Glamping sites near Danville, Virginia occupy diverse terrain from mountainous forest preserves to lakeside recreational areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 400 to 800 feet, with summer highs averaging in the upper 80s and winter lows typically reaching the upper 20s. Most upscale camping areas remain accessible year-round, though winter visitors should prepare for occasional snow and ice that can affect road conditions on the more remote access routes.
What to do
Kayaking and water activities: Access multiple launch points at Fairy Stone State Park Campground where paddlers enjoy calm waters suitable for all skill levels. "Kayaking was fun," notes one camper, while another mentions "We went out kayaking and swam out in the open" at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground.
Stargazing programs: Staunton River State Park hosts dedicated astronomy events throughout the year as an International Dark Sky Park. "The park has been recognized as International Dark sky and there are two telescopes that can be checked out for free at the visitor's center," explains one reviewer who appreciates this unique nighttime activity.
Hiking trail networks: Explore well-maintained paths at Eno River State Park where one visitor shared, "We hike and swim Eno nearly weekly and are so thankful this resource is so close to us!" Another adds, "The trails take you into rolling hills and beside the Eno River, which is great for paddling a canoe or kayak."
Fairy Stone hunting: Search for the distinctive cross-shaped minerals near Fairy Stone State Park at designated collection areas. "We hunted and found fairy stones which made the trip that much more fun," reports a happy visitor, while another family noted "Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!"
What campers like
Year-round swimming options: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park offers clean, maintained swimming areas that operate throughout warmer months. "You may fish or rude boats. The only down fall is the bath house needs updating and you can't swim," mentions one visitor, while another calls it "All time favorite" with "fabulous campground. Sites right on the lake."
Educational programs: Staunton River State Park Campground provides regular nature activities for all ages. "Park rangers had great kids programs including animal feeding frenzy where we learned about snakes and turtles and we invoked in feeding. Also lots of any pelts to learn about," shares one family.
Private waterfront sites: Salthouse Branch Campground offers premium spots directly on Philpott reservoir. "The sites are all pull thru nearly level, big gravel sites," notes one RVer, while another visitor appreciates that "The launch ramp was adjacent to the campsite and while we could have portaged our kayak to the ramp, there is an ample parking lot ramp-side. Philpott reservoir is magnificent!"
Varied accommodation types: Luxury canvas structures at Fairy Stone State Park include amenities not commonly found at standard sites. "It has no electricity or water but the bath house was close. The yurt has a double bed, a twin trundle, a couch and some chairs, and a table and chairs. It also has a large wrap around deck with rocking chairs," describes one glamper.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some luxury camping sites require navigating steep terrain. At Salthouse Branch, a visitor cautions: "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance."
Limited cell service: Occoneechee State Park Campground and other upscale camping locations have spotty connectivity. One visitor to Fairy Stone notes, "There is no cell service or internet/wifi at the cabins though so come prepared with something to do! We found it to be very relaxing to unplug!"
Reservation requirements: Peak season fills quickly, especially for premium accommodations. "Probably due to the park being so old there are a lot of old buildings not in use that are pretty cool," notes a visitor to Fairy Stone, while another recommends: "I would try to get Yurt#3 next time!"
Alcohol restrictions: Rules vary between parks, with Salthouse Branch strictly prohibiting alcohol. "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong," warns one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming areas: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park offers family-friendly water features. "There is a beautiful lake for swimming Tons of hiking trails. They had a great playground for the kids nearby," notes a family who visited recently.
Educational animal encounters: Schedule time at nature centers that offer hands-on learning. At Staunton River, "We enjoyed outdoor movie on Friday. Park rangers had great kids programs including animal feeding frenzy where we learned about snakes and turtles."
Kid-friendly glamping options: Book yurts for a balance of comfort and outdoor experience. "The Yurt overall was very clean and cozy... They have a nice large deck that is great for hanging out on while the kids were asleep," suggests one family that enjoyed glamping near Danville.
Multi-generational activities: Choose parks with varied terrain and accessibility options. "Perfect places for families. We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones," shares a visitor to Fairy Stone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven sites at several parks. "Very hard to level out a RV. A lot of them are sloped," warns one RVer about Hyco Lake, while another mentions, "Sites are a bit small for anything over 35' but we did mange our 41' in there."
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before selecting sites. One camper notes, "We also noted that our water and electricity was on the passenger side of our vehicle so it was a good thing we had an extra hose to reach the water as well as a long enough cord to reach the electric box."
Quiet sections: For premium glamping near Danville, Virginia, select sites away from main roads. "We always love visiting Salthouse Branch! Facilities are clean, staff is friendly and helpful, and we love the atmosphere in the lower loop!" recommends a regular visitor.
Winter camping preparation: Many luxury sites remain open year-round but require additional planning. "We stayed here in the winter months (Feb - April) and it was really nice. Nearest town for groceries is 10 min away but you'll have to travel to Greensboro for bigger stores. Lake is peaceful and provides beautiful sunsets."
