Philpott Lake and Smith Mountain Lake offer popular camping destinations within an hour of Axton, Virginia. Both lakes feature multiple campgrounds at elevations between 700-900 feet, providing moderate temperatures with summer highs typically around 85°F. The surrounding Blue Ridge foothills terrain creates campsites with significant elevation changes, requiring preparation for walking up and down hills when accessing facilities or water points.
What to do
Hunting for fairy stones: Near Fairy Stone State Park Campground, campers search for the unique cross-shaped minerals. "We hunted and found fairy stones which made the trip that much more fun. It was just after covid 19 started and lessening restrictions began so the beach was closed and there were few people at the campground but we had a great time riding bikes and hiking," notes Bridget H.
Kayak fishing: At COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park, the lake offers excellent boating options. "There is a nice swimming area, boat ramp and dock in the loop. There is also a second shower house located here," says Glenn F. The park provides "great boat and kayak access on a huge reservoir with lakeside camping sites."
Disc golf: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park offers recreation beyond water activities. "There is a nice playground for the kids. Beautiful sun rise over the lake," reports Glenn F. The park includes "Kayak rental, disc golf course, playground, picnic area and nature trail."
What campers like
Private bathrooms: At Indian Heritage RV Park, the facilities stand out. "Bathhouse is the nicest one I've encountered with a very homey living room like entry, very nice, private bathrooms with showers, and a laundry room," writes Zeek A., who also praised the "well-kept grass" tent sites.
Multi-level tent sites: Salthouse Branch Campground offers unique hillside camping spots. "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat," shares Paula J. who adds, "Bathrooms are clean and campground was quiet."
Clean facilities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Axton often maintain high standards. "Facilities are very nice and kept clean. The sites in this campground are laid out very well," notes a reviewer at Philpott Lake. At Fairy Stone, a camper mentioned "clean facilities with hot showers and large basin sinks for washing dishes."
What you should know
No alcohol rules: Some parks enforce strict policies. At Salthouse Branch, "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong," warns Anne F.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Smith Mountain Campground, "The WiFi is decent," notes one camper, but most area campgrounds have poor or no service. Bring downloaded maps and entertainment.
Narrow roads: Some campgrounds have challenging access. At Salthouse Branch, one reviewer cautions: "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance."
Seasonal availability: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Axton operate seasonally. Salthouse Branch Campground operates from "March 22 to October 31," while Horseshoe Point runs from "early May to late September."
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational programs: Hanging Rock State Park Campground provides nature learning opportunities. "The park has a modern visitor center with a nature center and friendly rangers. There are lots of trails to explore," explains Myron C., adding there are "five waterfalls to see."
Choose swimming beaches: When camping with kids in summer, water access matters. "The lake is perfect for little ones and even grownup kids. Also love the trails that surround the campground," shares Ryan Z. about a pet-friendly campground near Axton.
Bring insect protection: Bugs can be problematic. "I recommend stronger bug spray. We all left with more bites that we usually do camping!" warns a Fairy Stone camper. For trails near water, another visitor notes: "There are swarms of large flys all around the water on the trail."
Check for playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "The park had decorations throughout the park for Halloween... There is a nice playground for the kids," reports a Lake Reidsville visitor, where pet owners often camp.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many RV sites require equipment for proper setup. One camper at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground noted: "It seemed that most sites required a little help to get level." Bring leveling blocks when visiting dog-friendly campgrounds near Axton.
Extension cord needs: Due to electric hookup placement, proper preparation is essential. "Several reviewers noting the importance of bringing extension cords and extra water supplies when camping with dogs during warmer months," is common advice for the area.
Choose correct campground loops: For larger RVs, selecting the appropriate section matters. "RVs need to reserve loop 'C' as A and B loop are not easily accessible and are more suited for tent campers," advises Darlene C. about Philpott Lake's campground.
Site selection for privacy: For dog owners wanting space, site choice is important. "Sites to the left have the campground roadway behind them, so they may experience traffic noise... the outer sites are more private and enjoy spacious forest behind them," advises a camper about site selection at one park.
