The Virginia Piedmont terrain surrounding Farmville offers several cabin camping options along the rivers and lakes of the region. Elevations in the area typically range from 300-500 feet, creating moderate topography for camping. The region's four distinct seasons provide varying camping conditions throughout the year, with high humidity during summer months and pleasantly mild spring and fall temperatures.
What to do
Stargazing at dark sky sites: Staunton River State Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park. "The park offers rentals of telescopes too. They also have a nature learning lab, some cool animals, and a fantastic gift shop," writes one visitor. Evening programs enhance the experience with "lights in the water at night and nighttime walk."
Water activities on multiple lakes: Visitors can fish, swim, paddle and boat at several parks. At Twin Lakes State Park, "The swimming lake is a good size. There is a concession stand, a beach with lifeguard, and a rental station for paddle boats." The small lakes offer manageable paddling for beginners and families.
Trail exploration: Parks feature interconnected trail systems. "We hiked the Plantation Trail, a large historical site that was once a homestead. Mellow, family-friendly walk with a cemetery, historical markers, and an old chimney," notes a camper at Occoneechee State Park. Many trails link to larger forest networks with varying difficulty levels.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Most cabin campers appreciate the natural setting. At Bear Creek Lake State Park, "These cabins are HUGE and really beautiful. They look like they could accommodate over 12 people." Site separation varies by park, with some offering more privacy than others.
Cleanliness and maintenance: Facilities receive consistent attention. A visitor to Holliday Lake State Park noted, "The staff are friendly and check on you frequently; bathhouses are well maintained and clean." This sentiment is echoed across multiple parks in the region.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides animal sighting chances. At Staunton River State Park, one camper shared, "While staying there I saw a skunk, a groundhog, several deer and a great variety of birds." Early mornings and evenings typically offer the best wildlife viewing times.
What you should know
Reservations essential: The popularity of cabin facilities means advanced planning is crucial. "Sites fill up quickly. If you do not reserve your spot early, you may be placed near the road, where traffic is an issue," warns a visitor to Powhatan State Park. Most parks allow bookings 11 months in advance.
Seasonal operations: Not all facilities operate year-round. As noted for Holliday Lake State Park, cabins and facilities operate from "First Friday in March to First Monday in December." Winter availability is limited across parks in the region.
Level and size considerations: Site topography varies significantly. At Cozy Acres Campground, "Level sites with brick paver pads, full hookups" are available, but at other parks "bring leveling supplies! some sites are reservable, some are not."
Varying cabin amenities: Kitchen provisions differ between parks. "Kitchen is equipped with microwave, toaster, coffee pot, water glasses, coffee mugs, plates, bowls, utensils, can opener, etc. If you have the space to pack them, I recommend bringing a couple of your own pots and pans; limited options there," shared one cabin visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water-focused activities: Families particularly enjoy the swimming areas. At Bear Creek Lake State Park, "There is a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun!" The shallow sections provide safer play spaces for younger children.
Educational programming: Most parks offer ranger-led activities. "We enjoyed a fire making class followed by s'mores on Friday night and then an owl searching hike on Saturday night," shared a family visiting James River State Park. Program schedules are typically posted at visitor centers upon arrival.
Playground access: Many parks include play areas for children. At Twin Lakes, "They have a large playground for the kids and the roads are good for bike riding," making it ideal for families with younger children who need activity options beyond hiking and water sports.
Cabin selection for groups: Family configurations affect cabin choices. "We stayed in a 3BR/2BA spacious cabin, wooded and lakeside. Great sunsets and nice big deck," reported a visitor to Occoneechee State Park. Larger cabin options accommodate extended family gatherings with multiple bedrooms.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing awareness: RV sites at many parks have proximity issues. At Twin Lakes State Park, "The sites were packed in close together and most of the tent only sites were tiny!" Consider carefully when selecting locations, especially during busy seasons.
Hookup limitations: Many parks offer only partial hookups. "No full hookup (yes 30/50 amp). Well maintained trails, level sites," notes a camper at Powhatan State Park. Dump stations are available but not at individual sites in most parks.
Proximity to attractions: Location relative to area highlights matters. The cabins near Farmville provide access to "High Bridge State Park. If you have your bikes you definitely want to check out High Bridge. Go to the Paradise Rd. Entrance," recommends a visitor to Twin Lakes State Park.
