Best Campgrounds near Big Island, VA

Searching for the best camping near Big Island, VA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Big Island, VA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Big Island, Virginia (98)

    1. Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA

    29 Reviews
    Natural Bridge, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2770

    $35 / night

    "This campground is open year round and is right off the highway.  There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park. "

    "Located in a beautiful part of central Virginia, this campground gives you lots of options for sightseeing. It is definitely worth a trip to the Natural Bridge."

    2. Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA

    14 Reviews
    Big Island, VA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 299-5228

    "We stopped here overnight on a trip from Chicago to Virginia Beach. We had reserved a pull through but were just short in length and had to disconnect the tow vehicle for the night."

    "There was plenty for kids to do playground, pool, jump pillow, fishing pond and hiking trails. The tent site was amazing right by the pond. The fire pit has a grate for cooking."

    3. Otter Creek Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    14 Reviews
    Big Island, VA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 299-5125

    $30 / night

    "Great all around virginia campsite"

    "Alternative to crowded Shenandoah campgrounds, although is a good drive away <60+ miles away from entrance."

    4. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

    18 Reviews
    Natural Bridge Station, VA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    $20 - $40 / night

    "These sites are slightly more rugged, and best for smaller tents; site 35 however is both large, flat, and private, and is next to the trailhead to one of the campground's hiking trails."

    "Site was spacious and pleasantly situated for our 17' travel trailer. Clean bathrooms and shower."

    5. George Washington National Forest off 812

    12 Reviews
    Glasgow, VA
    5 miles
    Website

    "There are multiple spots along the road - some are drive in and some require you to park and walk in. Definitely get there early to get a prime spot."

    "There's access to the App Trail on the road so you might see some hikers but it was real quiet otherwise."

    6. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge

    15 Reviews
    Natural Bridge Station, VA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2727

    $39 - $241 / night

    "Right next to the James River for all of your fishing needs. Have a pool, splash pad, pond/lake with a slide, beach, inflatable obstacle course, have an arcade room, and 2 additional water slides."

    "Lots of stuff for kids, very close to river for tubing, reservation system in place because of Covid prevention guideline for swimming which worked out really well for kids... not many activities due to"

    7. Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    21 Reviews
    Thaxton, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 586-7321

    $30 / night

    "Picked for price

    Quiet

    Enjoyed Blueridge parkway

    NIce retreat in SW Virginia"

    "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."

    8. Oronoco Campground

    15 Reviews
    Buena Vista, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    "It should be noted that the warning about water moccasins posted previously is inaccurate as there are no water moccasins in this part of Virginia."

    "Only thing is that there’s a dog, we think from a property nearby, that acts aggressive towards campers."

    9. North Creek Campground

    8 Reviews
    Buchanan, VA
    12 miles
    Website

    $30 / night

    "Our camping trip in Virginia was a step into serene simplicity for just $15. Nestled in a beautiful forest, we found peace with no electricity, no internet, and no phone signals—just pure nature."

    "The gravel road going around the tent loop was really loud, and there was a cabin behind our site that had a lot of activity and noise for awhile, but all was quiet after 10p."

    10. Natural Bridge KOA

    8 Reviews
    Natural Bridge, VA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 562-8514

    "This KOA was a very nice surprise given that it was right off the highway. We only were there for 1 night and we didn't hear any highway noise."

    "Was not too close to the pool but there were rest rooms nearby. We only stayed one night but was a nice area. The kids likes the petting zoo."

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Showing results 1-10 of 98 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Big Island, VA

662 Reviews of 98 Big Island Campgrounds



Guide to Big Island

Camping near Big Island, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Sherando Lake Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The park is darker than some, and we had a great view of the sunset." The trails lead to stunning views and are perfect for all skill levels.
  • Swimming: Enjoy the sandy beach at Sherando Lake Campground. A camper shared, "The lake is beautiful and refreshing. You can swim out to an island if you want to."
  • Fishing: Cast a line at Douthat State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "You can keep the trout for dinner if you like!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. A visitor said, "The bath/shower facility was very clean and fairly new."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites at Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp. One camper mentioned, "The campsites are spaced out good," which adds to the overall experience.
  • Friendly Staff: The welcoming atmosphere at Crabtree Falls Campground is a highlight. A reviewer stated, "AJ, the owner, was great from the day we called to make our reservation."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Devil’s Backbone Camp, have poor cell reception. One camper noted, "No Verizon or ATT cell service I could find and no WiFi."
  • Water Issues: Be aware of potential water problems at Sherando Lake Campground. A visitor reported, "Major water problems with the entire park," which could affect your stay.
  • Bear Precautions: At Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp, campers should be cautious about bears. One camper mentioned, "There are signs warning everyone with instructions on how to avoid a bear visit."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Douthat State Park Campground that offer hiking and fishing. A family shared, "The grandchildren love it! Great camping, nice beach and swim area."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Some campgrounds, like Canoe Landing Group Campsite, may have noisy neighbors. One camper advised, "If you want to camp at a redneck state park, go for it."
  • Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring everything you need, as some campgrounds like Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA have limited stores nearby. A visitor noted, "There is a small store and gas station not far from the campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Layout: At Devil’s Backbone Camp, some RV sites have awkward layouts. One reviewer said, "The water, electric and sewer hookups are on the wrong side for half of the RV sites."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Campgrounds like Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. A camper mentioned, "All of them looked well maintained."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some sites can be tricky to navigate. A visitor at Peaks Of Otter Campground noted, "The campsites can be tricky to get into depending on your vehicle."

Camping near Big Island, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Big Island, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Big Island, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 98 campgrounds and RV parks near Big Island, VA and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Big Island, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Big Island, VA is Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA with a 4.6-star rating from 29 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Big Island, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Big Island, VA.

What parks are near Big Island, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Big Island, VA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.