Tent camping options near Monroe, Virginia extend beyond established campgrounds into the George Washington National Forest wilderness. The area sits at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet, creating varied microclimates with cooler temperatures at higher campsites. Most dispersed sites require proper food storage due to active black bear populations throughout the Blue Ridge foothills.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake James: At Walnut Grove, visitors can experience one of the clearest lakes in the region. "Lake James is by far the clearest body of water I have been on in NC. Kayaked to the Long Arm camping area #1 and stayed at campsite #6," notes reviewer J P., who appreciated the "small beach front to tie up your vessels."
Star gazing opportunities: The area offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. Campers at Walnut Grove comment on this unique feature: "The beat place for star gazing! Just ask for a telescope (free at the store) and stare up at the sky for hours!" according to Chris E., who visited with family.
Float trips: Many campers enjoy floating on the James River. At Breeden Bottom Campground, sites offer direct river access. Lauren B. reports, "The James river is perfect for kayaking/SUP/canoeing and even swimming, nice and calm," making it ideal for water activities without fighting strong currents.
Trail exploration: The area features multiple day hiking options with natural springs. At Hog Camp Gap, Comalee D. notes, "Great place to go hiking with beautiful views of the mountains," and mentions "the campground is roughly the size of a Walmart parking lot including the store or three football fields" giving campers plenty of room to spread out.
What campers like
Private riverside sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion at Breeden Bottom Campground. As RL observed, "Our site was RIGHT on the river. It was peaceful and private." Kate V. added, "The sites are spaced far enough from each other that you can see each other. Our site had a little path right to the river. Very very spacious campsites."
Clean facilities: At Canoe Landing Group Campsite, campers consistently mention the well-maintained amenities. According to Brittany B., "The Canoe Landing camping area is spacious with fire rings, and lots of room to set up tents right along the river. The parking area is very close by, and the bathrooms, while more primitive, are close by as well."
Large, well-designed sites: Many campgrounds in the area feature thoughtfully laid-out tent pads. Haley N. commented about Canoe Landing, "My husband and I car camped at Paddy Creek in Lake James State Park and were surprised to find such great amenities. The bathrooms were clean and convenient from all the sites."
Natural swimming areas: The clear water appeals to campers seeking swimming options. Alison M. notes about Breeden Bottom, "This site was in a great location and right on the crystal clear water... Current wasn't too strong for the dogs tho and there was a good, shallow walk-in into the water."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Some of the best tent camping near Monroe, Virginia requires appropriate transportation. At Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, Jon N. warns, "It is a very rocky path, about 50 feet long, to get into the campground, but then it is smooth and well laid out."
Water treatment needs: Natural water sources require proper treatment. At Hog Camp Gap, Comalee D. advises, "there is a spring but remember to boil or chemical treat the water before use is not tested for parasites another humble bacteria."
Train noise: Some riverside camping areas experience periodic train disruptions. When staying at Breeden Bottom, Alison M. acknowledged, "The train was loud at times, but we knew that would happen when we booked the site, so no surprises there."
Cell service limitations: Many campsites have limited connectivity. Jon N. reports about the FR 812 dispersed site: "No cell service(T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service." Similarly, at Hog Camp Gap, "cell service is poor I have u.s. cellular and I had one bar sometimes no bars data service was in and out."
Tips for camping with families
Look for bathroom access: When camping with children, facility access matters. Kaylee G. from Walnut Grove notes, "Loved that the showers were individual stalls accessed on the outside of the bathhouse," making them more convenient for families with small children.
Consider gear transportation: Some sites require carrying equipment from parking areas. Chris E. mentions at Walnut Grove, "We spent hours playing with all the little animals the ranger station had," but cautions the pool was "PACKED in July and it got SUPER HOT!" suggesting spring or fall visits with children.
Select sites with swimming options: Many families enjoy water access at campsites. Sarah M. observed at Canoe Landing Group Campsite that "we had fun fighting the current" but warns to "be careful swimming with children. Most areas are very calm but the river can get rapid at times!"
Bring sanitation supplies: At primitive sites, plan accordingly for bathroom needs. Comalee D. recommends "investing in a portable toilet Walmart has a toilet seat that goes on 5 gallon bucket stink free bags that go on as well or you can always go do your business in the woods."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: The Lynchburg KOA (formerly Wildwood Campground) accommodates larger vehicles. Nicholas H. notes, "Sites are huge and level. It's quiet and peaceful, and the surrounding area is gorgeous."
Hook-up availability: While many sites near Monroe are primitive, some offer amenities for recreational vehicles. At Breeden Bottom Campground, a reviewer clarifies, "No water, no electricity available. Not for RVs," helping set proper expectations for site selection.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. Bran P. mentions about the James River State Park area, "Located in the middle of nowhere off of narrow Virginia secondary roads, we were surprised to get good Verizon reception. We stayed on site 15 which is a long pull-thru."
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects comfort in RVs without hookups. Several reviewers mentioned July and August temperatures becoming uncomfortable, making spring and fall the preferred seasons for RV camping without electricity for air conditioning.
