Camping options around Big Island, Virginia cluster along the Blue Ridge Parkway and within George Washington National Forest where elevations range from 700 to 4,000 feet. The region's forest service campgrounds typically operate from April through October with primitive sites remaining accessible year-round. Weather varies significantly with elevation, creating temperature differences of 5-10 degrees between valley and mountain campsites.
What to do
Hiking from camp to mountain summits: At Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp, trails connect directly to campsites. "There is ample hiking and the lake is something different to do," notes Chaz M., while another camper shares, "There's a lake nearby that you can walk or drive to. Some of us spent all day swimming, catching salamanders and tadpoles while some of us fished."
Fishing in stocked creeks: North Creek Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities with sites positioned along the water. "Backs up to a river so great atmosphere, especially when sleeping. Fire pit, picnic table, lateen holder, and parking spot. Vault toilets, no running water. Fantastic spot to fish too," reports Graham D.
Water activities for hot days: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge features multiple water features. A visitor mentions, "We partook in all we could and enjoyed the swimming hole, pool, splash pad, jumping pillow and arcade. I'd stay again and would love to head down to the river for some tubing and fish in the stocked pond."
What campers like
Privacy in forested settings: Many sites at George Washington National Forest off 812 offer seclusion with natural features. "Nice camping spot in George Washington NF. There are multiple spots along the road - some are drive in and some require you to park and walk in... The spot was nice and flat, backed up to a little creek and had an established stone fire ring," describes Sarah and James H.
Camping beside water: The sound of flowing water enhances many camping experiences in this region. At Oronoco Campground, a reviewer notes, "Nice spot, it's small but the sites are free and surrounded by clear mountain streams. We originally were only going to stay the night but liked it so much we stayed for three."
Wildlife encounters: Peaks Of Otter Campground offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Very territorial deer, will stalk you on way to dumpster!" warns Karen W., while other visitors report seeing salamanders and other forest creatures throughout the area.
What you should know
Primitive facilities at free sites: Oronoco Campground offers no-cost camping but minimal amenities. "The campground itself is pretty primitive, pit toilets and nothing more. There are some fire rings built by stones found around camp but not all the areas have them," explains Crystal C.
Variable water pressure: Some campgrounds experience inconsistent water pressure, particularly at sites farther from main facilities. At Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, a camper noted, "My water pressure was good but talking to other campers, the farther away you get from the front of the park the worse the water pressure gets."
Bear awareness requirements: Cave Mountain Lake requires proper food storage. "Be sure to read the bear recommendations and pack up your site accordingly and you'll have a wonderful time," advises Gloria G., highlighting the importance of wildlife safety protocols at campsites throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Natural Bridge KOA offers numerous options for children. "The kids liked the petting zoo," mentions Stephanie H., while another camper adds, "The bathrooms & private showers were amazing & clean. We didn't use the pool, but the kids enjoyed the Gameroom!"
Seasonal activities: Jellystone Park schedules special events throughout the season. "We had a great weekend with the whole family! There was a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging, laughing, loving, and hanging out!" shares Bridget H.
Nature exploration opportunities: Cave Mountain Lake provides natural discovery options. "Our boys loved playing in the stream and climbing the hill to get to our hammock on the site too. The lake has a beautiful view with green mountains surrounding it," reports Lanie B., highlighting the natural play areas available.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for leveling: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At Peaks of Otter, Jen V. explains, "It was a pull-through site with an additional area containing a picnic table and fire ring, accessible via a small set of steps up the hill. The whole campground is kind of 'carved' out of the mountain, and is therefore quite terraced in appearance."
Hookup availability varies widely: From primitive to full-service, RV sites offer different amenities. At Natural Bridge KOA, a camper reports, "We had a deluxe patio area. Which was on nice level concrete. Was not too close to the pool but there were rest rooms nearby."
Length restrictions on mountain roads: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. At North Creek Campground, a reviewer noted, "Some pretty large sites, 35' plus. Campground road may be tight for large rigs. Check website."
