Cabin camping near Haysi, Virginia offers varied outdoor experiences in southwestern Virginia's rugged terrain at elevations between 1,200-3,000 feet. Situated at the confluence of Russell Fork and McClure River, this area experiences mild summers with average highs of 85°F and cold winters where temperatures often drop below freezing. The cabin options range from rustic shelters to modern structures with specific seasonal limitations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Little Oak Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing on South Holston Lake. "Great place to camp and fish," notes one visitor. The lake offers good access points for shore fishing or launching boats, with one reviewer commenting that "South Holston lake at your finger tips offers a great area to fish, boat, kayak, paddle board and swim."
Hiking trails: Natural Tunnel State Park Campground features well-maintained trails through diverse terrain. According to a visitor, "Took advantage of some of the hiking trails, which were well maintained and marked. Also, went and checked out the natural tunnel via chairlift." The park includes guided experiences, with one camper sharing they "caved in the park, and took a short guided hike through Stock Creek to backside of tunnel."
Wildlife observation: Mountain wildlife viewing is accessible near Breaks Interstate Park Campground. "The campground itself is maintained better than any other state run campground I've ever been to," notes one visitor. Wildlife is abundant, with another camper mentioning, "Apparently there is a lot of bear activity, although we did not encounter one. The sunsets are to die for!"
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance of Chief Logan State Park Campground, with specific mention of amenities. "Our site was full hook up and very level. There was creek nearby and walking paths all over. We went over to the lodge and was able to swim in the pool and hot tub as part of the price of our campsite," says one reviewer. The park includes "outdoor animal exhibit, a lodge, a pool, a theatre, and a museum all close together."
Affordability: Backwoods Camping & RV Park offers budget-friendly cabin options within driving distance of Haysi. "Small, affordable, really nice to deal with," notes one camper. Specific amenities include "decent showers and bathrooms, reasonable prices, quiet nights (other than woodland animals), safe place - no issues with safety or security while we were there."
Water access: Multiple cabin locations provide lake or stream proximity. At Little Oak Campground, "Most sites have a view of South Holston Lake and trail access to the water. Shower house were clean. All sites are primitive." Another camper mentions the "spacious sites; peaceful campground; clean showers," noting you can "swim at sunset when the boats go quiet."
What you should know
Limited supplies: Many cabin locations near Haysi require advance planning for supplies. At Camp Burson Campground, visitors should note "Nearby road is a bit noisy because you are in a valley and the sound reverberates but fortunately the traffic is not too heavy. Not a lot of tree cover to provide privacy in the sites."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during summer months. One Natural Tunnel State Park visitor noted, "This campground stays booked up but was able to get in on a cancellation for the upcoming weekend."
Seasonal closures: Some park facilities operate on limited schedules. A Chief Logan State Park visitor shared, "Many amenities. Multiple pools in the area, mini golf, animal exhibit although closed when we were there. Both trails we went on weren't maintained well but the area was pretty."
Tips for camping with families
Platforms for tents: When booking cabin or tent camping at Hungry Mother State Park, consider the elevated platforms. A camper reports, "We camped here over the weekend with our dogs. The campground was fantastic. All campsites are on platforms, which makes it very nice to set up your stuff. The sites have the usual amenities like a picnic bench and table, a firepit, and a lantern pole."
Swimming options: Families should note the swimming availability varies by location. At Chief Logan State Park, "There is a pool (open 11-6, cost $6), mini golf ($3), paved courts ($4/hr), and more. It's pricier than what I am used to in Tn, but it has primitive or hookup sites with bath/shower houses."
Educational activities: Several parks offer learning opportunities for children. Natural Tunnel State Park provides "a hiking trail ran behind the cabins, past the campground (also new) to the tunnel. It is a great hike and even better when you use the ski lift going up. The tunnel is at the base of a massive rock and a train drives through it very slowly each day."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: The drive to cabin and RV sites can be challenging. A Breaks Interstate Park visitor warns, "Nice Campground, once you get here. The roads to this amazing State Park are two lane and twisting. We have a 38' 5er and a CrewCab Dually tow vehicle. We didn't have a lot of issues getting here but it is quite mountainous with a lot of climbs."
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on size requirements. "Be careful when choosing a site as some are challenging to get into with larger units. We had a pull through which was big enough for our rig. Sites are gravel and spacious," advises an RVer from Breaks Interstate Park.
Hookup locations: At some parks, utility connections may be inconveniently placed. A visitor to Jenny Wiley State Park noted, "Older campground but quit and peaceful. Not much to do. No WiFi no tv reception. Campsites are set up were the water hookups at in front of your camper. Bring long water hose."
