The Mendota, Virginia region sits at approximately 1,500 feet of elevation in the Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia, characterized by rugged terrain and dense forests. Camping and glamping options span from basic tent sites to elevated glamping experiences, with most campgrounds remaining open year-round despite seasonal temperature variations that can range from below freezing in winter to over 80°F in summer. Visitors should note that cell service can be limited in many camping areas, particularly in valleys and remote locations.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing opportunities: Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground features a lake for water activities just minutes from Mendota. "This amazing campground has spots for tent and rv camping, hiking trails, a beautiful lake for kayaking and fishing, and a Marina where rentals are available," notes Natalie A.
Mountain biking trails: The area offers acclaimed mountain biking trails for various skill levels. According to Sara M., Warriors' Path State Park "houses an acclaimed mountain bike trail area. Nearby you can golf and ride horses. Cell coverage varies from LTE to 5G all over the park."
Hiking to waterfalls: Hickory Ridge Campground offers access to scenic waterfall hikes. "The Creekside Cabin hike is very technical as in tree roots and rocks, but so worth the exertion! Very cool waterfall and aside from some modern day trash there is still the old wood stove and pantry in the cabin," explains Shelly S.
Educational programs: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led activities focused on local ecology and wildlife. Sara M. notes that Warriors' Path State Park has "a full docket of activities, ranger-led hikes, games, crafts and wildlife lectures offered throughout the day."
What campers like
Private yurt accommodations: Natural Tunnel State Park Campground offers elevated glamping options near Mendota with secluded sites. "This is the first time I have stayed in a yurt... it had a queen bed and a trundle bed, which our grandson stayed on. A couch, side tables, and a dining table was also inside," shares Myron C.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at area campgrounds. "The bath house is older and could use fresh paint it was meticulously clean all week," remarks Sara M. about Warriors' Path facilities.
Scenic lake views: Many sites offer views overlooking water features. Jennifer H. from Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground says, "We stayed at #86 which was off the main campground overlooking the lake. The site was perfect for our 23 ft RV... Overall we loved the campground and view of the water."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to observe native wildlife in natural settings. Hickory Ridge Campground visitor Stephanie J. notes, "We saw several deer, some turkey but no bears. Still be aware of your surroundings when moving around and in the campground."
What you should know
Site selection challenges: Pay close attention to site dimensions when booking. "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.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. At Hickory Ridge, Stephanie J. advises, "Weather is unpredictable, so pack a raincoat and warm clothes just in case."
Glamping heat concerns: Summer glamping near Mendota requires planning for heat management. Myron C. cautions about Natural Tunnel yurts: "The temperatures were in the lower 90s outside, and once we walked inside the yurt, it was like walking into an oven... There is no way we could have stayed in the yurt without the fan."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. "[At Hickory Ridge] There is little to no cell signal here, so coming to Grayson Highlands is one of the few state parks in Virginia where you can truly go 'off the grid' during the length of your stay," notes Stephanie J.
Tips for camping with families
Boundless Playground access: Crossville KOA provides designated play areas for children. Natalie A. mentions that one park "also has a Boundless Playground!" making it ideal for families with children.
Educational ranger activities: Look for scheduled programming designed for children. At Warriors' Path, Tom B. recommends: "If you're planning a stay at the campground, you won't be disappointed with the many activities this Park has to offer."
Family-focused campsite layouts: Some sites provide better spaces for children. Kate S. at Warriors' Path notes, "Campground is very clean especially the bathrooms. The lake is near the sites and a boundless playground is also nearby."
Tent site selection for families: Choose sites away from busy areas if camping with children. Stephanie J. from Hickory Ridge advises, "Sites 31 and 32 are on a meadow the campsite loops around; they have no privacy and little shade, but ample room for kids to run around, and there is a set of swings near these sites."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Lakeview RV Resort and other area campgrounds require leveling equipment. Michelle I. warns, "There are a lot of uneven campsites, so bring your leveling blocks."
Site access limitations: Several reviews mention challenges with RV access on narrow campground roads. Stephanie J. explains at Hickory Ridge that "These sites are very small; if you are in a tent I recommend no larger than a 4 person."
RV size verification: Always confirm site limitations before booking. Travis R. at Warriors' Path Main Campground shares, "Note: My 5th wheel is 43' and I got it in to one of their 40' sites," but this experience isn't universal.
Utility hookup considerations: Pay attention to electrical service types. Michael S. notes about Warriors' Path, "If I had to list any negatives it would be that there's no wifi or cable and no sewer hookup. However cellular signal is available for all carriers."
