k
kelly P.
Scout
ScoutLimestone Park
Nice quiet campground, showers needed to be cleaned but were not bad. Communication was not good with park people.
Camping near Amherst, VA
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Camping near Amherst, Virginia spans developed state park facilities with full hookups to rustic dispersed sites along forest roads. James River State Park offers multiple campgrounds including Red Oak with full hookups for RVs and tent sites, while Canoe Landing provides walk-in group camping with lake access. Devils Backbone Camp, located near the Blue Ridge Parkway, features tent and RV sites with the unique advantage of being within walking distance to a brewery. The region includes both campgrounds with amenities and primitive camping opportunities in the surrounding George Washington National Forest.
Road conditions and seasonal availability vary significantly throughout the area, with some forest service roads requiring high-clearance vehicles. Most developed campgrounds operate from spring through fall, though some like Devils Backbone Camp remain open year-round. A camper noted, "Reservoir Road in Amherst county offers nice primitive spots along the Pedlar River with multiple camping locations," highlighting the dispersed options available. Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, particularly in the mountains and valleys west of Amherst. Reservations are strongly recommended for established campgrounds, especially during summer weekends and fall foliage season when visitation peaks.
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews from visitors to the area. Several campgrounds provide direct access to water, including sites along the James River, Tye River, and various lakes. Campers frequently mention the peaceful sounds of flowing water as a highlight of their experience. One visitor described their site at Crabtree Falls Campground as "10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night." The mixed-use nature of many campgrounds accommodates diverse camping styles, with tent-only areas often providing more privacy and natural settings. Developed campgrounds typically offer amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to bathrooms, while more remote sites trade conveniences for solitude and natural surroundings.
Best Campgrounds near Amherst (106)
1. Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park
"We spent one night with our dogs at the walk-in campground at James Lake. It is a wonderful piece of nature. The campsites are far away from each other. Everything was very clean and taken care of."
"Campsite was right next to lake, beautiful views and easy water access. While we were there in April we only saw a couple other groups, and no other campers were anywhere near us."
from $16 - $75 / night
Check Availability2. Red Oak Campground — James River State Park
"Nice campground in line with expectations for most Virginia state parks."
"This state park was a great find on my way south, Off the beaten path with plenty of river frontage and ponds around. There are plenty of places to fish!"
from $37 - $98 / night
Check Availability3. Devils Backbone Camp
"First time camping in any part of Virginia, very nice and clean campground, not too much outside noise besides the random car driving on the one road near by."
"We set up camp then walked over to the brewery/ restaurant for some flights and dinner. I recommend grabbing some growlers to go. Showers and restrooms were clean."
from $25 - $140 / night
Check Availability4. Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA
"We stopped here overnight on a trip from Chicago to Virginia Beach. We had reserved a pull through but were just short in length and had to disconnect the tow vehicle for the night."
"There was plenty for kids to do playground, pool, jump pillow, fishing pond and hiking trails. The tent site was amazing right by the pond. The fire pit has a grate for cooking."
5. Walnut Grove — James River State Park
"Lake James is a true gem, clean and beautiful, with amazing views of Linville Gorge, Shortoff Mountain, and Table Rock. The State Park has several camping areas."
"This is a lovely little campground set on the shores of James Lake. Sites are big enough for 2 small tents or 1 largish family tent. All sites have a picnic table, fire pit with grate, and bear box."
from $16 / night
Check Availability6. Oronoco Campground
"It should be noted that the warning about water moccasins posted previously is inaccurate as there are no water moccasins in this part of Virginia."
"Only thing is that there’s a dog, we think from a property nearby, that acts aggressive towards campers."
7. Otter Creek Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
"Great all around virginia campsite"
"Alternative to crowded Shenandoah campgrounds, although is a good drive away <60+ miles away from entrance."
from $30 / night
Check Availability8. Crabtree Falls Campground
"The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night."
"I’ve camped at a completely different part of this place before which was a site without access to bathrooms and showers."
from $28 - $55 / night
Check Availability9. Sherando Lake Campground
"Sherando Lake is a well-maintained, popular campground located in the George Washington National Forest near Lyndhurst, VA."
"The lakeside is wonderful for sitting, reading and swimming. The "upper lake" is great for fishing. "
from $25 - $47 / night
Check Availability10. George Washington National Forest off 812
"There are multiple spots along the road - some are drive in and some require you to park and walk in. Definitely get there early to get a prime spot."
"There's access to the App Trail on the road so you might see some hikers but it was real quiet otherwise."
Drive Time
- 49 min from Charlottesville, VA
Recent Camping Photos near Amherst, VA
220 Photos of 106 Amherst Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State ParkB
Walnut Grove — James River State Park
Red Oak Campground — James River State Park
Branch Pond — James River State ParkV
Hog Camp Gap
Alhambra Road Site 7
Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOAS
Otter Creek Campground — Blue Ridge Parkwayn
Oronoco Campground
Spy Rock
Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812D
George Washington National Forest off 812
Recent Reviews near Amherst, VA
691 Reviews of 106 Amherst Campgrounds
Jennifer S.
TravelerMisty Mountain Camp Resort
Location is wonderful, however campground is lacking in every area
Very disappointed in our recent four-night stay at Misty Mountain Campground this October.
Prior to our arrival, both my husband and I made numerous attempts to verify our site and reservation details. My husband called for five consecutive days and left messages each time, and I sent an email; however, we received no response.
When we arrived, the check-in process was extremely frustrating. I was initially told we had no reservation. After explaining that I was part of a wedding group, had already paid, and had been assigned a site number, the registration staff member continued to insist the reservation could not be found. After being ignored for 10 minutes and having to explain the situation again, she located our booking, but assigned us to the wrong site.
Additionally, the site and facilities fell far below expectations for an "RV Resort":
- Site Condition: The campsite was overcrowded, overgrown, and in poor condition.
- Facility Cleanliness: The restrooms were dirty, with grime on the doors, and clearly lacked regular cleaning (the same debris remained on the floor for days).
- Amenities: We were unable to purchase propane as none was available. Furthermore, we were refused change for the laundry facilities under the claim that they were closing for renovations, despite the door remaining open with no work taking place.
Overall, the lack of communication, poor customer service, and substandard conditions made for a very negative experience. I hope they deal with their issues because it is a lovely area.
- CCary C.Scout
Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground
Smith Mountain Lake Campground
Great campground post season- open until 10/31. Good weather, leaf peeping. LOTS of trails to the lake, and very dog friendly
dale H.ScoutStoney creek
Great stay for the price
We were on our way to Arizona and needed to stop for the night the staff were very kind in holding a pull through spot for us with no more than my name on arrival the campground is awesome for the money.
Jeremy R.
GuideThousand Trails Lynchburg
Nice staff
Overall the sray here has been decent. Shower house is clean. Nice trail around the "big lake". And staff are very friendly. Roads need some work. There a re a lot of washout areas, still can travel through, but a little sketchy with motorhome. We liked our site because it was easy access to get back out on the country road. The laundry has 2 washers, but one is broken. There is a nice pool, but it was too cold for us to swim. Very dog friendly. One of the trails shown on the map was not accessible so we had to turn around. Overall we will be back
Jim M.GuidePeaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway
Good for a night stop along the Parkway
The campground is nice but needs a little upkeep. It is apparent from the algae and moss on the buildings that it's a very damp area. The restroom facilities were working but needed touched up All in all it was ok for a nights stay and the lake and sharp top mountain were incredible despite the little issues I wouldn't hesitate to come back.
Thomas B.
RangerMontebello Resort
Narrow Outdoors
Cool campground in a remote part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As such, very little phone service and lots of narrow, winding roads. Plenty of hikes and several interesting little towns within 30 minutes. I thought it was an interesting mix! We had a power outage during our visit, which also eliminates water access at this site. I was grateful to have an inverter to keep us online since there is zero AT&T service. I had a pull-through site and I'm not certain that I could have made the exit if the campers ahead of me didn't leave.
- rrobert J.Scout
Misty Mountain Camp Resort
Where do i even start
The wifi test was done with my starlink not the campground wifi bc it doesn't exist.
To begin with I came physically up here from SC to check availability for long term stay. I was told there was a list and I would be put on that list and if a spot became available I would be notified (8-3-26). I was called (8-23-26) with availability and request for payment I paid then on the phone. My card the next following 3 days was ran for an additional total of 2400.00 every single morning an 800.00 charge I luckily had my card locked bc if not I would have been screwed. I was not given a reason why my card was ran so many times and not even an apology. I checked in on September 1st and was put in a site completely covered with tree limbs which is a problem as the only requirement I had was a clear view of the sky for my starlink to work for my remote work. For 2 whole weeks I went back and forth with the new GM Peggy. For 2 whole weeks I could NOT work the campground wifi is non existent. I was given the run around and a disrespectful attitude saying it wasnt there fault when it was known to begin with this was an absolute NEED not a want. Fast forward to today (9-12-26) I had issues with my power pole showing a short to ground and I was told its bc the poles are grounded to themselves but finally moved. The only catch was if I was to move I HAD TO LEAVE on october 1st per PEGGY the nee GM. So because of a miscommunication between staff of mine and my families needs bc my kids homeschooling I am forced to scramble to find another campground in two weeks when we live in our camper and work OTR. Its been nothing but problems here. The water taps are full of rust the GM judges you based off how you apear and treats you like dirt under the door mat. I was hoping this would be a good fit for me and my family but it has been nothing but the worst camping experience I have had in the past 5 years. The staff themselfs are great they tried to remedy the issue day one but PEGGY wouldnt allow it. I highly recommend going somewhere else and spending your hard earned money bc this place does not respect you as a customer or tenant. I talked with many campers who have been coming here for years since the 90s and they even say and feel the same the campground has declined since a management company purchased it. Also the long term rentals will be al.ost non existent unless you've bene coming here for 4 years or more. Cable is also non existent here. Its been a very VERY bad regretful experience. The lies from management and corporate baseline excuses are disgusting. Will NEVER camp here again. Take this as your honest warning from a normal person and a combat veteran. It dont take much to please me but this place has fell well below the bar. The site is was moved to before I get kicked out because they couldnt properly meet the needs of my stay allowed my starlink to work so I will be able to work 2 weeks before I am essentially nomadic again. If your tent camping bring water boots bc the tent sites seem to hold water. ALSO DONT LEAVE HONEST REVIEWS THAT SHED LIGHT ON THE NEGATIVES AND DOWNFALLS OF THIS PLACE OR THEY WILL TELL YOU YOU HAVE TO LEAVE.
- PPeter and Linda K.Guide
Thousand Trails Lynchburg
Woodsy and quiet
Friendly and helpful staff. Located in a rolling woodsy area near a lake. Not real busy and pretty quiet. The sites are gravel and some are not real level due to the terrain. There are walking and biking trails.
Guide to Amherst
Campgrounds near Amherst, VA straddle the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet, creating microclimates that extend the camping season from early spring through late fall. The area receives less rainfall than the western side of the mountains, resulting in more reliable weather conditions for outdoor activities from April through October. Campers find diverse terrain throughout the George Washington National Forest where primitive sites often sit alongside mountain streams.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Crabtree Falls Campground provides immediate access to one of Virginia's most dramatic waterfalls. The campground sits at the base of the 1,200-foot cascading waterfall. "Crabtree Falls is a mile up the road and very easy to get to the trail head. The AT is also close by and easily accessed," notes one visitor.
Star gazing sessions: Red Oak Campground at James River State Park holds International Dark Sky Park designation. "The park is part of the Dark Sky Parks Association and if you are into astronomy and stars this is the place to stay," explains a camper. The lack of light pollution creates exceptional conditions for night sky observation.
Water recreation: Multiple campgrounds provide river access for fishing, paddling, and swimming. "Camping along the river at the Canoe Landing Campground is great in the slower seasons. The sites are pretty close together but it's a beautiful place. And you can fish right off the bank less than 50 yards from your tent," explains a visitor.
What campers like
Brewery proximity: Devils Backbone Camp stands out for its integration with a craft brewery complex. "A short walk through the tent area brought you to the large brewery area. This area includes a brewpub, large outdoor seating area with fire pits and an outdoor stage, a distillery, cigar and cocktail lounge," says one reviewer. Campers appreciate being able to safely walk to and from the brewery.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Amherst maintain well-regarded bathhouses. "The bathhouse is top notch! Squeaky clean with lots of space. Love that you can just walk to the brewery from your site," notes a Devils Backbone camper. Another visitor at Lynchburg NW/Blue Ridge Parkway KOA remarked, "Best bathhouse I've encountered with something like 7 unisex bathrooms each with their own shower."
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. "The tent sites were large and shaded. We were right by the fishing pond and it was a short walk to the playground, pool, jump pad, and very clean, private bathrooms," reports a KOA visitor. At Crabtree Falls, one camper noted, "The sites are large enough because it accommodates our family very well!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the area. At Oronoco Campground, "Cell service for AT&T or T-mobile" is unavailable according to a recent visitor. Some campgrounds offer WiFi near central facilities, but coverage remains limited at individual sites.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. One Devils Backbone camper found "a two-night minimum to tent camp. This seems crazy for a Sunday night and the campground is not at all packed."
Terrain challenges: Campground approaches often involve winding forest roads. Some tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. "The sites are generously sized and flat. A few negatives: 1. There is a bit of a walk from your vehicle but it's not bad," noted a James River State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds provide dedicated facilities for children. At the KOA, one family reported, "They had activities every day for the kids. As well as lots of unstructured activities. For example, they had a foosball table and a jumping pad."
Water-based activities: Sherando Lake Campground offers swimming areas ideal for children. "The lake is beautiful! It's a decent walk from the campground but we usually walk down in the morning and spend all day there," shared a repeat visitor. The campground maintains designated swimming areas with gradual entry points.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger programs. "We enjoyed a fire making class followed by s'mores on Friday night and then an owl searching hike on Saturday night," mentioned a Red Oak Campground visitor. These structured activities help keep children engaged while learning about the natural environment.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: At Devils Backbone Camp, the utility layout requires planning. "The hookups were shared between two sites. If you were on an even number site, this was no problem. However, if you were on an odd number site, you either had to hope you had the length on your water and power lines to run to the opposite side of your rig."
Water pressure considerations: Water supply can be inconsistent at some campgrounds. A KOA visitor noted, "My water pressure was good but talking to other campers, the farther away you get from the front of the park the worse the water pressure gets."
Leveling requirements: Many campsites require adjustment for comfortable RV parking. "The rv and tent pads are older cement and not as level," reported a camper at Otter Creek Campground. Bringing leveling blocks is advisable for most campgrounds in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Amherst, VA?
What camping is available near Amherst, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Amherst, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 106 campgrounds and RV parks near Amherst, VA and 13 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Amherst, VA?
Which is the most popular campground near Amherst, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Amherst, VA is Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 28 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Amherst, VA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Amherst, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 free dispersed camping spots near Amherst, VA.
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