Scottsville camping options surround the town along the James River in central Virginia, creating opportunities for water recreation, hiking, and cultural activities. Most campgrounds operate from March through November, with summer temperatures often reaching the high 80s. At an elevation of approximately 300 feet, the James River valley provides a mix of riverside camping and elevated mountain views within a short drive of Scottsville's historic district.
What to Do
River tubing and paddling: Horseshoe Flats Campground provides direct James River access for water activities. "Big enough to accommodate a bunch of tents and a couple RV's, and right on the river, which makes paddling or tubing a breeze," notes camper Rob U.
Brewery tours: Devils Backbone Camp offers a unique camping experience with an onsite brewery. "You can have several great beers with your meal and safely walk back to the camp site," explains Robert M., who appreciated the 5-minute trail walk to the brewery from his campsite.
Stargazing opportunities: Red Oak Campground at James River State Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park. "The park is part of the Dark Sky Parks Association and if you are into astronomy and stars this is the place to stay," according to Bridget H., who visited with her family.
Hiking options: The Appalachian Trail is accessible from several nearby campgrounds. "Close to the Appalachian Trail, so they provide a free shuttle to the camp, as well as group tent area for registered AT thru-hikers," a visitor noted about Devils Backbone Camp's convenient trail access.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Misty Mountain Camp Resort earns consistent praise for its well-maintained grounds. "Homey, clean and great access to local venues. Great access, 30, 50, primitive, pull in, back in, cabin, pretty much full gamut," according to Robert H.
Riverfront campsites: Primitive tent camping at Warren Ferry Landing provides large sites near the James River. "These flat, well maintained sites are perfect to pitch your tent or park your RV. The sites are large and offer ample shade," according to Ashley F. from The Dyrt.
Privacy between sites: Loft Mountain Campground in Shenandoah National Park offers secluded options. "The sites were fairly close, but separated by trees, so you felt private. You could hear people on the other side of the trees, but no one was loud and it was very quiet and peaceful at night," reports Annie B.
Mountain views: Valhalla Mountain Farm provides panoramic vistas from its primitive sites. "The views are spectacular, animals are happy, and experience was just terrific. A pack of lovable Great Pyrenees welcomes guests and are up for a good snuggle," shares Sandy C. about the farm-based camping experience.
What You Should Know
Train noise considerations: At Horseshoe Flats, occasional train noise affects sleep for light sleepers. "Other than the occasional train passing by during the night, it's a perfectly quiet and peaceful campsite," notes Rob U., suggesting the train disturbance is minimal.
Varied seasonal availability: Many campgrounds around Scottsville close during winter months. "We camped here for the first time this weekend at F-173. When we woke up on the morning we were checking out, we didn't want to leave!" Annie B. shared about her summer experience at Loft Mountain Campground.
Water levels affect camping: Bear Creek Lake State Park campsites can be impacted by lake water levels. "The sites at the top of the hill, A1, A2, A3, and A15 are right on the road, but there wasn't much traffic in this particular loop, so it didn't bother us," advises RL, suggesting higher sites for those concerned about lake proximity.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the Blue Ridge foothills have spotty reception. "T-Mobile reception is TERRIBLE," warns Kelly S. about Charlottesville KOA, though she still rated her stay as "Beautiful! Unique layout makes it feel even more spacious than it is."
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity planning: Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers numerous family-focused amenities. "There are lots of activities to do as a family and everything is kept up nicely. The jump pad and the pool tables were our favorites," notes Annalie N., who camped with her family.
Beach access considerations: Bear Creek Lake State Park provides kid-friendly swimming areas. "There is a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun! We did a hike around the whole lake, lots of great views," reports Katie M., though she cautions about poison ivy around the lake trails.
Site selection for children: Choose sites away from water if traveling with small children. "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 the whole time," Katie M. explains about her Bear Creek Lake experience.
Pet-friendly options: Many Scottsville area campgrounds accommodate families with dogs. "Bonus is having the dog only section at the swimming beach, which made for a fun afternoon with our pups," shares Kaylee G. about Bear Creek Lake State Park's pet amenities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Devils Backbone Camp has unique hookup arrangements. "Some of the pads (#9 in our case) had a septic cap that was too high. The power station was on the opposite side of the septic, so make sure you have a 30ft power cord at least!" advises Robert M.
RV size limitations: Bear Creek Lake State Park has length restrictions. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," notes Erica M. about the state park's vehicle constraints.
Concrete pad availability: Charlottesville KOA provides stable surfaces for larger rigs. "The hooks were the closest we have ever had - which is very nice!" Jennifer K. mentions about the convenience of the site layout, noting the easy access to hookups.
