Camping cabins near Ararat, Virginia dot the foothills where the Blue Ridge Mountains meet Virginia's Piedmont region at elevations between 1,200 and 3,500 feet. This transition zone creates distinctive four-season camping conditions with mild springs, warm summers averaging 80°F daytime temperatures, vibrant fall foliage from late September through October, and occasionally snowy winters. Most cabin rentals in this area operate seasonally with limited winter availability, though several remain open year-round.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: 3 North Carolina's Hanging Rock State Park, located 30 minutes from Ararat, offers five distinct waterfalls accessible via interconnected trails. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks. The bathrooms and shower facilities were clean and convenient to our campsite," shares Angela J. from Hanging Rock State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: 20+ miles of trails around Meadows of Dan and Fairy Stone State Park accommodate riders of all skill levels. "What a nice campground for families! Fun lake to swim at during the summer and easy hikes to beautiful waterfalls. One of the best campgrounds in NC!" notes Ryan N. about the park's diverse recreational options.
Stargazing: exceptional visibility on clear nights, particularly at Stone Mountain State Park. "Beautiful campground, amazing hikes & waterfalls and the best stargazing you could ask for. The bathrooms were clean, fellow campers were respectful and nice," according to Emily D. from Stone Mountain State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private cabin accommodations: Wytheville KOA offers cabin options with enhanced privacy. "We stayed in a cabin. It was clean with fresh linens, a fridge, and microwave. Comfortable relaxing porch chairs to watch the sunset over the mountains," notes one reviewer about their Wytheville KOA experience.
Secluded sites: 40-50 feet of separation between camping spots at Willville Motorcycle Camp creates a quieter atmosphere. "Great motorcycle campground. Clean facilities, friendly host. Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment," writes Brian F. Willville permits one cabin without reservations, unlike most area campgrounds.
Lake swimming: daily passes included with many cabin stays. "The park has a modern visitor center with a nature center and friendly rangers. There are lots of trails to explore, but they are not just trails to nowhere. The lake has a swimming beach with mountains in the background," describes Myron C. about Fairy Stone State Park Campground.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most cabin areas have restricted or no cell service. "We needed a clear sky to the NNE for Starlink, and found the perfect spot—technically an RV site, but it worked great for our tent for one night. It was right on the forest's edge with a nice open view to the north," notes Denis P. about Meadows Of Dan Campground.
Winter conditions: Cabins with heating vary widely in availability from December through February. "We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it. We went in December and there wasn't many people there at all, maybe 4 other campers all weekend," writes Charli R.
Seasonal amenities: Swimming areas, boat rentals, and some activities only operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "In peak season, there's a pool, a small pond (catch & release unless you want to pay), ping pong, rock mining, etc. They have great wifi," explains Jean C.
Tips for camping with families
Pack entertainment: Board games and activities for cabins without electricity or during power outages. "Plenty of camping and space. Nice trails and clean bathhouses," recommends Martin E. about Claytor Lake State Park Campground, which offers 4 yurts available in a wooded area.
Reserve early: 3-6 months ahead for weekend cabin rentals during peak summer and fall color seasons. "This campground is terrific! All the facilities are extremely well kept and clean, the store has lots of necessities and some fun souvenirs. Our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!" shares Lisa T.
Seek ranger programs: Many state parks offer educational activities for children. "We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones. Kayaking was fun," notes Bonnie T. about her family's experience at Fairy Stone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: check dimensions carefully when reserving spots for larger units. "Located on the parkway and owned by great people. Hiking on property to get you started. Great spot to access nearby attractions," notes reviewer Oldhap about Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground, which accommodates RVs while also offering cabin rentals.
Water/electric access: Most cabins provide these utilities, but confirm before booking. "If you like clean restrooms/bathhouse, friendly owners, level sites, and a well maintained camp ground then you have found the right place. Sites are level and spaced out for room to open your slide and awning," reports Bill R.
Seasonal roads: Some mountain access roads may be challenging during winter months or after heavy rains. "We stayed one night at the Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground in our Riverside Retro 199FKS - and absolutely loved it! We did choose one of the 4 pull through sites which provide a great view but they are along the ring road," shares Stephen M.
