Best Campgrounds near Altavista, VA

Several camping areas surround Altavista, Virginia, each with its own character. Leesville Lake Campground sits by the water, making it good for fishing and bringing boats. Sherando Lake Campground has hiking trails with good views and changes in elevation throughout the woods. Douthat State Park Campground includes a swimming beach where many families spend hot afternoons. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground works well for fishing trips since the lake holds plenty of fish. Backbone Camp keeps things simple with basic sites for campers who don't need many extras. Crabtree Falls Campground puts you close to some of the best waterfall hikes in the region. Most camping areas around Altavista have the basics - bathroom facilities and tables for meals. Weather changes a lot by season here, so it's smart to check the forecast before packing up. The Altavista area has both weekend spots and places that work for longer stays.

Best Camping Sites Near Altavista, Virginia (74)

    1. Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Penhook, VA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 297-6066

    $20 - $40 / night

    "This is a well maintained area with access to several hiking trails of all difficulty levels. The lake is beautiful and my entire family enjoyed our time!"

    "Stopping at Smith Mountain lake was well worth it during my mini road trip through VA. Pros: huge lake with tons of outdoor activities (trails for running/walking, boating activities, kayaking)."

    2. Leesville Lake Campground, LLC

    4 Reviews
    Hurt, VA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 818-1177

    $50 - $60 / night

    "A short walk, even shorter drive to the dam and decent fishing at the boat ramp."

    "They walk you right to your site and help back you in! It's a 5 minute walk down to the lake."

    3. Thousand Trails Lynchburg

    7 Reviews
    Rustburg, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The campground is close to the Blue Ridge Parkway and hiking trails (a plus!) but, definitely opt for a full hook-up site!"

    "This was the perfect spot to stay after a long drive. We saw bunnies and then lightening bugs. The pool was great for the kids."

    4. Smith Mountain Campground

    10 Reviews
    Penhook, VA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 927-4198

    $25 - $45 / night

    "Great private campground, kept up well with large sites next to wooded areas."

    "Close to the lake!"

    5. Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    21 Reviews
    Thaxton, VA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 586-7321

    $30 / night

    "Picked for price

    Quiet

    Enjoyed Blueridge parkway

    NIce retreat in SW Virginia"

    "It was a pull-through site with an additional area containing a picnic table and fire ring, accessible via a small set of steps up the hill."

    6. Sweetwater RV Park

    1 Review
    Moneta, VA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 296-0522

    $47 / night

    7. Paradise Lake Family Campground

    6 Reviews
    Appomattox, VA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 993-3332

    "Has beautiful pool and lake, playground, arcade, and boat rentals. Fishing, hiking, basketball. Very friendly staff all the time."

    "The bathroom was a good walk up the hill so bring your bikes. We would definitely go back though!"

    8. Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA

    13 Reviews
    Big Island, VA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 299-5228

    "We stopped here overnight on a trip from Chicago to Virginia Beach. We had reserved a pull through but were just short in length and had to disconnect the tow vehicle for the night."

    "There was plenty for kids to do playground, pool, jump pillow, fishing pond and hiking trails. The tent site was amazing right by the pond. The fire pit has a grate for cooking."

    9. Otter Creek Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    14 Reviews
    Big Island, VA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 299-5125

    $30 / night

    "Great all around virginia campsite"

    "Alternative to crowded Shenandoah campgrounds, although is a good drive away <60+ miles away from entrance."

    10. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

    18 Reviews
    Natural Bridge Station, VA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    $20 - $40 / night

    "These sites are slightly more rugged, and best for smaller tents; site 35 however is both large, flat, and private, and is next to the trailhead to one of the campground's hiking trails."

    "Site was spacious and pleasantly situated for our 17' travel trailer. Clean bathrooms and shower."

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Recent Reviews near Altavista, VA

443 Reviews of 74 Altavista Campgrounds



Guide to Altavista

Camping near Altavista, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Sherando Lake Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "We spent days driving each way on the parkway," highlighting the scenic routes available for hiking enthusiasts.
  • Swimming: Enjoy the beach area at Douthat State Park Campground. A camper noted, "Great camping, nice beach and swim area," making it a perfect spot for families looking to cool off.
  • Fishing: Cast a line at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. One visitor shared, "The lake beach area is particularly nice and staffed by lifeguards," ensuring a safe fishing experience.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A review for Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA stated, "Park is fantastic, best I’ve ever seen for cleanliness and friendly staff."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Goose Point Park. One camper mentioned, "The well-maintained, spacious campsites provided privacy," which is a big plus for those seeking a bit of solitude.
  • Scenic Views: The picturesque surroundings are a hit. A visitor at Peaks Of Otter Campground said, "Caught the foliage here in October and it was amazing," showcasing the area's natural beauty.

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Devil’s Backbone Camp, have poor cell reception. One reviewer noted, "No Verizon or ATT cell service I could find and no WiFi," so plan accordingly.
  • Water Availability: At Canoe Landing Group Campsite, water access can be limited. A camper mentioned, "You have to fill with water there is a fill station across from the beach parking area," so be prepared to bring your own.
  • Seasonal Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Crabtree Falls Campground, may have limited amenities during the off-season. A visitor noted, "Off season so no amenities. But great place," indicating that timing matters.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with splash pads or swimming areas. One family at Occoneechee State Park Campground enjoyed the "splash pad, which is a great way to cool off in the summer."
  • Privacy: Choose sites that offer some distance from neighbors. A camper at Sherando Lake Campground mentioned, "We like the C loop better; the sites have more privacy," which can be beneficial for families.
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals and snacks. A reviewer at Douthat State Park Campground suggested, "Plenty of picnic areas and great fishing as well," making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Virginia Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground noted, "I had a 30amp hookup with no issues," which is crucial for RV travelers.
  • Road Access: Be cautious of narrow roads leading to campgrounds. One camper at Goose Point Park mentioned, "Drive-in a little steep with hairpin bend, but all good with caution," so be prepared for some tricky driving.
  • Dump Station Availability: Look for campgrounds with dump stations. A reviewer at Douthat State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a dump station on the way out," which is helpful for RVers.

Camping near Altavista, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Altavista, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Altavista, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 74 campgrounds and RV parks near Altavista, VA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Altavista, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Altavista, VA is Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 25 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Altavista, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Altavista, VA.

What parks are near Altavista, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Altavista, VA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.