RV campgrounds near Mendota, Virginia sit at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 feet with terrain transitions between the Ridge and Valley region and the Appalachian Plateau. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cooler mountain evenings dropping into the 60s. Many campgrounds in this region operate from April through October with limited winter availability outside established RV parks.
What to do
Fishing access: Several campgrounds offer pond or creek-side camping with fishing opportunities. At Jessie Lea RV Park and Campground, campers can fish in the South Fork Powell River. One visitor noted, "Very beautiful place!! Our campsite was on the bank of the river with a fire pit and very level soft ground."
Walking trails: Access to paved greenways provides convenient exercise options without driving. At Jessie Lea RV Park, "Across the bridge is a paved walking trail that follows the creek," while another visitor mentioned, "The greenway runs just over the river and takes you into Big Stone Gap where you will find local restaurants and shops."
Biking adventures: The Virginia Creeper Trail runs directly adjacent to Laurel Creek RV Park in Damascus. A camper reported, "This campground is small and no bathrooms, but it is directly on the Creeper so that makes up for it! Great location also because it is close to restaurants and the center of the small town."
What campers like
Creek and river sounds: Waterfront sites rank highly among camper reviews. At Laurel Creek RV Park, one visitor enjoyed "Lovely, creekside spaces & a few up the hill with views. I'm under a weeping willow. Birds chirping, blue jays, cardinals, tiny bright yellow birds & a squirrel."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses and grounds. A visitor at Leeman Field Park appreciated the "Clean restroom/bathhouse on site, group picnic area/outdoor fireplace, and horseshoes at the campground."
Town proximity: Easy access to local services rates highly in reviews. Around Pond RV Park offers convenience while maintaining natural surroundings, with one camper noting it's a "nice stop off interstate, about 1 mile easy pull thru, during week stop, was quiet, peaceful, little traffic noise through nite. pond area, chickens, ducks, swans."
What you should know
Cell coverage: Mountain terrain creates variable connectivity between campgrounds and even within the same property. Service generally improves near towns and along major highway corridors.
RV size restrictions: Some campgrounds can't accommodate larger rigs. At Rocky Top Campground, one camper warned about access challenges: "The camp on the west side is Dangerous to drive up in a motorhome. I personally drove my 36' up the most curvy incline I wouldn't recommend anyone to give this a second thought if your not a seasoned driver."
Reservation requirements: Summer weekends often fill completely at established RV parks. Weekday availability remains more open year-round. Some parks like Grandview Ranch RV Park don't take reservations, requiring first-come availability.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Look for campgrounds with multiple activity options. Leeman Field Park offers family-friendly amenities: "Neighboring Leeman Field park has multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, swimming pool (Admission to the pool is included in campground fees.), tennis courts, and disc golf course."
Wildlife viewing: Pond-focused campgrounds provide bird and animal watching opportunities. Around Pond RV Park features water wildlife with "pond area, chickens, ducks, swans" that keep children entertained.
Historical attractions: The region offers educational mining history. Portal 31 RV Park provides unique historical context: "This small park is located across the street from an exhibition coal mine, portal 31. It is in the former train depots former switch yard. Small, with electric hookups and a communal water spout."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Many reviews mention site grading issues in mountain terrain. At Around Pond RV Park, a camper noted, "Lots of spots available but they're not particularly level and not private."
Budget-friendly options: Campgrounds in this region typically cost $30-50 per night with full hookups. One camper at Lakeview RV Resort mentioned, "Management/owner very accommodating. Very short stay for us, just passing through. Quiet campground."
Check bathroom availability: Not all RV campgrounds offer shower facilities. A Laurel Creek RV Park visitor gave "4 stars because no bathrooms/showers" despite loving the location, noting "It does have water and power and a picnic table. Being right on a little river is great too."
