Pet friendly camping near Danville, Virginia centers on several reservoir and lake-oriented campgrounds across the Virginia-North Carolina border. The region sits at elevations between 400-800 feet with mild spring and fall temperatures averaging 55-75°F, though summer nights can remain above 70°F with high humidity. Many campgrounds in this area feature terrain that ranges from peninsula settings on lakes to forested hillsides with various levels of hookups and amenities.
What to do
Hiking trails with water views: At Eno River State Park Campground, primitive campsites are accessible via trails that follow the river. "We hike and swim Eno nearly weekly and are so thankful this resource is so close to us! We also backpack into the primitive sites frequently. The primitive sites are spaced far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude," notes Sarah W.
Kayaking and canoeing: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park offers rental equipment for water activities. "You can rent paddle boats or kayak's or paddle boards. You may fish or ride boats. The only down fall is the bath house needs updating and you can't swim," explains Jack and Lisa L.
Fishing opportunities: Philpott Lake provides excellent fishing conditions. According to Fletcher, "This is a quiet place way back in the mountains of Southern Virginia. The roads going into the campground are very narrow and steep up and downs. Mostly boaters go here to camp and mostly locals."
Swimming beaches: Many of the lake-based campgrounds feature designated swim areas. "The park is nice and clean. Great for families and retirees," says Mary N. about Hyco Lake State Park Campground, which maintains a swimming area during warm months.
What campers like
Large, level sites: Smith Mountain Campground earns praise for its spacious camping areas. "This is a very well maintained & clean campground. The owner is great and the camp host was very attentive. There is a good sized catch and release pond," shares Valerie P., who stayed in a 22-foot travel trailer.
Clean facilities: Salthouse Branch Campground maintains its amenities well. "Bathrooms are clean and campground was quiet. I had issues finding out if pets were allowed... they are! My dog and I had an awesome time and we will be back for sure," writes Paula J. about her tent camping experience.
Lake views: Many campers specifically seek waterfront sites. "We always enjoy staying at Corp campgrounds when we travel. The sites are consistently level, spacious, with reliable facilities. And you can always count on a pristine body of water for camping and kayaking," comments Patrice about Salthouse Branch.
Privacy between sites: At COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park, the layout provides some separation. "The campground is among the trees for great shade and so-so privacy. Some spots are lakeside (numbers 1 through 19), but all are very close to the water," explains Dan N.
What you should know
Terrain and accessibility: Several campgrounds feature challenging terrain. "RVs need to reserve loop 'C' as A and B loop are not easily accessible and are more suited for tent campers," advises Darlene C. about Goose Point.
Alcohol policies: Some parks strictly prohibit alcohol consumption. "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong," reports Anne F. about her experience at Salthouse Branch.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region operate with limited facilities during winter. "We stayed here in the winter months (Feb - April) and it was really nice. Nearest town for groceries is 10 min away but you'll have to travel to Greensboro for bigger stores," notes Bri N. about Lake Reidsville.
Tent pad dimensions: At Hanging Rock State Park Campground, tent pads vary in size. "We stayed at Campsite 50, and while it was in a nice wooded area with plenty of shade and a decent amount of privacy, the tent pad was smaller than expected. We brought a 10-person tent, and it was a tight fit," explains David N.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Reidsville offers multiple activity options for children. "All of the sites were amazing. Trash cans, fire pits, level spots, picnic tables were at every location. Easy access to the water, playgrounds & hiking trails were just moments away from the camper," explains Steven F.
Family-friendly events: "We love visiting Salthouse Branch! The lower loop is pretty level, fun to walk and ride bikes around, and the kids love the playground! The bathhouse is always clean and you can't beat the atmosphere around the campground," notes Tamara B.
Pet policies for families with dogs: Most campgrounds permit pets but have specific areas where they aren't allowed. "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat. Bathrooms are clean and campground was quiet," shares Paula J. about her pet-friendly experience at Salthouse Branch.
Water access for kids: Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground provides multiple swimming options. "The views of the lake are stunning! There was fishing, boating and swimming as well! Gets crowded depending on the time of year but worth it for sure," explains Bran P.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Smith Mountain Campground accommodates various RV sizes but has limitations. "Sites are a bit small for anything over 35' but we did manage our 41' in there... they do have some large back in FHU sites if you need but not many," advises Lawrence P. about Salthouse Branch.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges. "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance," cautions Fletcher about Salthouse Branch.
Hookup locations: Consider your equipment setup before arrival. "We did find our reserved site but unlike many places we have been there wasn't any receipt or tags attached to pole. We also noted that our water and electricity was on the passenger side of our vehicle so it was a good thing we had an extra hose to reach the water as well as a long enough cord to reach the electric box," shares Barb T. about Hyco Lake.
Reservation timing: The most desirable waterfront sites book quickly. "The lower loop is the most popular because it is down by the water and each of the sites have great views of the lake. Reservations have to be made well in advance for the lower loop sites," advises Timothy W. about Goose Point.