Camping near Mendota, Virginia typically offers moderate temperatures from April through October, with average highs around 75-85°F during summer months. The region sits at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet, creating varied terrain for campsite selection. Most camping areas feature mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple, and hickory trees that provide natural shade.
What to do
Disk golf at state parks: Warriors' Path State Park offers an 18-hole disk golf course as part of its recreational amenities. "We only did one hike, however, there are multiple trails to make use of in the park. My son and I enjoyed a round of disk golf while my wife and daughters made use of their awesome playground," notes Jedidiah J. from Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground.
Canoe on South Holston Lake: Little Oak Campground provides direct lake access with multiple water activities. According to Nathan F., "The camp ground is well organized with many amenities including super easy access to the water on all sides and surprisingly clean bathrooms. After the boat noise dies down the lake is extremely peaceful and placid."
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Natural Tunnel State Park contains several mountain biking trails that connect to the campground areas. "This is an enjoyable State Park with a lot to offer. It houses an acclaimed mountain bike trail area. Nearby you can golf and ride horses," reports Sara M. from Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground.
What campers like
Lakefront camping spots: Observation Knob Park features camping sites directly on South Holston Lake. "Beautiful, popular park. Not all sites are level. Sites are fairly close together. Excellent scenery," explains Shawn. Another camper, Eleanor, adds: "Large County campground with electric and water with two pump out stations. Spacious, hilly sites with some tree coverage along lake with boat ramp and capacity to tie your boat up at your site."
Affordability of local campgrounds: Sugar Hollow Campground offers budget-friendly camping options with surprising amenities. "You can't beat the price and your secluded but yet close to Sam's and Walmart and even a Chick-fil-A 10-day maximum," explains Mike. Another camper, Catharina L., confirms: "And really inexpensive (we paid $20 per night)."
Seclusion in urban-adjacent settings: Several campgrounds near Mendota provide a sense of isolation despite being near conveniences. Charles H. notes about Sugar Hollow Campground: "As the title says, anyone local knows about this park, however, few take advantage of the camping aspect. Few neighbors, excellent staff, and a nice area to hang out with friends, family, or even yourself!"
What you should know
Varied site levelness: Many campsites near Mendota require leveling equipment. "Really nice facility near town. There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks," reports Michelle I. about Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground.
Hidden Valley WMA permit requirements: For dispersed camping at Hidden Valley WMA, permits are required. "Camping is free, technically. (you need to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for 4 dollars online, and add a camping authorization to your account)," explains Rhys R.
Seasonal variations in campground crowding: Summer months often see full facilities at established campgrounds. "Sites were right on top of one another and extremely crowded—felt like a tailgating party in a parking lot. We ended up leaving when we found someone's car parked in our spot, and a group of 30-40 people congregated at the site next to us," reports Karin P. about Warriors' Path during a July visit.
Tips for camping with families
Scout sites before booking: Family-friendly sites vary considerably in size and suitability. "The only issues we had were several of the sites were too small for even our pop up camper, no way an RV can fit. You really need to scout the sites beforehand," advises Kate S. about Warriors' Path State Park.
Ranger-led activities for children: Natural Tunnel State Park Campground offers educational programs. "In the warm seasons they have a ranger that comes around and even little events for kids. I remember picking apart an owl pellet with the ranger. Very outdoor educational," recalls Travis R.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "Very fun and kid friendly with play ground," notes Britt about Moody Bluff Campground. Another camper, Natalie A., mentions that Warriors' Path "has a Boundless Playground!"
Tips from RVers
Electrical protection: Some older campgrounds near Mendota have less reliable electrical systems. "Recommend a surge protector on your camper as there are no breakers on the electric hook up at the site (clustered elsewhere)," advises Eleanor about Observation Knob Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: Pay careful attention to campsite dimensions for larger RVs. "The site was perfect for our 23 ft RV but pay attention to the site size as some RVs had issues getting their larger RVs in their sites with the road/site layout," warns Jennifer H. at Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground.
Water hookup variations: At many campgrounds near Mendota, water access points aren't individual. "Most lots have electricity, water hookup is at the road and usually shared with several other campers," explains Christy H. about Sugar Hollow Park.
