Camping cabins near Roanoke, Virginia range from rustic to modern accommodations set among the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F and winter temperatures dipping below freezing. Many cabin sites throughout the Jefferson and George Washington National Forests offer direct water access to creeks and lakes.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: At Peaks of Otter Campground, campers can access numerous hiking options directly from their sites. "There is a nice-looking lodge and restaurant on the (gorgeous) lake right around the corner from the campground, as well as an NPS visitor center, hiking trails, and a shuttle bus service that takes you to the top of one of the three peaks for which the area is named," notes one visitor who found the trails well-marked.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Spend time paddling or fishing at Douthat State Park where visitors have access to both lake and stream fishing. "The lake is nice, and there is nice hiking along the shore," mentions one camper. Another notes, "A stream runs beside the campground and the lake, though small, is nice to paddle around in a kayak. We arrived the day after trout stocking and so there were quite a few fishermen in the stream and on the lake."
Mountain biking options: Trails throughout the region provide opportunities for off-road cycling adventures. One visitor to Douthat State Park reported, "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear. Beautiful country roads. And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!"
What campers like
Private creekside sites: Many campgrounds offer water-adjacent spots that campers particularly value. At Middle Creek Campground, "Our campsite was nice, fairly private and backed up to a creek. Relatively level site." Another visitor explains why they return annually: "We camp here annually with my wife's side of the family. We love it. We like getting the sites which are right next to the creek because the kids will play in the water all day."
Wooded, secluded camping areas: Heavily forested sites provide separation between campers. At Peaks of Otter, reviewers note the "heavily wooded, secluded feel" with one mentioning, "The setting was heavily wooded, so the shade combined with the higher elevation made for a very cool, pleasant retreat from the July heat." Another describes how "Sites were very clean and well taken care of. There are tons of campsites available but they are spaced out enough to still feel secluded."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently comment on the cleanliness of bathhouses and common areas. At Claytor Lake State Park, "The bathrooms and shower facilities were clean and convenient to our campsite. The campsite was large and quiet which was nice. It felt somewhat private because of the trees and design of the site."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds have limited availability outside summer months. "This campground is open year round and is right off the highway," notes one visitor to Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, making it a reliable option throughout the year. However, at other locations, pools, splash pads, and some amenities only operate during peak season.
Variable site privacy: Campground layouts differ significantly across the region. At Douthat State Park, a camper observed, "The sites are large but there really aren't trees between sites although we were on a corner and so had some sense of privacy." Assess site maps carefully when booking.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the mountainous terrain. Middle Creek Campground has "poor cell reception, no tv. A forced off the grid experience," according to one camper. Similarly, in more remote areas, plan for limited connectivity.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for interactions with local fauna. "Very territorial deer, will stalk you on way to dumpster!" warns one camper at Peaks of Otter Campground. Another Douthat State Park visitor reported seeing a black bear while biking on the main road.
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water features. "There were a ton of things for the kids to do here which was great. I really enjoyed the water park myself as it was in the high 90's/low 100's when we were there," shares one family. Another details that "During peak season there is also a water play area with a waterslide and mini golf. It is located on the James River."
Organized activities: Some campgrounds provide structured recreation programming. At Jellystone Park, a camper noted, "Rec staff had awesome activities planned and kept the kids entertained all week with kick ball and karaoke and shaving cream wiffle ball and dance parties."
Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds with ranger-led programs. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks," mentions a Claytor Lake visitor whose family enjoyed the educational component of their stay. "Our camp hosts were great at keeping us informed and sharing ideas to make the weekend fun."
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential, particularly near water. A Douthat State Park visitor advised, "My only advise would be to bring bug spray- especially in the summer. Those black flies were relentless!"
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs easily. At Chantilly Farm, "getting there was quite a journey over narrow curvy roads but once there it was a nice area. We stayed in a full hookup site 8 on top of a hill overlooking other areas of the park." Another RVer noted, "They have sites for everyone and every type of camping!"
Full hookup availability: Services vary between campgrounds. Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA provides comprehensive amenities with "lots of pull thru sites, full hook up, even have dog park and laundry," and staff that "even guided you to your site and help you level."
Campground terrain: Level sites can be difficult to find in mountainous areas. At Peaks of Otter Campground, "the campsites are not level - and we had the best of the lot." Another mentioned the unique layout: "The whole campground is kind of 'carved' out of the mountain, and is therefore quite terraced in appearance."
