Discover the Best Camping Spots in Virginia: A Comprehensive Guide to Virginia Campgrounds

If you’re anything like me, the scent of pine needles, the crackle of a campfire, and the absolute silence of a starlit night is the perfect antidote to modern life. And if you’re looking for a destination that truly offers unparalleled diversity in natural beauty, history, and outdoor recreation, then look no further than the Old Dominion. Virginia is, quite simply, a camping paradise.

We’ve traveled the state extensively, pitching tents everywhere from the highest peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sandy shores of the Atlantic coast. Through all those trips, I’ve realized that finding the best camping spots in Virginia isn’t just about finding a place to sleep; it’s about choosing an experience.

Whether you are a seasoned backpacker looking for remote solitude, a young family needing amenities like flush toilets and playgrounds, or an RVer seeking luxurious hookups, Virginia has a site tailor-made for you. This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through the very best campgrounds in Virginia, offering insider tips and detailed recommendations so you can confidently plan your next adventure. Trust me, by the time we’re done, you’ll be packing your bags and heading toward the finest virginia campsites the state has to offer.

Why Choose Virginia for Your Next Camping Adventure?

Before we dive into the specific locations, let’s talk about what makes camping in VA so special. Unlike states that might specialize in just mountains or just beaches, Virginia offers a geographical smorgasbord that is hard to beat.

When people ask me why I love camping in VA so much, I often point to the sheer accessibility of world-class natural beauty, combined with the deep historical resonance found in every corner of the state. It’s a place where you can hike a challenging mountain trail in the morning and explore a Civil War battlefield or a colonial settlement in the afternoon.

Diversity of Terrain: Mountains, Coast, and History

Virginia is neatly divided into several distinct geographical regions, each offering a unique camping environment.

First, you have the Appalachian Plateau and the Blue Ridge Mountains. This is where you find the rugged, high-elevation best camping in virginia. Think misty mornings, challenging hikes on the Appalachian Trail (AT), and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. This region is home to our crown jewel: Shenandoah National Park.

Second, the Piedmont Region, a rolling expanse of forests and lakes, provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and quieter state park stays. These virginia campgrounds are often the most accessible for residents of Richmond and Charlottesville.

Finally, the Tidewater and Coastal Plain areas offer oceanfront and bay-side camping. If you dream of falling asleep to the sound of waves, this is where you’ll find the best places to camp in Virginia near the water. The coastal parks provide a completely different ecosystem—dunes, salt marshes, and maritime forests—compared to the western mountains.

Accessibility and Resources

One of the greatest benefits of choosing campgrounds VA is the extensive network of well-maintained state parks and national park services. Virginia State Parks consistently receive high marks for cleanliness, programming, and family-friendliness.

For those of us who appreciate detailed planning, Virginia makes it easy. The reservation systems are robust, and most major virginia campsites offer detailed information on amenities, site dimensions, and accessibility features. Whether you need 50-amp service for your RV or a secluded walk-in tent site, you can usually find precise details online before you even leave home. This reliability is key, especially if you’re traveling with children or have specific logistical needs.

The Mountain Majesty: Camping in Shenandoah and the Blue Ridge

If you’re seeking that quintessential East Coast mountain experience, the western part of the state is where you need to head. This region holds some of the absolute best camping spots in virginia—places that define rugged beauty.

Shenandoah National Park: Iconic Virginia Campsites

No discussion of best camping in virginia is complete without dedicating significant time to Shenandoah National Park. Running along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah is traversed by the famous Skyline Drive, a 105-mile scenic byway that feels like driving through the clouds.

The park offers five developed campgrounds, and while they are all fantastic, a few stand out as true must-visits.

Big Meadows Campground

Big Meadows is arguably the most popular and centrally located virginia campground in the park. Located near milepost 51.2 on Skyline Drive, it lives up to its name, offering expansive grassy areas that provide open views of the sky—perfect for stargazing.

What I love about Big Meadows is its proximity to everything. You have a camp store, showers, laundry facilities, and ranger programs right there. Plus, it’s a hub for some of Shenandoah’s most famous trails, including access to the Appalachian Trail and Dark Hollow Falls. If you’re introducing someone new to mountain camping, this is one of the best campgrounds in virginia to start with because of the balance between rustic nature and essential amenities.

Loft Mountain Campground

At the southern end of the park, Loft Mountain sits at the highest elevation (3,300 feet) and boasts the most sites (207). Because of its elevation, the views are stunning, especially at sunset and sunrise. This campground feels a bit more secluded than Big Meadows, offering a wonderful sense of escape.

The atmosphere here is truly special. I remember one summer evening sitting by our fire at Loft Mountain, watching deer graze almost nonchalantly just a few yards away. While this spot is excellent, be aware that due to its popularity, reservations are essential, especially during peak fall foliage season.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

While Shenandoah gets all the press, the massive George Washington and Jefferson National Forests (GWJNF) offer hundreds of thousands of acres of dispersed and designated camping opportunities, often with fewer crowds and more primitive experiences.

If you’re looking for true wilderness and the opportunity for dispersed camping (setting up camp outside a designated site), the GWJNF is home to some of the best camping in virginia. You can find remote spots near beautiful rivers like the New River or tucked away deep in the mountains near the West Virginia border.

• Sherando Lake Recreation Area: Often called the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge,” Sherando Lake is a fantastic family destination within the GWJNF. It offers swimming beaches, fishing, and established virginia campsites with some hookups, making it one of the best campgrounds in virginia for families who want a National Forest experience without sacrificing comfort.
• Cave Mountain Lake: Near Natural Bridge, this smaller recreation area provides a quiet, forested experience perfect for unplugging.

The Allure of the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway technically begins in Virginia and snakes its way south. While the Parkway itself is mostly known for pull-offs and hiking access, the surrounding area is peppered with fantastic private and public virginia campgrounds.

Many of the best places to camp in virginia along the Parkway are private operations that cater to RVs and offer unique local experiences, such as access to local breweries or farm-to-table dining experiences right on-site. When searching for campgrounds VA along this route, look for places near Roanoke or the charming town of Floyd for a blend of music, culture, and nature.

Coastal Escapes: Best Camping Spots Near the Water

Switching gears entirely, let’s head east toward the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. The coastal region provides a completely different type of retreat, characterized by salty air, sand dunes, and unique maritime wildlife. These are some of the best camping spots in virginia if surf and sand are your priority.

First Landing State Park: Beachside Camping in VA

First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach is a historical powerhouse—it’s where the Jamestown colonists first landed in 1607. Today, it’s one of the most beloved and highly sought-after virginia campgrounds.

What makes First Landing so special is the juxtaposition of ecosystems. You can hike through ancient cypress swamps (a truly surreal experience) and then walk a few minutes to the Chesapeake Bay beach.

The camping loop is situated near the bay side, not the oceanfront, which means the waters are calmer and generally safer for younger children. The amenities here are top-notch, catering heavily to families. Be warned, though: securing a site at First Landing requires commitment. Reservations often book up six months in advance, especially for summer weekends. If you want beachside camping in VA, planning ahead is non-negotiable.

Assateague Island National Seashore (Wild Ponies!)

While the Virginia section of Assateague is managed by the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, the experience of camping in VA near this area is truly magical, primarily due to the famous wild Chincoteague ponies.

While you cannot technically camp on the island refuge itself in Virginia (unlike the Maryland side), there are several excellent private and public campgrounds VA located just across the bridge in Chincoteague that offer the perfect base camp for exploring the island.

We spent a fantastic weekend in Chincoteague, taking advantage of the bike paths and the incredible bird-watching opportunities. Though it requires a short drive or bike ride to the refuge entrance, the payoff—seeing the ponies grazing freely—is well worth the slight inconvenience. For a truly unique coastal wildlife experience, this area offers some of the best camping spots in virginia.

Kiptopeke State Park: Fishing and Sunset Views

Located on the southernmost tip of the Eastern Shore, Kiptopeke State Park offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and is famous for its concrete “ghost fleet”—nine surplus WWII concrete ships that serve as a breakwater and fishing pier.

Kiptopeke provides excellent virginia campsites for both RVs and tents, and it’s a favorite among anglers due to the incredible fishing access provided by the pier and the bay. If you love watching the sun set over the water, this is one of the best places to camp in virginia. The park has great walking trails and a beautiful beach area, making it ideal for a peaceful, nature-focused getaway away from the hustle of Virginia Beach.

Central Virginia and Piedmont Retreats

The central part of Virginia, often overlooked in favor of the mountains and the coast, offers fantastic, low-key camping that is often much easier to book and is perfect for weekend trips. These virginia campgrounds generally surround lakes or historical areas, providing a blend of recreation and education.

Holliday Lake State Park: A Family Favorite

Holliday Lake State Park, nestled in the Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest, is one of those hidden gems I hesitate to share, but it’s too good not to. This is consistently one of the best campgrounds in virginia for families due to its manageable size and focus on water activities.

The lake is small, calm, and perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. The park staff runs excellent interpretive programs during the summer months, making it easy to entertain younger campers. The sites themselves are wooded, providing good shade and privacy. If you live near Richmond or Lynchburg, Holliday Lake is an easy drive and an excellent choice for reliable, fun camping in va.

Exploring the James River

The James River is Virginia’s longest river and offers numerous opportunities for camping, particularly for those interested in paddling and history. While there aren’t many huge, designated state parks directly on the James, several excellent private campgrounds VA cater to river enthusiasts, offering shuttle services for multi-day float trips.

For a unique blend of history and nature, consider camping near the historical Jamestown or Williamsburg area. While these spots often lean toward RV parks or glamping, they provide a great base for exploring colonial history while still enjoying the outdoors.

Pocahontas State Park: Urban Accessibility Meets Wilderness

Pocahontas State Park, located just south of Richmond, is the largest state park in Virginia and provides an incredible resource for urban dwellers. If you’re looking for camping places in virginia that don’t require a marathon drive, Pocahontas is the answer.

Don’t let the proximity to the city fool you; this park is vast and offers excellent mountain biking trails (some of the best in the state!), a swimming pool complex, and numerous lakes and waterways.

The virginia campsites here are very well maintained and offer a mix of full-hookup RV sites and traditional tent sites. It’s truly the best of both worlds: access to the wilderness during the day and the ability to grab that forgotten essential item with a quick 15-minute drive. For accessibility and sheer breadth of activities, Pocahontas is certainly one of the best campgrounds in va.

Finding the Best Campgrounds in Virginia for Families

When planning a trip with kids, the criteria shift dramatically. Seclusion might be replaced by the need for a laundry facility, and challenging hikes might be swapped for nature centers and playgrounds. Based on years of family camping experience, I’ve compiled the key elements that make a virginia campground truly family-friendly.

Amenities Checklist for Family Campgrounds VA

The secret to happy family camping lies in minimizing friction and maximizing fun. When looking for the best campgrounds in virginia for families, pay attention to these essential features:

1. Clean, Accessible Bathrooms: This is non-negotiable. Modern, clean bathhouses with running water and hot showers drastically improve the experience for everyone.
2. Laundry Facilities: Especially important for longer stays or messy adventures.
3. Designated Play Areas: A playground or open field gives children a safe place to burn off energy.
4. Swimming Options: Whether a lake beach, a river, or a pool, water access is often the highlight of a summer camping trip.
5. Ranger/Interpretive Programs: State and National Parks excel at this. Look for guided nature walks, junior ranger programs, or evening talks. These turn a simple trip into an educational adventure.
6. Site Size and Layout: Look for sites that offer space between neighbors and ideally, a dedicated fire ring and picnic table setup that is separate from where the tent is pitched.

Top Spots with Activities (Pools, Programs, Playgrounds)

While many state parks meet the criteria, two other locations deserve special mention when discussing the best places to camp in virginia for families seeking organized activities:

Lake Anna State Park

Lake Anna is a massive lake known for boating and fishing, and the state park offers excellent camping adjacent to a popular swimming beach. The park features a history museum (focusing on the area’s gold mining past) and numerous trails that are easy enough for toddlers and older children alike. The sheer amount of water recreation available—from paddleboarding to swimming—makes it a powerful contender for the title of best campgrounds in va for active families.

North Bend Park (Kerr Reservoir/Buggs Island Lake)

Located down near the North Carolina border, this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-managed area is huge and offers fantastic facilities on the massive Kerr Reservoir. The sites are generally spacious, and the emphasis here is on lake life—fishing tournaments, boating, and swimming. Because it’s managed by the Corps, the pricing is often very competitive, and the facilities are typically spotless. If you want a huge lake experience with great amenities, this is one of the best camping spots in virginia.

Primitive vs. RV Camping: Choosing Your Virginia Campsites Style

The beauty of Virginia camping is that it caters to all styles and budgets. Whether you prefer to carry everything on your back or bring your entire house on wheels, you’ll find the perfect virginia campsites.

Backcountry Bliss: Where to Find True Wilderness Camping

For the purist, the hiker, or the backpacker, primitive camping is the only way to go. This involves pitching a tent outside of designated virginia campgrounds, usually following strict “Leave No Trace” principles.

The vast majority of dispersed camping opportunities are found in the National Forests, specifically the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests (GWJNF).

• Regulations: In the GWJNF, dispersed camping is generally allowed unless specifically marked otherwise. You must be 200 feet away from trails, roads, and water sources. Crucially, you must follow fire regulations, which often means packing out all trash and burying human waste properly.
• Appalachian Trail (AT) Shelters: Virginia hosts a significant portion of the AT, and along the trail, numerous shelters (three-sided lean-tos) and designated tent sites are available free of charge for thru-hikers and section hikers. While these are not for long-term stays, they provide an incredible way to experience the best camping in virginia in its rawest form.
• Douthat State Park: While a developed park, Douthat offers some excellent backcountry trail systems and designated primitive sites that require hiking in, blending the security of a state park with the solitude of the wilderness.

If you’re seeking that deep solitude, you’ll find that the best places to camp in virginia are often miles from the nearest pavement, requiring planning, proper gear, and adherence to wilderness ethics.

Luxury on Wheels: Top RV Campgrounds VA

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Virginia has heavily invested in providing high-quality RV facilities. Many of the best campgrounds in va offer full hookups (water, sewer, 50-amp electricity), Wi-Fi, cable, and additional resort-style amenities.

Private RV Resorts

For those who prioritize amenities over ruggedness, private resorts often provide the best camping spots in virginia. Look for KOAs (Kampgrounds of America) or independent resorts near major attractions:

• Williamsburg/Virginia Beach Area: This area has numerous large RV parks catering to tourists visiting historical sites and the coast. They often feature multiple pools, organized social events, and clubhouses.
• Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts: These are massive, amenity-packed campgrounds VA specifically designed for families, featuring water parks, mini-golf, and character interactions. They are less about nature immersion and more about providing a full vacation experience.

State Park RV Sites

For a balance between nature and comfort, Virginia State Parks are hard to beat. Most of the major parks (like First Landing, Pocahontas, and Kiptopeke) offer sites with 30- or 50-amp electrical service and water hookups, often alongside a dump station. These virginia campsites allow you to enjoy the natural beauty without sacrificing the comforts of home.

Essential Planning Tips for Camping in VA

A successful trip to the best camping spots in virginia relies heavily on preparation. Virginia’s climate can be unpredictable, and its most popular parks require significant foresight.

Reservations: When and How to Book the Best Places to Camp in Virginia

I cannot stress this enough: Reservations are mandatory for almost all state park and national park camping in Virginia, especially between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and during the peak leaf-peeping season in October.

• Virginia State Parks: These sites can typically be reserved up to 11 months in advance. For prime weekend spots at locations like First Landing or Smith Mountain Lake, you need to book the moment the reservation window opens. Use the official Virginia State Parks reservation system.
• National Parks (Shenandoah): Shenandoah National Park uses Recreation.gov. Reservations open six months in advance. Big Meadows and Loft Mountain fill up incredibly fast. If you miss the initial booking window, cancellations do happen, so check the site frequently.
• Private Campgrounds: Private campgrounds VA often have more flexibility but still require booking weeks or months ahead, especially for larger RV sites.

My personal advice? If you are planning a trip to the best places to camp in virginia during peak season, treat the reservation process like buying concert tickets—be online and ready when the window opens.

Gear Checklist: Must-Haves for the Virginia Climate

Virginia’s climate is humid, and weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. We’ve learned through experience that a few key items are essential for camping in va:

1. Bug Protection: Ticks and mosquitoes are prevalent, particularly in the humid summer months. Pack strong repellent (with DEET), treat clothing with Permethrin, and perform daily tick checks.
2. Rain Gear: Even if the forecast is clear, a sudden mountain storm can drench you quickly. A quality rain fly, waterproof jackets, and dry bags are crucial.
3. Bear Canisters/Bear-Proof Storage: In Shenandoah and the GWJNF, bear safety is paramount. All food, trash, and scented items (even toothpaste) must be stored properly. Many developed virginia campsites provide bear-proof lockers, but if you’re backpacking, you must bring a canister or know how to properly hang a bear bag.
4. Layered Clothing: The temperature swing from day to night in the mountains can be 30 degrees or more. Always pack synthetic layers, including a warm insulating jacket, even in July.

Understanding Regulations (Fires, Bears, and Leave No Trace)

As responsible visitors to the best camping spots in virginia, we must adhere to the rules that protect these beautiful areas.

• Firewood: Never bring firewood from outside the local area. This prevents the spread of invasive pests like the Emerald Ash Borer. Buy wood locally or gather dead and downed wood if allowed by the park rules.
• Leave No Trace (LNT): Practice the seven LNT principles diligently. Pack out everything you pack in (including food scraps and toilet paper). Stay on marked trails and respect wildlife distance. This is especially important when using dispersed virginia campsites.
• Wildlife Encounters: Deer, black bears, and various snakes are common. Give all wildlife ample space. Never feed animals, as this habituates them and often leads to their unfortunate removal.

Beyond English: Finding Lugares Para Acampar En Virginia

We recognize that the love for the outdoors is universal, and many visitors search for information in Spanish. If you are looking for lugares para acampar en virginia, rest assured that the parks and resources mentioned above are welcoming to all.

The major state parks and National Parks often provide bilingual information (Spanish/English) at their visitor centers, and the official reservation websites (Recreation.gov and the Virginia State Parks site) are generally intuitive regardless of language. Whether you call them best camping spots in virginia or lugares para acampar en virginia, the stunning scenery speaks for itself. The mountains, the coast, and the history are ready to be explored by everyone.

Our Final Recommendations for the Best Camping Spots in Virginia

Having covered the breadth of Virginia’s outdoor offerings, let’s summarize the top picks based on specific camping goals.

For the quintessential mountain experience and access to the Appalachian Trail, the best camping in virginia is undoubtedly Big Meadows in Shenandoah National Park. It offers the perfect balance of view, accessibility, and amenities in a high-elevation setting.

If you are traveling with children and need maximum fun and minimal fuss, you should look into the best campgrounds in virginia for families, which include Holliday Lake State Park or Lake Anna State Park. Their focus on safe, organized water recreation is ideal.

For the ocean lover, the clear winner for best places to camp in virginia near the water is First Landing State Park. The unique cypress swamps and bay access make it an unforgettable trip, provided you secure your reservation early!

If you are an RVer seeking luxurious comfort while still being close to nature, explore the top-tier, full-hookup sites at Pocahontas State Park or the numerous private resorts near the historic Triangle (Williamsburg/Jamestown).

And for the brave souls seeking solitude and quiet reflection, the dispersed virginia campsites within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer endless opportunities for true wilderness immersion.

Virginia truly offers something for every type of camper. We hope this guide inspires you to pack your tent, hitch up your trailer, or load your backpack, and explore the incredible natural heritage of the Old Dominion. Happy camping!