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Are you planning a hike-in camping trip to Virginia? We've got you covered. You can enjoy its many benefits like stunning views and off the beaten path locations. Search nearby hike-in campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Virginia

The Best Hike-In Camping in Virginia

Looking for a new type of Alpha camping experience? Try hike-in camping! Whether you sleep in a tent, hammock, or sleeping bag, hike-in camping is an adventure that everyone should try. Check out some of the best hike-in camping spots for backpackers in Virginia.

Alpha

The Best Hike-In Camping Near Alpha, Virginia

Isle of Wight Family Campground

Wilderness Road Campground

Holliday Lake State Park

A camping authorization is required to camp on WMA’s. Authorization can be obtained at any license agent or at
GOOUTDOORSVIRGINIA.COM. Primitive camping is allowed for up to 14 consecutive nights when occupants are engaged in authorized activities (no more than 14 nights in any 28-day period). Camping is prohibited on or within 300 feet of any boat ramp, fishing lake or at other specific sites as posted or marked on WMA maps. All campers are required to store food in such a manner that it is not accessible by wildlife. Detailed camping regulations are found in 4VAC-15-20-155. It is unlawful to leave a campfire unattended. From February 15 to
April 30 campfires are allowed only between the hours of 4:00PM and midnight.

The James River WMA runs for just over a mile along the north shore of the James River, and encompasses more than a thousand acres of prolific habitat. Along the entry road, check the numerous dead snags for perched raptors along with the more numerous American crows. Red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks regularly occur, as do sharp-shinned hawks and American kestrels. Ospreys prefer the area next to the river. Just upstream from the boat landing parking area, lies a freshwater marsh managed for waterfowl. Anytime during the fall and winter, visitors can encounter northern pintail, blue-winged and green-winged teal and northern shovelers here, and during the summer wood ducks. Check the vegetation nearby for common yellowthroats, which can be very numerous during migration.

The river itself is worth checking for waterfowl with diving ducks, especially mergansers, joining the resident wood ducks. The river also supports monstrous eastern river cooters, which are often seen sunning along the banks. Another reptile to be on the lookout for is the rough-green snake, which can be found almost anywhere in the area. Spring and summer are the best times to search for butterflies, with monarchs passing through on their way south in the fall. The colorful American rubyspots can be seen dancing along the river, while Halloween pennants play in the fields.

James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping

Powhatan State Park

Devil’s Backbone Camp

## Overview

Sherando Lake Recreation Area's Family Campground provides an ideal camping destination. It is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known locally as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where visitors enjoy hiking, picnicking in the shade, fishing in the lakes, or swimming and relaxing on the sandy beach.

## Recreation

The 25 acre Lower Lake offers opportunities for swimming in a designated area with a sand beach, accessible ramp to the water's edge, and a beach bathhouse with changing and shower facilities. Fishing and boating are also available outside the designated swimming area of the lake. Fishing is in stocked trout waters during the spring and fall seasons. Visitors will need to have the appropriate Virginia fishing license, National Forest stamp, and trout stamp. Boats with gasoline motors are not permitted on the lower lake - electric troll motors, canoes, kayaks, or similar boats only. A hand-carry ramp is available for access to the lake adjacent to the parking area. Fishing only is available at the 7 acre Upper Lake. This lake is also stocked during the spring and fall seasons and the appropriate licenses are required. Boats are allowed, but there is no launch access - hand carry only. Parking is available at a small area below the group camp area and a walking trail will lead you to the lake. Swimming is not allowed in the upper lake. Hiking trails surround the area offering everything from a short walk around the lake on the Lakeside and Cliff Trails to a day hike up the mountain on the White Rock Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. For the more adventurous hiker, more challenging day hikes and backpacking trips are available by heading up the Blue Loop Trail to the Torry Ridge Trail to Bald Mountain and beyond. 

## Facilities

The campground is divided into three loops: Meadow Loop (Loop C) and River Bend Loop (Loop B) have campsites with electric hookups which are suitable for larger camping units and RV's; White Oak Loop (Loop A) has non-electric campsites, suitable for tents and camping units less than 20 feet in length; the upper part of White Oak (Loop A) have first-come, first-serve sites not available for reservation.  
  
Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, serving table, lantern post, and campfire ring with grill. The designated tent pads are covered with a fine brown sandy gravel. Showers, flush toilets and drinking water hydrants are located in each loop. The water hydrants are not threaded for hose hook-ups. Most campsites are equipped with a food storage locker for securing your food due to bear activity. It is mandatory that all food be either stored in a food storage locker or secured in a locked vehicle. Violators are subject to a fine. You are camping in the mountains with unlevel ground. Please be prepared. 

A trailer dump station is located along the main road between the entrance station and the road to the lower lake parking. A potable water station with threaded hose (to fill RV tanks) is located within the campground, opposite of the Day-Use parking area near the Williams Branch picnic area bathroom. Both the dump station and fill station are signed.

## Natural Features

The campground sits between Lower Sherando Lake and Upper Sherando Lake at an elevation of about 1,800 feet in the shadows of Torry Ridge. The Upper Lake is 7 acres and is fed by the waters of the North Fork of Back Creek. The Lower Lake is 25 acres and is fed by springs, the North Fork of Back Creek, and Williams Branch, so the water stays refreshingly cool all summer long. 

## Nearby Attractions

There are opportunities for gas, groceries, and firewood at convenience stores and local vendors along the state road to Sherando Lake. Ice can be purchased at the Sherando Lake Visitor Center during operating hours, which vary seasonally. Additional supplies can be obtained in Stuarts Draft, about a 15 minute drive away.  
  
The Blue Ridge Parkway, with its scenic overlooks and ridgetop views, is a short 3 mile drive up State Route 664 from the Sherando Lake entrance. The Wintergreen Resort offers a golf course and ski area within 10 miles of Sherando Lake. Cabin rentals are available near Sherando Lake from local private vendors.

Sherando Lake Campground

Crabtree Falls Campground

Spy Rock

Perched on top of Big Flat Mountain, this is one of the largest campgrounds in the park. Loft Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a wilderness getaway in the historic Virginia mountains. Recreation Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or lookout, while others wind deep into the forest and wilderness. Trails to the Big Run Wilderness area are accessible from the campground, and pristine waterfalls are a common site along the popular trails. Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime, with black bears, wild turkey, deer, birds and countless other animals abundant across the park. The campground is located right off of Milepost 80 on the famous Skyline Drive, which runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stunning views are available from any of the 75 scenic overlooks. Facilities This expansive campground offers 200 campsites, as well as modern conveniences like flush toilets, water and dump station, which create a comfortable camping experience. Pay showers nearby at the campstore. Natural Features Shenandoah National Park includes 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern Appalachians. The park rises above the Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west. Loft Mountain's location on the mountain top offers easy access to Skyline Drive which offers sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding rolling hills and open meadows. Nearby Attractions Two visitor centers with bookstores and exhibits are located in the park (milepost 5 and milepost 51). There are concession managed restaurants, gift shops and lodging facilities scattered throughout the park. Charges & Cancellations Cancellations more than 48 hours in advance of arrival date only incur a $10 transaction fee. Within 48 hours, $10 and the first night's fee are charged ADA Access: N

Loft Mountain Campground

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay are some of the best camping locations in Virginia. Near Virginia Beach, VA, camping by the beach gives you easy access to water activities that include catching a glimpse of marine life like sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays. The oceanside city is the ideal place to gather any supplies you need before heading to your campsite. Campgrounds by Fort Story let campers walk, boat, or drive up to campsites. RVers will also find all of the necessary amenities for their vehicles. Spend some time on the beach, tour the fort, and don’t forget to stop by the historic lighthouse.

Virginia Beach

The Best Virginia Beach Camping | Virginia Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Virginia Beach, VA has a lot to offer. Virginia Beach is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Virginia Beach, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Virginia Beach, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Norfolk. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Norfolk camping trip.

Norfolk

The Best Camping Near Norfolk, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Searching for the best camping near Chesapeake, VA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

Chesapeake

The Best Camping Near Chesapeake, Virginia

Arlington is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Arlington, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Arlington

The Best Camping Near Arlington, Virginia

Richmond is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Richmond is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Richmond camping trip.

Richmond

The Best Camping Near Richmond, Virginia

Newport News is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Newport News and user-submitted reviews.

Newport News

The Best Camping Near Newport News, Virginia

Looking for the best campgrounds near Alexandria, VA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alexandria. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Alexandria, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Alexandria

The Best Camping Near Alexandria, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Alexandria. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alexandria camping trip.

Join the fun near Blue Ridge Parkway. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Best Camping Near Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia sits Shenandoah National Park. This pocket of Virginia holds some of the best camping and nature viewing in the state. This is an outdoor paradise filled with scenic trails for campers and thru-hikers alike.

Shenandoah National Park has five established campgrounds, which open in early spring and close in late fall. Only the Matthews Arm and Big Meadows campground have RV accommodations available, and all campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance. In the off-season, the best camping near Shenandoah National Park is in the nearby Washington and Jefferson National Forests, where you can disperse camp for free. If you want to stay in the main city, choose Harrisonburg, VA.

Shenandoah National Park

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Shenandoah National Park, VA has a lot to offer. Shenandoah National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Shenandoah National Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Prince William Forest Park, VA? Prince William Forest Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Prince William Forest Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Prince William Forest Park

The Best Camping Near Prince William Forest Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, VA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

The Best Camping Near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Virginia

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, VA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are George Washington & Jefferson National Forest campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington Memorial Parkway. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—George Washington Memorial Parkway is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

The Best Camping Near George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir

The Best Camping Near John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, Virginia

Join the fun near Alabama River Lakes. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alabama River Lakes. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alabama River Lakes camping trip.

Alabama River Lakes

The Best Camping Near Alabama River Lakes, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Proctor Lake, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Proctor Lake and user-submitted reviews.

THE BEST Hike-In CAMPING NEARAlpha, Virginia

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