Clifton Forge, Virginia offers diverse camping experiences in the western Allegheny Mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 4,200 feet creating distinct microclimates across seasons. The area's abundant water resources include Lake Moomaw, the James River, and numerous mountain streams that flow year-round, making it popular for both traditional camping and upscale glamping in Clifton Forge, Virginia. Campsites typically experience temperature differences of 15°F between valley floors and mountain camping areas during summer months.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Lake Moomaw provides excellent trout fishing opportunities just a short drive from several campgrounds. "Fishing seems very popular at this lake. Beach was small but pretty. There's a large bathroom, a volleyball net, picnic tables and I believe a few tent camping spots as well," notes a visitor to Morris Hill Campground.
Hiking on diverse trails: The region offers hiking options from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents. A visitor at Douthat State Park Campground reports, "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear. Beautiful country roads. And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!"
Kayaking and canoeing: Multiple waterways offer paddling experiences for all skill levels. A camper at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area says, "We rented kayaks at the marina/camp store down the road and explored a little cove that was really cool. We blocked out 4 hours, but only lasted 2 hours before we got tired and returned the kayaks."
Wildlife spotting: Keep your camera ready for diverse Appalachian wildlife. "Our site was even and pretty basic despite having electricity. It was just across from the deluxe cabins and close to the restroom which I liked. Everything seemed well lit at night," mentions a visitor to Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA who appreciated the opportunity to observe local wildlife.
What campers like
Private water access: Many campsites offer direct access to water features. As one Bolar Mountain Recreation Area visitor stated, "We've camped here for the second time. The campground Bolar Mountain Rec Area is on Lake Moomaw. We had the pleasure of having a campsite with lake view and access both times. Campground 2 site 53, has a nice private beach area where you can go fishing or swim."
Spacious, level sites: Campers appreciate the well-maintained areas with room to spread out. "A favorite of our for years! All types of sites and hookups plus cabins. Fishing, lake swimming, hiking, educational opportunities galore. Security is good but not overwhelming," reports a Douthat State Park visitor.
Excellent maintenance: Well-maintained facilities enhance camping experiences. At Middle Creek Campground, a camper observed, "During our stay, we observed the staff cleaning, fixing, and getting ready for camping season. The bathrooms got a fresh coat of paint. The roads through the campground were recently groomed with new crushed gravel."
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution makes for spectacular night skies. "Cool foggy mornings and nice dark nights out here, Usually always someone camping in this spot so you mostly won't be out there alone," mentions a visitor to Morris Hill Campground, highlighting the quality night viewing conditions.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty or no service. A visitor to Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park noted, "Note: It's in a valley, so there's no cell service. The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great and you have to be either in the building or sitting at the bench outside to use it."
Off-season staffing: Expect limited staff during shoulder seasons. "In the shoulder season the campground isn't staffed often, but what do you expect when it's not busy?" explains a Middle Creek Campground visitor who understood the seasonal nature of operations.
Water availability varies: Not all sites have water hookups. "No Water/Electric hookups... It is semi primitive. Cell Phone Service is spotty also, as there is no pay phone at the campground either," shares a Morris Hill Campground camper about the available utilities.
Firewood regulations: Local regulations may restrict bringing outside firewood. "Firewood is available for purchase onsite. We paid $7 for a bundle at the camp store, and it was delivered to our site just a few minutes later. The bundle was huge!" reports a Middle Creek Campground visitor about the convenience of purchasing firewood.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Multiple swimming options keep children entertained. A Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge visitor shares, "We had a great weekend with the whole family! There was a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging, laughing, loving, and hanging out!"
Educational programming: Look for ranger programs that offer learning experiences. "They had a very nice nature trail as well as chickens running around and baby goats in a pen. Check in was easy as they had a tent set up so we didn't have to go on the office," notes a visitor to Natural Bridge KOA about animal encounters that children enjoy.
Plan for weather changes: Mountain elevations can cause rapid weather shifts. "We camped at Douthat State Park. Great area for swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, etc. Nice Lake Moomaw views," comments a Bolar Mountain Recreation Area visitor who experienced variable conditions.
Budget for entrance fees: Some locations charge day-use fees in addition to camping fees. "For you all who have campers/RV: There is a dump station for your tanks, equipped with a wash hose to wash your drain hose out. This entire area is a 'No Wake' zone which makes for good fishing," explains a Morris Hill Campground visitor about the facilities and regulations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "RV sites, which are more costly looked hard to get into with larger units. Call ahead about RV lengths to make sure you are booking the correct site for your size. I noticed more than a few people struggling with their units and some of this could have been avoided with proper booking," advises a Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA camper.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "They have a pool, that was packed with kids and people, they also have a man-made lake, but we saw all sorts of dead fish in it," mentions a Middle Creek Campground visitor who experienced mixed amenities.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain with appropriate equipment. "We had a Pull Through, Full Hookup site on the hillside. It was surprisingly very level. We just used this as a base for visiting Natural Bridge State Park, so it was only an overnighter," shares a Natural Bridge KOA visitor who was pleased with the site preparation.
Weather impacts: Mountain camping requires preparation for temperature swings. "We have stayed here several times and have always had a good time. The campground is open year round and is right off the highway. There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park," notes a Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA visitor about the year-round accessibility.
