Kerr Lake forms the center point for camping near Boydton, Virginia, with 800 miles of shoreline stretching across the Virginia-North Carolina border. The region sits at approximately 300 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak camping months. Fall camping offers cooler temperatures and colorful foliage while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Stargazing sessions: Staunton River State Park Campground provides exceptional dark sky viewing as an International Dark Sky Park. "The park has been recognized as International Dark sky and there are two telescopes that can be checked out for free at the visitor's center," notes a visitor who appreciated the astronomy opportunities.
Lake activities: J.C. Cooper Campground offers excellent water access points for various activities. "Great for swimming, kayaking, SUP, and other water activities," writes one camper who stayed at the Satterwhite Point area. Many sites provide direct water access without requiring a trip to designated beaches.
Historical exploration: The Plantation Trail at Occoneechee State Park Campground features remnants of an old homestead. "We hiked the Plantation Trail, a large historical site that was once a homestead. Mellow, family-friendly walk with a cemetery, historical markers, and an old chimney," shares a visitor who explored the cultural history.
Wildlife viewing: The parks surrounding Boydton support diverse wildlife spotting opportunities. "While staying there I saw a skunk, a groundhog, several deer and a great variety of birds," reports a camper at Staunton River State Park, highlighting the natural ecosystem available for nature enthusiasts.
What campers like
Private beach areas: At J.C. Cooper Campground, waterfront sites often include secluded shore access. "We were able to secure a spot right on the lake with a private sandy walk in. The area was gorgeous and the camping area was shaded," explains a reviewer who enjoyed their personal lakefront area.
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at Hibernia Campground receive consistent praise for maintenance. "The bathrooms here are impeccable, best of any campground we've been to," comments one visitor who stayed for 10 days, noting the exceptional standard of cleanliness.
Shade coverage: Many sites throughout the region offer tree cover for summer heat relief. "Many shaded sites for RVs and tents," notes a camper at Hibernia Campground who appreciated the natural cooling during warm weather months. This feature becomes particularly important during July and August when temperatures routinely climb into the 90s.
Site spacing: Hibernia Campground offers well-separated camping spots. "The park staff dropped by every few days just to visit and share information. It was so peaceful. Lots of hiking and biking too," writes a camper who valued the privacy between sites compared to more crowded camping areas.
What you should know
Site surfaces: Many tent pads throughout the region use gravel or sand surfaces rather than soil. "It IS on sand, so be prepared to clean out your tent afterwards," cautions a camper at J.C. Cooper Campground, highlighting the need to bring appropriate gear for sandy conditions.
Hose requirements: Water hookups at some campgrounds require longer hoses than standard. "NOTE - to bring at least 75 feet of water hose, as some sites have long runs from in front of camper," advises a visitor to J.C. Cooper Campground, providing specific equipment needs for RVers.
Seasonal closures: Certain campground loops close during off-season months. "We're weren't right on the water but can see the lake from the camper," explains a visitor at Thousand Trails Lake Gaston, noting that prime waterfront spots can be limited during certain seasons.
Insects: The lakefront location means dealing with various insects. "Nice and quiet campground. Plenty of bugs including pesky horse flies," reports a North Bend Park visitor who found the insects bothersome but not enough to ruin their experience. Bug spray with DEET becomes essential during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Many campsites provide direct water access for swimming without traveling to designated beaches. "This is probably our favorite thus far. We like the lake and it's easily accessible. We're weren't right on the water but can see the lake from the camper," shares a family who stayed at Thousand Trails Lake Gaston.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. "It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade. We'll be back!" notes a parent about recreational options at Thousand Trails Lake Gaston that kept children entertained.
Educational programs: Staunton River State Park offers ranger-led activities for children. "Park rangers had great kids programs including animal feeding frenzy where we learned about snakes and turtles and we invoked in feeding. Also lots of any pelts to learn about," explains a family who participated in the educational offerings.
Site selection for convenience: Families should research bathhouse proximity when booking. "Yurt 1 is a bit of a walk to the bathrooms, that is the only negative thing I can think of," advises a parent who stayed at Occoneechee State Park, highlighting the importance of considering facilities when traveling with children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Several campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. "Site 65, as well as others in the immediate area, are listed as 'level' but that is far from reality," warns an RVer at Hibernia, suggesting bringing adequate leveling blocks even when sites claim to be level.
Overflow parking: The RV Resort at Carolina Crossroads provides solutions for oversize rigs. "Despite it saying it was 60 ft, spot was still tight. You can't park on grass so we moved to overflow parking," explains an RVer with a 42-foot fifth wheel, offering practical advice for handling size constraints.
Site selection for large rigs: Not all sites accommodate bigger RVs despite claims. "Conveniently right off of I-95. Off enough so there isn't any highway noise. Beautiful facilities. Including concrete slabs to park on," shares an RVer about RV Resort At Carolina Crossroads, noting the paved surfaces that make setup easier.
Seasonal preparation: Winter RV camping requires additional planning. "The winter RV facilities are good, but in the winter time they turn off the water to all sites. Water is available at a nearby spigot," notes a winter camper, emphasizing the need to prepare for seasonal service changes that affect hookups.
