Camping near Covington, Virginia takes place in the George Washington National Forest where elevations range from 1,000 to 4,400 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during the day but can drop to the 50s at night, even in July. The area's limestone geology creates crystal-clear streams and unique cave formations that attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
What to do
River activities at Lake Moomaw: Access the lake through Morris Hill Campground, which offers direct lake access just 15 minutes from Covington. "Site 034 Loop Morr... Close access to Lake area with a 100 yard walk through pathway off the site. Great shade for those hot sunny days," notes Mike C.
Hiking on interconnected trails: Set up at Watoga State Park Riverside Campground to access numerous hiking options. "So many great hiking trails and things to do in the park," explains Zach D. The park connects to the 80-mile Greenbrier River Trail for biking and hiking options.
Stargazing opportunities: The area has minimal light pollution, particularly at higher elevation campsites. As one visitor to Watoga State Park observed, "Note: It's in a valley, so there's no cell service. The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great." This remoteness creates perfect conditions for night sky viewing.
Wildlife observation: The forests surrounding Covington support diverse wildlife including black bears, white-tailed deer, and over 100 bird species. Early morning and dusk offer the best viewing times along quiet forest roads and water features.
What campers like
Riverfront campsites: Many campers praise the sites backing up to flowing water. "Our stay at Bolar Mountain was awesome! We drove almost 5 hours from Pittsburgh to check it out and it was SO worth it!... The water was beautiful, temperature perfect for swimming," shares Joanna G. about her stay at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses. A visitor to Bolar Mountain noted, "Bathrooms were the cleanest I've ever seen at any campground and were a very short, convenient walk from our site!" This attention to cleanliness enhances the luxury camping experience in Covington's wilderness settings.
Natural swimming options: Several campgrounds offer non-chlorinated swimming options. "The lake was super fun and such a cool idea to have the slides and trampolines. The pool was a decent size and warm," explains Amanda about Middle Creek Campground, showing how many sites combine natural settings with fun water features.
Diverse accommodation options: The area offers everything from primitive tent sites to full-service glamping accommodations. Jennifer K. describes her Middle Creek experience: "We camped at middle creek for two nights in mid may in our travel trailer... We had a fabulous site tucked beside a little brook, very peaceful and quiet."
What you should know
Seasonal weather variations: The mountains around Covington experience rapid weather changes, especially in spring and fall. Prepare for temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night, particularly at higher elevations.
Limited cell coverage: Many campgrounds have minimal cell service. At Greenbrier River Campground, this can be a benefit as one camper noted, "Lots to do here with tent camping, RV, cabin rentals and even some nostalgic RV rentals," allowing for a true disconnect.
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping sites in Covington, Virginia fill quickly during peak season (May-September). Many campgrounds operate on different reservation windows—some allow bookings 6 months in advance while others operate on shorter timelines.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise sources. One camper at Greenbrier River Campground mentioned, "63 is a very busy road that is right beside the campground with loud traffic moving almost nonstop throughout the day and night... On top of that, there are railroad tracks right across the river."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds offer water hookups at each site. A Morris Hill camper noted, "No electrical hookups are provided at the tent sites and drinking water pipped near the bathrooms only," which is important for planning your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge offers numerous family activities. "A great place!! Right next to the James River for all of your fishing needs. Have a pool, splash pad, pond/lake with a slide, beach, inflatable obstacle course, have an arcade room, and 2 additional water slides," explains Matt R.
Educational opportunities: Luxury camping near Covington provides learning experiences for children. A visitor to Douthat State Park mentioned, "Fishing, lake swimming, hiking, educational opportunities galore. Security is good but not overwhelming."
Wildlife encounters: Schedule morning nature walks when animals are most active. "Plenty of room on the site for tents and vehicle parking... Deers grazing right next to your tent!!" notes Amelie B. about her Watoga State Park experience, highlighting the close wildlife encounters possible.
Family-oriented activities: Many campgrounds offer organized recreation. "Rec staff had awesome activities planned and kept the kids entertained all week with kick ball and karaoke and shaving cream wiffle ball and dance parties," reports a Jellystone visitor, showing how structured activities enhance family glamping experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: When booking upscale RV sites near Covington, consider specific needs. Jeremy W. advises about Douthat State Park Campground: "Whispering Pines is a few miles away along the entry road and has a different character. It's a very flat and wide-open campground perfect for big RVs with much larger sites."
Leveling considerations: Some luxury sites require additional setup. Jennifer K. shares about Middle Creek: "We reserved 35&36. 35 was pretty sloped but the gravel driveway wasn't too terribly unlevel. Only real issue was where our steps came out right into a sloped area and had to be careful coming in and out."
Access road information: RVers should note approach challenges. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warns a Douthat State Park visitor, highlighting the importance of researching access before arrival.
Year-round availability: Some glamping sites with RV accommodations operate beyond peak season. A visitor to Natural Bridge KOA notes, "This KOA was a very nice surprise given that it was right off the highway... The Verizon wifi was spotty with 2-3 bars," providing information on both location and connectivity for remote workers.
