Best Campgrounds near Blue Ridge, VA

Camping near Blue Ridge, Virginia, offers a mix of stunning nature and cozy campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the area. Many campers rave about the hiking opportunities, especially near Sherando Lake Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The campground is located very close to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Skyline drive. What a beautiful drive on the parkway."
• Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the lakes. At Douthat State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the swimming area, although one noted, "Swimming in this beautiful and very swimmable and safe lake is limited to a kiddie area."
• Fishing: Cast a line in the local lakes. Campers at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground enjoy fishing, with one saying, "The lake beach area is particularly nice and staffed by lifeguards."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA said, "Park is fantastic, best I’ve ever seen for cleanliness and friendly staff."
• Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. One reviewer at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area mentioned, "The site was nice sized and shaded," highlighting the comfort of their camping experience.
• Friendly Hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A camper at Crabtree Falls Campground shared, "AJ, the owner, was great from the day we called to make our reservation to the day we checked out."

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor or no cell service. A visitor at Devil’s Backbone Camp noted, "No Verizon or ATT cell service I could find and no WiFi."
• Water Access: Some campgrounds may have limited water access. A reviewer at Sherando Lake Campground mentioned, "You have to fill with water; there is a fill station across from the beach parking area."
• Seasonal Availability: Check the camping season for each site. For example, Douthat State Park Campground is open from May to September.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. At Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, one camper noted, "There is a small swimming pool that the kids were enjoying."
• Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. A family at Canoe Landing Group Campsite enjoyed the trails, saying, "Nice trails for the kiddos and adults."
• Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled for fun. A camper at Claytor Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The campsite was large and quiet which was nice."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the right hookups. A visitor at Devil’s Backbone Camp warned, "The water, electric and sewer hookups are on the wrong side for half of the RV sites."
• Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A reviewer at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area noted, "The electric showed 30 & 50 amp yet the 30 amp was disconnected."
• Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A camper at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Dump station (just one) muddy and could use a larger concrete 'curb' and some gravel."

Camping near Blue Ridge, Virginia, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a memorable experience!