Campgrounds near Cana, Virginia sit in the Blue Ridge Highlands region at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while fall brings dramatic foliage changes starting in mid-October. Winter camping opportunities remain available at several year-round campgrounds despite occasional snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers multiple waterfall hikes within the park boundaries. "Great hikes and area for the family. Beautiful scenery and some great swimming holes," notes Stacey S., highlighting the natural water features that provide cooling spots during summer months.
Climb Pilot Mountain: Pilot Mountain State Park Campground provides access to one of the region's most distinctive geological features. "I've been here several times, and it's one of my favorite places for toprope climbing in the area. If you're not a climber, the views are still worth the drive," explains DrDavid P. The mountain's unique pinnacle rises 2,000 feet, creating a landmark visible throughout the surrounding countryside.
Fish in stocked ponds: Beechnut Family Campground maintains fishing ponds for guests. "Great place to fish and swim with the family," says Dawn V. The campground provides water access without requiring travel to larger lakes or rivers, making it convenient for families with limited transportation.
Play yard games in open fields: Jomeokee Campground features expansive grassy areas perfect for outdoor activities. "The large grassy fields have lots of kids and adults playing ball and frisbee," notes Martha S. The campground's layout with both wooded sites and open spaces creates natural recreation zones.
What campers like
Mountain views from campsites: Utts Mountaintop Campground offers elevated perspectives of the surrounding landscape. "Utt's Campground is the hidden gem of VA! Not a fast paced family resort. But a calm quiet place to sit back, relax, feel the mountain breeze," reports Jason B. The campground's location at Fancy Gap provides panoramic vistas from many sites.
Privacy between sites: Stone Mountain State Park Campground offers more secluded camping experiences. "You just can't beat it. We camped here and didn't even leave. It has so much to do and see. We camped at RV site 40 and I think it's the best. There's a roaring large creek that flows behind the site and a grassy field full of deer beside it," shares Charli R.
Clean bathroom facilities: Hanging Rock State Park Campground maintains well-kept shower facilities. "The bathrooms were a mixed bag. On the plus side, the showers had hot water, which was a very welcome amenity after a day on the trails," notes David N. Campers consistently mention the importance of clean facilities when evaluating dog friendly campgrounds near Cana.
Affordable camping rates: Jomeokee Campground offers reasonable pricing for its location and amenities. "This was my first trip in my newly converted van, and it was more than I had hoped. Amazing views, clean bathrooms, hot showers, quiet neighbors, and a welcoming owner!!" says Rachel. Monthly rates at several campgrounds around Cana provide additional value for extended stays.
What you should know
Tent pad sizes vary significantly: Hanging Rock State Park Campground has different sized tent pads depending on site selection. "We stayed at Campsite 50, and while it was in a nice wooded area with plenty of shade and a decent amount of privacy, the tent pad was smaller than expected. We brought a 10-person tent, and it was a tight fit," warns David N.
Navigation challenges after dark: Jomeokee Campground can be difficult to navigate in low light conditions. "We arrived after dark and found it way too hard to navigate through the trees. We called the owner and he took us to a pull through site, which we greatly appreciated after traveling all day," reports Devin. First-time visitors should plan to arrive during daylight hours.
Weather considerations: Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground sits at a higher elevation where weather patterns can change quickly. "The tent pads are elevated 3-4 inches, outlined by horizontal timbers and backfilled with fine pea gravel and sand. Easy on the knees, tent floor and when inserting tent stakes," notes one camper, highlighting the drainage considerations for mountain camping.
Campground entrance closures: Pilot Mountain State Park enforces strict gate hours. "The park does require a two-night minimum stay if camping over a holiday weekend. Also be aware that the campground entrance closes at 10 pm. You will not be able to enter or exit until the gate opens the next morning," explains a reviewer. Pet owners should plan accordingly for dog friendly campgrounds near Cana.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campground playgrounds: Mayberry Campground offers dedicated play areas for children. "Great family friendly, pet loving campground. Most sites are spacious, all rv sites have full hookups. There are a few tent sites close to office," states L T. "There's 2 good-sized ponds for catch and release and also 2 kids playgrounds," adds another camper.
Choose campgrounds with water features: Homeplace Recreational Park includes water recreation options. "Great park with one of the best pools in the area," says Matt H. Another camper notes, "Water park is awesome. Large trail to go for a little walk. Very reasonably priced."
Check for easy hiking trails: Pilot Mountain State Park offers trails appropriate for various ages. "Most of the trails were very easy, but the view on top of Stone Mountain was nice," mentions Maggie J. When selecting pet-friendly options, verify trail policies as some dog friendly campgrounds near Cana restrict pets on certain trails.
Reserve early for holiday weekends: Campgrounds throughout the Cana region fill quickly during peak seasons. "This place is full on the weekends so reserve in advance," advises Jason E. regarding Mayberry Campground. Holiday weekends often require bookings 3-6 months in advance at popular locations.
Tips from RVers
Be cautious of steep campground roads: Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA has elevation changes that can challenge larger rigs. "We stayed here for vacation last year. There's a nice dog park, and the facilities are clean. My only negative was that they had us camp up on the top of the hill and it was difficult to navigate back down, with some very sharp turns for our fifth wheel," shares Megan B.
Check site lengths carefully: Campgrounds often have varying site dimensions even within the same facility. "Individual camp sites are rather spacious, and offer 40-50' between sites. Gravel parking pads are different lengths and shapes (most appear long enough for a pop-up or medium length RV/Camper)," reports one camper about a local park.
Look for firewood delivery services: Several campgrounds offer convenience services for RVers. "Firewood can be delivered to your site. They'll lead you to your site and help you get situated if necessary," notes Jean C. about Fancy Gap KOA. This service saves RVers from disconnecting tow vehicles after setting up.
Consider seasonal rates for longer stays: Utts Campground offers extended stay options. "The monthly rates are super reasonable," mentions Jason B. RVers planning multi-week visits can find significant savings at campgrounds offering weekly and monthly rate structures.
