The best camping in Virginia

Name: Virginia
Address: Virginia
Rating: 4.8565000000000005

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% (21.8K) • 7,448 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Virginia

South River Farm Campground

1. South River Farm Campground

94%

(214)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

James River Depot

2. James River Depot

98%

(949)

Glasgow, VA · 5 sites

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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Campfires

Toilets

Crooked Mountain

3. Crooked Mountain

99%

(413)

Floyd, VA · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Crooked Mountain – Camping Near the Blue Ridge Parkway | Floyd, VA www.crookedmtn.com Crooked Mountain is a family and Veteran-owned farm, campground, camp store, and small event venue located just ½ mile off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Mile Marker 159 near Floyd, Virginia. We designed Crooked Mountain to be a unique basecamp for travelers exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, especially those traveling by van, car, motorcycle, bicycle, or with small RVs. With easy access from the Parkway and scenic mountain roads nearby, it’s a great stop for road trippers, vanlifers, and anyone on two wheels exploring Southwest Virginia. The campground currently offers 15 campsites across the farm: • 7 sites on Pine Creek (Sites 1 & 12 have electric) • 5 field campsites with open views of the surrounding hills • 3 field sites with electric near the pond (Sites 13–15) Electric sites provide 30/20 amp power only. There are no water or sewer hookups at campsites. Guests can enjoy the natural setting of the property and access our hiking trail, fishing pond (catch n release for a fee) and other amenities on the farm while staying here. Our camp store offers tourism information about Floyd and the surrounding area (including local motorcycle/bicycle maps and routes, along with artisan goods, camping essentials (things you may have forgotten), snacks, drinks, coffee, ice, firewood and more. During the summer months we also open our fields for a You-Pick flower experience, where guests can purchase a container and create their own bouquet. Flower season typically runs July through September. Crooked Mountain is located along The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, and the town of Floyd is just 4 miles away, offering live music, local restaurants, breweries, galleries, and the famous Friday Night Jamboree at the Floyd Country Store. Whether you're traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway, riding Floyd’s scenic backroads, or just exploring the region, Crooked Mountain is a great place to stop and stay awhile. Come "Ride. Camp. and Explore" Crooked Mountain in Floyd, VA!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Graves Mountain Farm Campground

6. Graves Mountain Farm Campground

90%

(232)

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camp Cove Creek

7. Camp Cove Creek

93%

(45)

Faber, VA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

Camp Cove Creek is located in rural Faber, Virginia which is 20 minutes from Charlottesville in beautiful Nelson County. In addition to the many natural features like the Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachian Trail and the James River, Nelson is home to Wintergreen Resort and Oakridge Estate and hosts events such as the Lok'n Festival, Camp Jeep, and Overland Expo. Camp Cove Creek was part of my grandparent's Waveland Farm. Originally situated on over 600 acres, the brick antebellum house across the hill was used as a hospital in the Civil War. The camp used to be a horse and cattle farm as well as a flea market and airport with grass airstrip when my mom owned the land. Our vegetable garden was down by the swimming hole. The airstrip still maintained as such in order to offer aviation-accessible camping. It is the future home of Faber Christmas tree farm and features over a dozen notable antique vehicles rusting in peace. Some models are of the same make and model featured on TV and film. Camp Cove Creek is easily accessible via Rt 29 and Rt 6 east (Irish Road). Our property sits at the confluence of Bear and Cove Creeks where wading/hiking/tubing is permitted and encouraged (with water shoes). We are continually trying to improve the site by removing old barbed wire, poison ivy, roadside trash, and invasive plant species in addition to planting Christmas Trees. It's a work in progress. This is your 30-acre camping playground! Licensed off-road vehicles, ADV and Dual-sport motorcycles, horses, personal electric vehicles and EVEN PRIVATE PLANES are welcomed! We encourage walking the route first as it has intentionally been left primitive to provide more of an authentic and fun getaway adventure. Overlanding does tend to scratch paint so wheel at your own risk, unless it's wet. There is a Volleyball court, soccer field, and now 18 holes of disc golf! Nearby in the soapstone mining town of Schuyler you can visit the home place of Earl Hamner, best known for his creation of The Waltons TV show. While you're there check out the Waltons Mountain Museum, which happens to be my old elementary school and my parent's former high school. The Rockfish River dam and quarry gardens are really cool too!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

8. Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

99%

(208)

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!

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Bears Den Campground

9. Bears Den Campground

95%

(924)

Shenandoah Retreat, VA · 5 sites

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.

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Campfires

Toilets

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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Toilets

Campfires

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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Toilets

Campfires

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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Toilets

Campfires

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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Toilets

Campfires

Creekside campsites

14. Creekside campsites

98%

(44)

Hillsville, VA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

There is a safari tent at the far end of this property as a different listing. This land has three hookups for a small trailer, car, truck, van or tent. Car camping is allowed and appreciated. each hookup has power, water, a camp charcoal grill, picnic table, and that running water right beside each site. There is a small bathhouse with a conventional toilet, and an outside shower with hot water at the gated entrance of the property. Each site is located right by the water for easy fishing access, in this trout stocked water. In the winter months, if it is below freezing temps, there may not be running water. Plenty of firewood is onsite.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Thunder BRidge

15. Thunder BRidge

100%

(717)

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Littlehouse Farm

16. Littlehouse Farm

94%

(91)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Sitka Spruce Farms

17. Sitka Spruce Farms

100%

(19)

Front Royal, VA · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

Experience the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley with a primitive camping stay at Sitka Spruce Farms. Pitch your tent in a peaceful pasture surrounded by mountain views, open skies, and friendly farm animals. Enjoy a quiet escape into nature while being just minutes from Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive, and local attractions. This is a true primitive camping experience—bring your gear and enjoy the simplicity, serenity, and charm of life on the farm. Kayak, tube, john boat, and tent rentals are available on-site.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Peaceful Meadows Farm

18. Peaceful Meadows Farm

99%

(309)

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!

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Rivers Edge Trail Camp

19. Rivers Edge Trail Camp

98%

(799)

Barren Springs, VA · 6 sites

LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp Standing on the New River Trail looking up where the campsites are located will give you the feeling that you truly are sleeping on the edge at Rivers Edge campground. Unique limestone formations can be found on the property. Large birds and even an eagle or two seem to prefer this area for hunting. Watch from a distance as farmers cut hay throughout the summer. This private cliff top setting has 6 newly created camp sites on 5 Acres. These sites are for camper vehicles only. NO TENTS! Enjoy less crowds and more nature! The long range views or the river and farmlands will take your breath away. At the bottom of the drive you have access to the New River and the New River Trail so bring your bike for more fun. Bike the trail, bird watch, or star gaze; the choices are endless. Don't be surprised to see bear, turkey, eagles, deer, or a coyote. PLEASE give us a rating on YELP also if you enjoyed your stay! The direct link to our place on Yelp is https://www.yelp.com/biz/rivers-edge-trail-camp-barren-springs?osq=Camping Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp This is a great spot for people looking for peace and quiet. 26 Minutes upriver of Claytor Lake State Park. There is a zoo in nearby Ft. Chiswell. Each site has full hook ups. No tents are allowed due to lack of toilet facilities. Area grocery stores are located about 30 minutes away in Wytheville, Pulaski and Hillsville. A portion of the profits will be donated to a non-profit! Bookmark the direct link to our site here on HipCamp: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/discover/virginia/rivers-edge-trail-camp

Pets

Full hookups

Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

20. Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

98%

(894)

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)

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

The best family-friendly campsites in Virginia

South River Farm Campground

94%

(214)

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

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

James River Depot

98%

(949)

Glasgow, VA · 5 sites

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Crooked Mountain

99%

(413)

Floyd, VA · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

99%

(208)

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

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Bears Den Campground

95%

(924)

Shenandoah Retreat, VA · 5 sites

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Thunder BRidge

100%

(717)

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

The best dog-friendly campsites in Virginia

South River Farm Campground

94%

(214)

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

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

James River Depot

98%

(949)

Glasgow, VA · 5 sites

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Crooked Mountain

99%

(413)

Floyd, VA · 15 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Graves Mountain Farm Campground

90%

(232)

Syria, VA · 50 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Camp Cove Creek

93%

(45)

Faber, VA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Private Lakefront Camp Free Kayaks

99%

(208)

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

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jeff

1 day ago

14 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

Nice people, peaceful place. We would definitely stay again.

J Scott

1 day ago

Tent

3 nights at Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

Amazing as always

Imagine joining the herd and sleeping amongst these majestic creatures!

Yuqiao

2 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sitka Spruce Farms

It was a nice stay

Tiffin

3 days ago

34 ft travel trailer

1 night at The Oysterhouse Landing

Everything was super. private, quiet. Rod was fantastic the whole time!

Brian

4 days ago

34 ft fifth wheel

1 night at The Oysterhouse Landing

This was our first hip camp experience. We are ruined because it was SO BEAUTIFUL & PEACEFUL!. Rod, the host, was a great communicator before and during our stay. Bring you kayaks and SUPs! We dealt very welcome!

Jeffrey

1 week ago

22 ft Class B

1 night at The Oysterhouse Landing

great views and piece of history

Cyndi

1 week ago

16 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ What a gem of a campground! We absolutely loved our stay at The Swedish Lilac Campground! From the very beginning, Fritz and Valerie were wonderful to communicate with, and their hospitality throughout our stay was just exceptional. The campground itself is beautiful, with spacious sites throughout and some especially lovely spots tucked along the little river. The rates are incredibly reasonable, making this place an even better find! But what really sets The Swedish Lilac apart is the personal touch. Fritz and Valerie made us feel so welcome, delivering firewood right to our campsite each evening and even surprising us with farm-fresh chicken and duck eggs! How sweet is that?! The location was also a fantastic home base for exploring the area's wineries, cideries, and farms. We had such a wonderful weekend and couldn't have asked for a better place to come back to after our adventures. Great scenery, great value, and genuinely wonderful hosts. We're already looking forward to our next visit! ❤️

Kendall

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

This was a very comfortable, quiet, and friendly campsite. The host was very responsive and friendly. My favorite part about the site was being able to see the clear night sky and hear the rushing stream close to the campsite. Wouod definitely recommend!

Emma

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sitka Spruce Farms

This spot is so special, from the great location (10 minutes to front royal) to the sweet animals to extra amenities like bathroom/shower. I stayed in campsite 4 which is a bit more tucked away, but still had the horse herd run through and graze at my site! There was a bit of confusion with the campsite layout, it might be helpful to add a map or let people book specific sites vs. first come first served. Overall a great time and grateful they have opened up their farm for others to experience!!

Esther

1 week ago

Tent

3 nights at Sitka Spruce Farms

The hosts were friendly and responsive! Meeting the animals and having them wander through the pasture was delightful. Very close to Shenandoah too.

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at The Oysterhouse Landing

We had an awesome time camping at Viking Field. The host was over the top. He made sure that we were able to get everything and anything that we might have needed. He was very polite and helpful. The grounds were well taken care of and everything we hoped it would be. We will definitely be returning.

Niloy

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Creekside campsites

Nice place!

Meghan

1 week ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

Great spot tucked away. Bathrooms with showers is a nice addition. Will be back!

1 week ago

18 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Creekside campsites

Booked a two night stay. Absolute perfection. Quiet, private, well maintained. The creek was more than I anticipated. I am guessing recent overflow from the creek has left sand at/near the sites. Be careful as some areas are deep and you may get stuck…I mistook that it was a road 🤷🏻‍♀️ The bath house was clean. I liked that there is an opportunity to do laundry if needed. Easy to find and quiet. The sound from the creek was absolutely wonderful. The host communicated promptly but I had no issues. I will be back!

Taylor

1 week ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at The Oysterhouse Landing

Awesome host! He greeted me when I arrived, answered late night questions and even played fetch with my dog. Nice quiet place to unwind and enjoy the beautiful sunrise and sunset.

Hannah

1 week ago

16 ft car

2 nights at Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

My friends and me had the most wonderful time staying here! Fritz was so helpful and welcoming upon arrival. The amenities, like power, water and showers were such a blessing and the creek along the back of the property is a dream to sit by. Fritz even split wood for us himself when we ran out! We’ll definitely stay again when in the area and would recommend this to all kinds of campers. 💚

Sophia

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sitka Spruce Farms

Super attentive folks and the fresh eggs in the morning were just a cherry on top!

Tiffany

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sitka Spruce Farms

I stayed in the tiny house with my daughter and we had a wonderful time. The animals are amazing, so friendly and social, my daughter and I did the morning feeding add on and got to feed baby cows, hold chickens and baby goats! The hosts are so helpful, not only with the animals but any request I had they were so accommodating. 10/10 recommend this place!

Monica

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sitka Spruce Farms

Beautiful location, very responsive host, and loved seeing the animals come by.

David

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Bears Den Campground

Great location close to hiking and Bear’s Den overlook.

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

George Washington National Forest

181 campgrounds

Shenandoah River State Park

228 campgrounds

Grayson Highlands State Park

94 campgrounds

Shenandoah National Park

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: