Kerr Lake area campgrounds near La Crosse, Virginia offer varied camping environments from waterfront sites to wooded retreats. The region features a humid subtropical climate with hot summers where temperatures often exceed 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 300-500 feet above sea level, providing access to both Kerr Lake (Buggs Island Lake) and the Staunton River.
What to do
Stargazing with telescopes: At Staunton River State Park Campground, visitors can borrow telescopes for free from the visitor center. "We brought stargazing folding chairs and binoculars. The campground will loan very easy-to-use telescopes, too! That was really cool," noted one camper. The park hosts regular star parties throughout the year as part of its International Dark Sky designation.
Fishing from shorelines: Kerr Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities directly from campsite shorelines. At Kimball Point Campground, campers report consistent fishing success. "We camped lake side at Kimball Point on Kerr Lake. Nice site and views, very quiet great for relaxing fishing and watching the stars at night," shares one visitor.
Water recreation rentals: Beyond personal watercraft, several campgrounds offer rental equipment. "The park offers rentals of telescopes too. They also have a nature learning lab, some cool animals, and a fantastic gift shop," notes a visitor to Staunton River State Park. For families, paddle boat rentals provide accessible water exploration options.
What campers like
Large, level waterfront sites: Bullocksville Campground offers numerous waterfront sites with direct lake access. "These sites are mostly reservable on the state website, there are many of these campgrounds within the Kerr Lake State Rec Area. When on site to reserve if you check amenities, it gives you many details, level, length, width, tent pads, etc.," advises a repeat visitor.
Clean, maintained facilities: Most campers note the cleanliness of facilities as a highlight. "The shower rooms are very clean," reports one Bullocksville Park visitor. Another adds, "Bath houses super clean and staff very friendly."
Privacy between sites: Twin Lakes State Park Campground offers good site separation in most areas. "Tent sites are shady, although some can be VERY close to one another," notes one camper. Another mentions that "the campsites are of nice size and are mostly well shaded."
What you should know
Reservation timing requirements: Popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront locations. "Kimball Point is the BEST. Only negative it's hard to book a space. You need to book it EXACTLY 6 months out, call at 08:00 in morning," advises a frequent visitor to Kimball Point Campground.
Site selection considerations: Pay careful attention to site descriptions when booking. "Not all sites are flat and some are very hard to drive into. Many have very nice lake views, and some are totally private," notes a visitor to Bullocksville Park. Another camper mentions that "the sites vary pretty widely in size and grade."
Water level variations: Lake levels can fluctuate throughout the season. At Thousand Trails Lake Gaston, access points may change based on water levels. "Limited sewer hook up. Some sites uneven. Pull through sites available. Staff was wonderful," reports one RVer.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Twin Lakes State Park offers structured swimming areas ideal for families. "The swimming area is so amazing. Great area for the kids to enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience," reports one family visitor. Many families appreciate the designated beach areas with gradual entry points.
Kid-friendly activities: Parks offer various organized activities for children. "The park has day use access. It's in the middle of 'nowhere'. An old general store is 5 min away (sells firewood, basic food items, some camping/rv supplies and some souvenirs like tshirts & hats). It has a deli/grill inside," shares a visitor about nearby amenities at Kimball Point.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds close to camping areas. "This is a great location right on Lake Gaston. It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade," mentions a visitor to Thousand Trails Lake Gaston.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: At Callahan's Hideaway, RVers should note the utility access points. "Hookups on wrong side. But lots of beautiful sites. Mostly all waterfront. E/W," cautions one RVer about regional campgrounds. Many campers recommend bringing extension cords and longer hoses.
Level site selection: Finding level sites can be challenging at some area campgrounds. "We have a 32' travel trailer that fit in spot 65 with no problem but there were many more that we could not fit in because of the steep grades," shares an RVer at Kimball Point. Most campgrounds provide detailed site information online.
Shade considerations: Summer temperatures often reach 90°F, making shade essential. "We were on site 34, 80 feet long, level gravel site, squared gravel picnic area off to side attached to back in site. Picnic table all on mostly shaded site," recommends a Bullocksville Park visitor describing ideal summer camping conditions.
