Cumberland, Virginia camping spots offer a mix of primitive and developed options within a region of rolling Piedmont terrain at around 450 feet elevation. The area's warm, humid summers and mild winters make for a long camping season, though spring and fall provide the most comfortable temperatures. Campgrounds in the Cumberland area feature both water recreation opportunities and access to extensive trail networks in the surrounding state forests and parks.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Martin's Landing Camp, campers can fish directly from waterfront sites. "The sites are spread out and have privacy. All but 1 site is waterfront. You can drift from your site," notes Steven M. The campground also offers free kayaks and a walking trail for campers.
Paddling access: James River State Park provides river access for canoes and kayaks. "Camping along the river at the Canoe Landing Campground is great in the slower seasons. The sites are pretty close together so I'm sure it would be much more cramped when it's busy but it's a beautiful place. And you can fish right off the bank less than 50 yards from your tent," reports Christina.
Biking trails: Parks in the region offer extensive biking options. At Powhatan State Park, "lots of trails, large playground and a good boat launch for tubes and kayaks" are available according to Isaac R. The park features both paved roads for casual riding and trails for more adventurous cyclists.
What campers like
Private farm settings: Cloverdale Farms offers a more intimate camping experience on a small hobby farm. "This historic property has gently rolling hills, with a little creek amidst a couple acres of cleared, open, secluded woodland perfect for pitching a tent and listening to nature. Fields in the back lend a great view for star gazing and looking up at the Milky Way," explains Elena B., the property host.
Swimming areas: Twin Lakes State Park features designated swimming beaches with additional water activities. "The swimming lake is so amazing. Great area for the kids to enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience. They have boat rentals and a fishing pier," reports Jennifer G. The park offers a beach with a designated swimming area that remains popular throughout summer.
Modern facilities: Many Cumberland area campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. At Powhatan State Park, campers appreciate the facilities: "Every camper's dream spot. Seriously, this modern giant state park has it all: mostly private sites, a paved road for biking, plenty of tree cover (even in winter) a lifetime's worth of trails to explore, and clean, legit bathrooms and showers," writes N.P.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area require leveling equipment. At Holliday Lake State Park, "the sites were a good size but were very difficult to get even a small trailer into the site due to the narrow roads," according to Jacob S. Several reviewers noted the need for leveling blocks, especially for RVs.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds around Cumberland have limited connectivity. Jennifer K. notes at Holliday Lake: "It is completely off grid, and we like that! With busy jobs during the week it's nice to unwind and enjoy nature." Some parks offer limited WiFi near office buildings or bathhouses.
Seasonal considerations: Noise levels can vary by season. One camper at Holliday Lake noted: "During the summer they lease space to the 4-H club that teaches people to shoot black powder muskets for the civil war reenactments. From 8:30am until 3-5pm it sounds like a gun range. It's not a shot here and there, its volleys of black powder guns being shot all at once."
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Look for campgrounds with swimming options. At Twin Lakes State Park, "they have a large playground for the kids and the roads are good for bike riding. We hiked some of the trails, there is beautiful nature that surrounds you," notes Jennifer G. The park offers both educational programs and water activities.
Junior ranger programs: State parks in the region provide educational activities. "The park seems to offer lots of activities for children especially on the weekend. We went on a night hike with a ranger and learned about nocturnal animals," shared one visitor. Many programs run seasonally between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Spacious camping sites: Sites vary considerably in size across the region. At Pocahontas State Park, "sites in the River Bend Campground are private and wooded, especially this time of year when the trees are so full. The map makes it look like they're really close together so I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived to my site," reports RL.
RV tips
Hookup options: Most state parks offer partial hookups only. "Great State Park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history," writes Ashley I. about Pocahontas State Park Campground. Private campgrounds like Cozy Acres typically offer full hookup options.
Size restrictions: Check length limits before booking. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," notes Erica M. at Bear Creek Lake. Similar restrictions apply at other state parks in the region.
Electric service types: Verify which amperage is available. Some parks offer 30-amp service only, while others provide both 30 and 50-amp hookups. At Cozy Acres, "it's beautifully tucked away surrounded by fields and some farm structures. The RV site was at the back of the farm and was nice with a stone patio and everything is in walking distance," according to Michaela.
