Glamping in Ashland, Virginia provides convenient access to outdoor experiences while remaining less than 30 miles from Richmond. This region sits within the Piedmont plateau at elevations ranging from 200-400 feet, creating moderate terrain suitable for both tent and RV camping. Most campgrounds in the area maintain open status through October, with some offering year-round accommodations despite Virginia's variable weather patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground offers a 40-acre lake where campers can fish for catfish. "Fishing was not bad. Caught my first ever catfish," mentions Ross B., who visited the park. The lake provides multiple access points, including dedicated fishing spots near campsites.
Swimming options: Lake Anna State Park Campground features designated swimming areas separate from the main boating sections. "The swimming area is clean and very family oriented. It has great hiking trails and if you're looking for a relaxing fishing afternoon, they have some of the nicest fishing piers with ample sitting area," notes Jennifer G.
Archery range access: For visitors seeking land-based activities beyond hiking, Bear Creek Lake State Park offers archery facilities. "There is even an archery range. There are hiking trails throughout as well," shares Erica M., highlighting this less common state park amenity.
Holiday celebrations: Powhatan State Park Campground hosts special weekend events throughout the camping season. "We had a fun camping trip at Bear Creek Lake! We chose a reservable waterview site (#18)," writes Katie M., who enjoyed the park's recreation areas. Seasonal programming typically includes ranger-led activities and holiday-themed events.
What campers like
Individual shower facilities: Powhatan State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its bathroom setup. "Bathrooms are individual with a shower in each one. Lots of geocaching on grounds, fishing, hiking, boat launch, canoe racks, playground, a store with a nature center, and a Junior Ranger program for the kids," reports Lisa P.
Historical connections: The region offers unexpected historical elements within camping areas. "I didn't expect to see bulletins of Virginia History on the grounds. But my inner nerd was intrigued," Jessica T. writes about her stay at Powhatan State Park. Many sites throughout the region include interpretive signs about local history.
Specialized camping areas: Pocahontas State Park Campground offers distinctive camping sections with varying levels of privacy. "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful," notes Gregg S. The park maintains 40 sites across over 1500 acres, creating lower density camping compared to many private campgrounds.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides a different experience. "Went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year," shares an RL visitor about Westmoreland State Park Campground.
What you should know
Water quality monitoring: Lake areas occasionally experience algae issues. "At the time of my visit a couple of weeks ago there was a bit of algae in the water that could cause irritation to stomach and skin, so just be mindful of this," warns an RL visitor to Westmoreland State Park. Parks typically post water quality notices at beach areas and visitor centers.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. "Sites somewhat level, very small and packed in. On the water," notes Ashley I. about Christopher Run Campground. Bringing leveling blocks for RVs and seeking site-specific information before arrival helps prevent setup issues.
Reservation timing importance: Popular waterfront sites book quickly throughout the region. "The sites were close together but a few sites are worth it right on the water," Ross B. mentions about Bear Creek Lake. Weekends from May through September typically require reservations 3-6 months in advance for premium sites.
Off-interstate travel requirements: Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA requires additional travel time from major highways. "The location is quiet but it is a bit off the beaten path for the traveler. This is nice but an extra 20min in and out from the main route," explains Thomas S., noting the tradeoff between convenience and tranquility.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Christopher Run Campground offers lake swimming with structural elements to note. "The beach area is small with a concrete ledge next to the water. It didn't look very safe for small children," cautions Tina C. Families with young children should investigate beach conditions beforehand.
Age-appropriate playground assessment: Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort features playground equipment worth evaluating. "The playground is impressive and the staff is very welcoming upon arrival," Michaela observes. However, equipment ranges in age-appropriateness, with some campgrounds better suited for specific child age ranges.
Campsite selection for privacy: Tent campers with children should consider buffer zones between sites. "The sites in the River Bend Campground(main campground) are private and wooded, especially this time of year when the trees are so full," notes an RL visitor to Powhatan State Park. End-of-loop sites typically offer more privacy and space for families.
Plant awareness: Vegetation knowledge helps prevent issues. "Just worth a mention that my kids came back with poison ivy everywhere, so watch out for that!" Katie M. warns about Bear Creek Lake. Poison ivy grows throughout Virginia parks, particularly along trail edges and natural borders.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions enforcement: Bear Creek Lake enforces maximum vehicle lengths. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," Erica M. notes. Several state parks maintain similar restrictions, particularly for older campgrounds with tighter turning radiuses.
Site surface variations: Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA offers different site surfaces. "Some of the sites look pretty tight, but that can be common with a lot of KOA's," observes Scott T. RVers report preferring sites with pavers or gravel pads over grass sites, particularly during rainy periods.
Full hookup availability: Powhatan State Park clarifies utility connections. "Campground is waaayyy back in the back of park. Only a few years old. No full hookup (yes 30/50 amp)," Ashley I. explains. Most state parks offer electric and water only, while private campgrounds more commonly provide sewer connections.
Seasonal road conditions: Smaller campground access roads may degrade in winter months. "Due to Covid and the proximity to a temporarily closed King's Dominion this campground was very quiet. We enjoyed a larger pull through lot that faced the woods," notes Scott T. about Richmond North KOA. Off-season camping may require additional preparation for potentially muddy or rutted access roads.
