The best camping in Virginia

·

Whether you want to dive into Civil War history, follow in the footsteps of former presidents, or drive the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia rarely disappoints. The birthplace of America has thousands of miles of Atlantic coastline and more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state. Still need convincing? Virginia’s 41 state parks boast more than 600 miles of trails and 1,800 state campsites, leading the way to forested mountains, rambling rivers, and beaches. Camping is a year-round affair, whether you prefer fall foliage hikes, pitching a tent on the beach, or snowshoeing from a cozy winter cabin. 

97% (20.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Virginia

1. Bears Den Campground

95%
(1179)
5 sites · Tents · Shenandoah Retreat, VA
Set up your tent in our remote but easily accessible campground, 100 yards off the Appalachian Trail. Roast marshmallows by the fire pit and watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Site #1 is on a hilly slope and accommodates 4 campersSite #2 accommodates 8-10 campersSite #3 accommodates 4 campersSite #4 accommodates 6-8 campersSite #5 accommodates 6-8 campers About the property Located on a 66-acre plot just five miles from the Shenandoah River, our property offers amazing access to hiking and the outdoors while also keeping civilization within striking distance. Bear Chase Brewery is just a half mile walk across the street, and we are 15 miles from Purcellville. The land and lodge used to be the summer home of a trained opera singer, whose singing could be heard throughout the mountain. Your Host lives onsite in the stone house that also acts as a hostel for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Built in the 1930's all from locally sourced hand-hammered stone, the house is open every night from 5pm - 9pm. Note that we offer several campsites relatively close to each other, so you should expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. About the listing Pitch your tent in a forested area just a short walk up from where you’ll park your car. Enjoy unbeatable proximity to hiking and panoramic views while still having basic amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. You’ll have access to a composting pit toilet, and can access potable water from the tap in the lodge. That’s also where you can access hot showers. As noted above, we host Appalachian Trail thru hikers on the property, so you may see them hanging around or sleeping in the bunkhouse near the shared facilities. so please be respectful of hours when you come in for a shower. No showers after 10 pm For meals, we have picnic tables, and you are encouraged to cook over the fire pits that accompany each site. Please practice Leave No Trace practices during your stay, as the property has raccoons and other critters who will be drawn to any food scraps that are left behind. Pets are allowed! Please keep them on leash during your stay. Trash can be disposed of in dumpster up the hill Additional details to note Expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. No kitchen equipment is provided, so campers must bring their own supplies if they'd like to cook. We do not offer WiFi, but there is good cell reception for all common carriers.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$12
 / night

2. Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

99%
(1040)
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)
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$47
 / night

3. Thunder BRidge

99%
(689)
26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Natural Bridge Station, VA
Starting December 1, or first night below freezing we will be closing down Bath House and only access will be at outhouses. Only sites near outhouses will be open and there will be no access to water. 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. Most of the buildings out front are artist studios (currently for 16 artists). We like to share the camp with others and watch 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. If you are a star gazer you won't be disappointed by our dark sky. We want to share our property with those who want to stay for more than one night, so we do not accept inquiries of single night stays.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$37
 / night

8. The Guinea Farm, Field, and Forest

98%
(311)
4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Diggs, VA
The Guinea farm is 18 acres of feild and forest on the rural middle pennensula. Only 1 mile from 2 separate secluded beaches and a boat launch. There is verly little traffic or light polution here, nature is at your fingertips. Come visit the farm and experience agrotourism at it's finest. Pick your own veggies in the community garden and meet the Guinea fowl! Enjoy the windernes and learn about the local ecosystem here on the middle pennensula. There are 3 sites spaced out across the 18 acres set apart for privacy. Wisteria is a primative site closer to the entrance gate. Trilogy is a suspended tree tent in the pines 700' beyond that and seperated by dense forest. Stargazer Tiny cabin is an offgrid rustic camping cabin on the back side of the property. Each site is surronded by several acres of forest and close to the edge of a large feild. There are romaing guinea fowl that may come make a very loud appearance as they canvas the property eating bugs. Deer, Turkeys, Bald Eagles, foxes, and other wildlife are common guests also. Mid-summer is what I call frog season, Tree frogs are abundant and provide a wonderful soundtrack. There are free to use bicycles, an axe throwing board, and cornhole boards available. 4 miles from shopping and dining in Mathews Virginia, 15 miles to Gwynn Island. Gwynn's Island is an island located in the Chesapeake Bay off of Virginia's Middle Peninsula. The island is located in the northeast part of Mathews County, south of the mouth of the Piankatank River. It is connected to the rest of the county by a swing bridge over Milford Haven.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

9. Private Farm Minutes to Cville

98%
(1378)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlottesville, VA
This was a 55-acre farm, split in half to accommodate a bypass through Charlottesville, so the previous owners had to give up half the land, and actually moved the house down to the other half of the property! They had to build a land bridge to get to the new home site, so they turned the bridge into a dam and created a beautiful large swimming pond, complete with beach and gazebo. My wife Stephanie and I bought the property in early 2017 and have turned it into a private horse farm, adding pastures, a riding ring, and 6-stall barn. There are ~21 horses who live on the property. The property is unique in that you can hardly see another house from anywhere on the property and yet we are only 2 miles from Barracks Rd. Shopping Center, and 4 miles from the University of Virginia.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night

16. Camp Kilo

100%
(7)
2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Stanardsville, VA
Discover peaceful seclusion on this 16-acre primitive campsite, perched atop a hill with stunning eastern views. Greet each morning with a breathtaking sunrise and soak in the quiet beauty of nature all around you. Located just yards from the Shenandoah National Park border, this spot offers a true backcountry feel with the convenience of being only 30 minutes by car from the park’s main entrance. It’s perfect for hikers and nature lovers looking to unplug. Cell service is available if needed. Access requires a half-mile uphill hike, adding a sense of adventure and keeping the area serene and private. There is no vehicle access to the campsite, and campers must bring in their own food and water. This is a pack-in, pack-out site with no amenities, ideal for those seeking a raw, off-grid experience. Pets are welcome, but must be kept under control and respectful of wildlife. Campfires are allowed in accordance with local fire regulations. Please check current guidelines before lighting a fire. The site comfortably fits 2–3 small tents (2–3 person tents recommended). Unplug, unwind, and reconnect under the stars just steps from one of Virginia’s most iconic parks
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

19. 2nd40 to 420 - The Farm

99%
(100)
16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pamplin, VA
The Farm was originally named 2nd 4o by my parents. They planned to live the 2nd forty years of their lives together on the farm. My parents both grew up on the southside of Chicago - where having a tree in your yard meant that you had "made it". They decided to use the land to grow Christmas trees. This did not last long :) but the saplings my dad planted by hand are still here & maybe 70' tall! Then my husband & I bought The Farm in 2017 for the 2nd forty years of our life & my parents built their little house right here. My husband and I immediately knew that our dream was to grow a different kind of "tree", so in 2019 we were among the first group to receive our license to grow hemp. We are passionate about both the hemp and cannabis plants! In 2020 when it finally became legal to grow cannabis, we immediately added that to our garden as well and 2nd 40 to 420 was born, or shall I say planted. We currently rent out our 2 RV's 3 Yurts & primitive sites , we also offer group bookings & Canna-friendly B&B options. We plan to add septic & electric hook-ups for RV's in the near future. Come join us in Growing our Dreams! Learn more about this land: Large farm with acres for tent camping. 2 RVs on site and Yurts available for rental - able to pull in RV's420 friendly - bed & breakfast options available. Creek, walking, riding trails, in season pool. Happy to host you with a variety of options. This option is for primitive camping on site. Outdoor shower available on property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$43
 / night

20. The Oysterhouse Landing

100%
(117)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Hayes, VA
A small landing used by commercial fishermen, featuring several of the iconic Chesapeake Bay wooden deadrise work boats. Offering a limited number of level, private, grassy, campsites as a home base for your coastal Virginia adventures. All sites are direct waterfront. Pit toilet, potable water, and outdoor shower available on site. 2 sites are unimproved and offer no water, electric, or sewer. 2 sites offer 30amp electric and potable water hook ups. A gravel boat ramp is adjacent to this property and is suitable for launching boats up to 28'. There are multiple sites on the property that are suitable for launching canoes, kayaks, and other small boats. You may berth your boat at our private dock. A full service marina is located 1 mile away, via either water or land. Situated in a quiet and peaceful rural setting, the Severn River is a boater's and sportsman's paradise offering excellent fishing for the angler. Diverse waters for both the powerboater and the sailor. Clean beaches and water for swimming and tubing. Miles of pristine shoreline for the kayaker to explore. And expansive wetlands for the waterfowl hunter. Or venture further into the Mobjack and Chesapeake Bay with easy access from this site. The property is located near the end of a lightly traveled (dead end) road for safe bicycling and walking. Large grass area for field games. Fishing and crabbing at our private dock. Fantastic sunrises, sunsets, and moonlight shimering on the water. If you are fortunate enough to be here when the waterman return to the dock with their fresh catch of crabs or oysters--- they just might sell you some right off of the boat! Nothing is better than a truly fresh meal of Chesapeake Bay seafood, and the harvest that lands at our docks is world class. Conveniently located 15 minutes from Yorktown, VA. which offers many historic and modern attractions, including an excellent white sand swimming beach. 35 minutes from Williamsburg, Va. with it's many historic attractions and visitor amenities. 35 minutes from Busch Gardens and Water Country theme parks, and 1 hr from King's Dominion theme park. Be aware that this is a working waterfront, and as such you should expect very early activity and noise as commercial fisherman head out in pursuit of their days catch. Situated in an area of coastal salt marsh which can become "buggy" when the wind is still. Have insect repellent available. Host is a seasoned camper and regularly boondocks in a camper van.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night

Whether you want to dive into Civil War history, follow in the footsteps of former presidents, or drive the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia rarely disappoints. The birthplace of America has thousands of miles of Atlantic coastline and more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state. Still need convincing? Virginia’s 41 state parks boast more than 600 miles of trails and 1,800 state campsites, leading the way to forested mountains, rambling rivers, and beaches. Camping is a year-round affair, whether you prefer fall foliage hikes, pitching a tent on the beach, or snowshoeing from a cozy winter cabin. 

97% (20.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Virginia

1. Bears Den Campground

95%
(1179)
5 sites · Tents · Shenandoah Retreat, VA
Set up your tent in our remote but easily accessible campground, 100 yards off the Appalachian Trail. Roast marshmallows by the fire pit and watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Site #1 is on a hilly slope and accommodates 4 campersSite #2 accommodates 8-10 campersSite #3 accommodates 4 campersSite #4 accommodates 6-8 campersSite #5 accommodates 6-8 campers About the property Located on a 66-acre plot just five miles from the Shenandoah River, our property offers amazing access to hiking and the outdoors while also keeping civilization within striking distance. Bear Chase Brewery is just a half mile walk across the street, and we are 15 miles from Purcellville. The land and lodge used to be the summer home of a trained opera singer, whose singing could be heard throughout the mountain. Your Host lives onsite in the stone house that also acts as a hostel for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Built in the 1930's all from locally sourced hand-hammered stone, the house is open every night from 5pm - 9pm. Note that we offer several campsites relatively close to each other, so you should expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. About the listing Pitch your tent in a forested area just a short walk up from where you’ll park your car. Enjoy unbeatable proximity to hiking and panoramic views while still having basic amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. You’ll have access to a composting pit toilet, and can access potable water from the tap in the lodge. That’s also where you can access hot showers. As noted above, we host Appalachian Trail thru hikers on the property, so you may see them hanging around or sleeping in the bunkhouse near the shared facilities. so please be respectful of hours when you come in for a shower. No showers after 10 pm For meals, we have picnic tables, and you are encouraged to cook over the fire pits that accompany each site. Please practice Leave No Trace practices during your stay, as the property has raccoons and other critters who will be drawn to any food scraps that are left behind. Pets are allowed! Please keep them on leash during your stay. Trash can be disposed of in dumpster up the hill Additional details to note Expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. No kitchen equipment is provided, so campers must bring their own supplies if they'd like to cook. We do not offer WiFi, but there is good cell reception for all common carriers.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$12
 / night

2. Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

99%
(1040)
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)
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$47
 / night

3. Thunder BRidge

99%
(689)
26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Natural Bridge Station, VA
Starting December 1, or first night below freezing we will be closing down Bath House and only access will be at outhouses. Only sites near outhouses will be open and there will be no access to water. 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. Most of the buildings out front are artist studios (currently for 16 artists). We like to share the camp with others and watch 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. If you are a star gazer you won't be disappointed by our dark sky. We want to share our property with those who want to stay for more than one night, so we do not accept inquiries of single night stays.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$37
 / night

8. The Guinea Farm, Field, and Forest

98%
(311)
4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Diggs, VA
The Guinea farm is 18 acres of feild and forest on the rural middle pennensula. Only 1 mile from 2 separate secluded beaches and a boat launch. There is verly little traffic or light polution here, nature is at your fingertips. Come visit the farm and experience agrotourism at it's finest. Pick your own veggies in the community garden and meet the Guinea fowl! Enjoy the windernes and learn about the local ecosystem here on the middle pennensula. There are 3 sites spaced out across the 18 acres set apart for privacy. Wisteria is a primative site closer to the entrance gate. Trilogy is a suspended tree tent in the pines 700' beyond that and seperated by dense forest. Stargazer Tiny cabin is an offgrid rustic camping cabin on the back side of the property. Each site is surronded by several acres of forest and close to the edge of a large feild. There are romaing guinea fowl that may come make a very loud appearance as they canvas the property eating bugs. Deer, Turkeys, Bald Eagles, foxes, and other wildlife are common guests also. Mid-summer is what I call frog season, Tree frogs are abundant and provide a wonderful soundtrack. There are free to use bicycles, an axe throwing board, and cornhole boards available. 4 miles from shopping and dining in Mathews Virginia, 15 miles to Gwynn Island. Gwynn's Island is an island located in the Chesapeake Bay off of Virginia's Middle Peninsula. The island is located in the northeast part of Mathews County, south of the mouth of the Piankatank River. It is connected to the rest of the county by a swing bridge over Milford Haven.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

9. Private Farm Minutes to Cville

98%
(1378)
7 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlottesville, VA
This was a 55-acre farm, split in half to accommodate a bypass through Charlottesville, so the previous owners had to give up half the land, and actually moved the house down to the other half of the property! They had to build a land bridge to get to the new home site, so they turned the bridge into a dam and created a beautiful large swimming pond, complete with beach and gazebo. My wife Stephanie and I bought the property in early 2017 and have turned it into a private horse farm, adding pastures, a riding ring, and 6-stall barn. There are ~21 horses who live on the property. The property is unique in that you can hardly see another house from anywhere on the property and yet we are only 2 miles from Barracks Rd. Shopping Center, and 4 miles from the University of Virginia.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night

16. Camp Kilo

100%
(7)
2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Stanardsville, VA
Discover peaceful seclusion on this 16-acre primitive campsite, perched atop a hill with stunning eastern views. Greet each morning with a breathtaking sunrise and soak in the quiet beauty of nature all around you. Located just yards from the Shenandoah National Park border, this spot offers a true backcountry feel with the convenience of being only 30 minutes by car from the park’s main entrance. It’s perfect for hikers and nature lovers looking to unplug. Cell service is available if needed. Access requires a half-mile uphill hike, adding a sense of adventure and keeping the area serene and private. There is no vehicle access to the campsite, and campers must bring in their own food and water. This is a pack-in, pack-out site with no amenities, ideal for those seeking a raw, off-grid experience. Pets are welcome, but must be kept under control and respectful of wildlife. Campfires are allowed in accordance with local fire regulations. Please check current guidelines before lighting a fire. The site comfortably fits 2–3 small tents (2–3 person tents recommended). Unplug, unwind, and reconnect under the stars just steps from one of Virginia’s most iconic parks
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

19. 2nd40 to 420 - The Farm

99%
(100)
16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pamplin, VA
The Farm was originally named 2nd 4o by my parents. They planned to live the 2nd forty years of their lives together on the farm. My parents both grew up on the southside of Chicago - where having a tree in your yard meant that you had "made it". They decided to use the land to grow Christmas trees. This did not last long :) but the saplings my dad planted by hand are still here & maybe 70' tall! Then my husband & I bought The Farm in 2017 for the 2nd forty years of our life & my parents built their little house right here. My husband and I immediately knew that our dream was to grow a different kind of "tree", so in 2019 we were among the first group to receive our license to grow hemp. We are passionate about both the hemp and cannabis plants! In 2020 when it finally became legal to grow cannabis, we immediately added that to our garden as well and 2nd 40 to 420 was born, or shall I say planted. We currently rent out our 2 RV's 3 Yurts & primitive sites , we also offer group bookings & Canna-friendly B&B options. We plan to add septic & electric hook-ups for RV's in the near future. Come join us in Growing our Dreams! Learn more about this land: Large farm with acres for tent camping. 2 RVs on site and Yurts available for rental - able to pull in RV's420 friendly - bed & breakfast options available. Creek, walking, riding trails, in season pool. Happy to host you with a variety of options. This option is for primitive camping on site. Outdoor shower available on property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$43
 / night

20. The Oysterhouse Landing

100%
(117)
4 sites · Tents, RVs · Hayes, VA
A small landing used by commercial fishermen, featuring several of the iconic Chesapeake Bay wooden deadrise work boats. Offering a limited number of level, private, grassy, campsites as a home base for your coastal Virginia adventures. All sites are direct waterfront. Pit toilet, potable water, and outdoor shower available on site. 2 sites are unimproved and offer no water, electric, or sewer. 2 sites offer 30amp electric and potable water hook ups. A gravel boat ramp is adjacent to this property and is suitable for launching boats up to 28'. There are multiple sites on the property that are suitable for launching canoes, kayaks, and other small boats. You may berth your boat at our private dock. A full service marina is located 1 mile away, via either water or land. Situated in a quiet and peaceful rural setting, the Severn River is a boater's and sportsman's paradise offering excellent fishing for the angler. Diverse waters for both the powerboater and the sailor. Clean beaches and water for swimming and tubing. Miles of pristine shoreline for the kayaker to explore. And expansive wetlands for the waterfowl hunter. Or venture further into the Mobjack and Chesapeake Bay with easy access from this site. The property is located near the end of a lightly traveled (dead end) road for safe bicycling and walking. Large grass area for field games. Fishing and crabbing at our private dock. Fantastic sunrises, sunsets, and moonlight shimering on the water. If you are fortunate enough to be here when the waterman return to the dock with their fresh catch of crabs or oysters--- they just might sell you some right off of the boat! Nothing is better than a truly fresh meal of Chesapeake Bay seafood, and the harvest that lands at our docks is world class. Conveniently located 15 minutes from Yorktown, VA. which offers many historic and modern attractions, including an excellent white sand swimming beach. 35 minutes from Williamsburg, Va. with it's many historic attractions and visitor amenities. 35 minutes from Busch Gardens and Water Country theme parks, and 1 hr from King's Dominion theme park. Be aware that this is a working waterfront, and as such you should expect very early activity and noise as commercial fisherman head out in pursuit of their days catch. Situated in an area of coastal salt marsh which can become "buggy" when the wind is still. Have insect repellent available. Host is a seasoned camper and regularly boondocks in a camper van.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night

Camper favorites in Virginia

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Virginia

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Virginia guide

Where to go

Central Virginia

Gleaming lakes and pine-clad foothills characterize the central Piedmont region, known for its lakeside camping, canoe and kayak trails, and Civil War sites. Pocahontas State Park is just a half-hour drive from the state capital, Richmond, where multi-use trails are popular for biking and horseback riding. Also within a short drive, Bear Creek Lake State Park offers easy access to Cumberland State Forest trails, while James River State Park has RV, tent, and canoe-in campsites.

Atlantic Coast & Chesapeake Bay

Wide beaches and fishing villages pepper the coast of Chesapeake Bay, Virginia’s top choice for beach lovers. You can pitch your tent right on the beach at First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park, camp on the grounds of Chippokes Plantation State Park, or get on the water at York River State Park.

Shenandoah Valley & The North

The dense woodlands are the star attraction in Shenandoah National Park and along its renowned Skyline Drive. The closest state campgrounds can be found in Shenandoah River State Park, a popular spot for summer hiking, canoeing, and picnicking, while further south, Douthat State Park has a swimming beach, waterfall hikes, and mountain biking trails.

Appalachian & Blue Ridge Mountains

The rugged Appalachian Mountains fringe Virginia’s southwestern borders, merging into the wooded slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Grayson Highlands State Park is the gateway to the region’s two most popular hikes: the Appalachian Trail and Mount Rogers. Alternatively, paddle the scenic waterways of New River Trail State Park, book a cabin in the woods in Hungry Mother State Park, or escape the crowds at Clinch River State Park.