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Philpott Lake

The best camping in Philpott Lake, VA

80% (5)

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Stories from the community

Melissa

5 days ago

18 ft campervan

2 nights at The Rocky Knoll

Lois and Mike's spot was just as described!!!! The view is gorgeous! We couldn't believe how big the spot was, and we had it all to ourselves! The sunsets were beautiful and the star gazing was incredible. We had a clear night both nights and the stars were all out!!! We are already trying to plan another trip. You will not be disappointed with this site!!!!

Hannah

1 week ago

With pets

1 night at Mother Earth, hot tub, pet friendly

This yurt is great! It was super clean, the decorations were beautiful, and everything was really easy to use (fireplace, hot tub). We are looking forward to coming back!

Jeffrey

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at The Rocky Knoll

Great location and views. Very private. I had a great time!

Jordan

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp The New River, Blacksburg, VA

This was a great spot to set up for the weekend. Ample, flat space. The stand up bar was extremely useful and well thought out. The fire pit was a great size. We let the hosts know ahead of time that we were interested in purchasing firewood and they had it waiting for us, and they covered it from the weather. Port-a-potty close by and it was what you’d expect, well stocked with TP and hand sanitizer. The river view was awesome and there was so much wildlife to see, and we were lucky enough to spot an otter. Recommend! Worth noting: -the drive down to the site is steep and a mix of gravel and pavement and finishing in grass, there is lots of hipcamp signage but heads up -the train tracks are active and close

Ally

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at The Rocky Knoll

The Rocky Knoll is a beautiful little spot with an amazing view! Easy to access with additional seating provided, a lovely fire pit, and a well leveled tent pad. My dogs and I had a great time and the hosts were amazing! My battery ended up dying in my car the second night and they quickly helped me resolve the issue. I can’t wait to go back when it gets warm again. Thank you both so much!

Christopher

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Hippie Hollow

Great location, nice people. Would love to go back for events.

Jason

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Stoney Creek Campground

The campground was well maintained. Chris was a great host. There was a very special cat that guided us around do the weekend. The bathroom was clean. The shower was adequate. We will be back for sure!!

Ben

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Rocky Knoll

Excellent site! The view is very nice, it's laid out well. They have a lot of accommodations there that were nice to see for people that come less-prepared. the view is very nice and it is a nice cozy place! The "poop shed" is also, really nice. It's not just a port-a-john, they put proper care and attention into making it enjoyable to use! Will almost certainly be booking again in the future!

Tierney

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Riverside Campground at Seneca

Perfect spot to get away for the weekend. Private area but you can hear the campers at the other spots. You can hear the barking working dogs at night and the train but that wasn’t a big deal for us. Easy access to filter your water, plenty of firewood provide it which was nice since we stayed on a cold weekend. Plenty of hikes within a 30 min drive!

grant

3 weeks ago

With kids

1 night at Riverside Campground at Seneca

Peaceful spot tucked in the woods. Bell tent has a small wood burning tent stove. Loved our stay! Wish it was warmer to enjoy the creek.

Mandi

3 weeks ago

1 night at Mother Earth, hot tub, pet friendly

We love staying at Mother Earth! The charm and peacefulness transports you to a place of relaxation and rejuvenation

Matt

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hippie Hollow

Campground was nice. Bathroom was clean. We had a spot with 50 amp hookup to charge or car.

Josh

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Papa's Farm

Great site and lovely views of the farm and Pilot Mountain!

Kimberly

3 weeks ago

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Ararat River Campground

A wonderful little campground with a clean shower house. Easy check in and quiet evening to get some rest after a long day. Walked the nature trail to the river and found it easy and scenic. I would stay here again.

Katalina

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tranquil Fisher River Cattle Farm

My boyfriend and I camped here for a night before we went climbing at pilot mountain! The camping spot is only about 20 minutes away from the mountain which made for a great morning! The sound of the river at night was very peaceful and the fire pit was a very nice touch! We were visited by cows throughout our visit. Cow number 22 was especially friendly and we became good friends! Plan on coming back to this camp site and would recommend it to a friend:)

Rock fire pit in center near shade tree and picnic tables in Easter egg meadow

Karen

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to 100 Acre Wood

I love the solitude at 100 Acre Wood. You are alone on many acres and we can bring our big old dogs and let them run off lease safely. The site is always clean and the host, David, is always welcoming and makes sure you have what you need.

Starla

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Jessup Mill

I tent camped at the Wood camp and it was a nice spacious area. Everything was well kept, the bathrooms were clean. I really enjoyed my stay and would definitely book again. Matthew responded quickly in communication for the booking and other questions that I asked.

Zack

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rogue Trout Retreat

Great spot for car camping or tent camping, for my fellow anglers the river has plenty of tiger trout which is a rare catch! Highly recommend

Jon

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Ararat River Campground

The bathroom is super clean both for men and women. The site is quiet and the neighborhood is quite friendly. Two things to make the stay unforgettable. 1) the tent site should have water outlet for each station 2) the RV campers should clean their waste deposit on a regular basis. There was one of them that the place smells like piss. Sad to say that it was the only negative thing that almost ruined our stay. But still I would recommend the place for a nights stay. About 7 mins away to Pilot Mountain and 30 mins away from Hanging Rock State Park.

Alexandra

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Stoney Creek Campground

Beautiful space and quiet! I enjoyed my time there

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Philpott Lake

100%

(3)

Goose Point Campground

0.6mi from Philpott Lake · 63 sites · Tents, RVs · in Philpott Lake

100%

(1)

Jamison Mill Campground

2.6mi from Philpott Lake · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Philpott Lake

Horseshoe Point Campground

1.4mi from Philpott Lake · 49 sites · Tents, RVs · in Philpott Lake

Salthouse Branch Campground

1.2mi from Philpott Lake · 91 sites · Tents, RVs · in Philpott Lake

Top-rated campgrounds

The Rocky Knoll

99%

(132)

39mi from Philpott Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Germanton, NC

The Rocky Knoll sits on about two acres of wooded land on a knoll with a breathtaking view of the mountains. Bring your family, pet and your tent to enjoy this beautiful secluded campsite which is conveniently located to Hanging Rock State, Pilot Mountain State Park, Belews Lake and Winston-Salem. This land has been in the family for many, many years. We just love the solitude on the Rocky Knoll and wanted to share it's beauty with others who enjoy nature.

Stoney Creek Campground

97%

(101)

49mi from Philpott Lake · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · Bedford, VA

Learn more about this land: Located 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian trail is a small camping area with a bathhouse that includes a toilet and hot shower. A mountain stream rushes through the campground providing a peaceful and tranquil stay. During the months of November through April I can stock the stream with rainbow trout during your stay. Book a stocking through the hipcamp app experiences for a paid extra experience for $55 a day 6 fish limit. Outside enjoy a shady relaxing nap next to the stream. At night enjoy a fire while looking at the stars up above. During the day, explore the Blue Ridge Mountains 5 miles away with very popular hikes and waterfalls. Sharp Top Mt and Flat Top trail heads are 5 miles away. Apple Orchard Falls trailhead 15 minutes away. The James River is 20 minutes away which offers canoeing and kayaking. 5 miles south of the campground is Bedford which has food, shopping and historical attractions. Wineries, orchards and national forest are just minutes away.

Rivers Edge Trail Camp

99%

(1083)

41mi from Philpott Lake · 7 sites · RVs · Allisonia, VA

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

The Paisley Farm

100%

(1)

48mi from Philpott Lake · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Galax, VA

Paisley Farm: A (3 acre) Tranquil Retreat Along Chestnut Creek Welcome to Paisley Farm, a serene getaway less than 1.5 miles from downtown Galax and the scenic New River Trail. Nestled along Chestnut Creek, a beautiful bold waterway that flows into the New River, this property offers the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience. Here, you’ll wake up to the sounds of nature, catch glimpses of wildlife in the early morning and evening, and enjoy plenty of space to unwind. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, explore nearby hiking and biking trails, or experience local flavors, The Paisley Farm is your ideal home base. What We Offer: Marcia’s Place – A beautifully crafted new yurt offering a cozy and comfortable stay. Currently Under Construction The Garden House – A charming retreat surrounded by nature. Creekside Campsites – Three primitive campsites for those who love to sleep under the stars. Explore & Experience: Outdoor Adventures – Hike, bike, or paddle along the New River Trail and surrounding waterways. Local Charm – Discover downtown Galax’s eclectic small shops, restaurants, and the local brewery. If you seek peace and relaxation while staying close to modern conveniences, The Paisley Farm is the perfect escape. Book your stay and experience the best of nature and local charm!

Hippie Hollow

99%

(120)

17mi from Philpott Lake · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · Floyd, VA

Adjacent to Dodd Creek for fishing and swimming 2 miles from downtown Floyd. fire wood can be gathered or purchased Bring your dogs, blast your music, and enjoy the pleasant mountain weather. Electricity and fresh mountain spring water hookups available New restroom is in operation

Savage Acres on Craig Creek

98%

(640)

42mi from Philpott Lake · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Catawba, VA

In a remote valley just north of Roanoke VA, along the banks of Craig's Creek, the property includes mature hardwood forest, pasture, and an 1830s log cabin where we live. We love to share this special place with visitors, and have some basic amenities for campers. The campsites are at the edge of a large pasture and just a few steps from the creek and our big swimmin' hole. Totally secluded in a remote valley - barely a house in sight (but our cabin is a short walk through the woods if you need something), no cell service for most providers, but within a short drive of Roanoke and Blacksburg, and countless outdoor recreation opportunities.

Riverside Campground at Seneca

95%

(133)

30mi from Philpott Lake · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Elliston, VA

Learn more about this land: Fall asleep to hooting owls and the gentle ripple of the river and creek that flank your campsite. Wake up with a dip in the river or a morning hike in the woods. Feel the hug of the mountains throughout your stay, while also having access to Blacksburg nearby should you need it. DIRECTIONS: Upon entry the gravel road is shared with my neighbor and it is about 1.5 miles from the entry gate to the site. You'll enter thru a gate (it may be closed, if closed please close behind you as my neighbor sometimes has cows). Go approx 1 mile the road will split...go up the hill on the right. Continue past the Hay barn another half mile. Park on the left side of the gravel road along the tree line. Another 50ft you'll see a wood foot bridge across the creek. The sites are ahead, PawPaw is first, then Bloodroot Base Camp (bell tent), and lastly Cohosh Cove is the most private. Each site has a sign as well When driving, please be respectful of the right of way. Drive slowly and respect the farm equipment. Also please do not venture onto the neighbor’s property other than entry and exit. About the property 20 minutes from Blacksburg and 35 minutes from Roanoke, our campground gives you great access to the “Triple Crown” of the Appalachian trail, consisting of McAfee Knob, Tinker Cliffs, and Dragon’s Tooth. Conquer these iconic peaks of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains for spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. Additionally, explore Falls Ridge Nature preserve, Cascades waterfall, and Carvin’s Cove for hiking, kayaking and mountain biking. Or just stay on the campground and enjoy the hiking and swimming we offer here. Nearby in Blacksburg take advantage of the local breweries or Virginia Tech football home games. You can also find Christmas tree cutting in Floyd county, 45mins away. This property deserves to be shared with others. It is peaceful and beautiful. As your Host, I am passionate about conservation and also teaching people about the medicinal uses of our local herbs. I can lead medicinal herb walks upon request for $25 a person. I typically try to meet the campers if I can upon arrival, I am available for questions and can be hands on or off as the needs of campers suggest. I have had campers ask if I wanted to share a beverage and sit around the fire and have done so. I want to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. I love the peacefulness the property offers, and that you’re in the middle of the wilderness but also have quick access to things in town. The river campsites are my favorite part of the property. At the main cabin I have goats and chickens which hipcampers are more than welcome to greet. About the listing Pitch your tents at the campsite nestled along the side of the mountain on the banks of the North Fork of the Roanoke River. As you fall asleep, listen to the occasional hoot of an owl, howl of a coyote, and gentle ripple of the river and creek that flank the campsite. Campers will have access to a private composting toilet, fire pit, and picnic table. We offer two different campsites on the property, so note that you may see or hear other campers on the grounds during your stay. What to bring Your tent and camping equipment Potable water and/or water filtration and purification equipment Fire starting equipment if needed, assuming there is no local fire ban in place Pets are welcome During warm months, a swim suit to enjoy the river! Additional details to note There are grill grates provided but campers should bring their own camping stoves and cooking supplies if they need more than just a grill grate. No WiFi is provided, and there is limited reception for some cellular carriers.

Camp The New River, Blacksburg, VA

99%

(214)

38mi from Philpott Lake · 1 site · Tent, RV · Blacksburg, VA

One very large, private site, plenty of room for a large group. All yours, no sharing. Pet friendly! Private porta john, cleaned weekly. No electric or hook ups, Generators welcomed. Amazing tent/ small camper site. Level ground, private boat dock and boat landing! Swimming, fishing, kayaking, floating, canoeing, paddle boarding. Enjoy the beautiful sunrises, sunsets and wildlife. NEW ADDITION-----2 hammock hangers!!! Firewood available for $30. per tractor bucket load, of 1/2 for $20. 15 minutes from Virginia Tech and RU. Great place for a tailgate before a game. Train comes by occasionally, but no whistle, private crossing.

Ararat River Campground

78%

(25)

44mi from Philpott Lake · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Pinnacle, NC

I have 10 Tent camping sites $25 anight fire pit,picnic tables, wifi, power and water at sites, bathhouse available. Very quiet and relaxing place. Pet friendly, playground for the kiddos , pond and River fishing , walking trails great place for family and friends to come camp for a weekend or aweek

Easy Bend River Farms

100%

(11)

46mi from Philpott Lake · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · East Bend, NC

Private riverside camping and tree house cabin. We are a Blackberry agro tourism farm offering 3 river front camping options equipped with warm shower, off grid shelter, river access and miles of trails to explore- completely private, but also close to many local wineries.- Camp by the river, or opt to stay above the river in the "rivernest" treehouse - which sleeps up to 4 and offers kitchenette and bathroom!

100 Acre Wood

100%

(135)

41mi from Philpott Lake · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Draper, VA

101 Acres of forested land in the Draper, Virginia area with scattered clearings that are connected by over 2 miles of cleared roads throughout the property, which are perfect for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. The property includes a very small creek, several ravines, ridge lines and trails to explore. We frequently encounter deer, rabbits, squirrels, and the occasional turkey, black bear, coyotes and Bigfoot. The thing people seem to enjoy most is the privacy and and quiet that allows you to connect with nature. Each of the 3 sites is hundreds of yards away from each other. Note: there is no bathroom on the premises, however you can book a toilet tent as an extra. 4 Wheel Drive or All wheel drive are helpful during the winter months if there has been a lot of rain or snow/ice. Things to watch out for are deer ticks and poison ivy. Campers are expected to leave the site neat and take all their trash with them. We are located about 5 minutes from I-81 or 15 minutes from I-77 making it an easy place to stop when passing through on your way to other adventures. If you are coming on I-81, use exit 89-A. Don't let Google maps take you to Frog Level Ct near the town of Pulaski (LOL). Nearby attractions include Appalachian Gem and Gold Mine on Route 100 (5 min), New River Trail State Park (10 min), Claytor Lake State Park (20 min) and the Town of Draper has a couple small town shops to explore including The Draper Mercantile and Trading Company and the newly opened Conery where you can get wonderful ice cream cones and more. Also, check out the Draper Mountain overlook on Rt 11, just 10 minutes from our HipCamp. We love hosting campers and are happy to help make accommodations to help you have an enjoyable stay. We have 3 sites but only allow 2 to be in use at a time on the property. This insures that all guests continue to feel complete privacy from others and allows us to always have an alternate site available if campers want to change. Available "Extras" include portable toilet setup, Woodshop class making a cutting board, Bigfoot sitings as well as various camping gear items and games. If there are other extra's you would like to see or something you forgot to bring please let us know and we will see what we can do.

Mother Earth, hot tub, pet friendly

100%

(24)

39mi from Philpott Lake · 1 site · Lodging · Fancy Gap, VA

Mother Earth is 3 miles from I-77, exit #8, 3 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and sits in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The yurt is 15 mins from Mt Airy NC which is a destination for outdoors activities, wineries, breweries, and has a gorgeous downtown area. Fancy Gap is famous for the BRPW, hiking, mountain biking, and all types of outdoor activities. Mother Earth has a walk in shower, soaking tub, bluetooth music, wifi, and a hot tub. a full kitchen and washer and dryer. I provide all your paper products, coffees, creamer, sugar, shower products and more. it’s in a wooded area with nice views and wildlife in abundance. This yurt is comfortable all year long with a minisplit for heat and air conditioning, and a propane fireplace. This yurt has easy access and parking right in front. The deck is gated for toddlers and pets. Check out the secluded porch swing underneath. Our pet fee is an additional $25 left on the counter. Stargazing is at its best here, and lots of back roads to walk and explore. Check out Beamers Knob for a gorgeous long range view, about a mile from the yurt. It’s breathtaking! This yurt also has a generator to keep things going, in case of a power failure due to inclement weather.

The best camping in Philpott Lake, VA guide

Overview

About

At the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in the middle of a lush forest, lies an aquatic enthusiast’s dream. Nine boat launches, six sandy beaches, and the clear water of Philpott Lake are at your disposal, as well as a marina and fishing dock. Get an even better view of this pristine lake from the top of Philpott Dam. And after you’ve caught all the Black Bass and Walleye you can carry, dry off for the day and explore one of the many multi-use trails weaving through these woods. The Dogwood Glen Trail is a great trek whether you’re on a bike, a horse, or just your own two feet.

When to go

The best time to visit Philpott Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer brings warm temperatures perfect for water activities, while winter can be quite cold, making some recreational areas less accessible.

Know before you go

Always wear a life jacket when on the water; the Life Jacket Loaner Program is available for those without one.
Check the lake level updates and water safety guidelines before planning your visit.
Accessibility varies across different areas of the park, so plan according to your needs.
Local towns and country stores are available for supplies and amenities.
Be mindful of park rules and closures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

80%

5 ratings · 2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Tent ·

Goose Point Campground

Very lovely campground! Friendly atmosphere and beautiful views of Lake Philpott.

Penny C.

7 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Goose Point Campground