Best Tent Camping near Danville, VA

Tent camping options near Danville, Virginia include several established campgrounds within driving distance, primarily in neighboring North Carolina. Eno River State Park Campground, located in Durham, NC, offers tent camping with both drive-in and hike-in access. Cedarock Park in North Carolina provides walk-in tent sites along Rock Creek. These tent-specific options require varying degrees of hiking to reach the actual campsites, with most situated within natural settings along waterways.

Most tent campsites in the region feature primitive amenities. Sites at Eno River State Park include fire rings and picnic tables, while most lack running water at the actual campsites. According to reviews, campers should bring their own water or water filtration systems when staying at these locations. Cedarock Park's tent sites are situated approximately a quarter-mile down wooded forest paths and include fire pits and flat areas for tent setup. A visitor commented that "the sites are well spaced and can accommodate large groups." Park gates typically close at night, so campers should be aware of access limitations after hours.

The tent camping experience in this region offers peaceful natural settings with forest and river environments. Eno River State Park provides access to multiple hiking trails and river activities, making it popular for multi-day explorations. Most campsites offer gravel tent pads, though reviews note these can be uncomfortable without proper sleeping pads. One camper mentioned that "the proximity to the water is amazing and you can hear the nearby rapids at night." Tree coverage varies by campsite, with most offering partial shade. While sites are spaced apart, there is limited privacy between some campsites. The primitive nature of these tent-only areas means campers should be prepared for self-sufficient camping with minimal amenities but rewarding natural surroundings.

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Best Tent Sites Near Danville, Virginia (5)

    1. Eno River State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Hillsborough, NC
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 383-1686

    $17 - $47 / night

    "My partner and I camped at Fanny’s Ford at one of the primitive sites. The sites are well spaced but not a lot of privacy. We didn’t mind and everyone was cordial."

    "Eno River State Park has amazing backpack in camping that is well worth the beautiful walk through the woods. The last trip here was so wonderful that we extended it by two nights! "

    2. Cedarock Park

    4 Reviews
    Graham, NC
    42 miles
    Website

    $10 / night

    "The park is almost 500 acres in size and offers:

    • 6 miles of hiking trails
    • 6 miles of equestrian trails
    • 2 disc golf courses with a total of 36 holes for play
    • A historical farm restored"

    "We hiked down with our stuff and set up at campsite 4. We were the only ones there for the weekend and there was ample space for setting up. We used the fire pit and the kids played in the creek."

    3. Lake Michie Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Bahama, NC
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 560-4355

    4. MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping

    1 Review
    Durham, NC
    48 miles

    "The campground is located on a private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites."

    5. Ryans Branch

    Be the first to review!
    Henry, VA
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 629-1847
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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Danville, VA

12 Photos of 5 Danville Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Danville, VA

318 Reviews of 5 Danville Campgrounds


  • Katy S.
    Aug. 4, 2020

    MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping

    A great spot for MST hikers

    This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on a private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites. It's a hike in only campground, located approximately 1 mile from the roadside parking on Red Mill Road, Durham NC. 

    The information can be found here:

    There is an authorized camping area available on private property in this section of the Falls Lake Trail(between Red Mill Road and Old Oxford Road). Follow the blue-blazed trail off the MST approximately 1 mile west of Red Mill Road. NOTE: This campsite is on private property. It is a HUGE PRIVILEGE to be allowed to camp at this location. Vandalism, neglect or any trash left at this campsite could result in closing of this campsite by the landowner. No water or toilet facilities are provided. There are seven established campsite pads for 2-person tents. Campsite rules:(1) Practice Leave No Trace ethics.(2) Do NOT leave any trash. Pack it in= Pack it out.(3) There is a 2-night maximum stay.(4) Do NOT explore past a 75 yard radius of the Shelter.(5) NO FIRES except in the established fire pit.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 1, 2019

    Hanging Rock State Park Campground

    This is a great state park for hiking, seeing waterfalls, and for views!

    There are a lot of reasons to love Hanging Rock State Park. That’s why it is probably my favorite state park in North Carolina.  However, I am torn between giving it two stars and giving it five stars.  In general, I would give the park five stars, but for the camping facilities, I would rate it two stars.  There is so much to do without having to leave the state park.  First, let’s look at the park itself, and close to the end I will discuss the campground.

    To get to the park, you drive through beautiful rolling hills. The park has a modern visitor center with a nature center and friendly rangers.  There are lots of trails to explore, but they are not just trails to nowhere.  There are five waterfalls to see, a climbing access area, Cook’s Wall, and much more.  Moore’s Wall Loop Trail is a 4.3 mile strenuous hike, and it begins by walking by the lake.  There is a platform about halfway through the hike in which you can see the skylines of Greensboro and Winston-Salem.  My favorite trail is the Hanging Rock Trail, which is listed as moderate.  Parts of it are moderate, very short stretches are easy, and much of it is strenuous.  The last part of the Hanging Rock Trail is the most difficult, but the view at the end is worth the hike because it is spectacular.  From the hanging rock (I should say rocks since there are more than one), you can see for many miles across several counties.  The shortest hike to see a waterfall is relatively easy and is only three-tenths of a mile one way.  The lake has a swimming beach with mountains in the background, and there are also rowboats and canoes for rent.  According to what I understand from their website, canoe rentals and concession stands at the lake are open weekends only in the spring and fall (10am - 5:30pm).   I was hoping to take my kayaks next time, but unfortunately, private boats are not allowed.  Two large picnic shelters are also close to the lake. 

    Here is why I would give it two stars.  The camping sites are shaded and spacious with picnic tables, lantern poles, and fire rings, but the bathroom facility is outdated (built in the 1960s).  Even though it has hot water, it is NOT handicap accessible, and the shower doors are narrow.  If you are not a skinny person, you might have trouble squeezing through the shower doors.  There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups; however, there is access to water by way of frostproof hydrants. The campground hosts were very helpful and answered my questions.  You can also purchase bundles of firewood since taking your own firewood into the park is frowned upon.  If you are like me, however, and camp to experience the outdoors, you will not want to stay at your campsite very long.  There are just too many things to explore at this state park.  If you are going and want to truly experience the park, plan to camp at least three nights.  One day you can explore Upper Cascades falls and the hanging rock.  On another day, you can hike the Moore’s Wall trail and cool off in the lake.  On another day, see a couple more waterfalls or hike the Reuben Mountain Trail.

    There is also a group camping area.  I took the Boy Scouts there once, so I decided to visit this time to see if it was still the same.  They have added bathrooms and more well-defined tent sites—quite an improvement since the last time.

  • Dave V.
    Jun. 1, 2018

    Hanging Rock State Park Campground

    Let’s just hang out!

    RANGER REVIEW: Mountain House New Homestyle Turkey Dinner Casserole at Hanging Rock State Park, Danbury, NC

    CAMPGROUND REVIEW: HANGING ROCK STATE PARK

    Locating Hanging Rock State Park was not a simple task as it is well off the beaten path… most great parks are…but once there, you’ve found a gem! (Google Maps directions were inaccurate).At over 8,000 acres…offering trails of all length and difficultly level, multiple waterfalls, lake, scenic long views and picnic areas…it is no wonder it is claimed to be the most beautiful park in North Carolina. https://www.ncparks.gov/hanging-rock-state-park

    Rich in history, the mid 1930’s through 1942 saw the CCC construct most of what you still see and use here at Hanging Rock. Their stonework and creativity has stood the test of time. During an earlier war many elevated locations were were used as hideaways for British by sympathizers

    Park roadway signage directs you to your desired destination within the park.

    https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CHLjG8FrpRg

    There are 73 campsites, separated into two loops…sites 1-42 in the main loop and 43-73 in the second more linear “loop”. Campground loop roads are one way to eliminate confusion.

    Individual camp sites are rather spacious, and offer 40-50’ between sites. Gravel parking pads are different lengths and shapes (most appear long enough for a pop-up or medium length RV/Camper) and are outlined by 12”x12” timber pylons jutting from the ground about a foot high. These short massive posts no doubt keep vehicle and trailer from wandering beyond the parking pad…but are a fantastic tripping hazard day or night. There is some “breakup” between sites from mature trees but your neighbors are still visible.

    The tent pads are elevated 3-4 inches, outlined by horizontal timbers and backfilled with fine pea gravel and sand. Easy on the knees, tent floor and when inserting tent stakes. Site 35’s tent pad was 13’x 19’ And fairly level. However, it appeared each site had a different sized pad based on terrain and available space. Some outer loop sites have some steeper drop-aways, so split-rail fences outline the tent pad, picnic area or both for safety.

    The park is heavily forested, so shade is abundant. During mid-May, it was warm, dry and enjoyed a constant refreshing breeze.

    Water spigots dot the campground loop roadway every few sites, so it is a short walk to fill up. Secure trash receptacles are spread out further but still plentiful. No electric and sketchy cell service (at best)…of which the payphone at the information board reminds you. Make the hike up to Moore’s Knob and you’ll find decent cell phone reception, if need be.

    Reservations are recommended and online is suggested. Arriving during business hours, available sites can be reserved and paid at the Visitor’s Center. After hours, payment of cash or check only can be made with the campground host as you enter the campground area. Each numbered site marker has a unique flag that flips up and over it’s site number denoting the site is reserved. Site cost per night were $18, which is a great price considering what this park offers.

    The centrally located showerhouse is clean and functional. The ladies called it ‘dated’ …but I liked the authentic retro look. The lights remain illuminated throughout, so it draws local insects…some monstrous! Huge beetles and stink bugs clung to the screen door desiring entrance. A hornet the size of a hummingbird circled the yellow porch light, with its buzzing eclipsing all other night sounds.

    The second loop is more linear, has a newer showerhouse (with electrical outlets). Sites to the left have the campground roadway behind them, so they may experience traffic noise…but with gates locking at 10 p.m. traffic is halted…and those sites appeared to be closer together. The outer sites are more private and enjoy spacious forest behind them.

    Shower houses are not open year-round, even though the park is. So there are still “outhouse style” singular pit latrines present.

    Whitetail deer mosey past your site and linger during the evening…ample squirrel and robins, woodpeckers and cardinals compete for air time. Skinks, newts and salamanders populate these wooded lands and scurry about. There are snakes, some venomous, but unfortunately, none were observed on our visit.

    The miles of trails are wonderful and well-traveled. Being known as “the mountains away from the mountains,” we did not hike any flat trails. Trails either go up or down…but each offer spectacular destinations and views. I highly recommend every trail and every waterfall. And yes, both Moore’s Knob and Hanging Rock are the highest elevations…offering fabulous views.

    The visitor’s center is the hub where many trails originate…and is a tremendous little facility full of local information. Staff personnel and Park Rangers are extremely helpful. Restrooms and water are located inside and outside the facility. The parking lot is expansive and the large number of day-use picnic tables, grills and shelters let you know this park gets a tremendous amount of use during peak times.

    Another, often overlooked feature is 7.2 miles of the Mountain To Sea Trail travels through this splendid park.

    For a mid-May Monday night, we shared the campground with five other campers…but weekends and holidays are ordinarily full so secure your reservations online well in advance.

    Hanging Rock State Park made my list for future visits!

    PRODUCT REVIEW: MOUNTAIN HOUSE NEW HOMESTYLE TURKEY DINNER CASSEROLE

    Having enjoyed Mountain House dinners on numerous camping and backpacking occasions, I welcomed the opportunity to try Mountain House's new Turkey Dinner Casserole.

    Mountain House's heritage is a rich Red, White and Blue one. Many don't realize that Oregon Freeze Dry began making nutritious meals, named LRP "Long Range Patrol" rations for our U.S. Military Special Operations units. MCW, "Meals Cold Weather" were designed to meet the needs of Special Forces operating in every adverse climate and condition on the planet. As opportunities arose and civilian demand increased, Mountain House began labeling and producing wonderful meals for both the front and backcountry. https://www.mountainhouse.com/

    The convenience of preparing a delicious meal by merely boiling water and adding it to the pouch is quick and easy. In fact, you can even eat it directly from the pouch without having to use a separate pot or bowl. Just open the pouch, remove the silica packet, pour in the boiling water, stir for a minute or so…seal the pouch with it's "ziplock" style closure…wait five minutes, open and stir again…Presto! Your meals awaits!

    Mountain House's new Turkey Dinner Casserole is the real deal. I found it delicious and very much like a Thanksgiving meal. Let it be known, I do not prefer stuffing and don't eat it at Thanksgiving or any other time…but..I found it to be very tasty and satisfying in this meal. https://www.mountainhouse.com/M/product/homestyle-turkey-dinner-casserole.html?variant_id=235

    My wife and I enjoyed this as our anniversary meal while camping…I spare no expense (free meal at an inexpensive campground…think frugal:) This particular meal provides two (2) servings, and if we had not been hiking most the day, it would have sufficed. I found myself desiring a bit more. Real chunks of turkey, stuffing, veggies, smothered in a thin gravy.

    Mountain House offers various size pouches, some 1 serving, as well as, 2 serving, 2.5 serving pouches, Pro-paks, #10 cans, and multi-packs. They offer delicious breakfasts and delectable desserts.

  • Gail B.
    Jun. 26, 2022

    Horseshoe Point

    Quiet, Secluded Campground

    I stayed one night at Horseshoe Point. The drive there through the mountains and backroads was pretty but make no mistake, this place is remote. There is no WiFi and my T-Mobile was useless there. There is a nice lake with trails nearby. There is a clean bath house with hot showers. The sites have a picnic table, fire ring, and gravel parking spaces. The sites are among the trees and well kept. They do not allow dogs near the beach. As a dog owner, this saddens me as I like to swim and I can’t if my dog is with me. The campground hosts were very friendly and welcoming.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2020

    Staunton River State Park Campground

    State Park Campground with Trails for Hikers, Bikers, and Horses

    The campground at Staunton River State Park has lots of shade, water and electrical hookups, level sites, are not on top of each other, and… gravel sites. I understand the reason for gravel sites, but it is NOT good for tent campers, especially for campers that do not have freestanding tents. The first two attempts at driving tent stakes in resulted in bent stakes. Even though I said the sites are not on top of each other, they are still close enough that you do not get much privacy. The noise from other campers was fairly loud. Two units(e.g., camper+ tent) are allowed, but there is little room for anything, especially since campers are supposed to keep everything within the boundaries of the“timbers.” We got one of the largest sites, and it still was crowded. There was a fire ring with a grate, a picnic table, and two lantern poles, but again, everything was tight. Fitting two vehicles within the limits was nearly impossible. I know we weren’t supposed to set anything up outside the boundaries(please forgive us), but we set up our dining canopy and hammocks outside of the timbers. Despite the campsite limits, I still think this campground and the state park were great. There were many miles of trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. We rode our bikes along a couple of the trails, but we had to steer around horse poop(not always successfully). The trail itself was scenic at times when we rode by the river, and it was not too difficult. There are enough“bumps” for bikers to get their heartbeats jumping, but the trails are easy and moderate. Kayaking and fishing seemed to be two of the more popular activities. There is a boat ramp, and beside the boat ramp, there were several people fishing. Many kayakers came and went as we put our kayaks into the water. The one thing kayakers have to be aware of is the presence of speed boats. We got hit by passing boaters several times. Other activities at this campground/state park are disc golf, playing on the playground, tennis, and swimming. Unfortunately, the swimming area is closed for 2020 because of the pandemic. However, several people were swimming at the boat landing. When it is open, the swimming pool area is exceptional for a state park. There is a water slide and a really nice swimming complex. Staunton River State Park is also designated as an“International Dark Sky Park.” Unfortunately, we did not take advantage of that. After biking and kayaking all day and camp cooking during the evening, we were exhausted. There is no shortage of things to do, and I wish I could have stayed at least a couple more days. Overall, the park is a fairly nice place, but if you take a tent, make sure it is a freestanding tent.

  • Cassandra C.
    Sep. 14, 2020

    Hanging Rock State Park Campground

    Well spaced sites

    I stayed at site #003 in the Family Campground at Hanging Rock State Park. This was a nice site with a decent amount of privacy thanks to the slight hill that backs the site. Each site has a sand pad for the tent, a concrete fire ring, and a picnic table - and each section is defined by railroad ties. There really isn't an option to put a tent up anywhere outside of the pad on this site. Water is located right next to the site, and the bathroom is right up the hill behind the site. The bathroom has flush toilets and showers, but the showers aren't very inviting. The sites are pretty spaced out, and you don't feel like you are too close to your neighbor. Overall, my stay was nice, but I definitely prefer a more primitive campground.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2020

    Hanging Rock State Park Campground

    No Alcohol Allowed!

    Nice campground. Sites were level and bathrooms/showers were clean. Tons of great hiking trails all around. No hook ups. They clearly post no alcohol allowed as you enter the park and campground, but really? Well... rangers wander through at night to say hi but also to see if you have any banned beverages out. If so they will make you pour EVERYTHING out. Poor group of guys next to me lost about 4 cases of beer and a couple bottles of whiskey. Keep in mind and be discreet.

  • KB H.
    Jun. 7, 2021

    Eno River State Park Campground

    Perfect weekend getaway!

    This was my first time ever visiting Eno River State Park. My partner and I camped at Fanny’s Ford at one of the primitive sites. The sites are well spaced but not a lot of privacy. We didn’t mind and everyone was cordial. On Friday there were a few logs left for campers at the entrance to the sites, which we appreciated given the recent rain. The proximity to the water is amazing and you can hear the nearby rapids at night. Recommendations: bring in your own water, or at least your own containers to fill up at the picnic area parking lot, bring a sleeping pad (the gravel on each site is unforgiving), don’t be afraid to contact the park rangers if you need something (folks were camping without permits in our reserved space and the rangers helped sort everything out)

    Big tip: instead of following the ~1 mile trail to the sites, park at the canoe access and walk down to Fews Ford, cross the river via the Ford and continue right until you see a fannys Ford camping sign on your left. It will make your trek SO MUCH easier!

  • Bridget H.
    Oct. 28, 2020

    Fairy Stone State Park Campground

    Great Adventure in SW Virginia

    This weekend was a great adventure in SW Virginia. We stayed in a Yurt. 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. A picnic table, lamp post, and fire ring are also provided at the site. We hunted and found fairy stones which made the trip that much more fun. It was just after covid 19 started and lessening restrictions began so the beach was closed and there were few people at the campground but we had a great time riding bikes and hiking. We even went to the Creeper Trail and rode our bikes from White Top to Damascus.


Guide to Danville

Tent camping opportunities near Danville, Virginia include several established sites within a 1-2 hour drive radius. Most camping options require travel into North Carolina, with state parks and county recreation areas offering the primary tent camping experiences. The region features rolling Piedmont topography with mixed hardwood forests and waterways that support various outdoor recreation activities alongside camping.

What to do

Hiking trails access: Eno River State Park offers 24 miles of hiking trails that follow the river and traverse surrounding forests. According to Samantha P., "There is a tremendous amount of hiking and trails to do around here. The Eno River is more than safe to swim or paddle in."

Disc golf courses: Cedarock Park features two complete disc golf courses with 36 total holes. One camper notes, "There are two fantastic disc golf courses (I personally enjoy the Wellspring course) and even a historical farm that sheds light on what life was like as a farmer in 19th century North Carolina."

Water activities: The rivers and lakes in the region provide swimming, fishing, and paddling opportunities during warmer months. Daniel P. mentions about Eno River, "Great quarry for easy cliff jumping and swimming in the summertime. Campsites around also very solid."

Historical exploration: Several camping areas include access to restored historical sites. At Cedarock Park, visitors can explore a farm restored to the late 1800s time period, offering educational opportunities about rural North Carolina history.

What campers like

Solitude and spacing: The primitive sites at most campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. Sarah W. from Eno River State Park Campground reports, "The primitive sites are spaces far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude. Piper Creek is our favorite. Flat and easy 1.2 mile hike in along the river."

Natural soundscapes: Several campers mention the peaceful sounds of running water at riverfront sites. According to Samantha P., "If you can camp close to the river, I recommend, it's great to fall asleep to the sounds of the river. Bring bug spray!"

Educational programming: Some parks offer interpretive programs and educational experiences. Elizabeth V. notes, "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean."

Accessibility to trails: Many campsites provide direct access to trail systems without needing to drive. Katy S. from MST Section 23 Falls Lake Camping says, "This is a hidden gem for a MST hiker. The campground is located on a private land, has a shelter, a fire pit, and a number of tent sites."

What you should know

Gate closure restrictions: Park gates typically close according to seasonal hours, which can limit after-hours access. Summer C. cautions about Cedarock Park, "The downside is they lock the gate at night and no one else is there so if you have an emergency or just need to leave you can't, you're literally stuck."

Water availability: Most primitive sites lack running water at the actual campsites. Myron C. advises, "The only facilities are pit toilets with no showers or running water. That is why you need to be prepared and take in your own water and toilet paper."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Danville, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Danville, VA is Eno River State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 21 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Danville, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Danville, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.