Cumberland area campgrounds provide diverse options for RV camping, tent sites, and cabin rentals within central Virginia's Piedmont region at elevations around 450-500 feet. The area experiences hot, humid summers and relatively mild winters, with most campgrounds operating year-round or seasonally from April to November. Some sites accommodate larger rigs while others have length restrictions and varying hookup capabilities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground features a 40-acre lake with multiple fishing spots. "Fishing was not bad. Caught my first ever catfish," reports one visitor. The park also offers hiking trails that circle the lake.
Swimming access: Dedicated swimming areas with beaches are available at several parks. At Twin Lakes State Park Campground, "The swimming lake is a nice size. There is a concession stand, a beach with lifeguard, and a rental station for paddle boats." Another camper noted, "We happened to be there this last weekend and the temperature was nice and warm and the kids enjoyed playing on the beach and on the water playground."
Trail exploration: Parks in the region feature interconnected trail systems with varying terrain. "There is a great spot for group camping with about 8 sites in a circle" at Bear Creek Lake, while Pocahontas State Park offers "Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Pocahontas State Park Campground receives high marks for site spacing. "Mostly private sites, a paved road for biking, plenty of tree cover (even in winter) a lifetime's worth of trails to explore," according to one reviewer. Another camper noted, "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and amenities at regional campgrounds are frequently updated. At Twin Lakes, "Bathhouses were updated and meticulously looked after," and "They have a decent dish washing station." Pocahontas State Park offers "clean, legit bathrooms and showers."
Family programs: Structured activities enhance the camping experience at several parks. "They do an awesome job for 4th of July!" at Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort, according to one visitor. Another camper mentioned Twin Lakes "have a lot of activities for kids. Staff there were very helpful and friendly."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: At Cozy Acres, "The sites were a little close together for my liking, but they were still very nice." Meanwhile, at Americamps RV Resort, "While the sites were close together in typical RV park style, they were not scrapping together like we've seen at some places."
Reservation policies: Most parks require advance booking. "If you are wanting to stay make sure to call in advance for this one. It is too nice to pass up on making a smart reservation," advised one Americamps visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds limit operations during winter months. "Only open from May to October each year so be sure to check that out before just showing up!" noted a camper at Thousand Trails Lynchburg, while Cozy Acres operates "Apr 1 - Nov 15."
Campground conditions: Infrastructure quality varies between parks. At Thousand Trails Lynchburg, "The A loop was in terrible shape as far as the roads go. That said, the C Loop (C62 is our site) is very nice and in good condition, in comparison."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Thousand Trails Lynchburg offers family-friendly amenities including recreation areas. "The playground is impressive and the staff is very welcoming upon arrival," according to one visitor at Cozy Acres. Twin Lakes campers report the park has "a large playground for the kids and the roads are good for bike riding."
Water activities: Many parks feature multiple water recreation options. "They have a play area for the kids, swimming pool, several fishing ponds, bike trails and more," noted a camper at Cozy Acres. Another visitor mentioned, "They have a lot of activities, such as pool, fishing pond and trails."
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites away from common areas for quieter family camping. "The tent-only section of the campground is alongside a lake, which provides beautiful views," at Bear Creek Lake State Park, while "The sites at the top of the hill, A1, A2, A3, and A15 are right on the road."
Tips from RVers
Rig size limitations: Carefully check park restrictions before booking. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," at Bear Creek Lake State Park. Meanwhile, Americamps RV Resort features "full hook up sites with 50-amp service on level gravel pads," making it suitable for larger rigs.
Pad quality: Surface materials impact comfort and setup. At Cozy Acres, "Level sites with brick paver pads, full hookups," were appreciated by one RVer. Another Americamps visitor noted, "All the sites were level, most were gravel, but some were concrete pads."
Hookup variations: Research utilities before arrival. "No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp)" at Pocahontas State Park, while Twin Lakes has "E/W only. Dump station." A visitor at Americamps noted, "Hook ups also included cable with about 70 channels."
