Campgrounds near Lynchburg, Virginia offer primitive to full-service options within the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills. The terrain varies from riverside locations at lower elevations to mountain settings with significant elevation changes. Most campgrounds in the region operate between April and October, with fewer year-round facilities available due to winter weather conditions that can make mountain roads difficult to navigate.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Crabtree Falls Campground, campers can walk directly to Crabtree Falls trail from their sites. "The waterfall hike - parking can be crazy up there but you can walk! It rained the whole time we were there, but the on site, free dryer was a life saver," notes Sarah G.
Attend local festivals: Glen Maury Park hosts several cultural events throughout the camping season. "There are many activities such as a bluegrass festival, fiddle festival, and jazz festival. This year they built large models of the twin towers and had a program about them on September 11th," says Priscilla S.
Explore Blue Ridge Parkway trails: Camping provides direct access to numerous hiking options. "We did not think we would be able to squeeze it into the visit but it's hard to pass up and they are literally right next to it," shares Marc W. about Lynchburg/Blue Ridge Parkway KOA's proximity to the parkway trails.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Oronoco Campground offers free primitive sites along the water. "The area itself is beautiful and there are many small streams that you are able to park near and set up camp," reports Chad B., who has stayed there multiple times to explore the mountains.
Family-friendly amenities: Lynchburg/Blue Ridge Parkway KOA receives positive feedback for its kid-friendly features. "Lots to do for the kids included jumping pad, nice park, pool and a few table games," one visitor shares, while another adds, "They had activities every day for the kids. As well as lots of unstructured activities."
Privacy between sites: Despite being an established campground, Peaks of Otter Campground offers secluded camping. "Sites were very clean and well taken care of. There are tons of campsites available but they are spaced out enough to still feel secluded," explains Stephanie M.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds in the area feature significant slopes. "The campground was built on the side of the mountain, many sites are terraced. I had steps or the worn path down to the actual site from where I parked," explains a camper at Peaks of Otter Campground.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Only open from May to October each year so be sure to check that out before just showing up!" warns Bran P. about Thousand Trails Lynchburg.
Free camping options: Unlike western states, free sites are uncommon in this region. "Free boondocking places east of the Mississippi are rarer than out west, and this is a good one, for a place with multiple campers," mentions Michael about Oronoco Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation. "The pool was great for my son and we had it to ourselves multiple days," says Joel B. about his stay at Sweetwater RV Park.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with established play areas. "There is a playground that is very nice! They offer entertainment on weekends and some other times of the year," shares Sara L. about Glen Maury Park.
Educational wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation. "Very territorial deer, will stalk you on way to dumpster!" warns Karen W. about the resident deer at Peaks of Otter Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RVers should bring leveling equipment. "Your average KOA, well kept wasn't too busy considering location and time of year would stay again!" notes Max O. about Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, while another camper mentions the terraced nature of sites requiring careful positioning.
Water pressure variations: Pressure differs significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility. "My water pressure was good but talking to other campers, the farther away you get from the front of the park the worse the water pressure gets," reports Christopher C. about his experience at Lynchburg/Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
Site selection strategies: When booking RV camping near Lynchburg, Virginia, consider specific site needs. "We had reserved a pull through but were just short in length and had to disconnect the tow vehicle for the night. They had longer sites so if this is important I would discuss when making reservation," advises a camper at Lynchburg/Blue Ridge Parkway KOA.
