Glamping cabins and yurts in Blue Ridge, Virginia offer elevated camping experiences at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. The area's moderate climate features warm days and cooler nights during summer months, with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby valley regions. Several campgrounds remain accessible year-round with heated accommodations, though water access at tent sites often closes from November through March.
What to do
Creek exploration: Middle Creek Campground offers direct water access at select sites. "The campsites were nice, fairly private and backed up to a creek. Relatively level site," notes Katie, who visited with friends in a 20-foot trailer.
Wildlife viewing: Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA maintains a small farm animal area on the property. "They had a very nice nature trail as well as chickens running around and baby goats in a pen," reports Karen, who appreciated these quieter animal encounters.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds stock their ponds and streams with trout during season. "It's $8 a day for a fishing pass and you can rent John boats or kayaks here as well. In season the lake and creek are stocked with plenty of Rainbow trout," explains John R. about his experience at Douthat State Park Campground.
Mountain biking: Trails throughout the region accommodate cyclists of varying skill levels. "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. And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!" shares Robyn S. about Douthat State Park.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: The tent areas at many campgrounds provide more privacy than RV sections. At Middle Creek Campground, Robbie M. notes, "We like getting the sites which are right next to the creek because the kids will play in the water all day."
Star viewing: The Blue Ridge region offers exceptional night skies with minimal light pollution. "Boy are there some amazing stars out here," comments Jonny D. about his experience at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground.
Lake activities: Water recreation remains a top draw for campers. "The lake was super calm, clear and not too cold. We went out kayaking and swam out in the open," Sarah M. shares about her time at Smith Mountain Lake, where waterfront glamping options include lake-view yurts.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide ample room between sites. "These campsites are close enough to the showers/restrooms without compromising all of your privacy. Sites are close enough to meet the neighbors though. Sites are nice and have room for parking," explains Chris L. about his camping experience.
What you should know
Weather variations: Mountain elevation creates significant temperature changes. "We camped at Bolar Mountain for two nights in mid may in our travel trailer. It was early season, mid-May, so there were few other campers around," notes Lisa, who enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere at their creekside site.
Seasonal availability: Some amenities close during cooler months. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge, a camper notes, "During peak season there is also a water play area with a waterslide and mini golf. It is located on the James River."
Reservation planning: Popular glamping units book quickly, especially during summer and fall. For tent campers at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, Crystal C. advises, "If you want a primitive site book well in advance. These are apparently quite a difficult ticket to score at this camp."
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across the region. One camper at Middle Creek Campground stated, "Mostly seasonal campers, but an idyllic environment. I am parked alongside a babbling brook. Poor cell reception, no tv. A forced off the grid experience."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Children particularly enjoy the water features at several campgrounds. At Thunder Bridge, Eben O. explains, "At one edge is a forest creek, great for wading." This provides a perfect activity for younger children seeking relief from summer heat.
Educational programs: Take advantage of ranger-led activities. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks. Our camp hosts were great at keeping us informed and sharing ideas to make the weekend fun," shares Angela J. about her family's experience at Claytor Lake State Park.
Themed weekends: Some campgrounds offer special activities on select dates. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Kathleen M. reports, "The campground has Halloween themed activities for kids on specific weekends. We were there for one of these weekends. It's geared for younger kids (10 and under)."
Playground options: Many campsites include play areas for different age groups. "There are also a couple of playgrounds, two bouncy pads, basketball court, and gaga ball," notes Bridget H. about the recreational options available for families at Jellystone Park during her fall camping trip.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request specific areas based on your needs. At Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, Martha S. advises, "We were here in mid Sept and in site 15. It was a very small site with a half deck. If we had camper with slide, we would not have been able to use our slide in this site."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Great job building level sites in a hillside. Easy in and out. Clean facilities," notes Marletta & Ed M. about their experience at Natural Bridge KOA.
Access considerations: Mountain roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. Crystal C. suggests, "Call ahead about RV lengths to make sure you are booking the correct site for your size. I noticed more than a few people struggling with their units and some of this could have been avoided with proper booking."
Premium site options: Several campgrounds offer upgraded RV sites with additional amenities. "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," shares mae about her stay at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA.
