The Natural Bridge Station area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a blend of forest and mountain terrain along the James River. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full-service luxury accommodations with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s and nighttime lows in the 60s. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities where temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway trails: Access multiple trails directly from Otter Creek Campground, located at milepost 60.9 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. "The Otter Creek Trail was challenging but definitely doable. Highly recommended for outdoor youth groups that want to unplug and get back to basics," notes Chris S. at Otter Creek Campground.
River tubing on the James: Campgrounds with river access provide direct entry points for tubing and fishing. At Middle Creek Campground, campsites back up to water access points. As one camper shares, "We like getting the sites which are right next to the creek because the kids will play in the water all day."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds maintain small animal experiences. "The campground had a very nice nature trail as well as chickens running around and baby goats in a pen," reports Karen about her stay at Natural Bridge KOA, making it educational for children interested in farm animals.
Winery and brewery tours: The region offers several nearby adult beverage options. "The proximity to Lexington with vineyards, restaurants and antique shops" makes this area attractive according to Misty C., who appreciates the cultural activities surrounding Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the area typically provide clean bathrooms and showers. At Douthat State Park Campground, "The bathrooms were incredibly clean and heated. Showers were terrific as well," notes Diane P., who stayed during November when clean, warm facilities matter most.
Fall camping activities: Halloween-themed weekends draw families during autumn. "We had a great weekend with the whole family! There was a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging, laughing, loving, and hanging out!" describes Bridget H. about her fall camping experience at Jellystone Park.
Fishing opportunities: Stocked ponds and river access provide reliable fishing. Michelle W. explains that at Montebello Resort, "The pond at front has stocked trout and a small lake in the back has bass and crappie. Suitable for paddle boats or kayak."
Dark skies for stargazing: The area's relative distance from major cities creates excellent night sky viewing opportunities. Campers regularly mention the peaceful evenings and lack of light pollution at campgrounds throughout the region, particularly at higher-elevation sites.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited or no cellular coverage. Anthony I. mentions about Montebello Resort: "The location of the campground is remote with zero cell coverage or wifi, and other than the store on-site, there isn't much outside of a few hiking trails within 30 minutes."
Seasonal closures: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. According to the reservation information, Otter Creek Campground operates from "May 6 to October 29" while Jellystone Park runs from "April 1 to November 15," making winter camping options more limited.
Site selection variations: Campsites can vary greatly in size, levelness, and privacy. At Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, one reviewer notes, "Call ahead about RV lengths to make sure you are booking the correct site for your size. I noticed more than a few people struggling with their units and some of this could have been avoided with proper booking."
Tick prevention needed: The wooded mountain environment means ticks are common from spring through fall. Regular tick checks and appropriate repellent are recommended, especially for campers hiking through tall grass or wooded areas.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Multiple campgrounds feature water-based recreation options. Patrice M. shares about Natural Bridge KOA: "Pool was clean and bath house was newer and very clean" - making it suitable for families seeking structured swimming options beyond natural water features.
Campground-organized activities: Some campgrounds offer scheduled programming. Matt R. explains at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge, "Rec staff had awesome activities planned and kept the kids entertained all week with kick ball and karaoke and shaving cream wiffle ball and dance parties."
Playground access: Many campgrounds maintain playground equipment. "They also have a couple of walking trails and a small dog park. It is roadside so expect just that for this campground. It has plenty of trees and sites for all different sized vehicles and tents," reports Bridget H. about Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA.
Educational opportunities: State parks and some private campgrounds offer nature programs. "Educational opportunities galore. Security is good but not overwhelming," notes Cathy L. about Douthat State Park, which provides structured learning experiences for children.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness considerations: Mountain terrain creates challenges for RV leveling. "Great job building level sites in a hillside. Easy in and out. Clean facilities," mentions Marletta & Ed M. about their stay at Natural Bridge KOA, highlighting the engineering that makes mountain RV camping possible.
Premium sites availability: Several campgrounds offer upgraded RV sites with additional amenities. One camper at Crabtree Falls Campground recommends: "The owner was very helpful and was able to get us a site last minute. The site backed up to a creek that created natural flowing water that we enjoyed wading through."
Glamping close to Natural Bridge Station, Virginia: For those seeking luxury camping near Natural Bridge, several campgrounds offer premium accommodations. "We had a deluxe patio area. Which was on nice level concrete. Was not too close to the pool but there were rest rooms nearby," shares Stephanie H. about the upscale glamping options at Natural Bridge KOA.
Year-round RV access: Several campgrounds maintain winter operations. "This KOA is one of our favorites. Open year round. Very clean showers," mentions Misty C., highlighting that some luxury camping opportunities near Natural Bridge Station remain available regardless of season.
