Cabins near Lexington, Virginia are scattered throughout the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 2,500 feet. This region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 82-88°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Fall camping is particularly popular when the hardwood forests display peak colors from mid-October through early November.
What to do
Explore Natural Bridge State Park: Just minutes from Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, this geological formation stands 215 feet high and spans 90 feet across. "There is plenty to do around this area," notes Ron H., who initially planned a brief stay but extended their visit after discovering nearby attractions.
Hike Crabtree Falls: This series of cascades drops over 1,200 vertical feet in five major stages. Crabtree Falls Campground provides direct access to the trailhead. "The falls are a great hike and there are lots of services nearby. A great Parkway stop," shares Anna R., who appreciated the proximity to both natural features and conveniences.
Visit local breweries and wineries: The region offers multiple craft beverage options within 30-45 minutes of camping locations. "Close to Lexington with vineyards, restaurants and antique shops," reports Misty C. about the Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA location, highlighting additional cultural attractions beyond outdoor recreation.
Fish in stocked waters: Many cabin rental locations maintain fishing ponds. At Montebello Resort, "The trout pond is not catch and release, it is catch and keep, whatever you catch, you pay for per pound," explains Adrian K., describing their unique fishing program.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Lynchburg/Blue Ridge Parkway KOA offers individual bathroom units rather than traditional communal facilities. "Best bathhouse I've encountered with something like 7 unisex bathrooms each with their own shower," notes Michael L., who ranked this campground as his favorite after 20+ years of camping experience.
Family-friendly amenities: Activities for children are abundant at many cabin locations. "They had activities every day for the kids. As well as lots of unstructured activities. For example, they had a foosball table and a jumping pad," Michael continues about the Lynchburg KOA, detailing both organized and independent recreation options.
Lake recreation options: Several cabin rental facilities feature lakes with water activities. "The lake in the back has some primitive tent sites that looked nice," Adrian K. shares about Montebello Resort, noting how water features enhance the camping environment beyond just fishing opportunities.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Cabin cleanliness rates high among visitor priorities. "The bathhouse is nice as is the pool. The store was sparse but adequate. The lawns were kept up and looking good," reports Laure D. about Walnut Hills Campground, acknowledging ongoing improvements by new ownership.
What you should know
Seasonal operation schedules: Many cabin rentals close during winter months. Douthat State Park Campground operates primarily from May through September, while Peaks of Otter Campground runs from early May to late October, affecting availability during off-season periods.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service and WiFi access vary significantly by location. "There is zero cell service at the campground. To get decent service it's a bit of a drive," warns Quinn G. about Montebello Resort, an important consideration for those needing to stay connected.
Booking requirements: Reservations are essential for prime locations, especially during fall color season. "Booking was easy. Arrived after hours, staying one night. Our tag was waiting for us with a map to our RV spot," shares DK S. about the efficient check-in process at Walnut Hills Campground.
Site variations: Not all cabin accommodations offer equivalent amenities or settings. "Our site 33 was full hookup and a very nice, mostly level, spacious, and had a covered picnic table on a deck. Not all sites have full hookup," explains Laure D., highlighting the importance of researching specific site details when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Consider activity-focused properties: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive children's programming. "We had a great weekend with the whole family! There was a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging, laughing, loving, and hanging out!" reports Bridget H. about their fall family experience.
Choose cabin locations with dedicated play areas: Multiple lodging options feature child-specific amenities. "There are also a couple of playgrounds, two bouncy pads, basketball court, and gaga ball. During peak season there is also a water play area with a waterslide and mini golf," Bridget continues, listing the variety of recreational facilities available.
Look for fishing opportunities: Kid-friendly fishing spots provide reliable success. "The kids are guaranteed to catch something in the fishing hole," notes Chris E. about Montebello Resort, an attribute particularly valuable for families with young children seeking easy outdoor achievements.
Check bathroom proximity: When traveling with children, convenience matters. "Our tent sites were large and shaded. We were right by the fishing pond and it was a short walk to the playground, pool, jump pad, and very clean, private bathrooms," shares Shannon L. about the Lynchburg KOA, emphasizing the benefit of centrally located facilities.
Tips from RVers
Request site details when booking: Not all advertised pull-through sites accommodate larger rigs. "We had reserved a pull through but were just short in length and had to disconnect the tow vehicle for the night. They had longer sites so if this is important I would discuss when making reservation," advises Marc W. about the Lynchburg KOA.
Consider elevation and terrain: Many cabin campgrounds in this mountainous region feature significant grade changes. "Great job building level sites in a hillside. Easy in and out," remarks Marletta & Ed M. about the Natural Bridge KOA, appreciating engineering efforts to create usable spaces in challenging terrain.
Verify utility locations: Hookup positioning can vary significantly. "The sites and tent pads were pretty small, a 4p tent is about all you can fit," notes Lisa M. about Peaks Of Otter Campground, indicating space constraints that affect setup options.
Check road conditions: Access routes may present challenges for larger vehicles. "FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS ON THE CAMPGROUND WEBSITE. VA56 is a very windy road not recommended for pulling a camper through. Use the blue ridge parkway," warns Quinn G. from their experience reaching Montebello Resort.
