Best Campgrounds near Lexington, VA
Campgrounds near Lexington, Virginia range from established facilities with amenities to primitive sites in national forest land. The Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations approximately 15 miles south of downtown Lexington. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest provides a more rustic camping experience with tent and small RV sites but no hookups. Dispersed camping options can be found in the George Washington National Forest off Route 812, offering free primitive sites for those seeking a more secluded experience.
"This campground is butted up against Sherwood lake and a small mtn ridge range that divides West Virginia and Virginia," noted one visitor about a nearby camping area. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October, though some like the Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA remain open year-round. Weather conditions vary significantly with elevation changes throughout the area. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many forest service sites, particularly in the more remote areas of George Washington National Forest. Campers should be prepared for varying road conditions, as some forest service roads may require higher clearance vehicles, especially after rainfall.
Several visitors mentioned the natural beauty and recreational opportunities as highlights of camping in the Lexington area. The region includes access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Natural Bridge State Park, and numerous hiking trails. One camper described Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp as "hands-down my favorite campground in Virginia" noting that "it's very well maintained, but has a lot of personality." Campgrounds with water features tend to be particularly popular, with sites near creeks, rivers, or lakes filling quickly during peak season. While some campgrounds offer modern amenities like showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups, others provide a more primitive experience with vault toilets or no facilities at all. The proximity to historic sites in Lexington and Natural Bridge adds cultural interest for campers looking to explore beyond their campsite.
