Camping options near Hot Springs, Virginia range from primitive to full-service facilities, with most campgrounds nestled in the Appalachian Mountain region at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet. Seasonal temperature swings are significant, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Fall color typically peaks in mid-October when campgrounds experience their highest demand.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: The Greenbrier River at Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park provides excellent angling. "Great campsites on the river with great fishing and kayaking opportunities. So many great hiking trails and things to do in the park," notes camper Zach D.
Waterfall exploring: Several accessible waterfall hikes exist within short drives. At Crabtree Falls Campground, you can "literally fall asleep to the sound of the water every night" as the tent sites are "10 ft away from the Tye river," according to Britt S., making it convenient to access the nearby waterfall trail.
Mountain biking: The region offers extensive trail systems. A visitor to Watoga State Park mentions, "The biking is tremendous. And the opportunity for good fishing is also ample," highlighting the multi-use trails available throughout the area.
What Campers Like
River proximity: Waterside camping ranks high among visitor preferences. At Glen Maury Park, Lucy P. appreciated that "camp sits on water front" and was "impressed by the view and the river," noting there are "lots of great site options for whatever your preference is."
Evening tranquility: The remote location ensures dark skies and quiet nights. At Summer Wind RV Park, campers appreciate that it's "amazingly beautiful! Relaxing! Quiet!" as Kelly N. describes, while another visitor mentions you can "sit & watch deer in the valley most mornings."
Weekend entertainment: Several campgrounds host seasonal events. Priscilla S. notes that Glen Maury Park offers "many activities such as a bluegrass festival, fiddle festival, and jazz festival," providing entertainment beyond standard camping amenities.
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability: Many smaller campgrounds operate limited schedules. Summer Wind RV Park runs from "May 1 to Oct 15" according to their listing, while Bolar Mountain Recreation Area remains open from "April 4 to December 5."
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds have unusual booking procedures. At Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, "there are maybe 5 ish spots to camp next to a river in this mountain valley," but you'll "need to be self sufficient though, only convenience is a toilet house," according to reviewer R.C.
Connectivity limitations: Cell coverage is inconsistent throughout the region. A visitor to Watoga State Park notes: "It's in a valley, so there's no cell service. The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great and you have to be either in the building or sitting at the bench outside to use it."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several rv parks near Hot Springs, Virginia offer recreational facilities. At Glen Maury Park, Sara L. mentions "there is a playground that is very nice," making it suitable for families with young children.
Educational programs: Look for campgrounds with nature programs. At Douthat State Park Campground, John R. appreciates that "the rangers at the park are very knowledgeable and kind and have no problem answering questions," indicating educational opportunities are available.
Swimming options: Several locations offer designated swimming areas. Joanna G. describes Lake Moomaw at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area as having "temperature perfect for swimming" and mentions "a separate beach that you can drive to that is roped off for swimming purposes."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully based on your vehicle size. Jeremy W. notes that at Douthat State Park, "Whispering Pines is a very flat and wide-open campground perfect for big RVs with much larger sites," while cautioning that "caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles."
Amenities for extended stays: For longer visits, look for full-service rv parks. Mario F. recommends the upper campground at Glen Maury Park, stating "Full hookup only on upper campground. Lower campground only has water and sewage," and mentions they "stayed for a month" comfortably.
Offseason considerations: Some camping areas near Hot Springs remain open year-round with limited services. A visitor to Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park noted they "arrived after hours, staying one night. Our tag was waiting for us with a map to our RV spot with E/W by the creek and pond. It was off season, so plenty of spots and privacy."
