The best camping in Virginia

Name: Virginia
Address: Virginia
Rating: 4.859999999999999

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% (22.2K) • 7,455 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Virginia

James River Depot

1. James River Depot

98%

(958)

Glasgow, VA · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging

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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Thunder BRidge

2. Thunder BRidge

100%

(735)

Natural Bridge Station, VA · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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. We also don't offer longterm rentals as we focus on short term camping.

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South River Farm Campground

3. South River Farm Campground

94%

(223)

Front Royal, VA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Glamp, Camp, or RV Along the Shenandoah at South River Farm Campground! Welcome to South River Farm Campground - a peaceful riverside campground and working farm nestled along the South Fork of the Shenandoah River in Front Royal, Virginia. Whether you’re looking to glamp in a furnished riverside yurt, pitch your own tent at a dedicated numbered tent site, or bring your RV to a full-hookup site, South River Farm offers a relaxing outdoor escape with river access, open farm views, and plenty of room to unwind. Located just minutes from downtown Front Royal, Skyline Drive, Shenandoah River State Park, Andy Guest State Park, local wineries, restaurants, hiking, paddling, and outdoor adventures, our campground feels tucked away in nature while still being close to everything. Our campground offers: 🏕️ Dedicated Tent Sites Bring your own tent and settle into one of our numbered tent sites near the river bottom. Tent sites offer a rustic camping experience with river access, fire pits, and nearby bathhouse facilities. 🌙 Furnished Riverside Yurts Enjoy a simple glamping getaway in one of our furnished yurts, featuring cozy furnishings, solar lighting, a picnic table, hammock, fire pit, grill access, and peaceful riverside vibes. 🚐 Full-Hookup RV Sites Bring your camper or RV and enjoy convenient full-hookup sites with water, sewer, and electric access while still being close to the river and farm setting. 🚿 Bathhouse Access Guests have access to our clean, fully functional bathhouse with restrooms and showers. Please note that individual tent and yurt sites do not have running water or electricity, but RV sites do include hookups. 🌾 Working Farm Setting South River Farm is a working agritourism property with seasonal farm experiences, open fields, river views, walking areas, and peaceful Shenandoah Valley scenery Whether you’re here to fish, float, hike, stargaze, sit by the fire, explore Front Royal, or simply unplug for a weekend, South River Farm Campground offers a peaceful riverside escape that feels close to everything - but a world away. Please note: As part of our authentic riverfront and working farm setting, guests may experience gravel roads, natural terrain, wildlife, farm activity, and occasional train sounds from across the river.

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Jefferson National Forest

4. Jefferson National Forest

98%

(29)

National forest in Virginia · 488 sites

Literally thousands of miles of hiking trails can take you anywhere you want to go.

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George Washington National Forest

5. George Washington National Forest

98%

(53)

National forest in Virginia · 487 sites

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

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Private Farm Minutes to Cville

6. Private Farm Minutes to Cville

98%

(961)

Charlottesville, VA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

There is now a policy of no outside pets allowed. If you have an outstanding reservation including a pet and need to cancel you'll be given a full refund. This is an active 55-acre horse farm. About 2/3rds of the property is developed with barns and fenced pastures and the other third is largely undeveloped areas with a loop driveway where most of the camp sites are located. There is a large white house at the far end of the property. The restroom for campers to use is located there. To one side of the driveway, on the way to the house there is a beautiful large swimming pond, complete with beach and gazebo. 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.

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Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

7. Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

98%

(905)

Brightwood, VA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

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)

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Picnic table

Graves Mountain Farm Campground

8. Graves Mountain Farm Campground

90%

(237)

Syria, VA · 50 sites · Tents, RVs

Campground at Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges in Syria, Virginia--Madison County. Our property borders the Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hiking trails located on the immediate property and within minutes to popular hikes such as: Old Rag Mountain, White Oak Canyon, Rose River Falls Trail, Camp Hoover, Cedar Run Falls, Dark Hollow Falls. The Graves Mountain property is a total of 1800 acres to explore. The Campground consists of 7 acres and expands to 55 for special events and holiday dates. Accommodations also available at Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges: 55 Lodge Rooms, 20 Cabins/Cottages/Suites. The Farmhouse Restaurant is located in the Main Lodge and open to our guests and the public. The Graves Market, Tackle & Deli is located just before reaching the Campground Entrance. Activities available at Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges: horseback riding, pony rides, guided hikes, fishing guide services, yoga, massages, farm tours, UTV tours and many more. The Gift Shop is located in the Main Lodge on the lower level along with guest lounges. The Reservation Office and the Farmhouse Restaurant are located on the upper level. The outdoor seasonal swimming pool is located near the Main Lodge and is open to our Campground guests for an additional fee. The Graves Mountain Farm petting farm is open anytime and guests are welcome to go on a self-guided tour to visit the animals. Water spigots for fill ups are located in the campground. Porta Potties are located throughout the campground. The dump station is available onsite for an additional fee. Maximum Length of Stay 7 Days

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Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

9. Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

99%

(663)

Etlan, VA · 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.

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Chippokes Plantation State Park

10. Chippokes Plantation State Park

100%

(5)

State park in Virginia · 15 sites

Discover Chippokes Plantation State Park's rich history and outdoor splendor.

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Grayson Highlands State Park

11. Grayson Highlands State Park

100%

(38)

State park in Virginia · 22 sites

Along with hiking and bouldering, these rocky mountains host wild ponies and live music festivals.

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Hungry Mother State Park

12. Hungry Mother State Park

100%

(16)

State park in Virginia · 51 sites

Woodland glamping, lake activities, and a sandy beach make this a family favorite.

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Kiptopeke State Park

13. Kiptopeke State Park

100%

(9)

State park in Virginia · 7 sites

This family favorite has seaside cycles, sandy shores, and access to Chesapeake Bay.

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Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

14. Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

98%

(230)

New Canton, VA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

**Fires are allowed at all sites, fire ring provided** **New half bathroom with flushing sink and toilet available to all campers. (3 Porta potties are also available)** Experience the ultimate outdoor retreat on our stunning 56-acre property in Buckingham County, Virginia. With a combination of pristine waters, abundant wildlife, and serene camping sites, this is the perfect getaway for nature lovers, anglers, and adventurers. Water Features 25-Acre Lake: The centerpiece of the property, this expansive lake features deep areas, a submerged dam, natural springs, and peaceful coves. It’s fully stocked with Bass, Crappie, Catfish, and Brim, offering exceptional fishing opportunities. Two Additional Ponds: Explore two smaller ponds, one of which features a covered gazebo and dock, perfect for relaxing, fishing, or soaking in the views. Waterfront Campsites Lakeside Tent Sites: Each campsite is located along the water, providing stunning views and direct access to the lake. Easy Setup: Guests can drive their vehicles directly to the campsites for convenience. Kayaks Provided: Complimentary kayaks are available for exploring the lake’s hidden gems. Wildlife Haven Often described as an outdoorsman’s paradise, the property is alive with diverse wildlife and offers incredible opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Wildlife Sightings: Regular visitors include deer, eagles, ducks, geese, frogs, turtles, and beavers. Birdwatching: Enjoy spotting majestic eagles and other bird species in their natural habitat. Activities and Amenities Fishing: Cast a line in the lake or ponds for a relaxing and rewarding experience. Boating: Explore the lake’s tranquil waters with provided kayaks. Relaxation Spaces: Take in the views from the gazebo and dock by the pond, or unwind at your campsite by the water. Stargazing & Campfires: Evenings bring clear skies and the perfect setting for fireside chats. Whether you’re fishing, kayaking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this property is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of nature. Book your campsite today and experience the serenity and adventure of this unique property!

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Rockingham Retreats | Glamping at the Cave

15. Rockingham Retreats | Glamping at the Cave

100%

(25)

Mc Gaheysville, VA · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Rockingham Retreats, a collection of glamping sites tucked into the woods on Cave Hill Farm, a sixth-generation family farm in McGaheysville, Virginia. Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, our farm sits near three caves that give the property its name, surrounded by rolling hills, quiet woods, and views that stretch toward the Shenandoah National Park mountain range. Each glamping site is privately tucked away, giving guests their own peaceful pocket of the farm to enjoy. Whether you're hiking with your dog, relaxing by the fire under a canopy of trees, or simply soaking in the quiet, Rockingham Retreats offers a chance to slow down and reconnect without giving up comfort. We're just minutes from local restaurants, ice cream shops, and Cave Hill Farms Brewery, and only a short drive from the national park itself, so you're close to everything while still feeling worlds away. Come experience the Shenandoah Valley the way we've always loved it: quiet, beautiful, and best enjoyed with good company.

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Littlehouse Farm

16. Littlehouse Farm

93%

(103)

Elkton, VA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Experience breathtaking mountainous views in all directions from this property. To the East, behold the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, while to the West, the impressive Massanutten Mountain (part of the Appalachian range) dominates the skyline. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Shenandoah River offers excellent fishing opportunities, while a small pond on-site adds to the charm of the surroundings.

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Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

17. Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

99%

(308)

Vesuvius, VA · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

With 15 campsites, business class WIFI, over 1,000 feet of river frontage, Swedish Lilac Campground is the perfect getaway to reconnect with nature and relax with loved ones. Campsites accommodate RVs and tents with access to bath house, pavilion, dump station, and picnic areas, and is only a 20-minute drive to beautiful historic Lexington Virginia. Hiking, fishing, swimming, dining, and shopping a short distance away which means there is something for everyone at Swedish Lilac Campground. Enjoy being next to the river with the sound and energy of the rushing water. Beyond the river is the railroad track. The train runs sporadically throughout the day and night which adds a rhythmic clatter of times past. Some campers are annoyed while others view this as a plus while others don't even notice the noise from the trains. The riverside sites have a 4 to 6 foot drop to the river which may not be suitable for small children. Remote workers welcome! Fiber optic internet with Wi-Fi access points that cover the entire campground.

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Gooney Creek Campgrounds

18. Gooney Creek Campgrounds

85%

(10)

Front Royal, VA · 45 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Gooney Creek Campground stands out as a unique gem in the breathtaking Shenandoah Valley, thanks to its rich history as a privately owned family business for over 30 years. Unlike larger campgrounds, our quaint and intimate setting fosters a family-oriented atmosphere, making it a favorite among our many repeat campers. Open from April 1st to October 31st, we offer a variety of camping options to suit your needs. Choose from 21 primitive tent sites, most of which are nestled along the serene creek, or opt for one of our 19 sites equipped with water and electric hook-ups. For larger gatherings, our spacious family site accommodates up to 18 people. Each site features a picnic table and fire pit, perfect for enjoying evenings under the stars. Our campground also boasts a newly upgraded bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets, complimentary Wi-Fi, and firewood available for purchase. As your home base, Gooney Creek Campground provides easy access to a wealth of nearby attractions. Explore the stunning Luray Caverns, take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive, or venture into Shenandoah National Park for hiking and mountain climbing. The area is also dotted with charming wineries and vineyards, offering delightful views, delicious food, and exceptional local wines. Whether

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Peaceful Meadows Farm

19. Peaceful Meadows Farm

99%

(319)

Palmyra, VA · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Peaceful Meadows Farm. We have 250 acres for you to explore and enjoy.When you arrive you will drive up to your campground destination which is 16 acres of Loblolly Pine trees. There is a 1 1/2 acre pond stocked with Catfish, Bass, Crappies, Brim and Shell Cracker. Also there are two smaller ponds with minnows and one is home to Tucker the Turtle 🐢 . We have several trails on the property to walk as well. You are welcome to 🐠 fish BUT FISHING IS CATCH AND RELEASE PLEASE. Each site will have a fire ring available and a picnic table. If you need anything else please let me know. We are AUTISM Friendly 💙,so if you have a camper that needs a little more encouragement about camping or other accommodations please let your host know. You are welcomed to bring your furry family members, bikes and kayaks. There is no swimming in the pond. It was built for fishing so it’s not safe to swim due to structures under the water for the fish. We are only 30 minutes from Carter’s Mountain, Monticello and Jefferson Winery’s. Thistle Gate Winery is only 5 minutes away and 20 minutes to Scottsville were you can enjoy the James River. UVA sports complex is only 30 minutes away and you’re able to go the back way in to skip the gridlock of the traffic. There so much more within 30 to 45 minutes of this camping area I can’t list it all. I promise you will Enjoy your stay!

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CASA VARGAS

20. CASA VARGAS

99%

(242)

Culpeper, VA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

**Welcome to Our Secluded Farm Retreat** Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and experience the serenity of our 104-acre farm, located just 5 miles from the charming town of Culpeper, VA. Nestled down a quiet dirt road, our farm offers the perfect getaway for those seeking privacy, tranquility, and the beauty of nature. Whether you're bringing your tent, travel trailer, or RV, you'll enjoy secluded sites that provide plenty of space to unwind and recharge. Our farm is surrounded by stunning landscapes, making it the ideal spot for outdoor activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding. If you're looking to relax, you can spend your days stargazing under the clear skies or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside. Just a short drive away, you'll find some of the best wineries, breweries, and a wealth of tourist attractions, including the scenic Skyline Drive only 22 miles away. It's the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with something for everyone. Come create memories with family and friends in a place where nature, fun and relaxation come together.

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Electrical hookup

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The best family-friendly campsites in Virginia

James River Depot

98%

(958)

Glasgow, VA · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging

Pets

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Campfires

Thunder BRidge

100%

(735)

Natural Bridge Station, VA · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

South River Farm Campground

94%

(223)

Front Royal, VA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

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Full hookups

Private Farm Minutes to Cville

98%

(961)

Charlottesville, VA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

98%

(905)

Brightwood, VA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

99%

(663)

Etlan, VA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The best dog-friendly campsites in Virginia

James River Depot

98%

(958)

Glasgow, VA · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Thunder BRidge

100%

(735)

Natural Bridge Station, VA · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

South River Farm Campground

94%

(223)

Front Royal, VA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

98%

(905)

Brightwood, VA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

Graves Mountain Farm Campground

90%

(237)

Syria, VA · 50 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

99%

(663)

Etlan, VA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Craig

1 day ago

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Resting Willow Farm

Great place near the Mountains - peaceful horse farm with friendly animals and great host

Benjamin

1 day ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

Our stay was fantastic, a bit tough to get back the back where our site was, but nothing too bad. The views were spectacular. Well maintained site with good distance from other campers. Our group will return.

Roscoe (Rocky)

1 week ago

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

Awesome escape from civilization. Very private sites right on a private lake. Wonderful host family. Back to nature at its best..

Hunter

1 week ago

20 ft truck camper

1 night at Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

Beautiful place, thorough host! Internet was fast and the showers were hot. The pavilion off to itself was a nice addition to the campground.

Aaron

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

Wonderful weekend, overlook was gorgeous! Hope to return again in the spring.

Lauren

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

Had a great time. Will definitely be back

Chris

1 week ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

Great campground! The host, Fritz was super friendly and accommodating. There is a stream at the back at the site. Clean bathrooms. An occasional train rolls by too. Perfect!

Rose

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

My husband and I really had a wonderful time at this campsite, it was very very quiet and fun, I did fish ,but was not that lucky or good at catching fish. I would like to visit this place again during the summer.

Rockingham Retreats | Glamping at the Cave

Hanna

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Rockingham Retreats | Glamping at the Cave

Wonderful time at this little campsite! The view was beautiful with the fall trees! (:

Mariah

1 week ago

1 night at Rockingham Retreats | Glamping at the Cave

Great place to stay! I was able to hear the cows at night :) my Honda civic was able to make it up the hill. (There was no prior rainfall)

John

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Bears Den Campground

An easy and comfortable campground, with a very cool AT historic lodge just up the hill, a fantastic sunset point, and lots of cool stuff nearby. Down the road is Bears Chase brewery, fantastic brews and atmosphere. Moreover ... if you love a local country bar with great music, check out the Horseshoe Curve Restaurant just a few miles away. Nearby Purcellville also has great restaurants (Magnolia's; Monk's BBQ). If you're heading south, check the UV Arboretum.

Marlene

1 week ago

1 night at Rockingham Retreats | Glamping at the Cave

Wonderful site!

Amanda

1 week ago

Tent

6 nights at Resting Willow Farm

Amazing place to camp. Peaceful, BEAUTIFUL , and convenient. The host makes you feel like family.

Robert

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

5 nights at Peaceful Meadows Farm

We had a great time at this beautiful place. The hosts were great and very helpful if we needed anything.

Chris

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

Went off grid to catch up on my favorite tv series while star gazing

Connor

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rockingham Retreats | Glamping at the Cave

Wonderful spot very accommodating hosts spacious tent, wood stove in tent came in handy as well as some of the other amenities the host had at the site. Would definitely come back

Gema

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

Great deal and a very responsive host! Arrive early on warm weekends as space is limited and the scenic lookout attracts visitors, so it can get noisy didnt bother us though. Enough tent space and the first bucket of firewood is free!(please make sure to put out your bonfire ALL out) Bring earplugs if a light sleeper as some people mistake the campsite for the scenic overlook path in the morning. Overall, an amazing spot and I’ll definitely be back!

Eve

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bears Den Campground

Was a nice, clean spot with fire pit, benches, and picnic table really close to the bears den outlook/AT and just down a teeny hill from the lodge (equipped with kitchen/bathroom up for use). Really nice it came with some firewood as well (: not super private, but everyone was nice and I felt very safe.

Michael

2 weeks ago

16 ft rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Graves Mountain Farm Campground

We had the best weekend, the staff was super friendly and accommodating, the live music around the campfire, and the horses, family life everywhere, plus the spacious open and private feel had us not wanting to ever leave

Caleb

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Graves Mountain Farm Campground

My third time staying here, it works well for me - great value, super easy, great location

Virginia camping 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.

Top camping destinations around Virginia

Grayson Highlands State Park

94 campgrounds

Shenandoah River State Park

George Washington National Forest

181 campgrounds

Shenandoah National Park

215 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Virginia good for camping?

Yes, Virginia is an excellent destination for camping. The state offers a diverse range of landscapes, including mountains, forests, beaches, and rivers. Virginia boasts numerous state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds that cater to tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and those looking for cabin rentals. Some popular options include:

Shenandoah National Park
Grayson Highlands State Park
First Landing State Park
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

With its rich history, outdoor recreational opportunities, and beautiful scenery, Virginia is an ideal camping destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

Is boondocking legal in Virginia?

Yes, boondocking, or camping without amenities in undeveloped areas, is legal in Virginia on certain public lands, such as national forests and wildlife management areas. The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, for example, allow dispersed camping in designated areas. However, it's essential to follow regulations and guidelines, such as staying at least 200 feet away from water sources, practicing Leave No Trace principles, and adhering to any posted rules. Private landowners on Hipcamp may also allow boondocking on their properties. Always research the specific area or land manager's rules before boondocking in Virginia. You can find RV camping options in Virginia on Hipcamp, such as those in Bedford, Virginia Beach, Berryville, and Roanoke.

Can you camp anywhere in Virginia state parks?

Yes, you can camp in Virginia state parks, but only in designated campgrounds and sites within the parks. Virginia state parks offer a variety of camping options, including tent camping, RV camping, cabins, and yurts. Some popular Virginia state parks with camping facilities include Shenandoah River State Park, First Landing State Park, Grayson Highlands State Park, and Pocahontas State Park. To ensure a spot and follow park regulations, it is essential to reserve a campsite or accommodation in advance.

Which Virginia state parks offer camping?

Virginia offers a variety of state parks with camping options. Some of the popular Virginia state parks with camping facilities include: