Kerr Lake straddles the Virginia-North Carolina border with 800 miles of shoreline and elevations around 300 feet above sea level. Many rv sites near Henrico, Virginia are situated directly on the water with shaded, spacious camping areas. Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, with higher water typically in spring and lower levels in late summer, affecting shoreline accessibility at some campgrounds.
What to do
Water activities: Lake Gaston is ideal for various water sports with designated swimming areas. "This is a great location right on Lake Gaston. You can rent a cabin pitch a tent or park in RV," notes Chris E. The lake offers excellent conditions for boating enthusiasts.
Stargazing: Staunton River State Park Campground is designated as an International Dark Sky Park. "You can rent a telescope for free to view the stars! They have a huge gift shop as well. And a fun playground that the kids enjoyed. We made a reservation here because the park is an International Dark Sky park and we wanted a great view of the stars. Boy did it deliver!" shares Katie M.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect camping areas to scenic vistas. "Occoneechee is right on the shores of Kerr Lake in Clarksville, VA. There are several nice trails to explore as well as a marina right in the park," explains Sarah S. Most trails are rated easy to moderate with minimal elevation changes.
What campers like
Beach access: Many sites feature private beach areas for swimming and launching watercraft. "We camped lakeside at Kerr Lake Satterwhite Point for a group fishing trip. Nice and quiet and we were able to park right next to the tents," says Andy K. The sandy shorelines make water entry easy without steep drop-offs.
Spacious sites: J.C. Cooper Campground offers well-spaced camping areas. "Quiet and clean, right on the water," reports Jennifer O. Another camper notes, "Very pretty, lots of sites on the water. Shower house is very nice. Everything is well maintained."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance at most parks. "The bathrooms are impeccable, best of any campground we've been to," writes EMRY H. about Hibernia Campground. The facilities include hot showers and flush toilets at most locations.
What you should know
Terrain variation: Campsite leveling can be challenging at some locations. "Limited sewer hook up. Some sites uneven. Pull through sites available," notes Robert M. about Lake Gaston. Sites near the water tend to have more slope than interior locations.
Reservation timing: Waterfront sites book quickly, especially during summer months. "Most spots reserved for the summer," explains David L. Many campgrounds open reservation windows 6 months in advance with holiday weekends filling immediately.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have narrow approach roads. "The road leading to the camping area is single lane so if you meet another camper going the other way it could get a little dicey," warns Brandon C. about Mayo Lake Park. Several campgrounds feature similar access challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Playground locations: Multiple parks offer play equipment for children. "It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade," reports Samantha G. about Thousand Trails Lake Gaston. Some playgrounds are centrally located while others require walking from camping loops.
Swimming areas: Designated swim zones provide safer water access for children. "We camped here during the weekend as a mom/daughter getaway. Daughter had a blast swimming in the lake and catching her very first fish!!!" shares Crystal K. about Hibernia Campground.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities enhance family experiences. "Park rangers had great kids programs including animal feeding frenzy where we learned about snakes and turtles and we invoked in feeding. Also lots of any pelts to learn about," explains Katie about North Bend Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Water connections can be distant from some sites. "Note - to bring at least 75 feet of water hose, as some sites have long runs from in front of camper," advises Mark H. at J.C. Cooper Campground. Electrical pedestals are generally well-positioned but may require extension cords at waterfront sites.
Site selection for size: Despite posted limitations, many sites accommodate larger rigs. "We only stayed a night because we were just passing through but we really liked our site #59. There was plenty of room for our 31ft airstream," Christina K. mentions about North Bend Park.
Dump station access: Facilities are often positioned near park entrances rather than camping loops. "There is a single dump station near the entrance," notes Brandon C. about Mayo Lake Park. This requires planning departure timing to avoid congestion at popular checkout times.
