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Best Campgrounds near Charlottesville, VA

858 Reviews

Charlottesville camping puts you near Shenandoah National Park and other great Virginia camping spots. Big Meadows Campground inside the park has bathrooms, pay showers, and a camp store that make your stay easier. Sherando Lake Campground lets you swim and fish in its lake right on site. Most roads to these campgrounds are in good shape, but winter snow can sometimes cause problems, so check conditions before you go. Watch for fire rules and permit requirements, which change throughout the year. You'll probably want to book Big Meadows ahead of time since it fills up quickly, especially in summer and fall. Remember to follow all park rules while you're there to keep the places nice for everyone.

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Best Camping Sites Near Charlottesville, Virginia (108)

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Recent Reviews near Charlottesville, VA

858 Reviews of 108 Charlottesville Campgrounds

Guide to Charlottesville

Camping near Charlottesville, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the hiking trails that start right from the campgrounds. One reviewer from Big Meadows Campground mentioned, "Hiking trails leave right from the campground."
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in the Shenandoah National Park make for excellent stargazing opportunities. A visitor at Loft Mountain Campground shared, "We spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Enjoy the water at Sherando Lake Campground. One camper noted, "The lake has a swimming area and a beach. There is hiking and fishing in each lake."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms are very clean and well maintained."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer spaced-out sites for a more private experience. A visitor at Big Meadows Campground mentioned, "We could see a couple of other campsites from ours but generally felt we had plenty of space and privacy."
  • Proximity to Attractions: Campers enjoy being close to local attractions. One reviewer at Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA noted, "I liked the pool, camp shop, and proximity to Massanutten water park."

What you should know:

  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Lewis Mountain Campground advised, "Arrive early enough in the day to snag a better site."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Matthews Arm Campground mentioned, "There is no electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm, and no cell service."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are common in the area, so it's important to store food properly. A camper at Loft Mountain Campground warned, "There are bears so make sure you don't leave any food out."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities. A parent at Misty Mountain Camp Resort said, "The kids had a blast on the inflatable jump pad which was open all day."
  • Safety First: Ensure your campsite is safe for children. A reviewer at Sherando Lake Campground noted, "The sites are nicely prepared. There are potable water taps close to most sites."
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for noise from other campers. A visitor at Lewis Mountain Campground mentioned, "When every site is occupied it felt more like a trailer park than a campground."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Big Meadows Campground advised, "Be sure to do your due diligence before choosing your site."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if needed. A reviewer at Devil’s Backbone Camp mentioned, "They are adding more electric sites."
  • Dump Stations: Ensure there are dump stations available. A visitor at Loft Mountain Campground noted, "There is a dump station nearby that is convenient."

Camping around Charlottesville, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Charlottesville, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Charlottesville, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 108 campgrounds and RV parks near Charlottesville, VA and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Charlottesville, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Charlottesville, VA is Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 60 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Charlottesville, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Charlottesville, VA.

What parks are near Charlottesville, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Charlottesville, VA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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