Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Lovingston, VA
Devils Backbone Camp accommodates pets at all 73 sites across its tent and RV camping areas. Campers with dogs have access to multiple hiking trails within the property and convenient walking paths to the on-site brewery and restaurant. Most sites feature picnic tables and fire rings where pets can relax alongside their owners during meals and evening campfires. Several campgrounds near Lovingston allow pets, including Crabtree Falls Campground, which offers cabins and glamping options in addition to traditional tent and RV sites. Misty Mountain Camp Resort maintains 100 year-round pet-friendly sites with full hookup options. The bathhouse at Devils Backbone is exceptionally clean and well-maintained, making it convenient for campers with dogs to rinse off after outdoor adventures.
The Appalachian Trail access points near these campgrounds provide excellent dog-friendly hiking opportunities. Leashed dogs can join their owners on many sections of the trail, with multiple trailheads accessible within a 20-30 minute drive from Lovingston area campgrounds. Crabtree Falls hiking trail offers spectacular views and is suitable for dogs who can handle moderate terrain and elevation changes. During summer months, pets require extra attention due to high temperatures in the open camping areas at Devils Backbone, where shade is limited at RV sites. Wildlife encounters are possible in this region, with trail cameras at nearby Staver Farm capturing increased activity from black bears, deer, coyotes and bobcats. Camp hosts generally enforce leash policies to ensure pet safety, particularly important given the proximity to wildlife habitats and other campers.