Camping opportunities near Charlottesville, Virginia concentrate in the foothills and mountains between 800-3,500 feet elevation. The camping season typically runs April through October, with temperatures ranging from 40°F at night to 85°F during summer days. National park campgrounds close seasonally while private campgrounds near the Charlottesville area offer year-round options with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Hike the Appalachian Trail: The AT runs directly through Loft Mountain Campground, making it ideal for day hikes. "When we go camping here it is always like a second home. Everyone is always so kind. There are tons of trails all around," notes Anna Y. Other campers appreciate the easy trail access: "If you wanna hike somewhere, the AT runs right through the campground."
Try horseback riding: Shenandoah Crossing offers equestrian activities on-site. "Beautiful sunsets over the stables and horse pastures," reports Jed. The property features trails and pastures suitable for riding. "Complete with gas grills and outdoor sinks. Plenty to do at the resort... ride horses, take a carriage ride or eat at the 'real' restaurant," explains Nicole P.
Visit local breweries: Camp at Devils Backbone Camp for direct brewery access. "5 minute trail walk to the Devil's Backbone brewery. You can have several great beers with your meal and safely walk back to the camp site," shares Robert M. Another camper notes: "Walking distance to devils backbone brewery. Clean bathrooms. Close distance to hiking trails and other breweries and cideries."
What campers like
Clean, modern bathhouses: Campers consistently praise the facilities at Sherando Lake Campground. "The shower houses are at the center of each loop and have been rebuilt to ACA standard with in the last five years," explains Linda C. Another visitor mentions: "Decent, hot showers. The campsites are equipped with bear boxes, a picnic table, a tall prep table, and a fire ring."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Big Meadows Campground offers excellent animal sightings. "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached," reports Veronica S. Another camper shares: "Loved seeing the deer so close and other wildlife. Bear box for food storage."
Convenient layout: Campers appreciate how Small Country Campground organizes its spaces. "We stayed this time in orange 4 and that spot is huge. It's directly across from everything for my little ones," notes Rachel S. Another reviewer states: "The sites themselves are not just average tent and RV sites... The tent sites are grouped in the same area and while there are only a handful of them, they are well shaded, nicely spaced and pretty even."
What you should know
Bear activity is common: Take proper precautions at mountain campgrounds. At Lewis Mountain Campground, "A young bear was repeatedly visiting site A9 up the road from me and I had to chase him off when he came near my site!" reports Lisa M. Most campgrounds provide bear boxes or strict guidelines for food storage.
Seasonal campground closures: Most Shenandoah National Park campgrounds operate limited seasons. Big Meadows Campground typically runs "May 6 to November 13" while Lewis Mountain operates "April 15 to October." Winter camping options are limited to private campgrounds in lower elevations.
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Lewis mountain has all the amenities of home within walking distance if you just can't live without them... My husband and I brought along our 10 month old daughter and 2 German Shepherds," shares Lexa L. At Big Meadows Campground, "Though this campground is HUGE, the sites are not piled on top of each other. Our site, B112, was surrounded by shrubs under the canopy of trees which provided tons of privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity-focused campgrounds: Small Country Campground offers numerous family amenities. "This place is great for family camping. They have a pond, pool, playgrounds, 'bouncy pillow', mini golf, and lots more," says The Mayor. Another camper adds: "My band had first seesaw ride, swings and had experienced with jump tube."
Consider private campgrounds for amenities: Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers family-friendly facilities. "Very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip! Enjoyed the music and smores offered by the campground," reports Christopher T. Some resorts also offer organized activities throughout the day.
Choose quiet locations for young children: Some campgrounds maintain stricter quiet hours. At Lewis Mountain Campground, "This campground is known as the quieter campground in the park, since it is primarily tent campers, and the quiet hours are enforced as a result." For families with small children who need consistent sleep schedules, these quieter locations work best.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup locations carefully: At Devils Backbone Camp, "The hookups in this area where different than I have ever experienced as the hookups were shared between two sites. If you were on an even number site, this was no problem. However, if you were on an odd number site, you either had to hope you had the length on your water and power lines to run to the opposite side of your rig," explains Steve V.
Consider site access and size restrictions: Many mountain campgrounds have limited space for large RVs. Sherando Lake reviewers note: "The tent only loop dates to this time. Two additional loops have been added with electric sites. All the sites are well spaced, essentially level and have large pads with better than average fire pits and tables that can seat a family reunion."
Pack extension cords and extra hose length: Site configurations can require additional equipment. As one Devils Backbone camper explains: "The only reason this site didn't get 5 stars is that some of the pads (#9 in our case) had a septic cap that was too high... Also, the power station was on the opposite side of the septic, so make sure you have a 30ft power cord at least!"
