Camping near Daleville, Virginia offers diverse sites nestled within the Appalachian foothills, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 feet creating varied microclimates throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F while fall brings crisp 40-65°F days ideal for hiking. Riverside campsites along the James River provide natural cooling effects during warmer months.
What to do
Riverside activities: James River access at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge provides opportunities for fishing and water recreation. One camper noted, "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."
Mountain biking: Well-maintained trails at Douthat State Park Campground offer excellent terrain for cyclists of all abilities. A visitor mentioned, "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!"
Lakeside relaxation: Calm waters at Smith Mountain Lake State Park provide perfect conditions for paddling and swimming. According to one camper, "Lake was super calm, clear and not too cold. We went out kayaking and swam out in the open."
Winter camping: Year-round options exist at several campgrounds in the region. Many stay open during off-peak seasons with reduced amenities but greater solitude. "This 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," reported one winter visitor.
What campers like
Secluded creekside sites: Middle Creek Campground offers tent sites with direct water access. A visitor shared, "We chose site #76 because the creek wound around the back of the campsite and had a gentle slope leading down to the creek. We knew our dogs would love splashing around in it!"
Premium camping pads: Several campgrounds offer upgraded site surfaces. One camper at Natural Bridge KOA described, "They had brand new premium pull through sites that were amazing! Big patios, BBQ grill, tables, fire pit. It was a quiet, well laid out and easy to manage in our 36 ft trailer."
Proximity to attractions: Many sites serve as convenient basecamps for regional exploration. A visitor noted, "This KOA is one of our favorites. Open year round. Close to Lexington with vineyards, restaurants and antique shops. Next door to the drive thru zoo and near Natural Bridge."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The mountains surrounding Daleville provide habitat for diverse wildlife. "We rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear," mentioned one camper, highlighting unexpected wildlife encounters available during outdoor activities.
What you should know
Seasonal staffing variations: Off-season camping may mean limited personnel. "In the shoulder season the campground isn't staffed often, but what do you expect when it's not busy?" one camper at Middle Creek Campground noted, suggesting realistic expectations for shoulder season visits.
Cell service limitations: Many glamping areas near Daleville have spotty connectivity. A camper reported, "Beautiful and secluded. Mostly seasonal campers, but an idyllic environment. I am parked alongside a babbling brook. Poor cell reception, no TV. A forced off the grid experience."
Uneven terrain at some sites: Topography varies significantly across the region's campgrounds. "Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles," warned one visitor at Douthat State Park.
Water quality concerns: Some swimming areas require careful inspection. One camper reported, "They also have a man-made lake, but we saw all sorts of dead fish in it. It was gross, some of the other campers said it was normal for the campground to have dead fish."
Tips for camping with families
Holiday-themed weekends: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge offers seasonal programming. "The campground has Halloween themed activities for kids on specific weekends. We were there for one of these weekends. It's geared for younger kids (10 and under)," explained one parent.
Divided campground layouts: Some parks separate family-focused areas from quieter zones. "The campground is divided with the store and most of the kids stuff on one side. The other side of the park offers additional lots and a playground," noted one visitor.
Educational programming: Several parks provide ranger-led activities. "We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks. Our camp hosts were great at keeping us informed and sharing ideas to make the weekend fun," shared a family camper.
Multiple water features: Various campgrounds combine different water options. One parent shared, "There is a lake to swim in with fun inflatable slides and trampoline and a pool. The lake was super fun and such a cool idea to have the slides and trampolines. The pool was a decent size and warm."
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA provides escorted site guidance. "They even guided you to your site and help you level," shared one RVer, appreciating this extra assistance with a critical setup task.
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with specialized sites. "Lots of pull thru sites, full hook up, even have dog park and laundry," one camper noted about their experience at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA.
Premium site upgrades: Some glamping in Daleville offers luxury RV pads. "It has all the bells and whistles you'd hope for at a Jellystone. We partook in all we could and enjoyed the swimming hole, pool, splash pad, jumping pillow and arcade," explained an RV camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Level site challenges: Terrain can present difficulties. "The electric hookup circuit breaker was very loose," cautioned one visitor, highlighting maintenance issues that affect RV camping experiences, while another noted, "Very small site with a half deck. If we had camper with slide, we would not have been able to use our slide in this site."
