Tent camping near Cana, Virginia provides access to both the Blue Ridge Mountains and New River Valley, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet throughout the region. The area experiences moderate rainfall averaging 44 inches annually, making waterproof gear essential even during summer months. Most primitive campsites require permits that must be obtained prior to arrival.
What to do
River activities: New River Yacht Club offers waterfront tent sites with easy river access. "Make sure to check out their rentals to make the most of your stay," suggests one visitor. The campground maintains riverside tent spots ideal for fishing and paddling.
Cycling adventures: The 57-mile trail system throughout New River Trail State Park features relatively flat terrain suitable for beginners. Bike rentals are available at Foster Falls within the park, with daily rates around $7-10 per hour. Multiple trail access points exist between Galax and Pulaski.
Hiking exploration: Basin Cove provides excellent trail access. A camper notes, "The site is surrounded by excellent hiking trails and is a great place to set as 'base camp' for day hikes." Most trails in the area maintain moderate difficulty ratings suitable for intermediate hikers.
What campers like
Riverside sounds: Many tent sites along the New River provide natural sound barriers from other campers. At Basin Cove, one camper appreciated that the "campsite is right next to the creek—fun to hear the water at night. Stars are amazing!"
Privacy between sites: Homeplace Recreational Park offers tent camping areas with good separation between sites. "This campground is very clean and the staff is great. Water park is awesome. Large trail to go for a little walk," reports one visitor. Most tent areas maintain buffer zones of at least 25-30 feet between sites.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide swimming access during summer months. At Homeplace Recreational Park, one camper mentioned they have "one of the best pools in the area." Natural swimming holes can also be found along the New River with varying depths suitable for different swimming abilities.
What you should know
Water filtration needs: Basin Cove requires campers to carry all water or filter from streams. One camper notes, "There is NO clean water source, you have to bring a filter system with you." Even campgrounds with potable water often have limited spigots shared among multiple sites.
Parking limitations: Millrace Campground requires equipment to be carried in from parking areas. "Everything has to be carried in from the parking lot. No showers but there is water and pit toilets," explains one visitor. Most walk-in sites require carrying gear 100-400 feet from designated parking areas.
Vehicle restrictions: Several primitive camping areas prohibit vehicle access entirely. At Basin Cove, "You have to hike a mile into the campsite. The hike in is excellent, as it follows the river along the way." Always check access requirements before packing heavy equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Basin Cove works well for introducing children to backcountry camping. One camper explains it's "great for taking beginner backcountry tent/hammock campers! Easy hike in, but far enough that you won't find high-maintenance campers or crowds."
Water recreation: Squirrel Creek Farm provides access to calm water sections suitable for children. The campground maintains 5 tent sites with moderate spacing and basic toilet facilities. Sites require advance reservations during peak summer weekends.
Noise considerations: Riverside sites provide natural white noise that helps mask sounds from restless children. Most campgrounds in the area enforce quiet hours from 10pm-7am, though enforcement varies by location and season.
Tips from RVers
Motorcycle camping options: Willville Motorcycle Camp welcomes tent campers traveling by motorcycle. "Clean facilities, friendly host. Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment, although electric isn't available at each spot," notes one rider. The campground maintains 10 sites specifically designed for motorcycle travelers.
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Cana restrict RV access due to narrow roads and limited turnaround space. When RVs are permitted, they're typically limited to units under 25 feet in length with no slide-outs. Willville Motorcycle Camp does offer some basic RV accommodations despite its motorcycle focus.
Electrical considerations: For tent campers needing electricity for medical devices, extension cords can be used at some locations. One Willville visitor explains, "you can bring an extension cord if you need it for a CPAP or such." Most tent-specific campgrounds provide limited or no electrical access.
