Best Campgrounds near Amherst, VA

Join the fun near Amherst. 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 Amherst. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Amherst, Virginia (86)

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Recent Reviews near Amherst, VA

637 Reviews of 86 Amherst Campgrounds



Guide to Amherst

Camping near Amherst, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. 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 at Loft Mountain Campground. Many campers enjoy the easy access to nearby trails, with one reviewer noting, "Easy access to the Blackrock Summit and Doyles River Falls trails!"
  • Fishing: Head to Sherando Lake Campground for some fishing. One visitor mentioned, "There is a fishing area that you can drive to and park your car to fish."
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing swim at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. A camper shared, "The swimming area is first rate and the warmest clean waters that will make you forget the ocean."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers at Misty Mountain Camp Resort. One review stated, "Great shower and laundry facilities as well."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Many families enjoy the activities available at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. A reviewer noted, "The park is fantastic, best I’ve ever seen for cleanliness and friendly staff."
  • Scenic views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings at Douthat State Park Campground. One visitor said, "This is our favorite campsite and park that we’ve been to in the state of Virginia!"

What you should know

  • Limited cell service: Many campgrounds, like Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, have poor cell reception. A camper mentioned, "There isn't any cell service yet near the camp loop you can get service."
  • Crowded weekends: Expect busier crowds during weekends, especially at Shenandoah Valley Campground. One reviewer noted, "Weekends were packed, but much quieter during the week."
  • Fees for amenities: Some campgrounds charge for amenities like showers. A visitor at Loft Mountain Campground mentioned, "Showers were pretty expensive at $5 for 10 minutes."

Tips for camping with families

  • Plan for activities: Choose campgrounds with family-friendly amenities, like Misty Mountain Camp Resort, where kids can enjoy the inflatable jump pad. One parent said, "Our kids had a blast on the inflatable jump pad which was open all day."
  • Check for quiet hours: Be mindful of noise levels, especially at campgrounds like Canoe Landing Group Campsite. A camper shared, "Our neighbors were noisy, obnoxious, and trashy into the wee hours of the morning."
  • Bring outdoor games: Keep kids entertained with outdoor games. One family at Sherando Lake Campground enjoyed the space, saying, "There is a picnic area with grills and tables."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site hookups: Make sure to verify the location of electric and water hookups at campgrounds like Devil's Backbone Camp. A reviewer noted, "The water, electric and sewer hookups are on the wrong side for half of the RV sites."
  • Use leveling blocks: Some sites may not be level, so bring leveling blocks. A visitor at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area mentioned, "The site was not level yet nothing in the mountains is level."
  • Plan for dump station access: Be aware of dump station locations and conditions. One camper at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground said, "The dump station (just one) was muddy and could use a larger concrete curb."

Camping around Amherst, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Amherst, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Amherst, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 86 campgrounds and RV parks near Amherst, VA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Amherst, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Amherst, VA is Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Amherst, VA?

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

  • What parks are near Amherst, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 24 parks near Amherst, VA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.