Glamping near Chatham, VA

Smith Mountain Lake State Park offers several camping options near Chatham, Virginia, 45 miles south of Roanoke. The area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and mild spring and fall conditions ideal for outdoor recreation. Campgrounds in this region feature a mix of waterfront sites, wooded areas, and access to multiple recreation areas with varying levels of amenities.

What to do

Stargazing at night: Staunton River State Park, recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, provides exceptional night sky viewing. "They even 'rent' (no charge!) telescopes from the very nice Visitor's Center! It is an International Dark Sky Park and there are two telescopes that can be checked out for free at the visitor's center," notes Carrie A. from Staunton River State Park Campground.

Water activities on Buggs Island Lake: Occoneechee State Park offers multiple water access points with boat launches. "We paddled around Bugg's Lake. Used the boat launch near the office - nice place to put in. The whole trip we saw lots of birds, squirrels, deer, and raccoons," says RL from Occoneechee State Park Campground.

Frisbee golf courses: Several campgrounds offer disc golf courses for all skill levels. "They have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" says Stafford W. about Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground.

What campers like

Lakeside sites with fishing access: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park provides direct waterfront access. "Sites right on the lake. Boating, hiking. Fishing and Friendly people," according to Joy A. from Lake Reidsville Recreation Park.

Wide tent camping spaces: Salthouse Branch Campground offers spacious areas for tent campers. "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat. Bathrooms are clean and campground was quiet," writes Paula J. about Salthouse Branch Campground.

Glamping in restored structures: Beyond traditional glamping in Chatham, Virginia, some parks feature historical buildings. "LOVE the care and attention that they've put into restoring and preserving the older buildings," mentions Ashley I. about Staunton River State Park Campground.

What you should know

No alcohol policies: Some parks enforce strict alcohol rules. "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong," warns Anne F. about Salthouse Branch Campground.

Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. "There is no cell service or internet/wifi at the cabins though so come prepared with something to do! We found it to be very relaxing to unplug!" shares Katie M. about Fairy Stone State Park Campground.

Sloped sites: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain. "A lot of them are sloped. Very hard to level out a RV," notes Danielle W. about Hyco Lake State Park.

Tips for camping with families

Ranger programs for kids: Educational programs offer interactive learning experiences. "We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones," shares Bonnie T. about Fairy Stone State Park Campground.

Lakes with swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature dedicated swimming zones. "There is a nice playground for the kids nearby. They had a concert going on somewhere at the park so we had some beautiful orchestral music playing as we were winding down for bed one night," reports Katie M. about her stay at Fairy Stone.

Off-season camping benefits: Spring and fall provide fewer crowds. "It was rather empty since it was still technically winter. The showers were hot and the bathrooms were clean. The rangers were nice and helpful," says Bridget H. about camping at Staunton River State Park during winter.

Tips from RVers

Hookup locations: Pay attention to utilities placement at sites. "Our water and electricity was on the passenger side of our vehicle so it was a good thing we had an extra hose to reach the water as well as a long enough cord to reach the electric box," advises Barb T. about Hyco Lake State Park.

RV size considerations: Many campgrounds have site limitations. "This campground is well maintained and the sights are awesome. The hiking trails are also do horses and parts have been beaten down and there was a lot of horse poop in the trail," reports Chaz M. from Staunton River State Park.

Seasonal availability: Some amenities operate only during peak season. "Most of the sites were nice and level with decent privacy. Power and water are reliable. There is one dumping station," explains Scott B. about Smith Mountain Lake.