Best Tent Camping near Cana, VA
Tent campsites near Cana, Virginia range from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites, with several options along the New River and Blue Ridge Parkway. Millrace Campground at New River Trail State Park offers walk-in tent sites with river access, while Basin Cove along the Blue Ridge Parkway provides more remote backcountry tent camping. Possible Property and Willville Motorcycle Camp also accommodate tent campers, though Willville primarily serves motorcyclists.
Most tent sites in the region require campers to carry gear from parking areas to their campsites. Millrace Campground features dirt tent pads with picnic tables and fire rings, but no showers—only pit toilets and potable water. Basin Cove requires a mile-long hike to reach the tent sites and has no clean water source. A camper noted, "You have to bring a filter system with you." Many campgrounds maintain food storage lockers and established fire pits. Several tent-only areas require permits, which can be obtained at ranger stations or visitor centers before arrival.
Tent camping experiences vary significantly across the region's campgrounds. Sites at New River Trail State Park provide riverside camping with the soothing sounds of water. According to one visitor, "The river sounds amazing at night." Tent campers at Basin Cove enjoy excellent hiking trails surrounding their sites, making it ideal for establishing a base camp for day hikes. Most tent areas offer good shade coverage, with some sites featuring both sunny and shaded sections. Primitive tent sites typically provide more seclusion but require additional preparation. Fireflies are abundant in summer months at riverside tent campgrounds, creating natural light displays after dark. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so tent campers should be prepared for temperature fluctuations and occasional rain.
