Best Camping near Mcdowell, VA

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mcdowell, VA has a lot to offer. Mcdowell is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Mcdowell, VA (140)

    Camper-submitted photo from Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area

    1. Braley Pond Dispersed Camping & Day Use Area

    11 Reviews
    6 Photos
    405 Saves
    West Augusta, Virginia

    Braley Pond Day Use Area is a very popular access to multiple trailheads including Ramsey's Draft Wilderness. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy this universally accessible area perfect for family picnics, or plan to stay overnight in the adjacent dispersed camping site.

    No dispersed camping allowed in picnic area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Shenandoah Valley Campground

    2. Shenandoah Valley Campground

    25 Reviews
    70 Photos
    142 Saves
    Staunton, Virginia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $36 - $132 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca Shadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca Shadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca Shadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca Shadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca Shadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca Shadows

    3. Seneca Shadows

    31 Reviews
    230 Photos
    292 Saves
    Seneca Rocks, West Virginia

    Overview

    Seneca Shadows Campground overlooks Seneca Rocks and is surrounded by mountains on both the east and west. Hiking and nature study at Seneca Rocks are just a couple of the popular activities in the area. The North Fork South Branch Potomac River is nearby, making fishing a popular pastime. Two local caves beckon ambitious explorers, and the 900-foot high Seneca Rocks can be viewed from most campsites.

    Recreation

    Rock climbers and hikers adore Seneca Rocks. Both sports will take visitors to the top of the impressive rocky tops with rewarding views of the mountains and valleys beyond. The hiking trail can be accessed across the street from the Seneca Shadows Campground. Seneca Rocks Visitor Center provides a catch-and-release fishing area, viewing platforms, educational displays and a gift shop.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits in the river valley within the Monongahela National Forest, which extends over the north central highlands of the state, straddling many of the region's highest peaks. Elevations range from 1,000 to 4,863 feet above sea level. Variations in terrain and precipitation have created one of the most ecologically diverse national forests in the country.

    Nearby Attractions

    Campers make Seneca Shadows a convenient base camp while traveling through the Potomac Highlands. Explore the scenic roadways, especially when fall colors are at their peak.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    4. Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    60 Reviews
    221 Photos
    567 Saves
    Dyke, Virginia

    Overview

    Perched on top of Big Flat Mountain, this is one of the largest campgrounds in the park. Loft Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a wilderness getaway in the historic Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia.

    Recreation

    Shenandoah National Park has over 500 miles of trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Some trails lead to a waterfall or lookout, while others wind deep into the forest and wilderness. Trails to the Big Run Wilderness area are accessible from the campground, and pristine waterfalls are a common site along the popular trails. Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime, with black bears, wild turkey, deer, birds and countless other animals abundant across the park. The campground is located right off of Milepost 80 on the famous Skyline Drive, which runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stunning views are available from any of the 75 scenic overlooks.

    Natural Features

    Shenandoah National Park includes 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the southern Appalachians. The park rises above the Virginia Piedmont to its east and the Shenandoah Valley to its west. Loft Mountain's location on the mountain top offers easy access to Skyline Drive which offers sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding rolling hills and open meadows.

    Nearby Attractions

    Two visitor centers with bookstores and exhibits are located in the park (milepost 5 and milepost 51). There are concession managed restaurants, gift shops and lodging facilities scattered throughout the park.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Changing Reservations: There is no change fee if a visitor extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. Additionally, there is no change fee if the visitor wants to switch sites that are the same price with the same reservation dates in the same facility. If a visitor wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee. If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date. Once a reservation date has begun, visitors cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center. Onsite staff will assist with changes or cancellations. Cancellations: Visitors may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's approved rate including tax and applicable add-on. Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Visitors who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days prior to arrival date will pay a $10 service fee AND forfeit the first nights rate. No-Shows: A no-show visitor is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date. Staff will hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. No-shows are assessed $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's rate, taxes and applicable add-on for a campsite. Early Departures: Visitors are requested to notify staff at the facility if they depart early to allow others to use the site. If the visitor chooses to depart early, they may forfeit the approved rate and applicable tax and applicable add-on for the day of departure. If a visitor departs prior to the scheduled check-out date, they may be eligible for a partial refund. Visitors may notify the Recreation.gov call center to request a refund of remaining unused nights. If a visitor requests a refund for an early departure after the facility check-out time (12 noon) has passed, the visitor will not be refunded for that night and is eligible for a refund on any additional nights that will not be used. Refunds: Visitors may submit a refund request through their Recreation.gov profile within 7 days of the end date of their reservation. Visitors may also initiate a refund request through the call center at any time after their reservation has ended. Refunds for debit or credit card payments will be issued as a credit to the original bank or credit card used to pay. For check or cash purchases, Recreation.gov will mail a Treasury check for refunds of cash, check, or money order payments to the address associated with the reservation. Treasury check refunds may take up to 6-8 weeks to arrive. In the event of an emergency closure, the Recreation.gov team or facility manager will refund all fees and will attempt to notify you using the contact information within the Recreation.gov visitor profile.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Seneca State Forest

    5. Seneca State Forest

    12 Reviews
    57 Photos
    113 Saves
    Dunmore, West Virginia
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Douthat State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Douthat State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Douthat State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Douthat State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Douthat State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Douthat State Park Campground

    6. Douthat State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    88 Photos
    218 Saves
    Clifton Forge, Virginia

    Cabins

    To camp at Douthat State Park you must have with you either your reservation number(s) or confirmation letter at check-in. If you've arranged for someone else to check in for you, make sure that person has your reservation number as the number is needed to enter the cabin. All cabins are pet-friendly; there is a fee per pet per night. Camping and cabin guests should be prepared to show a valid ID if requested. Check-in is 4 p.m. and checkout is 10 a.m.

    Camping

    Douthat is known for delightful, inviting campsites and makes great camping near Richmond. Some offer a splendid view of Douthat Lake. Camping is available year-round in Whispering Pines campground. (Note: Water is unavailable at individual campsites from November through March because of freezing weather. As hot water is still available in the bathhouse, camping fees are not reduced.) The campgrounds are pet-friendly. Generators may not be used in any campgrounds.

    Lodges

    Please note that the cancellation fee for Douthat Main Lodge, Creasey Lodge and Beard's Mountain Lodge is higher than it is for cabins.

    Douthat Lodge (atop mountain): Six-bedroom, rents Saturday - Saturday

    This log lodge overlooks the park. It was built by the CCC. It sleeps 13 and allows 15. There are six bedrooms: one queen bed, one queen bed, one queen bed, four twin beds, two twin beds and one twin bed. It has a fireplace, two bathrooms, a washer and a dryer.

    Creasey Lodge (behind park's main office). Five-bedroom. Weekly rentals start on Friday when a week-long stay is required. Fully universally accessible.

    This one story wood-frame lodge is next to the park office. It accommodates up to 18 guests. There are five bedrooms: one queen bed, two sets of bunk beds, two sets of bunk beds, two sets of bunk beds, two sets of bunk beds. It has a fireplace and three bathrooms.

    Beards Mountain Lodge: Six-bedroom, maximum occupancy is 16. Weekly rentals start on Sunday when a week-long stay is required.

    This frame-built facility is midway up the mountain and is universally accessible. It accommodates up to 16 guests. There are three bathrooms and six-bedrooms; queen, queen, two twins, two twins, two bunk beds, two bunk beds.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sherando Lake Campground

    7. Sherando Lake Campground

    33 Reviews
    171 Photos
    322 Saves
    Tyro, Virginia

    Overview

    Sherando Lake Recreation Area's Family Campground provides an ideal camping destination. It is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known locally as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where visitors enjoy hiking, picnicking in the shade, fishing in the lakes, or swimming and relaxing on the sandy beach.

    Recreation

    The 25 acre Lower Lake offers opportunities for swimming in a designated area with a sand beach, accessible ramp to the water's edge, and a beach bathhouse with changing and shower facilities. Fishing and boating are also available outside the designated swimming area of the lake. Fishing is in stocked trout waters during the spring and fall seasons. Visitors will need to have the appropriate Virginia fishing license, National Forest stamp, and trout stamp. Boats with gasoline motors are not permitted on the lower lake - electric troll motors, canoes, kayaks, or similar boats only. A hand-carry ramp is available for access to the lake adjacent to the parking area. Fishing only is available at the 7 acre Upper Lake. This lake is also stocked during the spring and fall seasons and the appropriate licenses are required. Boats are allowed, but there is no launch access - hand carry only. Parking is available at a small area below the group camp area and a walking trail will lead you to the lake. Swimming is not allowed in the upper lake. Hiking trails surround the area offering everything from a short walk around the lake on the Lakeside and Cliff Trails to a day hike up the mountain on the White Rock Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. For the more adventurous hiker, more challenging day hikes and backpacking trips are available by heading up the Blue Loop Trail to the Torry Ridge Trail to Bald Mountain and beyond.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits between Lower Sherando Lake and Upper Sherando Lake at an elevation of about 1,800 feet in the shadows of Torry Ridge. The Upper Lake is 7 acres and is fed by the waters of the North Fork of Back Creek. The Lower Lake is 25 acres and is fed by springs, the North Fork of Back Creek, and Williams Branch, so the water stays refreshingly cool all summer long.

    Nearby Attractions

    There are opportunities for gas, groceries, and firewood at convenience stores and local vendors along the state road to Sherando Lake. Ice can be purchased at the Sherando Lake Visitor Center during operating hours, which vary seasonally. Additional supplies can be obtained in Stuarts Draft, about a 15 minute drive away.The Blue Ridge Parkway, with its scenic overlooks and ridgetop views, is a short 3 mile drive up State Route 664 from the Sherando Lake entrance. The Wintergreen Resort offers a golf course and ski area within 10 miles of Sherando Lake. Cabin rentals are available near Sherando Lake from local private vendors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Knob Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Knob Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Knob Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Knob Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Knob Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Spruce Knob Lake Campground

    8. Spruce Knob Lake Campground

    17 Reviews
    137 Photos
    255 Saves
    Riverton, West Virginia

    Overview

    Spruce Knob Lake Campground is tucked in a beautiful hardwood forest less than a mile from Spruce Knob Lake. The campground provides a peaceful setting with easy access to boating on the lake and hiking through the mountainous region. Spruce Knob is the highest peak in West Virginia. A stone and steel observation tower is perched atop the peak, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the area.

    Recreation

    Sixty miles of picturesque hiking trails crisscross the region, and the campground provides direct access to the pleasant 1-mile Big Bend River Loop. Trout fishing is available nearby at 25-acre Spruce Knob Lake, and in surrounding creeks. Facilities at the lake include a small boat ramp, parking area and vault toilets. A wooden pier along the shoreline provides barrier-free access to the lake.No swimming is allowed.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated on a wooded ridge overlooking the lake. To the east is 4,863' Spruce Knob. The vegetation atop Spruce Knob has adapted to a harsh, exposed environment. One-sided red spruce deformed by constant exposure to strong westerly winds cling to the high rocky ridges. Blueberry and huckleberry plants cover the ground. Due to its location, the campground may experience cold fogs and strong winds year-round.

    Nearby Attractions

    The half-mile Whispering Spruce Trail circles Spruce Knob and provides panoramic views of the beautiful area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park

    9. Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park

    17 Reviews
    53 Photos
    62 Saves
    Stuarts Draft, Virginia

    This place is incredibly special. Walnut Hills is beautiful and a place to make memories for years to come!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 - $99 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bolar Mountain Recreation Area

    10. Bolar Mountain Recreation Area

    24 Reviews
    62 Photos
    236 Saves
    Hot Springs, Virginia

    Overview

    Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is a great destination for visitors looking for a fun getaway on Lake Moomaw. The area provides plenty of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, camping and hiking. There is little to no cell service, so be ready to disconnect!

    Recreation

    Boating, canoeing, water skiing and relaxing on the beach are popular activities at the lake. Anglers fish for brown and rainbow trout, bass and crappie. A boat ramp is located at the Bolar Flat Marina, which has a modern dock with boat slips. Bolar Mountain boasts 11 miles of hiking trails that lead to two impressive scenic overlooks: Islands Overlook Spur and Grouse Point Overlook. Looking for a more primitive experience? Hike or boat to Greenwood Point for dispersed camp sites.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits on the northern end of Lake Moomaw, a manmade lake covering 2,530 acres along the Jackson River. The lake is held by Gathright Dam, constructed in the 1980's by the Army Corps of Engineers for flood control. The lake's average depth is 80 feet and it has 43 miles of wooded shoreline making it the second largest impoudment in western virginia.Bolar Mountain is part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest which span 1.8 million acres across Virginia and parts of West Virginia and Kentucky. The forest protects 40 tree species within mostly Appalachian hardwood and mixed pine-hardwood forests, 60 species of mammals and 200 species of birds.

    Nearby Attractions

    Hidden Valley is a short drive from the lake and has ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiast: Hike or ride your horse along the Jackson River, all the way to Poor Farm, cast a line for trout, and stay at the Hidden Valley Campground or even better the historic bed and breakfast. Warm Springs has restaurants, shopping and a Historical Society for Bath County in addition to other typical amenities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $30 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 140 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Mcdowell

Recent Reviews in Mcdowell

858 Reviews of 140 Mcdowell Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Edge Campground
    Oct. 30, 2024

    Rivers Edge Campground

    Lovely little spot

    Family camping trip and we tagged along in our tent. We’ve been priced out of our area so pleased to find this hidden gem. A small, comfortable, family run campground that has enough amenities to keep the littles entertained and adults relaxing. We stayed in the tent area, which we had all to ourselves. Our site was on the river and able to pull our motorcycles right up. I do think if the tent area is full it will feel crowded. There’s a small bathroom attached to back of camp store nearby. Then the larger bathhouse down the way. The RV sites were flat, clean, in an open area. We will, for sure, be back.

  • SJ W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Reservoir Road Dispersed Campsite

    Very long road to get there

    Went in August and it was very buggy, also had someone park pretty close which when I drive down a really long dirt road that is questionable for my van, i want it to be private and this was about 5 miles of dirt road to get to it.

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Oronoco Campground
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Oronoco Campground

    Great FREE disperse campground with bathroom

    I love this campground, it’s 5 to 10 minutes from BV, right on the river, primitive with bathrooms, which is fine with me, I sleep in my forerunner with my two dogs, plenty of land and trails, it’s perfect for what I need👍

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Oronoco Campground
    Oct. 26, 2024

    Oronoco Campground

    Great primitive campsite with restrooms

    Less than 10 campsites, all with fire circles and a public bathroom site. each campsite is on the river, very beautiful.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oronoco Campground
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Oronoco Campground

    Great!

    Loved this little campground. Nice and quiet, toilets available (though not very clean but good enough). Only thing is that there’s a dog, we think from a property nearby, that acts aggressive towards campers. Luckily it went home around 18h, so we had a great night, but it was back the next morning and immediately had aggressive behavior. So watch out and be careful with your food!

  • Kevin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Glady Dispersed Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Lower Glady Dispersed Campground

    Great Disbursed Camping

    There are numerous disbursed camping sites at this location. We arrived on a Sunday and found all the sites near the vaulted toilet empty.

    The campsites are boarded by boulders. The toilet was one of the cleanest I have seen. Most sites have good shade while still open to the sky.

    Sites are level and have good back-in driveways. Fire rings are large. We removed lots of trash from our fire ring, mostly aluminum cans.

  • nancy B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Waynesboro North 340 Campground
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Waynesboro North 340 Campground

    Aftermath of the hurricane

    My Rv sustained damage from a tree. The staff were awesome but the owner wasn’t. She wouldn’t even acknowledge me or say how sorry she was. Then she had me assigned to the worst site in the park. I have never been treated so terribly. She was only interested in her revenue and not the people.

  • Tiel M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Morris Hill Campground
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Morris Hill Campground

    Decent, nice hosts

    Nothing to write home about but it’s pretty. There’s a road that runs right in front that has some noise. Not all that different from most national forests, which isn’t bad.

  • Jeremy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Douthat State Park Campground
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Douthat State Park Campground

    A sprawling camping complex

    Douthat is really four separate campgrounds. Three of them (i.e. not Whispering Pines) are located near the lake. Each one had a campground host (volunteer) and wood for sale.

    White Oak Campground is larger, wooded, and has a significant elevation change between different sites. Caution should be used with large rigs as the low-water bridge to White Oak has steep approach and departure angles.

    Beaver Dam Campground is relatively flat and similarly wooded while also providing equestrian facilities.

    Lakeside Campground is smaller but the front row sites provide great lake views. Unfortunately swimming is only allowed in the Beach area which is not directly connected to this campground.

    Whispering Pines is a few miles away along the entry road and has a different character. It’s a very flat and wide-open campground perfect for big RVs with much larger sites.

    The Lakeside Camp Store is nice and has a to-go counter for food. The facilities, overall, were well maintained and clean. Firewood is for sale for $6 per bundle.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hone Quarry
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Hone Quarry

    Great for mid week

    If you live in Harrisonburg, Bridgwater and any surrounding area, this place is amazing. Fair warning, this place is DARK DARK, but your campers, so. The campsites are clean, $5 a night will get you a place to stay. Payment box upfront. There’s a pond up the road to fish.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Rock Campground
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Eagle Rock Campground

    Great for a night

    Was coming back from fishing and need a place to sleep without paying for a hotel. Great place honestly. I don’t really have anything negative to say about it. At $10 and fishing, I’ll definitely be back.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed camping at Mower Basin
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Dispersed camping at Mower Basin

    Beautiful views

    Very quiet, beautiful views, amazing drive from VA. Multiple campsites and they all have beautiful views. I have T-Mobile and had signal only by the first campsite for some reason. I had no signal for almost two hours heading towards VA.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Flagpole Knob
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Flagpole Knob

    Enjoyed the drive and stay

    I drove to Switzer Lake first and from there stayed on the trail all the way to Flag Pole. The drive took a few hours but was a ton of fun. There are a few good spots up there and it gets fairly busy.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages

    Beautiful Resort

    The resort is beautiful. Pulling up and checking in, a host takes you to your site. Sites are spacious and there's lots to do! We loved our site because we are the only one on the right side of the hill. I did not get any info email though which I had to contact about. Other than that, everything was great. Drove around the campground to see which other sites I would like to try and get! I def would return.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennie’s Beach Campground
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Bennie’s Beach Campground

    Cool spot by the creek

    Bennies has a cool spot by the creek for tent camping.  I was the only one there - after having driven through the aging RV neighborhood.  Check-in was mystical, but finally reached the groundskeeper by phone and left money in a mailbox.  "$40 cash money..."  Way overpriced considering the unsanitary (gross) showers and restrooms.  I think I felt cleaner before the shower.  If you don't need a shower and don't mind dropping $40 for a place to pitch your tent then Bennies may be for you.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park

    Nice and quiet

    I liked this campground -- most RV sites have electric, and water fill stations are easily accessible.  Sites weren't too close together, and they were clean and well kept.  Staff was also quite friendly and available.  Note:  It's in a valley, so there's no cell service.  The wash houses have wi-fi, but it's not great and you have to be either in the building or sitting at the bench outside to use it.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Brandywine Lake Campground — Shenandoah Wildlife Management Area
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Brandywine Lake Campground — Shenandoah Wildlife Management Area

    Drive on up to site!

    Clean, comfortable campground with spacious sites. Some of the sites are very private, others are a little less. Some have bear boxes and some are a lot closer to bath house than others. There is a large overflow lot available and set up for campers. However, we went on a Monday night and only shared the campground with 4 other groups of campers. Hosts are on site and both friendly and informative. Hiking trails nearby and some start at campground. Lake is low but still good for swimming or floating. We had a very peaceful night, even with the rain. Recommend!

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil’s Backbone Camp
    Jul. 12, 2024

    Devil’s Backbone Camp

    Robbery

    $150 per night is crazy. Nothing special about the campground except proximity to devils backbone. This is a parking spot in a field with no trees and the sewer likely on the wrong side. There are no amenities. We’ve stayed many times but plan to go elsewhere going forward.

  • Jeremiah S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA

    KOA Newbie

    This was our first KOA experience. I liked the pool, camp shop, and proximity to Massanutten water park. I also liked the size of site.

    My wife didn’t care for the lack of grass (mostly gravel) or the guy who took us to site that worked there talking over her when she was helping me back in.

    Most people know this but if a couple is backing in just let them figure it out.

    Other than price and backing in annoyance, I thought it was good place and would go back.

  • Jeremiah S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Marlinton Creek and Trail
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Marlinton Creek and Trail

    Small Town Camping

    A very neat campsite at the end of the small town of Marlinton, WV. The town itself hosts events all the time and has the historic Greenbrier River and Greenbrier River Trail running through it.

    Our site was spacious with full hook up. There are not many sites and the atmosphere was very relaxed. It is within walking distance for downtown Marlinton but feels like it is remote. It is also within walking distance of the river and trail.

    The location is within driving distance of more sightseeing opportunities than I have space to list.

  • Trisha G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Rock Campground
    Jul. 4, 2024

    Eagle Rock Campground

    ♥️

    We have been coming to Eagle Rock for years. Most of the people change every year but there are some that have permanent campers here. A few rude people this year but we still enjoyed our time. It doesn’t have all the amenities that some would want. If you enjoy roughing it then ER is worth camping at.



Guide to Mcdowell

Camping near McDowell, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Enjoy the trails around Seneca Shadows. One camper mentioned, "There are many trails and a quick walk to the lake, where the stargazing is top notch."
  • Fishing: Head to Spruce Knob Lake Campground for some fishing. A visitor shared, "The lake is beautiful. Our neighbor was catching nice fish out in his boat."
  • Exploring Caverns: Check out nearby caverns like Seneca Caverns and Smokehole Caverns for a fun day trip. One camper noted, "Seneca Rocks was majestic and lots of fun outdoor areas to explore in the area."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Seneca Shadows. A reviewer said, "We got the perfect walk-in site in the open field with a view of Seneca Rocks from our tent."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Douthat State Park Campground remarked, "The bathhouse was clean and modern."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground managers. One camper at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area said, "The camp manager was really chill."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Spruce Knob Lake Campground, have little to no cell service. A camper advised, "Download your maps before you come, because there's no cell service."
  • Primitive Camping: Some sites, such as Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping, are more rustic. A visitor noted, "This place is amazing. I could stay here every weekend and not get tired of it."
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. One camper at Seneca State Forest mentioned, "It was raining most of my stay, so I was not able to fully experience the attractions."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. A family at Douthat State Park Campground said, "The grandchildren love it! Great camping, nice beach and swim area."
  • Quiet Times: Choose weekdays for a quieter experience. One camper at Shenandoah Valley Campground noted, "Weekends were packed, but much quieter during the week."
  • Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as some campgrounds are remote. A visitor at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area advised, "There isn't much around, so bring your supplies with you."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites for easier parking. A camper at Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park mentioned, "Sites are gravel and fairly level."
  • Electric Hookups: Check for electric hookups if you need them. One RV traveler at Douthat State Park Campground said, "We had electric in Loop C, which was expected."
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for noise from other campers, especially on weekends. A visitor at Shenandoah Valley Campground noted, "Some of the guests were kinda rednecky... making me feel not totally at ease."

Camping around McDowell, Virginia, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions