Twin Lakes State Park offers glamping close to Hampden-Sydney, Virginia with unique yurt accommodations situated among pine trees. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 450 feet in the Virginia Piedmont region, with summer temperatures regularly reaching into the 90s. Campers can expect hot, humid conditions from June through August with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months.
What to do
Explore scenic hiking trails: At Bear Creek Lake State Park, trails provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities along the 40-acre lake. "We hiked the Channel Cat Loop trail. Our tent pad was covered in rubber pieces which made for a comfortable base for our tent, and the separate area with fire pit, picnic table and pattern hooks was awesome," shares one visitor who appreciated the well-maintained paths.
Paddle on Kerr Lake: Occoneechee State Park provides direct water access for kayaking or canoeing. "On our last day, we paddled around Bugg's Lake. Used the boat launch near the office - nice place to put in. The whole trip we saw lots of birds, squirrels, deer, and raccoons," notes a camper who enjoyed wildlife viewing from the water.
Night sky observation: Staunton River State Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park. "If you love stargazing this is the park for you. It is an International Dark Sky Park. There is a large open field by the park check in and store. The park offers rentals of telescopes too," explains a visitor who utilized the park's astronomy resources.
What campers like
Private lakeside sites: At Bear Creek Lake State Park, waterfront camping provides solitude. "We chose a reservable waterview site (#18) and I'm glad we got the one we did! It is not directly on the water, there is a fence around the site and then a short walk to the water. I'm glad we had the beautiful view of the lake while camping, but didn't have to stress about the kids getting in the water."
Individual bathroom facilities: Powhatan State Park offers modern bathroom amenities. "Bathrooms are individual with a shower in each one. Lots of geocaching on grounds, fishing, hiking, boat launch, canoe racks, playground, a store with a nature center, and a Junior Ranger program for the kids," according to a frequent visitor who appreciates the clean facilities.
Fishing opportunities: Holliday Lake State Park provides multiple fishing locations. "We hike, fish, swim, kayak, rent a motor boat, and just relax at our campsite. We watched a Bald Eagle and an Osprey for over an hour while kayaking on the lake. If you want down time this is a great place!" reports a regular visitor who enjoys the wildlife viewing while fishing.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Some parks have minimal connectivity. At Holliday Lake State Park, "It had been over 25 years since my last trip and it hasn't lost it's charm one bit. It's the perfect relaxing getaway! Phone service is in and out but we didn't mind, it was nice to escape the world for a while."
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require equipment for leveling. "The sites in the older section (red bud) will require leveling. As indicated on park web site there is no cell service in the park. WiFi is available outside the contact station," notes a visitor at Holliday Lake who came prepared with leveling blocks.
Guide
