Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground sits at 800 feet elevation near Big Island, Virginia, providing access to a 20,000-acre reservoir with 500 miles of shoreline. The area experiences mild spring and fall temperatures with summer highs regularly reaching 85-90°F. Most glamping sites in Big Island, Virginia open from April through October, though some premium accommodations remain available year-round.
What to do
Trail exploration: Blue Ridge Parkway access points near Otter Creek Campground offer day hiking options for all skill levels. "The Otter Creek Trail was challenging but definitely doable. Highly recommended for outdoor youth groups that want to unplug and get back to basics," notes Chris S.
Fishing opportunities: Stocked waterways provide reliable catches at Montebello Resort where you can fish without a license in their dedicated trout pond. "The trout pond is not what they make it out to be on the website. It's a very small pond with zero shade at the entrance of the resort. It is not catch and release, it is catch and keep, whatever you catch, you pay for power pound," explains Adrian K.
Watercraft rental: Several campgrounds offer paddle boats and kayaks for guests to use on their private lakes and ponds. "There is a nice small lake. The campsite provides kayaks and paddle boats as well, at no charge," reports Anthony I. about Montebello Resort's amenities.
What campers like
Private creek access: Tent sites at Middle Creek Campground feature personal stream frontage. "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," shares Robbie M.
Guided check-in service: Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA provides personalized site assistance. "I was impressed with this campground from the minute I entered it. We were greeted at the entrance and then sent to an escort you smartly showed us to our site by taking the same path at the RV should take; making wise returns and so on," notes Kevin M.
Seasonal themes: Halloween events create unique camping experiences. "There was a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging, laughing, loving, and hanging out!" described one camper at another area campground during fall festivities.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Most glamping options near Big Island have limited connectivity. "No Cell service or Internet but that was what I was looking for," mentions Dan D. about Douthat State Park Campground. Another reviewer notes, "Nearest cell signal is about ten miles up at the House Mountain Overlook."
Reservation requirements: Premium sites and cabins book quickly, especially during peak seasons. "If you want a primitive site book well in advance. These are apparently quite a difficult ticket to score at this camp," advises Crystal C.
Bathroom distance: Consider site location relative to facilities when booking. "My site was even and pretty basic despite having electricity. It was just across from the deluxe cabins and close to the restroom which I liked," shares one camper, while another mentions, "But biggest drawback was distance to bathroom which I had to drive to."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Crabtree Falls Campground provides natural water features for kids to enjoy. "This campground sits along a river fed by a waterfall just a short hike away. It is the perfect blend of peace and nature as it has a tone of shade making it a perfect summer camp spot," describes Summer M.
Organized activities: Many parks schedule regular events for children. "A lot of things to do around this area" mentions one reviewer, while another elaborates, "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."
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds feature small petting zoos or farm animals. "We didn't use the pool, but the kids enjoyed the Gameroom! Of everything we used there, the only thing to mention that was dirty was the game room. But I'll take that, we were very impressed with the playground, dog park & they even had chickens & a petting farm upon entry," describes Carey R.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds near Big Island. "It has all you want if you love outdoors: lake, hiking trails, horseback riding trails, RV's site, tent site, cabins..." mentions Wilfredo D. about Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground, but another camper points out "The sites are older cement and not as level."
Premium pull-through options: Some parks have added concrete pad sites for larger vehicles. "They had brand new premium pull through sites that were amazing! Big patios, bbq grill, tables, fire pit. It was a quiet, well laid out and easy to manage in our 36 ft trailer," raves Mae about one local KOA.
Access road considerations: Follow recommended routes when towing. "Be aware; there is zero cell service at the campground. To get decent service it's a bit of a drive. Also FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS ON THE CAMPGROUND WEBSITE. VA56 is a very windy road not recommended for pulling a camper through. Use the blue ridge parkway," advises Quinn G.
