Best Campgrounds near Cloverdale, VA

Camping near Cloverdale, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. 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 trails around Douthat State Park Campground. "There are many hiking trails throughout the park, including one (to Blue Suck Falls) that has access directly from the campground," said a visitor.
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "It’s $8 a day for a fishing pass and you can rent John boats or kayaks here as well."
• Swimming: Relax at the beach area of Claytor Lake State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The swimming area is first rate and the warmest clean waters that will make you forget the ocean."

What campers like

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. One review stated, "Park is fantastic, best I’ve ever seen for cleanliness and friendly staff."
• Spacious sites: Many enjoy the generous space at Douthat State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "All sites appeared level and were very generous in size with long driveways."
• Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff at Virginia Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. One camper said, "The rangers at the park are very knowledgeable and kind."

What you should know

• Limited swimming options: At Douthat State Park Campground, swimming is restricted to a kiddie area. A reviewer expressed frustration, saying, "Swimming in this beautiful and very swimmable and safe lake is limited to a kiddie area - useless if you're looking for exercise."
• Cell service can be spotty: Many campgrounds, like Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, have limited cell service. One camper noted, "There isn't any cell service yet near the camp loop you can get service."
• Bear warnings: Campers at Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp should be aware of bear activity. A visitor mentioned, "There are signs warning everyone with instructions on how to avoid a bear visit."

Tips for camping with families

• Bring games and activities: Kids will enjoy the swimming and hiking options at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. One family shared, "Great camping, nice beach and swim area, lots of hiking and biking trails."
• Plan for bathroom trips: Facilities can be a bit of a hike at places like Crabtree Falls Campground. A reviewer noted, "The bathroom is at the top of the hill so that’s kind of a pain."
• Pack snacks: Having snacks on hand is a good idea, especially at campgrounds like Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA where the market is limited.

Tips from RVers

• Check site hookups: At Claytor Lake State Park Campground, make sure your cords are long enough. A visitor mentioned, "Electrical hookup is on the opposite side than the water and sewer."
• Be cautious on narrow roads: Some campgrounds, like Pipestem Resort State Park Campground, have tight roads. One camper said, "The roads and sites are tight for a larger camper."
• Look for spacious sites: Many RVers appreciate the roomy sites at Goose Point Philpott Lake. A camper noted, "The campground was busy while we were there, but was quiet at night."

Camping near Cloverdale, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!