The Lake Gaston region spans the Virginia-North Carolina border with shorelines reaching across five counties. Water levels at Lake Gaston remain consistent year-round due to its status as a hydroelectric reservoir, making it reliable for waterfront camping even during dry periods. Camping areas near La Crosse, Virginia offer options ranging from Corps of Engineers parks to privately operated rv parks with shoreline access.
What to do
Swimming at designated beaches: North Bend Park features multiple swimming areas with sandy shorelines ideal for families. "The lot was level and I didn't feel like I was on top of my neighbors. The facilities are well maintained and they have handicap bathroom and shower stalls. I will be going back to this campground and lake! Saw eagles, ospreys, and herons daily," notes one visitor.
Fishing from your campsite: At Lake Gaston Americamps, waterfront tent sites provide direct lake access. "Nice to fish right from your campsite. Staff is friendly and the store was nice for last minute things," reports a recent guest. The campground offers both tent and RV camping with sites directly on the water.
Mini golf and planned activities: Several rv parks near La Crosse offer organized recreation beyond water activities. "Mini-golf, playground for the kids and lots of planned activities. Really enjoyed the stay here," shares one camper about Lake Gaston Americamps. Activities typically increase during summer months when parks operate at full capacity.
What campers like
Private beaches at campsites: Many waterfront sites at Hibernia Campground feature their own beach areas. "We had a great site, right on the lake. Could launch our kayaks, fish and swim right from our site! Was a great way to cool off and just enjoy the beautiful water. Our site (#41) was huge," reports one camper who appreciated the spaciousness.
Clean, modern bathhouses: Hibernia Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "The bathrooms here are impeccable, best of any campground we've been to. The sites are dirt and some need some creative leveling but typically do-able. Lots of beaches, hiking, biking," shares a visitor who stayed for ten days.
Night sky viewing: The Lake Gaston area offers excellent stargazing opportunities away from urban light pollution. "It does get dark enough there that you could see the Milky Way. I would have loved to share a picture but I was too relaxed just looking up at the stars," notes a camper at Hibernia.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at several campgrounds. At The RV Resort at Carolina Crossroads, "People were friendly. Park had a tight turning radius and we struggled turning down aisle D in our 42 ft 5th wheel. Despite it saying it was 60 ft, spot was still tight."
Water hose length requirements: Some sites require longer water connections than standard. A camper at Hibernia notes: "Site 77 required 75 feet of hose to reach water nozzle. Website said 35' so glad we were prepared."
Distance to services: Most campgrounds in the region require planning ahead for supplies. "It's off the beaten path so trips to town are a bit of a drive," mentions one Hibernia visitor. Another camper advises: "Not much grocery stores close so definitely bring all you can."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access considerations: Satterwhite Point offers family-friendly shorelines. "We camped lakeside at Kerr Lake Satterwhite Point for a group fishing trip. Nice and quiet and we were able to park right next to the tents. Good cell signal and nice views of the lake and the stars at night," notes a recent visitor.
Child-friendly water areas: Look for protected coves rather than main lake frontage. "There's a cove with a sandy beach and clear water just steps away. Our kids enjoyed hours of time swimming and floating on rafts," shares a Hibernia visitor. These areas typically have gentler slopes and less boat traffic.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Thousand Trails Lake Gaston, "It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade. We'll be back!" reports a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Late arrival coordination: Some rv parks near La Crosse offer after-hours check-in. At The RV Resort at Carolina Crossroads, a camper reports: "Perfect location right off of I-95. I arrived after hours, but had my reservation hanging on the wall for me. Ground was pretty level and hookup was easy."
Hook-up distances: Prepare for variable utility placement. "1st time at Lake Gaston Americamps campground. The staff is awesome. Everyone was helpful, polite, friendly and made you feel welcomed. Now for the complaints: most sites are 30 amp and are unlevel. Some are a challenge to get your unit level."
Seasonal considerations: Many RV parks have different facilities available depending on time of year. "We were here in January and the year round hot tub was closed. The bathrooms were clean. WiFi didn't work and poor cell service," reports a winter visitor to Carolina Crossroads.
