Cabin rentals near La Crosse, Virginia offer varying levels of amenities and access to Kerr Lake (also called Buggs Island Lake), a 50,000-acre reservoir that straddles the Virginia-North Carolina border with 800 miles of shoreline. The area sits at approximately 300 feet above sea level in Virginia's Piedmont region, where summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F with high humidity. Winter camping remains popular as temperatures rarely drop below freezing for extended periods.
What to do
Stargazing with telescopes: Staunton River State Park is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park where visitors can borrow telescopes at no charge. "The sky and stars were amazing! If you love stargazing this is the park for you. It is an International Dark Sky Park. The park offers rentals of telescopes too," notes one camper at Staunton River State Park Campground.
Kayaking and paddling: Multiple access points allow easy water entry for non-motorized boats. A visitor at Bullocksville Campground shared: "Great tent campsite close to water and boat launch on Kerr Lake. The shower rooms are very clean." Many campsites provide direct water access for launching kayaks and paddleboards.
Mountain biking: Trail systems extend throughout the region with varying difficulty levels. "Nice sites and great for mountain bikers," reports a camper at Medoc Mountain State Park, which features over 10 miles of trails through hardwood forests and along creek beds.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campsites with direct lake access allow for fishing from your campsite. "Limited sewer hook up. Some sites uneven. Pull through sites available. Staff was wonderful. Stocked camp store, small grill, but great food," notes a visitor at Thousand Trails Lake Gaston.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained restrooms and showers rate highly among visitors. One camper at Medoc Mountain State Park Campground commented: "Clean restrooms, hot showers! Camp host and rangers are great! No cell service!"
Family amenities: Splash pads, swimming areas, and playgrounds keep children entertained. "We spent most of our free time at the splash pad. The kids loved that!" shares a Twin Lakes visitor, while another camper noted: "The swimming area is so amazing. Great area for the kids to enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain with uneven sites. At Occoneechee State Park Campground, one camper advises: "Check out spaces 25-31, my personal faves. Since with these sites you're kind of out in the open, I wouldn't book these in the heat of the summer."
Supplies and provisions: Most cabin kitchens have basic equipment but may lack specific cooking implements. A market at Lake Gaston Americamps sells firewood bundles for $5 with delivery to your site, which is "below average for this area," according to a camper.
Seasonal considerations: Summer weekends book quickly, particularly lakefront cabins and sites. Water activities dominate summer months, while fall camping offers more solitude. "This campground is beautiful for fall camping," reports a Medoc Mountain visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple swimming beaches, splash pads, and boat rentals available. "First time at the park and we enjoyed it. The little marina is awesome. Everyone is super helpful. There is a great snack bar & store," shares a visitor at Lake Gaston.
Educational opportunities: Ranger-led programs often focus on local wildlife and history. "While we were out there they had park personnel go over a few local birds of prey," notes a visitor at Twin Lakes State Park Campground.
Playground access: Several parks feature updated play equipment. "There is a large playground for the kids and the roads are good for bike riding," reports a Twin Lakes camper, making these campgrounds suitable for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring sufficient leveling blocks as some sites require significant adjustment. "Be prepared to level your camper. Some are a challenge to get your unit level," warns a camper at Lake Gaston Americamps.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups at individual sites. "Sites were nice and level with some having separate area for tent/camper and terrace for picnic table and fire ring," reports a Staunton River camper.
Road conditions: Interior roads vary in width and turning radius. A traveler at Carolina Crossroads noted: "We struggled turning down aisle D in our 42 ft 5th wheel. Despite it saying it was 60 ft, spot was still tight."
