Camping in the Burkeville, Virginia area offers a mix of wooded and lakeside sites across multiple state parks within a 30-mile radius. The region sits in Virginia's Piedmont at elevations between 400-500 feet, creating a humid climate during summer months that can reach into the 90s. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F, making spring and fall ideal seasons for glamping trips when temperatures moderate and seasonal colors enhance the landscape.
What to do
Astronomy and stargazing: At Staunton River State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy exceptional night sky viewing in a designated International Dark Sky Park. "If you love stargazing this is the park for you. It is an International Dark Sky Park. The park offers rentals of telescopes too," notes one camper who visited with grandchildren.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes in this region provide various fishing experiences for all skill levels. "We fished at the little catch and release pond successfully but didn't try out the catch and keep catfish pond," mentions a visitor to Cozy Acres Campground. At Twin Lakes, one camper reported success with "catfish and kept it for dinner."
Biking trails: The area offers several bike-friendly routes suitable for families. "If you have your bikes you definitely want to check out High Bridge. Go to the Paradise Rd. Entrance," recommends a visitor to Twin Lakes. Another camper at Powhatan State Park Campground noted it's "great for bicycling" with "very bike friendly and lots of trails."
Archery range: Some parks in the region provide unique recreational opportunities beyond standard camping activities. "There is even an archery range," reports a camper at Holliday Lake State Park, offering an alternative outdoor activity for those looking to try something new.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the layout and spacing of sites at certain parks in the region. "Sites are spaced well and still very close to everything," notes a camper at Powhatan State Park. At Holliday Lake State Park Campground, a visitor mentioned the campground is "completely off grid, and we like that! With busy jobs during the week it's nice to unwind and enjoy nature."
Clean facilities: Park maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors across multiple campgrounds. "Bathhouses are well maintained and clean," notes a Twin Lakes camper. Another visitor to Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground appreciated that "all sites have fire rings, lantern hooks, and extra long picnic tables."
Water recreation: The lakes serve as central features for most parks in the area. "We loved having the water right there and we loved watching them, it just requires extra vigilance," explained a Bear Creek Lake camper about camping with children at lakefront sites. At Holliday Lake, another camper shared, "We hike, fish, swim, kayak, rent a motor boat, and just relax at our campsite."
Astronomy programs: The designation as a Dark Sky location at Staunton River creates unique viewing opportunities. "The sky and stars were amazing! They also have a nature learning lab, some cool animals, and a fantastic gift shop," wrote an impressed visitor.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many parks in the area have spotty or non-existent connectivity. "No cell service to speak of. (We have Verizon but most of these places have none)," warns a camper at Holliday Lake State Park. This is common throughout the region's glamping locations, so plan accordingly.
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should come prepared with leveling equipment. "Bring leveling supplies! Some sites are reservable, some are not," advises a Holliday Lake visitor. At Kimball Point Campground, a camper warned, "Be warned that the sites vary pretty widely in size and grade."
Tent pad materials: The surface materials for tent camping vary by park. At Bear Creek Lake, a camper noted, "The tent pads are filled with shredded tires instead of gravel or dirt, which provides a little extra cushion, but can be uncomfortable on bare feet."
Water hazards: Lakefront sites require extra attention for families. "The water does provide a hazard if you have small children as it is not roped off in any way," cautions a Bear Creek Lake camper about waterfront sites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Twin Lakes State Park Campground offers supervised swimming options ideal for children. "The swimming area is so amazing. Great area for the kids to enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience," shares a family camper. The beach areas include lifeguards during peak season.
Educational programs: Many parks offer ranger-led activities specifically designed for younger visitors. "Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history. LOVE the staff," notes a visitor to Pocahontas State Park. At Staunton River State Park, a camper mentioned, "Park rangers had great kids programs including animal feeding frenzy where we learned about snakes and turtles."
Playground access: For families seeking built recreation options beyond natural features, several parks provide playground equipment. "They have a large playground for the kids and the roads are good for bike riding," reports a Twin Lakes camper, providing options for children between hiking and swimming activities.
Pet-friendly beach sections: Some parks accommodate families traveling with pets. A Bear Creek Lake visitor appreciated having "the dog only section at the swimming beach, which made for a fun afternoon with our pups."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When glamping in Burkeville with an RV, choosing the right site is crucial. At Cozy Acres Campground, a visitor recommends sites "at the back of the farm" which are "nice with a stone patio and everything is in walking distance." Check site descriptions carefully as many parks have size restrictions.
Electric options: Most parks offer limited electrical hookups. "Level sites with lots of shade. E/W only. Dump station," notes a Twin Lakes RV camper, referencing the electric/water options without full sewer connections at individual sites.
Premium sites: For glamping experiences with better views, waterfront options cost more but provide enhanced experiences. "The RV site was at the back of the farm and was nice with a stone patio," shares a Cozy Acres camper. At Kimball Point, a visitor noted, "We have a Class A and enjoyed the sites facing the lake."
Size restrictions: Many parks have limitations on RV length. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," warns a Bear Creek Lake camper, an important consideration for larger rigs seeking glamping options in the region.
