The camping areas surrounding Goshen, Virginia sit in the western portion of the state where the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains converge, creating distinctive valley terrain at elevations between 1,400-2,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Winter camping remains available at select year-round facilities though mountain roads can become challenging after snowfall.
What to do
Hiking near waterfalls: At Crabtree Falls Campground, campers can access the nearby falls trail just a mile from the campground. "Crabtree Falls is a mile up the road and very easy to get to the trail head. The AT is also close by and easily accessed," notes reviewer Britt S.
Fishing opportunities: The stocked waters at Douthat State Park Campground provide reliable fishing throughout the season. "It's $8 a day for a fishing pass and you can rent John boats or kayaks here as well. In season the lake and creek are stocked with plenty of Rainbow trout," explains John R.
Wildlife viewing: Near Goshen, wildlife observation options abound with easy access to natural areas. "Being a Veteran the highlight was visiting the D Day Museum in nearby Bedford. Very emotional," shares Linda B. who stayed at Lynchburg/Blue Ridge Parkway KOA while exploring the region.
What campers like
Private river sites: Campers frequently mention the appeal of waterside camping options. "The sites were right on the river, we had a walk-in which gave us some extra privacy. Beautiful area for hiking, lots leading off of the AT," notes Heather L. about her experience at Crabtree Falls Campground.
Clean facilities: Hygiene amenities receive consistent positive reviews from campers visiting the area. "The bathhouse is nice as is the pool. The store was sparse but adequate. The lawns were kept up and looking good," observed a visitor to Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley.
Convenient location: Proximity to attractions and necessary services appeals to visitors staying at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. "This KOA is one of our favorites. Open year round. Very clean showers. Pool and activities for kids. Close to Lexington with vineyards, restaurants and antique shops. Next door to the drive thru zoo and near Natural Bridge," writes Misty C.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: The region's campgrounds operate on different schedules throughout the year. "We only stayed 1 night as we were passing through to our final destination. Staff was very friendly and the park was one of the cleanest parks I've been to. The bath houses were pristine," noted Kate A. about Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park.
Cellular connectivity: Mobile service fluctuates significantly throughout the mountainous terrain. "Bit in the middle of nowhere, but great camping if you want to visit the natural bridge," explains Michael L., adding that there was "Little to no cell signal (AT&T), but good WIFI" at his campground.
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, advance booking becomes essential at most established campgrounds. "Booking was easy. Arrived after hours, staying one night. Our tag was waiting for us with a map to our RV spot with E/W by the creek and pond," shares DK S. about their off-season experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly campgrounds near Goshen typically offer play facilities for children. "There is a very nice playground and a pet exercise area. You can fish in the lake though we didn't catch anything," mentions a visitor to Walnut Hills describing the family amenities.
Swimming options: Water recreation varies from natural swimming holes to developed facilities. "There is a pool and they also sell propane. Due to the COVID rules their pool may not be open 2020," noted a reviewer about seasonal pool availability at a local campground.
Educational opportunities: Glen Maury Park provides family learning experiences 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," writes Priscilla S.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for potential leveling issues at some campgrounds. "Our site was full hookup and a very nice, mostly level, spacious, and had a covered picnic table on a deck. Not all sites have full hookup," mentions a reviewer about variable site conditions.
Dump station access: When planning RV camping near Goshen, Virginia, travelers should note dump station availability. "Larger rigs need to stay in the lower campground and there are no sewer connections, but the dump station is all good," advises Bradley M. about his experience at Glen Maury Park.
Road navigation: Interior roads at some campgrounds present challenges for larger motorhomes. "The campground was busy and everything was clean and neat. I parked a little goofy it seems so I needed a little extra footage for my electrical hookup. They were kind enough to loan us a 25' extension," recalls a camper about their experience maneuvering within tight campground roads.
