Top Dog Friendly Camping near Charlottesville, VA

Looking to find an RV campground or tent campsite near Charlottesville that allows dogs? Find the best information on pet-friendly campsites and dispersed camping near Charlottesville, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your camping experience. Search nearby pet-friendly campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Charlottesville, VA (83)

    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    1. Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    60 Reviews
    221 Photos
    565 Saves

    Overview

    Perched on top of Big Flat Mountain, this is one of the largest campgrounds in the park. Loft Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a wilderness getaway in the historic Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia.

    Recreation

    Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or lookout, while others wind deep into the forest and wilderness. Trails to the Big Run Wilderness area are accessible from the campground, and pristine waterfalls are a common site along the popular trails. Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime, with black bears, wild turkey, deer, birds and countless other animals abundant across the park. The campground is located right off of Milepost 80 on the famous Skyline Drive, which runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stunning views are available from any of the 75 scenic overlooks.

    Natural Features

    Shenandoah National Park includes 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern Appalachians. The park rises above the Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west. Loft Mountain's location on the mountain top offers easy access to Skyline Drive which offers sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding rolling hills and open meadows.

    Nearby Attractions

    Two visitor centers with bookstores and exhibits are located in the park (milepost 5 and milepost 51). There are concession managed restaurants, gift shops and lodging facilities scattered throughout the park.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Changing Reservations: There is no change fee if a visitor extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. Additionally, there is no change fee if the visitor wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility. If a visitor wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee. If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date. Once a reservation date has begun, visitors cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center. Onsite staff will assist with changes or cancellations. Cancellations: Visitors may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's approved rate including tax and applicable add-on. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Visitors who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days prior to arrival date will pay a $10 service fee AND forfeit the first nights rate. No-Shows: A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Early Departures: Visitors are requested to notify staff at the facility if they depart early to allow others to use the site. If the visitor chooses to depart early, they may forfeit the approved rate and applicable tax and applicable add-on for the day of departure. If a visitor departs prior to the scheduled check-out date, they may be eligible for a partial refund. Visitors may notify the Recreation.gov call center to request a refund of remaining unused nights. If a visitor requests a refund for an early departure after the facility check-out time (12 noon) has passed, the visitor will not be refunded for that night and is eligible for a refund on any additional nights that will not be used. Refunds: Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Visitors may also initiate a refund request through the call center at any time after their reservation has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    2. Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    113 Reviews
    372 Photos
    937 Saves

    Overview

    Secluded in the thick trees and rolling hills of Shenandoah National Park, the Big Meadows Campground is the ideal spot for an outdoor family getaway.

    Recreation

    Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or viewpoint while others wind deep into the forest and wilderness. Big Meadows is near many of the major facilities and popular hiking trails in the park. Three waterfalls are within walking distance, and the Meadow, with its abundant plant growth and wildlife, is an ideal nearby attraction.Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime, with black bears, wild turkey, deer, birds and countless other animals thriving in the park.The campground is also located right off the famous Skyline Drive, which runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stunning views are visible from any of the 75 scenic overlooks.

    Natural Features

    Shenandoah National Park spans 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern Appalachians. The park rises above the Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west. The scenery at Big Meadows Campground never disappoints, with a stunning array of colors in the fall and a blanket of bright wildflowers in the spring. This green and shady campground is a wilderness paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

    Nearby Attractions

    Two visitor centers with bookstores and exhibits are located in the park (milepost 5 and milepost 51). Byrd Visitor Center is a short one mile walk by either trail or sidewalk if you choose not to drive. There are concession managed restaurants, gift shops and lodging facilities scattered throughout the park. Big Meadows Lodge and Restaurant is a 5 minute walk from the campground and Big Meadows Wayside is located beside Byrd Visitor Center.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (540) 999-3231.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Changing Reservations: There is no change fee if a visitor extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. Additionally, there is no change fee if the visitor wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility. If a visitor wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee. If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date. Once a reservation date has begun, visitors cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center. Onsite staff will assist with changes or cancellations. Cancellations: Visitors may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's approved rate including tax and applicable add-on. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Visitors who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days prior to arrival date will pay a $10 service fee AND forfeit the first nights rate. No-Shows: A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Early Departures: Visitors are requested to notify staff at the facility if they depart early to allow others to use the site. If the visitor chooses to depart early, they may forfeit the approved rate and applicable tax and applicable add-on for the day of departure. If a visitor departs prior to the scheduled check-out date, they may be eligible for a partial refund. Visitors may notify the Recreation.gov call center to request a refund of remaining unused nights. If a visitor requests a refund for an early departure after the facility check-out time (10 am) has passed, the visitor will not be refunded for that night and is eligible for a refund on any additional nights that will not be used. Refunds: Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Visitors may also initiate a refund request through the call center at any time after their reservation has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Misty Mountain Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Misty Mountain Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Misty Mountain Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Misty Mountain Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Misty Mountain Camp Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Misty Mountain Camp Resort

    3. Misty Mountain Camp Resort

    37 Reviews
    77 Photos
    248 Saves

    Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers a delightful, relaxing vacation at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains near historic Charlottesville, Virginia. Whether you're looking for a private getaway, a group gathering, or fun with the kids, Misty Mountain Camp Resort is sure to meet your needs. Our scenic 50 acre park provides private sites nestled in the trees and a large recreational building with banquet seating to accommodate any large group.

    Explore nature trails, splash in our pool, sit by the creek, fish in our pond, play at several playgrounds, climb our hills, shoot hoops and spike the volleyball or pitch horseshoes, take a hayride, enjoy live music and dances, shop at our General Store, shoot pool and play video games, relax in solitude or join with new friends - the choice is yours and it's all at Misty Mountain Camp Resort!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Devil’s Backbone Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil’s Backbone Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil’s Backbone Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil’s Backbone Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil’s Backbone Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil’s Backbone Camp

    4. Devil’s Backbone Camp

    32 Reviews
    95 Photos
    280 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lewis Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Lewis Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Lewis Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Lewis Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Lewis Mountain
    Camper-submitted photo from Lewis Mountain

    5. Lewis Mountain

    31 Reviews
    75 Photos
    596 Saves

    Overview

    This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you can pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app . Download the free Recreation.gov mobile app on Android or iOS prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.

    Recreation

    Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or viewpoint while others wind deep into the forest and wilderness. Lewis Mountain is near many of the major facilities and popular hiking trails in the park and is 7 miles away from the Byrd Visitors Center and Big Meadow, with its abundant plant growth and wildlife, is an ideal nearby attraction. Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime, with black bears, wild turkey, deer, birds and countless other animals thriving in the park. The campground is also located right off the famous Skyline Drive, which runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stunning views are visible from any of the 75 scenic overlooks.

    Natural Features

    Shenandoah National Park spans 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern Appalachians. The park rises above the Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west. The scenery at Lewis Mountain Campground never disappoints, with a stunning array of colors in the fall and a blanket of bright wildflowers in the spring. This green and shady campground is a wilderness paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

    Nearby Attractions

    Two visitor centers with bookstores and exhibits are located in the park (milepost 5 and milepost 51). Byrd Visitor Center is 7 miles north where there are concession managed restaurants, gift shops, ranger programs and lodging facilities. Big Meadows Lodge and Restaurant is located near the Byrd Visitor Center.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground

    6. Sherando Lake Campground

    33 Reviews
    171 Photos
    321 Saves

    Overview

    Sherando Lake Recreation Area's Family Campground provides an ideal camping destination. It is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known locally as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where visitors enjoy hiking, picnicking in the shade, fishing in the lakes, or swimming and relaxing on the sandy beach.

    Recreation

    The 25 acre Lower Lake offers opportunities for swimming in a designated area with a sand beach, accessible ramp to the water's edge, and a beach bathhouse with changing and shower facilities. Fishing and boating are also available outside the designated swimming area of the lake. Fishing is in stocked trout waters during the spring and fall seasons. Visitors will need to have the appropriate Virginia fishing license, National Forest stamp, and trout stamp. Boats with gasoline motors are not permitted on the lower lake - electric troll motors, canoes, kayaks, or similar boats only. A hand-carry ramp is available for access to the lake adjacent to the parking area. Fishing only is available at the 7 acre Upper Lake. This lake is also stocked during the spring and fall seasons and the appropriate licenses are required. Boats are allowed, but there is no launch access - hand carry only. Parking is available at a small area below the group camp area and a walking trail will lead you to the lake. Swimming is not allowed in the upper lake. Hiking trails surround the area offering everything from a short walk around the lake on the Lakeside and Cliff Trails to a day hike up the mountain on the White Rock Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. For the more adventurous hiker, more challenging day hikes and backpacking trips are available by heading up the Blue Loop Trail to the Torry Ridge Trail to Bald Mountain and beyond.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits between Lower Sherando Lake and Upper Sherando Lake at an elevation of about 1,800 feet in the shadows of Torry Ridge. The Upper Lake is 7 acres and is fed by the waters of the North Fork of Back Creek. The Lower Lake is 25 acres and is fed by springs, the North Fork of Back Creek, and Williams Branch, so the water stays refreshingly cool all summer long.

    Nearby Attractions

    There are opportunities for gas, groceries, and firewood at convenience stores and local vendors along the state road to Sherando Lake. Ice can be purchased at the Sherando Lake Visitor Center during operating hours, which vary seasonally. Additional supplies can be obtained in Stuarts Draft, about a 15 minute drive away.The Blue Ridge Parkway, with its scenic overlooks and ridgetop views, is a short 3 mile drive up State Route 664 from the Sherando Lake entrance. The Wintergreen Resort offers a golf course and ski area within 10 miles of Sherando Lake. Cabin rentals are available near Sherando Lake from local private vendors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park

    7. Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park

    28 Reviews
    90 Photos
    9 Saves

    Canoe Landing Group Campsite (one primitive site) - There's a group site near the canoe landing. The site accommodates up to 42 people - no hookups, tents only. It's near a restroom and features a fire ring with a flip grill, picnic tables and a pedestal grill. There's a $30 fee for canceling a group-camping reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Picnic Table

    $15 - $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground

    8. Shenandoah Valley Campground

    25 Reviews
    70 Photos
    142 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $36 - $132 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort

    9. Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort

    11 Reviews
    76 Photos
    99 Saves

    Located on over 1,000 acres of rolling hillside and lush pasture lands that encompass a scenic 60-acre lake, Shenandoah Crossing Campground and Resort is the perfect place to stay for those who love the outdoors. The resort combines an old country estate and horse farm with acres of wilderness in a pristine area that lies just beyond the Shenandoah Valley. Enjoy the rustic elegance of a 2- or 3-bedroom cabin featuring full kitchens and baths, fireplaces, master bedrooms, balconies and porches, and separate dining and living areas. For a slightly more exotic, stay try a 1- or 2-bedroom luxury yurt stay. Furnishings include four-poster beds with plush linens, flat-screen TVs, elegant bathrooms and fully-equipped kitchens, all with central heat and air. Stay in an open-plan yurt with one bed and pullout couch or a 2-bedroom unit, plus pullout couch. Outside, you'll also enjoy a large wooden deck area with summer kitchen. Shenandoah Crossing also features state-of-the-art RV sites with furnished patios and summer kitchens; some even offer personal hot tubs and stainless steel barbecue grills.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA

    10. Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA

    29 Reviews
    76 Photos
    177 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 83 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Reviews In Charlottesville

804 Reviews of 83 Charlottesville Campgrounds


  • SJ W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite

    Very long road to get there

    Went in August and it was very buggy, also had someone park pretty close which when I drive down a really long dirt road that is questionable for my van, i want it to be private and this was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oronoco Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Oronoco Campground

    Great!

    Loved this little campground. Nice and quiet, toilets available (though not very clean but good enough). Only thing is that there’s a dog, we think from a property nearby, that acts aggressive towards campers. Luckily it went home around 18h, so we had a great night, but it was back the next morning and immediately had aggressive behavior. So watch out and be careful with your food!

  • nancy B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Waynesboro North 340 Campground
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Waynesboro North 340 Campground

    Aftermath of the hurricane

    My Rv sustained damage from a tree. The staff were awesome but the owner wasn’t. She wouldn’t even acknowledge me or say how sorry she was. Then she had me assigned to the worst site in the park. I have never been treated so terribly. She was only interested in her revenue and not the people.

  • Rob  O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    Excellent campground especially as a base for hikes

    Reservations are made through the National parks service "recreation.gov" website. Arrived for tent camping for 2 nights and found that my original planned site wasn't very hospitable to tent camping due to the slope, Conferred with park ranger who easily changed my site to a better one with no fee. My stay was quiet and the bathrooms were clean and well stocked. This is a great base camp for getting out to hike the Appalachian trail and the local water falls in the area. Firewood and some camping supplies can be obtained onsite and there is a park wayside store and cafeteria a short distance away (i highly recommend the honey breaded chicken).

  • W
    Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Flagpole Knob

    Enjoyed the drive and stay

    I drove to Switzer Lake first and from there stayed on the trail all the way to Flag Pole. The drive took a few hours but was a ton of fun. There are a few good spots up there and it gets fairly busy.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Endless Caverns
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Endless Caverns

    Beautiful Resort

    The resort is beautiful. Pulling up and checking in, a host takes you to your site. Sites are spacious and there's lots to do! We loved our site because we are the only one on the right side of the hill. I did not get any info email though which I had to contact about. Other than that, everything was great. Drove around the campground to see which other sites I would like to try and get! I def would return.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennie’s Beach Campground
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Bennie’s Beach Campground

    Cool spot by the creek

    Bennies has a cool spot by the creek for tent camping.  I was the only one there - after having driven through the aging RV neighborhood.  Check-in was mystical, but finally reached the groundskeeper by phone and left money in a mailbox.  "$40 cash money..."  Way overpriced considering the unsanitary (gross) showers and restrooms.  I think I felt cleaner before the shower.  If you don't need a shower and don't mind dropping $40 for a place to pitch your tent then Bennies may be for you.

  • Jen T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Holliday Lake State Park
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Holliday Lake State Park

    Nice but Gun Range During Summer

    Probably a great place to camp during the fall. During the summer they lease space to the 4-H club that teaches people to shoot black powder muskets for the civil war reenactments. From 8:30am until 3-5pm it sounds like a gun range. It’s not a shot here and there, its volleys of black powder guns (think cannons) being shot all at once. It echos off the water and is the opposite of peaceful. The ranger said it would only be for an hour a day, unless it was a competition day, well for the 5 days we were there it must have been competition. We ended up leaving the park during the day.

    The sites are good. Most need lots of leveling help (bring spare wood!). The newer part has a nice bathhouse. The older part had a really old bathhouse. (So old it’s hard to tell if it’s dirty or just old.)

    It’s not a bad place to visit. But combat veterans should avoid during the summer months.

    The sites are nice. The ones in the newer area (laurel ridge) are close to the nice bathhouse. Both bathhouses have WiFi. No cell service to speak of. (We have Verizon but most of these places have none.)

  • Nicole S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Luray

    Yogi Bear for the win!!!

    I have to say this campground had plenty of staff working, the grounds were kept clean and maintained. They have 3 pools, watersides, and a splash pad, which were very busy but kept clean. They offer tons of other adventures like laser tag, arcade, mini golf movie theatre, gem mining, playgrounds, jumping pillows, ziplines, and then tons more to do in the craft center. They had plenty of appearances of Yogi or Cindy bear at activities and just driving around the park on a golf cart. The store had everything in it you would need, and the snack bar had so much to offer from wraps to ice cream. I thought the sites were a little close, and some didn't have enough trees for my personal liking, but also, you need to pick your site wisely. I liked that we had a nice concrete pad, which was above the grade in case of some rain it wouldn't flood. They offer golf carts for rental, so you can roam anywhere and have tons of cabin options. The staff were friendly and great and only stepped in when absolutely necessary. They weren't overbearing or annoying and let people have fun. The campground itself was very quiet at night, and of course, the kids lived on the playgrounds after the pool was open, but the noise was not ever excessive but just expected. The bathrooms were clean and all in working order. The app can be accessed, or you can pick up a paper schedule to see all the activities for the day. The cell service and wifi left a lot to be desired, but for me, I like to not be glued to my phone when away, especially camping. The area had fun things to go to explore, like Shenandoah National Park and the Luray Caverans, if you do like to chase some natural beauty.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Powhatan State Park
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Powhatan State Park

    Camping and remote work

    Like most Virginia state parks the River Bend campground is well spaced out and great for RV camping. Verizon service was stable enough to work all week with a Jetpack without the need for a directional cell booster

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Oak Campground — James River State Park
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Red Oak Campground — James River State Park

    Camping and remote work

    Nice campground in line with expectations for most Virginia state parks. Verizon service is spotty 1 to 2 bars and unreliable data but with a directional cell booster we are able to get enough signal for our Verizon Jetpack to work

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil’s Backbone Camp
    Jul. 12, 2024

    Devil’s Backbone Camp

    Robbery

    $150 per night is crazy. Nothing special about the campground except proximity to devils backbone. This is a parking spot in a field with no trees and the sewer likely on the wrong side. There are no amenities. We’ve stayed many times but plan to go elsewhere going forward.

  • Martin T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    Great Facilities, Easy Access to Many Parts of Park

    We loved our 4-night stay in Big Meadows. I definitely recommend booking a site on the outer part of the loop, or one of the walk-in sites, if you are tent camping. A lot of the interior sites seemed very close together, but the farther out you get, the more spaced out they seemed to be, we could see a couple of other campsites from ours but generally felt we had plenty of space and privacy.

    Campsite facilities seemed pretty clean and well-maintained, and there is the campstore at the front of the campground with necessities, laundry and shower (for a fee). And if you need more the Big Meadow visitor center, and Wayside souvenir store/snack bar are just a mile or so from the campground where it meets Skyline Drive. They even have a gas station there. We went and did several hikes, including Dark Hollow Falls, and spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing, all very close to the campground.

    Bear boxes are big and sturdy, fire pits are on the smallish side but fine. Honestly this place is pretty tough to beat in terms of facilities, value, and proximity to a lot of beautiful and fun national park hikes and sights.

  • Jeremiah S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA

    KOA Newbie

    This was our first KOA experience. I liked the pool, camp shop, and proximity to Massanutten water park. I also liked the size of site.

    My wife didn’t care for the lack of grass (mostly gravel) or the guy who took us to site that worked there talking over her when she was helping me back in.

    Most people know this but if a couple is backing in just let them figure it out.

    Other than price and backing in annoyance, I thought it was good place and would go back.

  • Chaz M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Misty Mountain Camp Resort
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Misty Mountain Camp Resort

    Fun for the family

    This campground was really great for a family with small children. There were events the entire time we were there and the staff were awesome. The only detractors were that our site (52) was tiny so it was a tad stressful having kids running around right beside the road, the smell of weed that was prevalent (not the campground’s fault) and the motorcycle noise from the nearby interstate.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
    Jun. 26, 2024

    Flagpole Knob

    They Said....

    They said, no way, I chuckled. They Said , you need a high clearance vehicle, I cleared my throat. They said, you need 4 wheel drive, I SAID "ILL SEND YOU PICTURES!!!" what an Amazing view, don't use me as an example , you definitely should not drive your 2018 Ram ProMaster 2500 159 wb campervan up that road like I did. so now that that's clear how about some pics?.it's absolutely pouring down rain and hail. how about some security cam footage?

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Jun. 7, 2024

    Shenandoah Valley Campground

    Nice place to stay

    We spent 2 weeks at SVC while our trunk was in the shop(our travel trailer got towed there- highly recommend Good Sam Roadside policy). Everyone on staff was accomodating, helpful and friendly. Very nice campground ammenities- stocked fishing pond, big swimming pool, and really nice creek for tubing with waterfall to cool down on the hotter days, horseshoes, mini golf and more. The biggest negative is lack of cell service/internet. Luckily it's a short drive to get service. Weekends were packed(esp. Memorial Day), but much quieter during the week. Many sites are tight and no walking paths between rows so people regularly walk through occupied sites when it's crowded. Smaller negatives- some washer/dryers out of order and litter left by campers wasn't picked up. Overall, a nice place to stay.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views
    Jun. 3, 2024

    Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views

    Amazing Views of Blue Ridge

    A beautiful campground with everything a tourist could possible want for a spectacular vacation. Surrounded by dairy farms, the fields of grains leave open space that enables each campsite to have a view of the Blue Ridge mountains in the distance. Each evening, people would come out and turn the colorful patio chairs towards west and enjoy a spectacular sunset. During the day, there is so much to do at the nearby Shenandoah Nation Park, drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway, or visit the caverns or the Artisan Trail businesses full of local handcrafts.

  • Sumner C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennie’s Beach Campground
    May. 27, 2024

    Bennie’s Beach Campground

    Amazing spot on north fork Shenandoah

    We were the only campers on a giant spot right on the river. The grounds are well maintained and stunning. Water is crystal clear and everyone is respectful

  • kyle M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback
    May. 26, 2024

    Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback

    Fun but with minimal staff

    My wife and I booked this location as an opportunity to camp memorial weekend affordably. The site definitely had an old school feel to it, overall well maintained and clean. Our biggest concerns was there was 0 over site to those staying. There were 2 large family gathering going on which is fine, however blasting music, screaming all day and into the evening to include a megaphone is just not our type of fun. Our first night we were kept up until easily 2am due to this. We ended up leaving a full day earlier than planned.

    If you are booking this location for easy access to the water from the campground be weary it’s overgrown and full of ticks.

  • Robert L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort
    May. 24, 2024

    Shenandoah Crossings, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort

    5 star resort doesn't complete

    This resort is 5 Star in amenities. Indoor pool in the lodge, restaurant, outdoor pool connected to the indoor one. Another outdoor pool area by the general store (wasn't open yet) has a large pool and kids pool. The activities center has things going on every day. They also have a large room with a large screen that you can reserve to watch movies. There is a stable for horse riding. Also, there's miniature golf. They have cabins, yurts,and a tree house for rent. The laundry is free. Our campsite, lowest level, has a table with four chairs, two Adirondack chairs, and a propane grill. The higher level has an outdoor sink. The top level has a jacuzzi. The grounds are well designed for landscaping and kept trimmed. Now, for the cons. Our back- in site isn't level. We were told that is by design so water will flow off. Maybe. Our loop doesn't have any bathhouse, while the one next door has two. We did take a shortcut that went over a clay hill. Probably not safe if it's raining. The shower looks nice. Would stay drier if people would put the curtain inside the barrier. Shelves and benches in the showers are nice. Water pressure is mediocre to good. We're still waiting for hot water. I do say the help keeps it clean. There are sanitizer bottles left in the bathrooms and showers. Overall, it is a nice place to sit and relax.

  • Cory E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Watercress Inn at Landon Farm
    May. 23, 2024

    Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

    Great camp site

    Did two nights at Butterfly Camp while hiking Old Rag and other trails in Shenandoah. Great experience, site had everything you would need and more for tent camping and enjoying some peace and quiet.



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

  • Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Charlottesville, VA?

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

  • What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Charlottesville, VA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 83 dog-friendly camping locations near Charlottesville, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.