Primitive camping options and glamping near Maidens, Virginia occupy different parts of the 1,500-acre Powhatan State Park, with campgrounds often situated within forested areas at around 300 feet elevation. During summer, daytime temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions. Weekend reservations typically fill 2-3 months in advance for premium sites at most area campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: At Powhatan State Park Campground, you'll find well-maintained trails suitable for day hikes. "Staff were wonderful, huge place that is well kept, trails are trimmed back daily... Lots of geocaching on grounds, fishing, hiking, boat launch, canoe racks, playground," shares Lisa P.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Bear Creek Lake State Park offers multiple fishing spots, particularly for catfish. "The lake itself is very pretty, 40 acres and manmade. We brought innertubes and just floated but we saw people fishing, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, and paddle boating. There were lots of people fishing, and someone got a catfish and kept it for dinner," notes one visitor.
Horseback riding opportunities: Shenandoah Crossing features equestrian facilities not commonly found at standard campgrounds. "Beautiful sunsets over the stables and horse pastures," mentions Jed, while another camper notes, "We walked around the property and saw the horses and checked out the primitive sites."
What campers like
Individual bathroom facilities: The bathroom setup at Powhatan State Park receives consistent praise. "Bathrooms are individual with a shower in each one," mentions Lisa P., while another camper notes, "I was very happy to see such a clean bathhouse, especially during the current pandemic."
Lake access for multiple activities: Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground offers direct water access from select campsites. "We chose a reservable waterview site (#18) and I'm glad we got the one we did! It is not directly on the water, there is a fence around the site and then a short walk to the water," explains Katie M., adding there's "a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun!"
Full-service yurt accommodations: For those seeking premium glamping near Maidens, Virginia, Shenandoah Crossing offers high-end yurts. "We stayed in a yurt, and I'm gonna let the photos do most of the talking... Yurt has a full kitchen and bath. Coffee, popcorn, toiletries, linens provided. Such a sweet little spot tucked outside of the Blue Ridge Mountains," writes one reviewer.
What you should know
Site selection impacts experience: At Pocahontas State Park Campground, the choice of site significantly affects your stay. "Every camper's dream spot. Seriously, this modern giant state park has it all: mostly private sites, a paved road for biking, plenty of tree cover (even in winter) a lifetime's worth of trails to explore, and clean, legit bathrooms and showers," explains N.P.
Weather impacts water levels: Water activities may be limited by seasonal conditions. At Powhatan State Park, one visitor noted, "There's also a canoe-in site with 8 primitive sites: no water, electricity, or facilities (there's a pit toilet). Depending on the time of the year they might be in the flood zone if the river is high, which it was during this trip."
Advance planning essential: Christopher Run Campground books quickly during peak seasons. "Make sure you reserve your spot on the weekend they go fast," advises John H. Similarly, at Twin Lakes State Park, a camper advises, "definitely pay attention to the camper length per individual site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Twin Lakes State Park Campground features exceptional facilities for children. "The playgrounds and amenities for kids are cute, and the bathrooms are clean," notes one visitor, while Jennifer G. adds, "They have a large playground for the kids and the roads are good for bike riding."
Kid-focused activities: Several campgrounds organize specific children's programming. At Powhatan State Park, a visitor mentioned they offer "a Junior Ranger program for the kids," while another camper at Twin Lakes noted that "the park seems to offer boat rentals."
Safety considerations: Christopher Run Campground's beach area requires parental awareness. "The beach area is small with a concrete ledge next to the water. It didn't look very safe for small children," reports one camper. Alternatively, Twin Lakes State Park provides "a great area for the kids to enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience," according to Jennifer G.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort has specific site conditions RVers should note. "Sites are spaced ok, I like a little larger spots. These are typical size for private campgrounds," mentions Isaac R., while another RVer explains, "The RV site was at the back of the farm and was nice with a stone patio and everything is in waking distance."
Length restrictions: Some parks have strict RV size limitations. Bear Creek Lake State Park specifies a "limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," according to Erica M., making advance measurement essential.
Hookup options: Most area campgrounds offer partial hookups. Twin Lakes State Park provides "E/W only. Dump station," notes Ashley I., while at Powhatan State Park, "No full hookup (yes 30/50 amp)" according to Ashley I., who adds the park has "well maintained trails, level sites."
