Tent campsites near Linden, Virginia sit in a transition zone between the Piedmont and Blue Ridge regions, with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with mild springs and falls, humid summers reaching the mid-80s, and winter temperatures that can dip below freezing. The region's karst topography creates unique underground drainage systems that affect water availability at primitive camping locations.
What to do
Hiking to scenic views: Kingdom Come State Park offers multiple connecting trails for day hikes through mountain terrain. Camper Paul H. notes, "The views from the outlooks at the top of the road are amazing. There is a lake for swimming, and plenty of trails. Bugs are minimal."
Wildlife observation: Bear sightings occur regularly at several camping areas. One visitor at Kingdom Come State Park Campground shared, "We saw a bear across the valley, so take the warnings seriously and follow the instructions."
Kayaking and water sports: Local lakes provide paddling opportunities with minimal crowds. A camper from Cliffhanger Ranch Adventure Outpost reported, "We were able to kayak at Bark Camp Lake which was not busy at all and hike at Little Stoney Falls. Plenty to do and see in this area."
Fishing in stocked waters: Several parks maintain stocked fishing ponds. As one regular visitor mentioned, "If you like fishing there is a small lake which is regularly stocked with Trout. Bass, Blue Gill, Sunfish, and a few others. It's just a short walk from the campsites."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet atmosphere: Many tent sites remain uncrowded even during peak season. A Kingdom Come visitor remarked, "I've camped there twice and only saw one other camper. It is very quiet and remote."
Complimentary firewood service: Some parks provide free firewood delivery. Brian B. shared about Bellebrook Acres, "Oh, I failed to mention free firewood. Everyday a ranger will come by and keep you stocked with wood. It's included with the price of camping."
Proximity to scenic drives: Mountain roads offer additional sightseeing opportunities. One camper noted, "For the adventurers you can drive along a section of The Little Shepard Trail. A one lane road that runs along the ridge of the mountain. No guard rails! With 300 foot cliffs to either side."
Cell service limitations: Many campers appreciate the digital disconnect. A recent visitor at Kingdom Come simply stated, "Great area, no service or wifi."
What you should know
Bear safety precautions: Food storage systems are required at most sites. At Misfit Farmz Campground, management reminds visitors that proper food storage is mandatory, as the 10 tent sites are located in active bear territory.
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. One camper warned, "The road in from Cumberland is STEEP! We made it in a mini van pulling a scamp, so you'll probably be fine."
Seasonal closures affect availability: Always verify operating dates before traveling. Michelle reported about Jefferson National Forest High Knob Campground, "Road closed unfortunately. Not information posted."
Water availability inconsistent: Running water may be seasonal or limited. A camper noted, "The nearby shelter house provides restrooms and trash cans. The local ranger was most helpful in providing firewood (free!) and offering to bring us water to wash up with or for drinking."
Tips for camping with families
Rock formations and natural features: Children enjoy exploring unique geological sites. One Kingdom Come visitor recommended, "There is also a natural rock bridge close to the campsites called Log Rock" and mentioned the popular "Raven Rock trail which leads to a 450 foot 40 degree angle granite rock facing that you can climb to get an amazing view."
Low-crowd swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer water access without the crowds of larger parks. Noah at Camping with the Cows found that "the small swimming hole near the camping area was perfect for the kids - shallow enough for safety but deep enough for fun."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings provide the best wildlife viewing. A camper advised, "We saw more bears while at this park than any other time. But it was never scary because they were always far away."
Site privacy considerations: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. One camper observed, "The only downside for me was the campsites were not very private. They are basically in a center median in between the roads."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for trailers: Most tent-focused campgrounds accommodate only small trailers. Grant M. advised, "6 sites that are tent-centric but doable with a small trailer, there are two additional sites that can be accessed if you ask the ranger to open the gate."
No dump stations at tent-focused sites: Plan accordingly for waste management. Several reviewers note the absence of dump stations at Covered Bridge Campout, where tent camping is the primary focus.
Private campground flexibility: Some private campgrounds will make accommodations for small RVs despite being primarily tent-focused. Scott P., owner of Misfit Farmz, notes they "will help families with almost any request" including small camper setups at tent sites.
Low clearance challenges: Tree branches and narrow roads can limit RV access. Kingdom Come visitors note that sites "are primitive with no running water, but good pads" suitable for small pop-up campers but challenging for anything larger.
