Camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

Across Virginia, George Washington Jefferson National Forests has camping spots that range from developed sites to more out-of-the-way places. The City Park Campground in the forests has clean sites and just the basics you need for camping. Many campers head to the Recreation Area when they want something more back-to-basics with campsites that put you right in the woods. If you're trying to avoid crowds, the national forest has plenty of quiet spots away from the busier areas. Most camping areas have drinking water and bathrooms, which makes things easier when you're staying for a few days. Weather really changes what's available - spring and fall are usually best, summer gets pretty hot, and some places shut down in winter when snow hits. Some campsites sit under thick trees that give good shade and keep you from seeing your neighbors. Always check if there are any current fire bans or closed trails before you head out. The forests work well for both tent and RV camping, depending on which area you choose.

Best Camping Sites Near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests (135)

    1. Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park

    18 Reviews
    Stuarts Draft, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 337-3920

    $45 - $99 / night

    "You can fish in the lake though we didn't catch anything. Wifi is free and open so no password and therefore, not secure. Trash picked up each day."

    "Good location close to I81 but little road noise. I did hear a train."

    2. Sherando Lake Campground

    33 Reviews
    Tyro, VA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    $25 - $47 / night

    "This campground is located in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. We stayed for 6 nights here and had a nice private site."

    "Sherando Lake is a well-maintained, popular campground located in the George Washington National Forest near Lyndhurst, VA."

    3. Crabtree Falls Campground

    20 Reviews
    Montebello, VA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 377-2066

    $28 - $55 / night

    "The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night."

    "I’ve camped at a completely different part of this place before which was a site without access to bathrooms and showers."

    4. Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area

    13 Reviews
    West Augusta, VA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 432-0187

    "Car could be parked right next to us on site 2. Next to a creek, so good sounds and cool environment 3. Some walking trails 4."

    "the pond has a great little trail you can walk around and at night the stars are gorgeous. the water is also stocked with fish!"

    5. Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA

    29 Reviews
    Natural Bridge, VA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2770

    $35 / night

    "This campground is open year round and is right off the highway.  There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park. "

    "Located in a beautiful part of central Virginia, this campground gives you lots of options for sightseeing. It is definitely worth a trip to the Natural Bridge."

    6. Devils Backbone Camp

    39 Reviews
    Nellysford, VA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 817-9708

    $25 - $140 / night

    "The camp is also just miles from the Appalachian Trail, so they provide a free shuttle to the camp, as well as group tent area for registered AT thru-hikers. "

    "First time camping in any part of Virginia, very nice and clean campground, not too much outside noise besides the random car driving on the one road near by."

    7. Douthat State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Clifton Forge, VA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 862-8100

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Kid and pet friendly, this park has a nice lake for Kayaking/canoeing, multiple hiking trails with views, excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, and great biking trails."

    "General: There are four campgrounds in Douthat State Park - White Oak, Whispering Pines, Lakeside, and Beaver Dam (equestrian), each in a separate location. This review is for White Oak."

    8. Lee Hi Campground

    7 Reviews
    Lexington, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 463-3478

    "You can’t hear the highway, which is on the other side of the mountain in the back of the campground.

    Restrooms were older but clean during our stay and a short walk from the camp site."

    "You can’t hear the highway, which is on the other side of the mountain in the back of the campground.

    Restrooms were older but clean during our stay and a short walk from the camp site."

    9. Oronoco Campground

    15 Reviews
    Buena Vista, VA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    "It should be noted that the warning about water moccasins posted previously is inaccurate as there are no water moccasins in this part of Virginia."

    "Only thing is that there’s a dog, we think from a property nearby, that acts aggressive towards campers."

    10. Stoney Creek Resort

    6 Reviews
    Stuarts Draft, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 337-1510

    "Beautiful surroundings. No phone signal and wifi was a joke but that's not a bad thing!"

    "Ate at their on-site restaurant while a local band played outside. Mostly used by local folks as a seasonal CG. Lots of semi-permanent fixtures attached to rigs. Did get a PassPort America discount."

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Showing results 1-10 of 135 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

821 Reviews of 135 George Washington & Jefferson National Forests Campgrounds



Guide to George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

Camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor fun. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes, with one reviewer mentioning, "The trails go for miles! We just started camping and hiking and can’t wait to explore more of the country!"
  • Fishing: Try your luck at catching some fish. One camper at Douthat State Park Campground said, "There are also cabins here! Plenty of picnic areas and great fishing as well!"
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the lakes. A visitor at Sherando Lake Campground noted, "The lake is beautiful and refreshing. You can swim out to an island if you want to."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA mentioned, "The bath/shower/laundry facility was very clean and fairly new."
  • Friendly staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. A camper at Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp said, "The staff is friendly and go out of their way to answer questions you may have."
  • Activities for kids: Families enjoy the amenities for children. A parent at Misty Mountain Camp Resort shared, "Our kids had a blast on the inflatable jump pad which was open all day."

What you should know:

  • Cell service can be spotty: Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service. A visitor at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area noted, "There isn't any cell service yet near the camp loop you can get service."
  • Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds can get loud, especially on weekends. A camper at Shenandoah Valley Campground mentioned, "The stay is decent. Can get loud and the golf carts are excessive and loud."
  • Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A reviewer at Devil’s Backbone Camp expressed frustration, saying, "$150 per night is crazy. Nothing special about the campground except proximity to Devil's Backbone."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One family at Misty Mountain Camp Resort said, "There were events the entire time we were there and the staff were awesome."
  • Keep an eye on the kids: Some sites are close to roads. A parent at the same campground noted, "Our site was tiny so it was a tad stressful having kids running around right beside the road."
  • Plan for downtime: Bring games or activities for quieter moments. A camper at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA mentioned, "There is a small swimming pool that the kids were enjoying."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Sherando Lake Campground said, "Easy to access sites with large RV, flat site, didn’t even have to unhitch."
  • Be prepared for limited hookups: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A reviewer at Virginia Bolar Mountain Recreation Area noted, "The electric showed 30 & 50 amp yet the 30 amp was disconnected."
  • Bring extra supplies: Some areas are remote, so stock up before you arrive. A camper at Crabtree Falls Campground advised, "There’s a small general store that sells some things, but it’s not a real grocery."

Camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, Virginia, has something for everyone. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests?

According to TheDyrt.com, George Washington & Jefferson National Forests offers a wide range of camping options, with 135 campgrounds and RV parks near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests and 18 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests is Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park with a 4.3-star rating from 18 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 free dispersed camping spots near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests.

What parks are near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 24 parks near George Washington & Jefferson National Forests that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.