Best Campgrounds near Salem, VA

Camping near Salem, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Hanging Rock State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The park has 5 waterfalls... almost all the hikes involve a steep hill climb of stairs." This makes it a great spot for those who love a good workout while enjoying nature.
• Fishing and Swimming: At Douthat State Park Campground, you can fish and swim in the lake. A reviewer said, "There are many camping areas in the park, some near creeks and on the lake as well." This makes it perfect for water lovers.
• Bowling and Mini Golf: If you're staying at Wytheville KOA, you can enjoy bowling and mini-golf on-site. One camper shared, "We got in early enough that we were able to get a game of bowling in before they closed."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. A visitor noted, "Park is fantastic, best I’ve ever seen for cleanliness and friendly staff."
• Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA. One happy camper said, "There is a row towards the front that are pretty close together... We were in a tent and loved our spot."
• Beautiful Scenery: The views at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground are a big hit. A reviewer exclaimed, "I have camped here for 15 years... the warmest clean waters that will make you forget the ocean."

What you should know

• Limited Swimming Areas: At Douthat State Park Campground, swimming is restricted to a kiddie area. One camper mentioned, "Swimming in this beautiful and very swimmable and safe lake is limited to a kiddie area - useless if you're looking for exercise."
• No Showers at Some Campgrounds: If you're heading to Peaks Of Otter Campground, be prepared for no showers. A visitor noted, "There are no showers. The staff were friendly and were able to help with all questions I had."
• Cell Service Can Be Spotty: Many campgrounds, like Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, have limited cell service. One camper said, "There isn't any cell service yet near the camp loop... you can get service."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Wytheville KOA has a playground and activities for kids. A reviewer mentioned, "The pool was nice. Restroom/Showers were wonderful and clean."
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Hanging Rock State Park Campground said, "We got our workout in seeing all the sites."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A visitor at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground noted, "The campground was busy while we were there, but was quiet at night."

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Levels: At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, some sites may not be level. One RVer mentioned, "A lot of the sights were not level... the landscaping was not very well taken care of."
• Bring Extra Supplies: Campgrounds like Bolar Mountain Recreation Area may not have many amenities nearby. A camper advised, "There is a small general store that sells somethings and gas but it's not a real grocery."
• Use the Dump Station: Make sure to utilize the dump station at campgrounds like Claytor Lake State Park Campground before leaving. One visitor said, "There is a dump station on the way out."

Camping around Salem, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!