Smith Mountain Lake State Park provides a range of camping options beyond tent sites, with access to primitive cabins, RV hookups and yurt camping near Hurt, Virginia. The surrounding area sits in the Piedmont region at elevations between 800-1,200 feet, creating moderate temperatures that support year-round camping opportunities. Water temperatures at nearby lakes remain comfortable from late May through early October.
What to Do
Stargazing at night parks: Staunton River State Park Campground offers exceptional dark sky viewing opportunities as an International Dark Sky Park. "The park has been recognized as International Dark sky and there are two telescopes that can be checked out for free at the visitor's center," notes one visitor who enjoyed "gorgeous sunsets from a little beach area near the cabins."
Fairy stone hunting: At Fairy Stone State Park Campground, search for the unique cross-shaped minerals that give the park its name. "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!" A visitor mentioned the experience was "magic" and that their children "haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!"
Boating and swimming: Launch kayaks, canoes or fishing boats at multiple lakes. "The lake was super calm, clear and not too cold. We went out kayaking and swam out in the open," shares a camper who visited the area. Another mentioned "The swimming pond with two large slides in the middle, plus a small beach" that provides water recreation for all ages.
What Campers Like
Private campsites: At Otter Creek Campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway, campers appreciate the natural setting. "The creek ran right through our spacious and secluded site. It was quiet and serene- just what we were looking for before heading back to city life," reports one reviewer. Another noted it's "a good drive away from entrance" to Shenandoah, making it "an alternative to crowded Shenandoah campgrounds."
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping at Hurt, Virginia area parks offers a comfortable middle ground between tents and cabins. As one camper at Fairy Stone State Park Campground described, "The Yurt has a double bed, a twin trundle, a couch and some chairs, and a table and chairs. It also has a large wrap around deck with rocking chairs." Another visitor noted yurts are "such a great mix between cabin and tent camping."
Clean facilities: The basic amenities at most campgrounds receive positive reviews. "Clean bathrooms, friendly rangers, beautiful scenery," summarized one visitor to Staunton River State Park. At Middle Creek Campground, campers noted "The bathrooms were kept up" and that staff were "attentive" to maintenance needs.
What You Should Know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have minimal or no connectivity. At Holliday Lake State Park Campground, visitors noted it's "completely off grid, and we like that! With busy jobs during the week it's nice to unwind and enjoy nature." WiFi is sometimes available near visitor centers, as "WiFi is available outside the contact station" at some parks.
Seasonal operations: While some campgrounds operate year-round, others have limited seasons. Otter Creek Campground runs "May 6 to October 29" according to their information. Some facilities close during winter months, so check availability before planning off-season trips.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the mountainous terrain require leveling equipment. "Bring leveling supplies! some sites are reservable, some are not," warns a visitor to Holliday Lake. At another campground, a reviewer noted "the sites were a good size but were very difficult to get even a small trailer into the site due to the narrow roads."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water recreation for children. "We partook in all we could and enjoyed the swimming hole, pool, splash pad, jumping pillow and arcade," shares one family. Another mentioned the "water park with a kids area and water slides" plus "a lake with a big blow up slide and more in the center."
Educational programs: Many state parks offer ranger-led activities that engage children. "The kids loved the water park! So much for them to do! There were craft nights, build an ice cream sundae night, dance parties!" A different visitor highlighted the "awesome staff... Rec staff had awesome activities planned and kept the kids entertained all week with kick ball and karaoke and shaving cream wiffle ball and dance parties."
Beach areas: Several parks feature designated swimming beaches with amenities for families. One visitor noted, "The lake is perfect for little ones and even grownup kids." Another mentioned that at one campground, "They had a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking at Middle Creek Campground, choose sites carefully. "We took a site up their gravel road away from the main campground area. We had a fabulous site tucked beside a little brook, very peaceful and quiet. But even if there had been more campers around, the sites are a bit more generous than your average private campground." Another RVer advised, "I'd recommend those along the brook because you can face away from the road for a bit more privacy."
Premium sites: Some campgrounds offer upgraded RV sites with additional amenities. At Natural Bridge KOA, "They had brand new premium pull through sites that were amazing! Big patios, bbq grill, tables, fire pit. It was a quiet, well laid out and easy to manage in our 36 ft trailer."
Hookup availability: Check what utilities are available at each site. "Tent sites are large and a good distance apart. RV sites are good and have decent privacy. Power and water are reliable. There is one dumping station," shared a visitor to Smith Mountain Lake. Another camper noted that some parks have "full hook up" sites while others offer only water and electric.
