The Altavista camping region offers diverse terrain across central Virginia's Piedmont and Blue Ridge transition zones at elevations between 600-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with higher humidity, while fall brings cooler conditions and colorful foliage. Many campgrounds near Altavista provide creek access for cooling off during warmer months, with sites available along waterways offering natural relief from summer heat.
What to do
Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway: Access points near Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA connect you to miles of scenic driving and hiking. "The hike was long and steep at times but it was so beautiful and nice. Loved this area," notes one visitor to Peaks Of Otter Campground.
Fish at stocked ponds: Several campgrounds maintain fishing areas without requiring a license. At Smith Mountain Campground, "There is a good sized catch and release pond," with easy access from nearby sites according to a reviewer.
Swimming options: Beyond the lakes, some campgrounds offer pool facilities. At Paradise Lake Family Campground, "We tent camped and it was pretty muddy. The sites were nice and private for tent campers... We would definitely go back though!"
Creek exploration: Many sites feature streams perfect for kids. As one camper noted about Otter Creek Campground, "The creek ran right through our spacious and secluded site. It was quiet and serene- just what we were looking for before heading back to city life."
What campers like
Private tent sites: Most campgrounds separate tent and RV camping areas. At Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground, "Tent sites are large and a good distance apart. RV sites are good and have decent privacy. Power and water are reliable. There is one dumping station."
Family-owned businesses: Smaller campgrounds offer personalized service. "This is a great family run campground. We stayed 3 nights and the owners were very accommodating. Clean bathrooms and showers. Close to the lake!" reports a Smith Mountain Campground visitor.
Creek-side camping: Water features enhance the experience at several locations. A camper at Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp shared: "Our site backed up to a little stream. The site itself was private even though there are other sites around. Our boys loved playing in the stream and climbing the hill to get to our hammock on the site too."
Seasonal activities: Off-season camping offers different advantages. "Remote and quiet location. In season this place is very busy. Our visit is pre Memorial Day so it is low key," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Lynchburg.
What you should know
Water pressure varies: Some campgrounds struggle with consistent pressure. A visitor to Leesville Lake Campground noted: "Just a spot to park... Felt it was expensive for what it was."
Seasonal closures: Most Blue Ridge Parkway facilities close annually. "The Blue Ridge Parkway campgrounds are only open May 6 to October 29," including both Otter Creek Campground and Peaks of Otter.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain impacts setup requirements. "Sites are close enough to the showers/restrooms without compromising all of your privacy. Sites are close enough to meet the neighbors though," explains a Smith Mountain Lake State Park camper.
Limited services: Cell coverage varies widely. One Sweetwater RV Park visitor mentioned: "This campground was exceptionally clean and very quiet/peaceful. We went to the playground to play and pool to swim - had it to ourselves."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation. "Lots of kids and lots of kid activities. The park is lightly shaded and the WiFi does not reach most camping areas," notes a Paradise Lake visitor.
Consider creek sites: Natural water features provide entertainment. At Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, "The tent sites were large and shaded. We were right by the fishing pond and it was a short walk to the playground, pool, jump pad, and very clean, private bathrooms."
Plan for bathroom access: Facility placement varies by campground. "The bathroom was a good walk up the hill so bring your bikes," recommends a Paradise Lake Family Campground visitor.
Check lake conditions: Swimming opportunities require planning. "The lake has a beautiful view with green mountains surrounding it. It is a bit of a walk from the sites so we drove," explains a Cave Mountain Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Reserve sites strategically: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. At Leesville Lake Campground, a visitor advised: "We stayed at the level sites across the street: easy-in, easy-out. Some of the sites on the other side of the street looked like they might be a challenge to get into."
Plan for hookup variations: Electrical service differs across campgrounds. "Limited 50 amps. Lots of road wash outs," notes a Thousand Trails Lynchburg camper, while another mentioned that "Almost every site has a bag over their electricity."
Prepare for dump station lines: Single facilities can create bottlenecks. One camper at Smith Mountain Lake State Park noted: "There is one dumping station" despite the campground's size.
Check site dimensions: Length restrictions can require unhitching. "We had reserved a pull through but were just short in length and had to disconnect the tow vehicle for the night," shared a visitor to Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
