Dog-Friendly Camping near Ferrum, VA

Philpott Lake features multiple recreation areas near Ferrum at 794 feet elevation. Camping options provide direct access to the 3,000-acre lake with 100 miles of shoreline. The area's Blue Ridge Mountain location creates moderate temperatures with daytime summer highs averaging in the 80s and fall temperatures dropping to the 50s-60s.

What to do

Lake swimming access: COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park has a sandy beach area dedicated for swimming. "There is a nice swimming area, boat ramp and dock in the loop. There is also a second shower house located here," notes Glenn F.

Kayaking and canoeing: The calm waters at Salthouse Branch Campground are ideal for paddling. "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!" shares Patrice.

Disc golf course: Chantilly Farm offers a 9-hole disc golf course for campers. "They have full hookup RV sites along with dry ones and multiple tent camping options! They also have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" according to Stafford W.

Hunting for fairy stones: The state park's namesake mineral formations can be found nearby. "We hunted and found fairy stones which made the trip that much more fun," writes Bridget H., who stayed at Fairy Stone State Park.

What campers like

Waterfront camping spots: At Horseshoe Point, waterfront sites provide direct lake access. "Most of the tent sites are right along the lake. The RV sites tended to be higher and a little farther from the water but in sight," explains ralph P.

Clean bathhouse facilities: Smith Mountain Campground maintains excellent facilities. "Clean bathrooms and showers. Close to the lake!" states Matt R. about his experience, highlighting the campground's commitment to cleanliness.

Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the well-designed sites at Rocky Knob Campground. "Wide open beautiful sites. Many with pull through sites. Lots of room. Great for astronomy buffs," notes Linda B.

Privacy between sites: Campers value the natural barriers at many area campgrounds. "C loop is best IMO. Far from RV sites, the spaces are quiet with plenty of room," shares Tim Y. about Rocky Knob Campground.

What you should know

Limited alcohol policies: Some Corps of Engineers campgrounds prohibit 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," reports Anne F. at Salthouse Branch.

Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. "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," cautions fletcher6531 about Salthouse Branch.

Reservation requirements: Popular waterfront sites book quickly. "The lower loop is the most popular because it is down by the water and each of the sites have great views of the lake. Reservations have to be made well in advance for the lower loop sites," advises Timothy W.

Limited amenities: Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground offers more developed facilities than many other area campgrounds. "These campsites are close enough to the showers/restrooms without compromising all of your privacy. Sites are close enough to meet the neighbors though," explains Chris L.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly hiking trails: The lower loop trails at Salthouse Branch are good for younger hikers. "The lower loop is pretty level, fun to walk and ride bikes around, and the kids love the playground!" shares Tamara B.

Educational ranger programs: Take advantage of family-oriented activities at Fairy Stone State Park Campground. "We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones. Kayaking was fun," recommends Bonnie T.

Pet-friendly beaches: While some pet restrictions exist, many campsites accommodate four-legged family members. "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat. Bathrooms are clean and campground was quiet. I had issues finding out if pets were allowed... they are! My dog and I had an awesome time," confirms Paula J. about her stay at Salthouse Branch.

Swimming options: Multiple swimming areas around Philpott Lake offer family-friendly water access. "There is a place to get water. There is 2 bathhouses with toilet and showers, both ADA accessible. There is a picnic area with tables and grills. The campground has 2 swimming areas that are roped off, with life jackets provided," notes Denise about Horseshoe Point.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. "It seemed that most sites required a little help to get level," notes ralph P. about Horseshoe Point's camping areas.

Limited hookup options: Check what's available before booking. "We were at site 35 which was convenient to the bathrooms and was away from the other campsites in the loop," shares Brittany H. about Goose Point, where some loops have more amenities than others.

Dump station access: While most sites lack full hookups, dump stations are available. "The sites in this campground are laid out very well," explains Glenn F. about COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park's facilities.

Winter camping considerations: For off-season RV camping, Smith Mountain Campground stays open year-round. "We just purchased Smith Mountain Campground in December 2018. We are so happy to have found this gem as this has been our dream for many years," shares Angelee H. about their commitment to keeping the campground running throughout the seasons.