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Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground

In

George Washington National Forest

·

100%

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37 sites · RV, Tent

Parents, it’s time to pack a picnic, toss the kids in the car, and enjoy an easy day (or whole weekend) trip to Sherando Lake Recreation Area. This easily accessible recreation area is the perfect place for that ever-so-fun family photo op; with a 25-acre lake for splashing in and plenty of woods to explore, visitors of all ages can’t help but drink it all in with a sigh of complete comfort. It’s no heart of the ocean, but jewel of the Blue Ridge? That’ll do nicely.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

Sewage hookups

No electric hookups

37 sites

RV, Tent

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Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near George Washington National Forest

Stoney Creek Campground

47mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 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.

Thunder BRidge

36mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Natural Bridge Station, VA

Starting December 1, or first night below freezing we will be closing down Bath House and only access will be at outhouses. Only sites near outhouses will be open and there will be no access to water. Situated at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and bordering the Jefferson National Forest, Thunder BRidge has scenic, large, private tent sites and cabins in the woods for those who want to experience camping at its finest. Many of the sites border Elk Creek. Our RV sites are large, flat and at the edge of the forest in a well kept open green space. Our 100 acres was originally a camp built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the "30s and early '40s, then a boys' juvenile detention center and Big Brothers'/Big Sisters' camp, which closed in 2009. The tent sites and cabins are in the forest, away from the buildings out front, but you're free to walk around and check out the historic site. Most of the buildings out front are artist studios (currently for 16 artists). We like to share the camp with others and watch it come back to life. All within a short driving distance are the Natural Bridge, wineries, breweries, Natural Bridge Zoo, Safari Park, Dinosaur Kingdom, Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, James River, historic Lexington, Devil's Marbleyard, Glenwood Horse Trail, swimming holes, etc. We have river access 2 miles up the road if you'd like to fish or put your kayak or canoe in. Truly, there is something nearby for everyone. We'd be happy to give you recommendations of things to see and do. If you are a star gazer you won't be disappointed by our dark sky. We want to share our property with those who want to stay for more than one night, so we do not accept inquiries of single night stays.

Private Farm Minutes to Cville

29mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Charlottesville, VA

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

Moon Mountain Hill Farm

39mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Palmyra, VA

Offering glamping, RV and tiny home stays on a family farm. Secluded yet convenient to amenities in Central Virginia. There are deeper woods camping options. It is a family farm being restored and there are opportunities to meet, photograph, and feed some animals to include service dogs in training, chickens, goats and other critters. Enjoy the serene rural setting, complete with a meandering stream, nature walks, optional classes. And you are close to many Google top rated fun things to do and see nearby! 1. **Monticello** Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews) Address: 931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville, VA 22902 Website: https://www.monticello.org 2. **Shenandoah National Park** Rating: 4.8/5 (Google Reviews) Address: 3655 U.S. Highway 211 East, Luray, VA 22835 https://www.nps.gov/shen/index.htm 3. **Virginia Discovery Museum** Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews) Address: 524 E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902 Website: https://www.virginiadiscoverymuseum.org 4. **IX Art Park** Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews) Address: 522 2nd St SE, Charlottesville, VA 22902 Website: IX Art Park https://www.ixartpark.org 5. **Walton's Mountain Museum** Rating: 4.8/5 (Google Reviews) Address: 6480 Rockfish River Rd, Schuyler, VA 22969 Website: http://www.waltonmuseum.org 6. **Lake Anna State Park** Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews) Address: 6800 Lawyers Rd, Mineral, VA 23117 https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/lake-anna 7. **Carter Mountain Orchard** Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews) Address: 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22901 Website: https://www.cartermountainorchard.com 8. **James Madison's Montpelier** Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews) Address: 11350 Constitution Hwy, Montpelier Station, VA 22957 Website: https://www.montpelier.org 9. **Historic Garden Week** Rating: Varies by location (seasonal) Website: https://www.vagardenweek.org 10. **Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall** Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews) A

Ultimate private camping

45mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hot Springs, VA

Property description: Since Hipcamp called to clarify... we are indeed offering the entire property to only one group at a time. You read that right you can camp anywhere on the property, move around, and feel free to stay multiple nights. This 235.51 acre property has all of the most sought-after characteristics: close to the amenities of Hot Springs and The Homestead resort, total privacy and protection, beautiful trout stream, direct access to hiking and mountain bike trails on the adjoining 3000 acres of National Forest, and a 60-mile sunset view. It offers over 1,000 ft of vertical gain. The property includes a half mile of Cowardin Run. With generally mild winter weather, the property is perfect to experience the magic of the Allegheny Mountains. We offer the same low light level as the International Dark Sky Park in Millboro for excellent astronomy and night-sky viewing. *Note: During business hours construction ongoing at the center of the property as we build a home. *Note: During business hours Environmental Specialist, VDOF or USDA may visit to check in on the forest/structures/habitat. *Note: Game trail cameras in use - they are not hidden and are not for the purpose of video surveillance

James River Depot

36mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 6 sites · Tents · Glasgow, VA

An active hay field nestled between the river and the railroad. A great place to enjoy some R and R. We love to float the James and there is easy access to the river on our property. A beautiful field as well as some trees for added shade. Fun to hear the trains and the water as you get amazing views of the night sky.

Camp Cove Creek

17mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · Faber, VA

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 by the swimming hole. The airstrip still maintained as such in order to offer aviation-accessible camping. It is s the future home of Faber Christmas tree farm and features several 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, raising 3 kids, and working 2 full time jobs so please forgive our works 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! Camp anywhere along it or the creeks bordering it. 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 enter at your own risk! There is a Volleyball Net and Horseshoe set for use as well. 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!

Love Ridge Mountain Lodging

2.3mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 24 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lyndhurst, VA

Love Ridge Mountain Lodging--NEAR SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARKExperience the beauty of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Shenandoah National Park and the Appalachian Trail. Take a dip at nearby Sherando Lake and stop in to some of the many local food and craft beverage hotspots. Then retreat to your own mountain cabin or campsite.Situated at 2,800 feet in the hamlet of Love, Virginia, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging borders the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 16. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat to the mountains or a jumping off point for exploring central Virginia, Love Ridge Mountain Lodging is the perfect choice.CABINSIndulge in a romantic getaway at one of our Blue Ridge Parkway Cabins, creating lasting memories with your loved one. 4 of our cabins are pet friendly.FAMILIESOur family cabins sleep 10+ and are the perfect place for kids to connect to nature and and an opportunity for busy parents to relax. PET FRIENDLYSelect from our four mountain cabins and campsites that offer a dog-friendly experience, ensuring a great space for both humans and their four-legged companions. View White Rock Cabin, Meadow Mountain Cabin, Sherando Cabin or Spy Rock Cabin for a pet-friendly cabins.HOT TUBSSome cabins offer a private hot tub, while a number of the smaller cabins offer jetted in-room tubs.GRILLS and FIREPITSGuests love the convenience of private outdoor grills for cooking and communal firepits.EXPERIENCES FOR YOUR STAY AND ONLINE STORERent an e-bike and cruise the parkway, take in the night skies around Love Ridge. Love Ridge has a variety of experiences to choose from. Our online store has a variety of food options. Advance notice may be needed for some items, so book early.

Awesome View

42mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 2 sites · RVs · Elkton, VA

Awesome View is appropriately named; we have nearly a 360 degree view of mountains—Blue Ridge and Massanutten. We have a field that is great for camping with farmland all around.Lots of hiking, biking and skiing close by.Within 4 miles you can visit Shenandoah National Park and Massanutten 4 Seasons Resort and in the summer a produce market with delicious fresh veggies. Nearby you can visit Luray caverns and others, Blue Ridge Parkway, Shenandoah National Park, Appalachian trail, historic Charlottesville and Staunton.

Warren Ferry Landing

27mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Scottsville, VA

Come enjoy Warren Ferry Landing, our expansive and shaded property just steps from the James River! Our property boasts 400+ feet of river frontage for you to enjoy and you can swim, fish, or even launch a canoe directly from our sites. About the property Our property is located adjacent to the historic Warren Ferry crossing of the James River. This is one of two historic ferry crossings near Scottsville, VA! The other, Hatton Ferry, is located a little bit down river from this location. Our property is only 8 miles from Scottsville so if you need to pop into town for something you forgot it is quite easy. There are many other activities that you can partake in nearby or on our property. There is fishing, swimming, hiking, and kayaking all within easy reach of our property. We live onsite (total property acreage is 16 miles) and we can reached over the phone or text. If you have any questions before or during your stay please don’t hesitate to reach out. The owner does reserve the right to use the river access, for activities such as kayak launch/recover, during the stay. Keep in mind that during the night it is possible to hear some train activity from across the river.

Indian Camp Lane

15mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 1 site · Lodging · Fishersville, VA

98 acre working produce farm with lots of wild space and creek that flows the entire property. Close to Downtown Staunton and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Lots to see and do in this area or just relax and enjoy the wildlife and the sounds of blue herons passing. The handmade timberframe cabin has lots of character and complete visual privacy. 12x16 space with twin mattress beds, kitchen area with propane cookstove, water filter, dry sink. Small woodstove and loft for sleeping. Sleeps (4). Outhouse available close by the cabin. Access is fairly easy but would be best in 4wd vehicle. In the case of inclement weather, cabin may not be accessible. Please, no dogs as we have lots of farm animals.

Camp Kilo

41mi from Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Stanardsville, VA

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

More to explore nearby

100%

9 ratings · 2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Beautiful site

Tent · With pets

Sites were clean and well maintained. Be aware this is VERY much a family site, kids will be screaming and dogs are barking constantly throughout the night which is not enforced by the rangers. It is beautiful though and these things are not the fault of the site.

M

Morgan S.

3 reviews

Recommends

· July 2017

Campsites have lots of space between sites if you like privacy. All campsites have a bear proof box so you don't have to store your coolers and food in the car. Trails up the mountain next to the lake provide nice views of the lake below.

D

Dan I.

8 years on Hipcamp

LocationSherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground, George Washington National Forest, Virginia, United States

Is anything missing?Suggest edits to improve this listing for fellow campers.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

Showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

Sewage hookups

No electric hookups

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Sherando Lake Recreation Area and Campground