of 1861 and the back in the early 1900s.  We have plans to eventually turn it into a working farm which produces tinctures, salves and extracts of various native plants including hemp.Learn more about this land:Heavily wooded mountain side with flowing creek. Easy access (walking distance) to Jefferson National Forest, National Forest horse trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. (Note: You cannot drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway as the path is an old forest road which has been gated, but you can walk up to it.)  We also have a small, uncovered tree house which is available on a first come, first served basis.  Only site 4 is next to the brook.  However, the site positions are for the purposes of the listing only.  You may camp anywhere on the property.  There is plenty of frontage on the creek and several tents can go up there.To find us easily, use what3words.com and enter the words wished.wobbles.shelves. That square is our driveway. The large white square to the right of it is our house.
from 
$15
 / 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

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
100%
(93)

Crooked Mountain

11 sites ¡ Tents47 acres ¡ VA
We are a family/veteran-owned small farm offering primitive creek-side and open field camping that's perfect for motorcyclists, car campers, and tourists traveling on an adventure. We are located along the historic Crooked Road Music Trail and right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile marker 159.3. The picturesque town of Floyd is only 4 miles away, with easy access to music, shopping, multiple grocery stores, local and international themed restaurants - all with a true feeling of Appalachian hospitality. There are 6 creek-side campsites and open-field campsites in the peaceful field, all with access to trails. We have been developing our dream property and wanted to welcome visitors with affordable tent camping in an incredibly beautiful area of the country. Also, on the property we have a store with essential camping needs, local products, artisan items, coffee, and souvenirs. During the summer we offer a "YouPick" flower experience in our crop field (come get a container and pick your own bouquet of flowers) and special/tourism events. Peak season for flowers is from July to September. We would love for you to camp and give us feedback as we are constantly improving things. Our newest amenity is a 1 mile hiking trail that starts at the campground and takes you through the woods to the top of our property. Come ride, camp, and explore the area!
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$20
 / night

Solar Electric Catamaran

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ North Shore, VA
Solar Electric Catamaran that transforms into a camper, sleeps 2 comfortably. Table transforms into a comfortable bed, canopy protects from elements and insects, shades keep sun out. Restroom with shower on site. Fan and cooler available upon request. Bring sleeping bags and or
from 
$60
 / 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!
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near Smith Mountain Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Fishing? Swimming? Just relaxing? All of those await you at this Virginia state park situated on the second largest body of freshwater in the state. Plan ahead if you want to go in the gorgeous lake, as there's an extra fee for swimming. (Though adults looking for relaxation will be glad to know there's an adults-only section of the swimming area.) Or get out on the water for catfish or bass fishing, including fishing tournaments.

Better make other plans in the event of bad weather, though. This lake in Bedford County shuts down in the event of thunderstorms. If you want to stay on land, you have plenty of activities to choose from. Bring your bike or your bird journal to explore the 1,100+ acres of the park, or attend special lectures and events.

20 cabins and a bunkhouse are available to provide a comfortable stay (1-week minimum stay during summer). Choose from 25 RV spots (5 big enough for a 50' RV) and 25 tent sites. Half are reservable, and half are first-come, first-served.

Notable campgrounds

  • Two-bedroom frame cabins offer a cozy retreat with a queen bed, two singles, and a picturesque wood stove.
  • Three-bedroom frame cabins, ideal for larger groups, feature two queen beds, two singles, and two bathrooms, one being universally accessible.
  • The camping lodge, a unique bunkhouse experience, provides a rustic stay with seven bunk beds and a large covered deck.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak season stays, to ensure your spot amid the park's natural beauty.
  • Consider mid-week reservations for greater availability and a quieter experience.
  • Stay flexible with your dates to increase your chances of finding an open campsite.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations if the park is fully booked.

When to go

The prime time to visit Smith Mountain Lake State Park is between May and September, when the weather is warm and all facilities, including the guarded beach, are open. Winter offers a peaceful escape, though some amenities may be limited.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's operating hours, open daily from 8:15am to dusk, and plan your arrival accordingly.
  • Be aware that the beach and snack bar are closed outside the summer season.
  • Remember to bring your own linens and towels when staying in cabins or the bunkhouse.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with features like an accessible fishing pier and cabin options.
  • For a seamless experience, familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations before your visit.

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