Buchanan, Virginia camping options sit between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Alleghany Highlands at elevations ranging from 820 to 1,200 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s°F while winter lows can drop below freezing. Jefferson National Forest provides a backdrop of dense woodlands with stream-fed camping areas that stay cooler than surrounding lowlands.
What to do
Hiking on nearby trails: Access points to the Appalachian Trail are available near Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. "There is plenty to do around this area," notes camper Ron H., who extended a planned 2-night stay when discovering the hiking options. The Jefferson National Forest offers numerous day hikes with varying difficulty levels.
Fishing for trout: The spillway at Gathright Dam provides excellent trout fishing opportunities near Morris Hill Campground. "The spillway located down in the bottom of the dam offers great trout fishing area," explains Steven. The James River and nearby Jennings Creek also provide fishing access points with several stocked areas.
Swimming at dedicated beaches: Coles Point Beach at Lake Moomaw offers swimming access with family-friendly amenities. "On the opposite side of the boat parking area there is a beach area for swimming. Soft sand and also a Volleyball net if you want to punch the ball around for a few," notes Steven about this recreation area near Morris Hill Campground.
Mountain biking on forest roads: The area around Douthat State Park features challenging terrain for mountain bikers. "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back," shares Robyn S., who also notes, "the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!"
What campers like
Privacy of creekside sites: At Middle Creek Campground, tent sites are positioned along flowing water. "We like getting the sites which are right next to the creek because the kids will play in the water all day," explains Robbie M. about their annual family trips to this location that offers upscale glamping in Buchanan, Virginia.
Swimming ponds with water features: Unique water amenities distinguish luxury camping options. "The lake was super fun and such a cool idea to have the slides and trampolines," shares Amanda, describing the swimming facilities at Middle Creek Campground, which features inflatable water activities beyond standard pools.
Nature trails accessible from sites: Otter Creek Campground provides direct trail access from camping areas. "The creek ran right through our spacious and secluded site. It was quiet and serene," notes Rosie R. Trails ranging from easy to moderate connect directly to many camping areas without requiring vehicle transportation.
Dark night skies for stargazing: Smith Mountain Lake State Park offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "Boy are there some amazing stars out here," comments Jonny D. The elevated position of many campsites provides unobstructed views of constellations and occasional meteor showers.
What you should know
Off-season staffing limitations: Some privately operated campgrounds reduce personnel during shoulder seasons. "In the shoulder season the campground isn't staffed often, but what do you expect when it's not busy?" notes Robbie M. about Middle Creek Campground. This can affect firewood availability, check-in procedures, and amenity access.
Variable cell phone coverage: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, visitors report reliable connectivity for streaming, while Morris Hill campers describe "spotty" service with approximately "2 bars" in most locations. This variability affects navigation and emergency communication options.
Seasonal lake conditions: Water quality in swimming areas can change throughout summer. "We saw all sorts of dead fish in it. It was gross, some of the other campers said it was normal for the campground to have dead fish and dead snakes in the lake," reports Angela R. about one lake in late summer. Spring and early summer typically offer cleaner swimming conditions.
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility upkeep differs between public and private campgrounds. "The bathrooms got a fresh coat of paint. The roads through the campground were recently groomed with new crushed gravel. All of the picnic tables and sidewalks were being power washed," notes Andrea N. about preparation efforts at Middle Creek Campground for the high season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling for kids: Jellystone Park offers structured recreation programs. "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," explains Matt R. These organized events typically run from morning through early evening during peak season.
Campsite selection for play space: Choose sites with natural play features when possible. "Most of the lower tent sites have direct access to the creek," notes Andrea N. about Middle Creek Campground, where children can wade safely while remaining visible from camp chairs.
Inflatable water activities: Several glamping facilities in Buchanan provide unique water recreation beyond standard pools. "A lake to swim in with fun inflatable slides and trampoline and a pool," mentions Amanda about Middle Creek Campground, which maintains a dedicated swimming pond separate from fishing areas.
Playground accessibility: Natural Bridge KOA provides multiple play options for different ages. "This KOA is one of our favorites. Open year round. Very clean showers. Pool and activities for kids," shares Misty C. Most playgrounds are centrally located rather than adjacent to individual campsites.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "We took a site up their gravel road away from the main campground area. We had a fabulous site tucked beside a little brook, very peaceful and quiet," explains Lisa about Middle Creek Campground, noting the trade-off between prime locations and level pads.
Premium sites availability: Natural Bridge KOA offers upgraded sites worth the additional cost. "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, who found the amenities justified the premium pricing.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warns Jeremy W. about one area of Douthat State Park. Most campground websites don't highlight these access limitations.
Utility reliability factors: Water and electrical systems vary by season and usage. "Power and water are reliable. There is one dumping station," notes Scott B. about Smith Mountain Lake State Park, where facilities remain consistent even during peak demand periods.
