Camping facilities around Martinsville, Virginia range from primitive lakeside sites to developed RV parks across varying elevation ranges of 700 to 1,400 feet. The area sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating a camping season that extends from March through November with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-90°F. Winter camping options remain available at select year-round facilities with nighttime temperatures often dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Water recreation at Philpott Lake: The 3,000-acre reservoir offers multiple swimming areas with dedicated beaches. At Salthouse Branch Campground, visitors can enjoy both fishing and swimming. "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat," notes Paula J.
Hiking nearby trails: The region connects to extensive trail networks including paths at Fairy Stone State Park Campground where trails cross through diverse forest terrain. A camper mentioned, "The park has great trails around it, they can be pretty challenging when it comes to elevation gain. The lake is wonderful."
Fairy stone hunting: This unique geological feature attracts visitors to specially designated hunting areas near Fairy Stone State Park. A camper reported, "We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones." The cross-shaped minerals are found at a specific location "outside of the park, down the street a little bit beside a gas station."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites at COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park offer varying degrees of seclusion. "The campground is broken up into three separate loops: a, b and c. Loop a has 19 sites with water and electric hookup. This loop is a little distance from the lake," explains Glenn F., highlighting how different loops offer different experiences.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness receives consistent mention across multiple campgrounds. At Hanging Rock State Park Campground, visitors note: "The showers had hot water, which was a very welcome amenity after a day on the trails."
Boating access: Launch points provide easy water entry at multiple locations. One camper at Horseshoe Point described: "The campground has 2 swimming areas that are roped off, with life jackets provided. There is a boat launch. It is a beautiful lake with good fishing."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from non-existent to spotty throughout the region. A visitor to Fairy Stone State Park noted: "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!"
Challenging access roads: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. At Salthouse Branch, one camper warned: "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance."
Alcohol restrictions: Several Corps of Engineers campgrounds prohibit alcohol consumption. An Anne F. review of Salthouse Branch mentioned: "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong."
Tent pad sizes vary: Dimensions differ significantly between sites. At Hanging Rock State Park, one camper observed: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Indian Heritage RV Park offers family-friendly facilities within Martinsville city limits. A reviewer noted its location was "convenient location for the Martinsville area. There is a river access for canoe at the edge of the campground."
Nature programming: Ranger-led activities enhance family experiences at several parks. At Fairy Stone State Park, a visitor shared: "Perfect places for families. We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones."
Swimming options: Dedicated swimming areas with varying depths accommodate different age groups. Tamara B. reported about Salthouse Branch: "We always love visiting Salthouse Branch! Facilities are clean, staff is friendly and helpful, and we love the atmosphere in the lower loop!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple species can be spotted from campsites. At Hanging Rock, a camper shared: "From spotting salamanders near the creek to pretending they were mountain explorers on the trails, they were thoroughly entertained the whole trip."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for proper leveling. Ralph P. noted about Horseshoe Point: "It seemed that most sites required a little help to get level."
Size limitations: Larger rigs face access constraints at some campgrounds. Lawrence P. advised about Salthouse Branch: "Sites are a bit small for anything over 35' but we did mange our 41' in there... they do have some lrg back in FHU sites if you need but not many."
Electric hookup variations: Amperage differs between campgrounds and specific loops. At Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground, RV sites include reliable power: "RV sites are good and have decent privacy. Power and water are reliable. There is one dumping station."
Loop selection matters: Specific camping loops offer better RV access. At Goose Point, one RVer advised: "RVs need to reserve loop 'C' as A and B loop are not easily accessible and are more suited for tent campers."
