Camping cabins near Henry, Virginia provide year-round getaway options in Virginia's Piedmont region, where elevations range from 900 to 1,500 feet. The area experiences mild temperatures between 45-85°F throughout much of the year, with winter nighttime temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summer humidity can reach 70-80%, requiring proper ventilation in tightly enclosed cabins.
What to do
Fairy stone hunting: 3-mile drive from Fairy Stone State Park Campground. The unique mineral staurolite forms naturally in cross shapes. A visitor noted, "We learned about the mysterious 'Fairy Stones' and went to the hunt site to see for ourselves. Sure enough - we found several fairy stones and the kids were very happy!"
Mountain biking: Access trails directly from Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground. Located near Floyd, this venue offers dedicated trails. "It is a beautiful venue with rolling grassy hills and acres of woods with hiking and mountain biking trails," shared one camper.
Kayaking: Multiple launch points at Smith Mountain Lake. The calm waters provide excellent paddling conditions. One visitor mentioned, "We paddled around the lake on Sunday; there are a couple of different boat launches in the park. The cliffs are freaking amazing from the launch closest to the park entrance."
Disc golf: 9-hole course at Chantilly Farm. The free course winds through open and wooded terrain. A reviewer stated, "They have a nice little camp store in case you forget anything. Frisbee golf and cornhole is available too!"
What campers like
Private tent sites: Spacious setups at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. Sites feature good separation between neighbors. "Tent sites are large and a good distance apart. RV sites are good and have decent privacy. Power and water are reliable," observed one camper.
Rustic cabin experience: CCC-built structures at Fairy Stone State Park. These historic cabins combine rustic charm with modern conveniences. A camper noted, "They have a nice large deck that is great for hanging out on while the kids were asleep."
Scenic lake views: Multiple viewpoints from Hanging Rock State Park Campground. Hiking trails provide panoramic vistas across the countryside. One visitor described, "The hiking trails at Hanging Rock are absolutely top-notch! We explored several of them, including the trail up to Hanging Rock itself, and were blown away by the panoramic views from the summit."
Wildlife encounters: Deer and small mammals throughout the region. Early morning and dusk provide best viewing times. A camper at Fairy Stone observed, "We saw lots of deer roaming around."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Some facilities close during winter. Check ahead for specific sites. At Hanging Rock, a camper reported, "Shower houses are not open year-round, even though the park is. So there are still 'outhouse style' singular pit latrines present."
Cell service limitations: Spotty coverage in mountainous areas. Plan communications accordingly. At Fairy Stone, a visitor mentioned, "There is no cell service or internet/wifi at the cabins though so come prepared with something to do! We found it to be very relaxing to unplug!"
Variable tent pads: Sizes differ between campgrounds. Measure your tent before arrival. At Hanging Rock, a camper warned, "We stayed at Campsite 50, and while it was in a nice wooded area with plenty of shade and a decent amount of privacy, the tent pad was smaller than expected. We brought a 10-person tent, and it was a tight fit."
Weather preparedness: Rapid temperature changes possible. Pack layers regardless of season. "We pulled into this campground the long way! We followed dirt roads through hollers and through cow pastures, passing turkey's and all kinds of creatures along the way!" noted a Fairy Stone visitor who experienced changing weather conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Educational activities at Claytor Lake State Park Campground. Programs often include nature walks and wildlife presentations. "Claytor Lake was a great campground for families. We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks," shared one family.
Waterfall exploration: Multiple cascades within driving distance. Short hikes suitable for various ages. A visitor to Hanging Rock noted, "The waterfall hikes were especially fun, and the swimming area near the lake looked like a great spot to cool off in the summer months."
Nature scavenger hunts: Self-guided activities at several parks. Create lists of local plants and animals to find. One Fairy Stone visitor recalled, "The kids were happy in the tent with a light up balloon I found in our camping box! (Hooray!! Score one for the adults!)"
Protected swimming areas: Designated beach zones at multiple lakes. Supervised areas with gradual depth changes. A Smith Mountain Lake visitor commented, "The lake was super calm, clear and not too cold. We went out kayaking and swam out in the open."
Tips from RVers
Level parking considerations: Check site descriptions carefully. Many campsites have specific limitations. At Meadows Of Dan Campground, a camper observed, "No trees for the pull throughs but still a nice place and right off of the Blue Ridge Parkway."
Starlink connectivity: Select sites with northern sky views. At Meadows Of Dan, a visitor reported, "We needed a clear sky to the NNE for Starlink, and found the perfect spot— technically an RV site, but it worked great for our tent for one night. It was right on the forest's edge with a nice open view to the north."
Winter RV access: Seasonal road limitations apply. Some mountain roads aren't maintained for winter travel. At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, an RVer noted, "Little tight to navigate, but have definitely seen worse. Very quite and slow paced."
Dump station availability: Limited facilities in rural areas. Plan waste management accordingly. A Smith Mountain Lake camper mentioned, "There is one dumping station."
