Camping options near Barboursville, Virginia extend beyond the luxury accommodations at popular glamping destinations. Located in the Virginia Piedmont region at elevations around 500 feet, the area experiences moderate seasonal temperatures with summer highs averaging 86°F and winter lows near 25°F. Campers can access diverse terrain from river-adjacent sites to mountain-view campgrounds within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
River activities: 15-minute drive to Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground where visitors can access multiple water-based options. "The primitive spots are right next to the river. The spots are a short walk from the parking area and the campground provides wagons to transport your stuff. Great fishing and swimming right at your camping spot," notes Matt P.
Biking trails: multiple difficulty levels at Powhatan State Park Campground, which has dedicated paths for cyclists of varying experience levels. "The park has lots of trails, miles of open meadows, and James River access. Great park for bicycling," reports RL.
Hiking with views: kid-friendly options available at Big Meadows Campground with numerous trail connections. "So many trails to explore, walk to the Lodge, Wayside, Visitor Center and more," explains Jaclyn B. The campground serves as an excellent base for day hikes.
What campers like
Private sites: well-spaced layouts at Lake Anna State Park Campground provide good separation between campers. "Campers can choose sites with or without electricity. The bath house was clean, and I especially liked the privacy of individual shower rooms," writes Myron C.
Clean facilities: regularly maintained bathrooms at Christopher Run Campground stand out in visitor reviews. "Staff were wonderful, huge place that is well kept, trails are trimmed back daily. Bathrooms are individual with a shower in each one," shares Lisa P.
Wildlife viewing: deer sightings common throughout many Barboursville area campgrounds, particularly at Big Meadows. "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached," reports Veronica S.
What you should know
Reservation planning: book early for peak seasons, especially at popular locations like Harrisonburg-Shenandoah Valley KOA. "When we booked our site we didn't realize that most of the property is on a hill. Each camper was rather tight and we felt like we were staying at an RV show, that's how crowded it felt," cautions Mary C.
Elevation considerations: temperature variations occur between valley and mountain sites. Winter glamping near Barboursville requires preparation for cold nights. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," notes Carol B.
Site selection impacts: research thoroughly before booking as campsite features vary significantly. "The primitive sites have boat access to the river but might be in the flood zone if the river is high," advises RL about Powhatan State Park's water-adjacent sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: multiple options for children at Shenandoah River State Park. "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," recommends Sam M.
Educational opportunities: ranger programs available seasonally at Big Meadows Campground. "Campground is meticulously clean with daily restroom cleaning and trash pick up. Very small campground store on site but a much larger store at visitor center. Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," explains Kim L.
Kid-friendly amenities: dedicated areas for children at various glamping sites near Barboursville. "The kids loved running off in the open field and playing on the zip line. We loved that we could see them from our site. The birthday boy also loved the outdoor laser tag!" shares Jen O.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: prepare equipment as some sites require adjustments. "We probably made a mistake coming on a holiday weekend. Many 'holiday' campers with extra vehicles, boats and people! The sites are good size, but not very level. We did finally get ours squared away," reports Joel R.
Hookup variations: verify services before booking as offerings differ significantly between campgrounds. "Some full hookups. Tent sites, numerous semi-permanent people. Showers and bathrooms are clean, hot water, but it's timed, so you have to keep pushing their buttons to continue a shower," explains Joel R. about Christopher Run Campground.
Dump station access: plan accordingly as not all sites offer full sewer connections. "No full hookup (yes 30/50 amp). Well maintained trails, level sites. No river access in campground," notes Ashley I. about Powhatan State Park Campground's facilities.
