Camping spots near Barboursville, Virginia range from secluded tent sites to developed campgrounds with full amenities. The area sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains with elevations between 400-1000 feet, creating microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the seasons. Winter temperatures can drop to 14°F at higher elevations, while summer brings humidity and temperatures in the 90s.
What to do
Hiking access to Appalachian Trail: The Appalachian Trail runs directly through Lewis Mountain Campground, making it ideal for day hikers. "My favorite hike in the park is Bearfence Mountain (probably my favorite hike in the park - beautiful 360 degree views from the rocky summit) and the short trail up to Lewis Mountain itself," notes a camper who saw "6 black bears, a barred owl, tons of awesome bugs, brook trout, a salamander, and some other wildlife."
Horseback riding opportunities: For equestrian enthusiasts, Lake Anna State Park offers horse trails less than an hour from Barboursville. A visitor confirms, "Wonderful place, very beautiful! of courses, horses loved It too!" The park maintains dedicated bridle paths separate from hiking trails.
Waterfront activities: Lake Anna provides multiple water recreation options. A camper at Christopher Run describes the experience: "The campground has canoes that can be rented, places to fish, mini golf, and weekly events. It is a great place for the whole family to enjoy." Fishing platforms, swimming areas and boat rentals are available at most lakefront campgrounds.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary significantly: For those seeking seclusion, Loft Mountain Campground offers walk-in tent sites with natural buffers. "The family just returned from 3 days hidden away at Loft Mountain. My daughter picked site A33g since it was secluded and we were unlikely to have neighbors during our midweek visit. It was a bit of a walk through lush greenery from the car to the tent site, but once there, you really feel like you are the only humans on the mountain."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Shenandoah region provides excellent wildlife encounters. At Big Meadows Campground, one camper observed: "Though this campground is HUGE, the sites are not piled on top of each other. You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached."
Seasonal natural phenomena: Late spring and summer visitors might witness firefly displays. "The fireflies are spectacular. At dusk, the ground shimmers, and then after they disperse, you will still see them flit by the tent throughout the night," notes a Big Meadows camper who visited in June.
What you should know
Reservation timing strategies: First-come sites fill quickly during peak seasons. A Lewis Mountain visitor advises: "Reservations are first-come, first-served, which makes it a bit tricky. Out of the 31 sites (including host site), only 3 remained when we arrived at about 1:45 PM on a Friday afternoon, and those remaining filled up within the hour. Especially in the busier months of the summer, I would suggest arriving prior to 11 or 1130 AM."
Shower situations vary drastically: Facility access and costs differ between campgrounds. At Misty Mountain Camp Resort, showers are included, but a Loft Mountain visitor notes: "The shower was about 0.3 miles away. They charge $5 for 10 min, which you have to pay in quarters."
Bear safety protocols: Bear management is strictly enforced throughout the region. "You can be fined for leaving food out," reports an Anna R. from Big Meadows, adding "they take food clean up seriously." Most established campgrounds provide bear boxes at each site.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Small Country Campground caters specifically to families with children. "My band had first seesaw ride, swings and had experienced with jump tube. Had little pond looking lake and I don't know how to explain this. But the whole camp found was perfect getaway for all of us," shares a parent who visited with a 9-month-old.
Bathroom cleanliness considerations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds, affecting family comfort. A Small Country visitor noted, "This place, is very good with cleaning and stocking the materials that people need. I am definitely going back."
Swimming options for different ages: Lake Anna State Park offers structured swimming areas with safety features. A visitor describes, "The swimming area is clean and very family oriented. It has great hiking trails and if your looking for a relaxing fishing afternoon, they have some of the nicest fishing piers with ample sitting area."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds present leveling issues for RVs. A Shenandoah Crossing camper reported, "We reserved a 'pull-through' RV site which ended up being a back-in site that was very uneven and nowhere near level."
Seasonal facility closures: Late-season campers should verify which amenities remain open. A Big Meadows visitor from late November shared: "Showers and laundry were closed for the season but are centrally located near entrance area of campground. It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F."
Power options for smaller trailers: Misty Mountain Camp Resort accommodates various RV sizes. "Electric sites have 20a, 30a, and 50a hookups so small trailers can use a normal extension cord," notes a teardrop trailer owner who appreciated this flexibility.
