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Planning a Virginia boat-in camping adventure? Don't miss the chance to enjoy some of the best campgrounds right on the water. Check out some of the top rated boat-in campsites in Virginia.

Virginia

The Best Boat-In Camping in Virginia

Ahoy! Do you want to explore the best boat-in camping Cloverdale has to offer? Camping can be the most magical time of your life, and boat-in campsites make it even more extraordinary. Find the perfect spot to set up camp near Cloverdale with The Dyrt.

Cloverdale

The Best Boat-In Camping Near Cloverdale, Virginia

Horseshoe Flats

Bear Creek Lake State Park

Powhatan State Park

A camping authorization is required to camp on WMA’s. Authorization can be obtained at any license agent or at
GOOUTDOORSVIRGINIA.COM. Primitive camping is allowed for up to 14 consecutive nights when occupants are engaged in authorized activities (no more than 14 nights in any 28-day period). Camping is prohibited on or within 300 feet of any boat ramp, fishing lake or at other specific sites as posted or marked on WMA maps. All campers are required to store food in such a manner that it is not accessible by wildlife. Detailed camping regulations are found in 4VAC-15-20-155. It is unlawful to leave a campfire unattended. From February 15 to
April 30 campfires are allowed only between the hours of 4:00PM and midnight.

The James River WMA runs for just over a mile along the north shore of the James River, and encompasses more than a thousand acres of prolific habitat. Along the entry road, check the numerous dead snags for perched raptors along with the more numerous American crows. Red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks regularly occur, as do sharp-shinned hawks and American kestrels. Ospreys prefer the area next to the river. Just upstream from the boat landing parking area, lies a freshwater marsh managed for waterfowl. Anytime during the fall and winter, visitors can encounter northern pintail, blue-winged and green-winged teal and northern shovelers here, and during the summer wood ducks. Check the vegetation nearby for common yellowthroats, which can be very numerous during migration.

The river itself is worth checking for waterfowl with diving ducks, especially mergansers, joining the resident wood ducks. The river also supports monstrous eastern river cooters, which are often seen sunning along the banks. Another reptile to be on the lookout for is the rough-green snake, which can be found almost anywhere in the area. Spring and summer are the best times to search for butterflies, with monarchs passing through on their way south in the fall. The colorful American rubyspots can be seen dancing along the river, while Halloween pennants play in the fields.

James River Wildlife Management Area - Dispersed Camping

Christopher Run Campground

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the park features rolling grasslands, quiet forests and beautiful views, as well as 3 miles of shoreline along the James River. Visitors can hike, bike, canoe, kayak, fish or tent camp on the banks of the historic river or at Branch Pond

James River State Park

Camping

Lake Anna Campground offers sites with and without water and electric hookups, centrally located restrooms with hot showers, fire-rings, picnic tables and lantern holders. Half the sites may be specifically reserved; the rest are assigned upon arrival. A table showing site-specific sites can be found here (PDF). Click here for pictures of the sites.

Bunkhouse

One bunkhouse - No weekly requirement.

The park rents a camping lodge (bunkhouse) that's next to the bathhouse in the north camping loop. The bunkhouse is not a full-service lodge. The north loop's bathhouse includes the only restroom facilities for your stay. It's a two-room trailer with seven bunk beds, a refrigerator, a microwave oven, a coffee pot and an air conditioner. The bunkhouse also has a charcoal grill and deck outside. Cooking and smoking are not permitted inside the lodge. Five vehicles are permitted with rental of the lodge; the daily parking fee must be paid for additional vehicles.

Yurts

Recreational yurts are a modern adaptation of an ancient nomadic shelter. Functionally speaking, it's a cross between a tent and a cabin. Lake Anna has four yurts in the back section of the campground and tucked neatly into a wooded area for privacy and extra shade. Each yurt has a large wooden deck and includes a ground-level picnic pad with a picnic table, fire-ring and separate cooking grill. Reservations are required. Parking for two cars per yurt is at the beginning of the "yurt village," and carts are available for moving items from there to the yurts on a gravel trail. Those with more than two vehicles must pay a daily parking fee and park in overflow lots located throughout the campground. Check-in is 4 p.m. and checkout is 10 a.m. The rental season begins on the first Friday in March and ends on the first Sunday in December. Cabin rental and cancellation policies apply. There is a two-night minimum rental during the rest of camping season.

Lake Anna State Park

## Overview

Sherando Lake Group Camp is a part of the Sherando Lake Recreation Area and is popular with family groups, Boy and Girl Scouts, church groups and other local organizations. The recreation area is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known locally as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where visitors enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming and relaxing. 

## 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 in the lake. Fishing is in stocked 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 Gap 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.

## Facilities

The five tent-only group campsites are located around the outside of the looping road. Each site can accommodate a maximum of 15 guests, or a large group can reserve all 5 sites to fit no more than 75 guests. Each site is delineated with fencing and is equipped with picnic tables, a grill, lantern posts, and a serving table. A bathhouse with flush toilets and showers is located at the upper end of the loop and a vault toilet is located at the lower end of the loop. The bathhouse was replaced during the 2019 season. Drinking water is available at each site. Food storage lockers are currently not available, but all food must be secured in a locked vehicle. Violators are subject to a fine.

## Natural Features

The group camp is located at the upper end of the Sherando Lake Recreation Area near the 7 acre upper lake. The group campsites are located around the outer portion of the loop with a large grass field on the interior of the loop for activities and games. The open grassy field provides an excellent opportunity for night time star gazing. 

## 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.

George Washington National Forest Sherando Lake Campground

Twin Lakes State Park

Just 20 miles from Richmond, Pocahontas offers boating, picnicking, camping, camping cabins, 90-plus miles of trails, and nature and history programs. The Aquatic Center, which has a toddler pool, fountain wet deck, three-foot and five-foot-deep leisure pools, an activity pool and two tubular water slides, affords seasonal water-based activities for all. Three lakes offer plenty of fishing. Boat rentals are available seasonally by the 225-acre Swift Creek Lake. The Civilian Conservation Corps Museum, dedicated to Depression-era workers who helped build the state park system, is one of a handful in the nation. Two dining halls may be rented for meetings, weddings and special events. Rustic group facilities with primitive overnight cabins (bunkhouses) are available seasonally for larger groups. 

The park's 2,000-seat amphitheater hosts the Pocahontas Premieres series of concerts and family-friendly entertainment.

Pocahontas State Park's location and 90 miles of trails make it particularly popular among bicyclists.

Pocahontas State Park

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay are some of the best camping locations in Virginia. Near Virginia Beach, VA, camping by the beach gives you easy access to water activities that include catching a glimpse of marine life like sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays. The oceanside city is the ideal place to gather any supplies you need before heading to your campsite. Campgrounds by Fort Story let campers walk, boat, or drive up to campsites. RVers will also find all of the necessary amenities for their vehicles. Spend some time on the beach, tour the fort, and don’t forget to stop by the historic lighthouse.

Virginia Beach

The Best Virginia Beach Camping | Virginia Campgrounds

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Virginia Beach, VA has a lot to offer. Virginia Beach is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Virginia Beach, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Virginia Beach, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Norfolk. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Norfolk camping trip.

Norfolk

The Best Camping Near Norfolk, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Norfolk, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Searching for the best camping near Chesapeake, VA? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

Chesapeake

The Best Camping Near Chesapeake, Virginia

Arlington is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Arlington, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Arlington

The Best Camping Near Arlington, Virginia

Richmond is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Richmond is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Richmond camping trip.

Richmond

The Best Camping Near Richmond, Virginia

Newport News is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Newport News and user-submitted reviews.

Newport News

The Best Camping Near Newport News, Virginia

Looking for the best campgrounds near Alexandria, VA? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alexandria. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Alexandria, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Alexandria

The Best Camping Near Alexandria, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Alexandria. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alexandria camping trip.

Join the fun near Blue Ridge Parkway. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Virginia camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Best Camping Near Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Alongside the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia sits Shenandoah National Park. This pocket of Virginia holds some of the best camping and nature viewing in the state. This is an outdoor paradise filled with scenic trails for campers and thru-hikers alike.

Shenandoah National Park has five established campgrounds, which open in early spring and close in late fall. Only the Matthews Arm and Big Meadows campground have RV accommodations available, and all campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance. In the off-season, the best camping near Shenandoah National Park is in the nearby Washington and Jefferson National Forests, where you can disperse camp for free. If you want to stay in the main city, choose Harrisonburg, VA.

Shenandoah National Park

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Shenandoah National Park, VA has a lot to offer. Shenandoah National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Shenandoah National Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping Near Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Prince William Forest Park, VA? Prince William Forest Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Prince William Forest Park, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Prince William Forest Park

The Best Camping Near Prince William Forest Park, Virginia

Are you in need of a campground near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, VA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

The Best Camping Near Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Virginia

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, VA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are George Washington & Jefferson National Forest campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

The Best Camping Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, Virginia

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near George Washington Memorial Parkway. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—George Washington Memorial Parkway is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Virginia camping adventure.

George Washington Memorial Parkway

The Best Camping Near George Washington Memorial Parkway, Virginia

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir

The Best Camping Near John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, Virginia

Join the fun near Alabama River Lakes. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Alabama River Lakes. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alabama River Lakes camping trip.

Alabama River Lakes

The Best Camping Near Alabama River Lakes, Virginia

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Proctor Lake, VA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Proctor Lake and user-submitted reviews.

THE BEST Boat-In CAMPING NEARCloverdale, Virginia

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