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Best Campgrounds near Lynchburg, VA

567 Reviews

The area around Lynchburg, Virginia has several good camping spots within driving distance. Sherando Lake Campground sits in George Washington National Forest, with hiking trails and a lake where you can fish. Kids tend to have fun at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge - they've got a water park and run different themed weekends throughout the season. If you want something quieter, check out Peaks of Otter Campground along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which has nice mountain views. Watch out for deer and black bears in this part of Virginia - you'll need to store your food properly. Most places around Lynchburg have the basics like water and bathrooms. Weather-wise, spring and fall are generally the best times to camp here since summers can get pretty hot and humid. It's always smart to look at the forecast before you head out to make sure you're prepared for whatever conditions you might face.

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Best Camping Sites Near Lynchburg, Virginia (83)

    1. Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA

    14 Reviews
    Big Island, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 299-5228

    "There is so much to do in the Lynchburg area"

    "The ere is a pool and an area near the office with lots of childrens activities; playground, shuffleboard, basketball, gem mine, horseshoes, jump pad, and a fishing lake with large fish."

    2. Otter Creek Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    14 Reviews
    Big Island, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 299-5125

    $30 / night

    "Great all around virginia campsite"

    "Alternative to crowded Shenandoah campgrounds, although is a good drive away <60+ miles away from entrance."

    3. George Washington National Forest off 812

    12 Reviews
    Glasgow, VA
    18 miles
    Website

    "There are multiple spots along the road - some are drive in and some require you to park and walk in. Definitely get there early to get a prime spot."

    "There's access to the App Trail on the road so you might see some hikers but it was real quiet otherwise."

    4. Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park

    27 Reviews
    Greenway, VA
    25 miles
    Website

    $15 - $80 / night

    "We spent one night with our dogs at the walk-in campground at James Lake. It is a wonderful piece of nature. The campsites are far away from each other. Everything was very clean and taken care of."

    "Campsite was right next to lake, beautiful views and easy water access. While we were there in April we only saw a couple other groups, and no other campers were anywhere near us."

    5. Paradise Lake Family Campground

    7 Reviews
    Appomattox, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 993-3332

    "Stayed here for one night on a quick trip to Lynchburg. Staff very friendly and helpful. Campground was very clean and easy to navigate."

    "Has beautiful pool and lake, playground, arcade, and boat rentals. Fishing, hiking, basketball. Very friendly staff all the time."

    6. Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    23 Reviews
    Thaxton, VA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 586-7321

    $30 / night

    "Picked for price

    Quiet

    Enjoyed Blueridge parkway

    NIce retreat in SW Virginia"

    "It was a pull-through site with an additional area containing a picnic table and fire ring, accessible via a small set of steps up the hill."

    7. Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA

    31 Reviews
    Natural Bridge, VA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2770

    $35 / night

    "This campground is open year round and is right off the highway.  There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park. "

    "Located in a beautiful part of central Virginia, this campground gives you lots of options for sightseeing. It is definitely worth a trip to the Natural Bridge."

    8. Thousand Trails Lynchburg

    7 Reviews
    Rustburg, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The campground is close to the Blue Ridge Parkway and hiking trails (a plus!) but, definitely opt for a full hook-up site!"

    "This was the perfect spot to stay after a long drive. We saw bunnies and then lightening bugs. The pool was great for the kids."

    9. Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp — George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

    18 Reviews
    Natural Bridge Station, VA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2188

    $20 - $40 / night

    "These sites are slightly more rugged, and best for smaller tents; site 35 however is both large, flat, and private, and is next to the trailhead to one of the campground's hiking trails."

    "Site was spacious and pleasantly situated for our 17' travel trailer. Clean bathrooms and shower."

    10. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge

    16 Reviews
    Natural Bridge Station, VA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 291-2727

    $39 - $241 / night

    "Right next to the James River for all of your fishing needs. Have a pool, splash pad, pond/lake with a slide, beach, inflatable obstacle course, have an arcade room, and 2 additional water slides."

    "Lots of stuff for kids, very close to river for tubing, reservation system in place because of Covid prevention guideline for swimming which worked out really well for kids... not many activities due to"

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Recent Camping Photos near Lynchburg, VA

204 Photos of 83 Lynchburg Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lynchburg, VA

567 Reviews of 83 Lynchburg Campgrounds

Guide to Lynchburg

Camping near Lynchburg, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Swimming and Fishing: At Sherando Lake Campground, you can enjoy a refreshing swim or cast a line. One visitor mentioned, "The lake is beautiful and refreshing. You can swim out to an island if you want to."
  • Hiking: The area is known for its hiking trails. A camper at Peaks Of Otter Campground said, "Peaks of Otter is a Blue Ridge Parkway must-see. The campground sits at the foot of the iconic Sharp Top mountain but there is hiking galore here."
  • Family Activities: Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers events for families. One reviewer noted, "There were events the entire time we were there and the staff were awesome."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area noted, "There isn't any cell service yet near the camp loop you can get service."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Devil’s Backbone Camp mentioned, "This is a parking spot in a field with no trees and the sewer likely on the wrong side."
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Sherando Lake Campground operates from April to October.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One parent at Misty Mountain Camp Resort said, "Our kids had a blast on the inflatable jump pad."
  • Pick a Spacious Site: Make sure to select a site that has enough room for kids to play. A reviewer at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA mentioned, "The sites are small and close to each other, but well maintained."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise during quiet hours. A camper at Canoe Landing Group Campsite noted, "Our neighbors were noisy, obnoxious, and trashy into the wee hours of the morning."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A visitor at Virginia Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground warned, "Beware with pull-thrus your water and electric will be on the 'wrong side.'"
  • Look for Big Rig Friendly Sites: Many RVers prefer campgrounds that can accommodate larger vehicles. A camper at Douthat State Park Campground mentioned, "Big rig friendly, drinking water, electric hookups."
  • Plan for Dump Station Access: Ensure there's a dump station nearby. A reviewer at Sherando Lake Campground noted, "There is a dump station onsite."

Camping around Lynchburg, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Lynchburg, VA?

Lynchburg offers several excellent camping options nearby. Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA is highly recommended for its clean facilities, friendly staff, and convenient location. The campground is small but well-maintained with approximately 40 RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. Another top option is Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp, considered by some to be the best campground in Virginia with clean bathrooms, potable water, and sites where you can park directly. Both provide easy access to Lynchburg's many attractions while offering a peaceful outdoor experience. Other notable options include James River Wildlife Management Area for dispersed camping and Smith Mountain Lake State Park for lake access.

Are there any cabin rentals available near Lynchburg, VA?

Several campgrounds near Lynchburg offer cabin rental options. Thunder Bridge provides a unique cabin experience in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Natural Bridge State Park. This former CCC camp features screened cabins, log cabins, and fully furnished rental cabins tucked away in a quiet mountain setting. Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA also offers cabin accommodations and is open year-round with convenient highway access. The campground includes amenities like a seasonal pool, game room, and playground that make it family-friendly. Cabin availability varies by season, so advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months.

What RV parks and facilities are available in Lynchburg, VA?

Paradise Lake Family Campground is an excellent RV option near Lynchburg with friendly staff and clean, easy-to-navigate grounds. While water pressure at the dump site can be low, the facility is well-maintained and accommodating for overnight or longer stays. Thousand Trails Lynchburg near Gladys offers drive-in access with reservable sites, water, and toilet facilities. For RVers seeking additional options, the region surrounding Lynchburg provides several well-equipped facilities with full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer connections. Most RV parks in the area offer Wi-Fi, shower facilities, and laundry services, making them suitable for both short stays and extended visits.

What state parks offer camping near Lynchburg, VA?

Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground is a standout option within driving distance of Lynchburg, offering clean, well-maintained campsites with spacious layout and good privacy. The lake provides excellent recreational opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere. James River State Park features the Canoe Landing Group Campsite with walk-in camping areas that are well-spaced and close to the water, perfect for those traveling with dogs. The park is known for its natural beauty and well-maintained facilities. Other state park options within reasonable driving distance include Douthat State Park with traditional campground amenities and Otter Creek Campground along the Blue Ridge Parkway for a more scenic experience.

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