Camping near Nellysford, Virginia sits at elevations ranging from 700-2,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect seasonal camping conditions. The area experiences temperature variations of 10-15 degrees between valley and ridge campsites during summer months. Water access varies significantly between campgrounds, with sites along the Tye River and Sherando Lake being most sought after during peak season.
What to do
Hiking to waterfall viewpoints: Campers at Crabtree Falls Campground can access the nearby waterfall trail just a mile up the road. "The falls are a great hike and there are lots of services nearby. A great Parkway stop," notes one visitor. The 1.7-mile trail gains 1,200 feet in elevation.
Fishing in stocked waters: Montebello Resort offers fishing opportunities without requiring a license. "The trout pond is not catch and release, it is catch and keep, whatever you catch, you pay for power pound," explains one camper. Morning restocking occurs before holiday weekends.
Lake swimming: The 25-acre lower lake at Sherando Lake Campground provides designated swimming areas from Memorial Day through Labor Day. A visitor explains, "It's a decent walk from the campground but we usually walk down in the morning and spend all day there. The lake is beautiful!"
Mountain biking access: Several campgrounds offer direct trail connections to Blue Ridge mountain biking systems. The terrain ranges from beginner-friendly loops to technical descents with 1,000+ foot elevation changes. Local outfitters offer rentals starting at $45/day.
What campers like
Riverside camping sites: Campers consistently mention the sound of flowing water as a highlight. At Canoe Landing Group Campsite, "Camping along the river is great in the slower seasons. The sites are pretty close together so I'm sure it would be much more cramped when it's busy but it's a beautiful place. And you can fish right off the bank less than 50yards from your tent."
Brewery proximity: Devils Backbone Camp allows campers to enjoy the adjacent brewery while maintaining easy access to their campsite. "Walking distance to devils backbone brewery. Clean bathrooms. Close distance to hiking trails and other breweries and cideries," reports one camper. Many visitors appreciate this unique amenity combination.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds in the area maintain exceptionally clean bathhouses. One camper at Walnut Hills noted, "The bath houses were pristine," while another at Devils Backbone Camp shared, "This campground has some of the nicest facilities of any campground I've stayed at."
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours provide reliable wildlife sightings, particularly deer. A Loft Mountain visitor reported, "We were certainly surprised to have a deer family join us during dinner." Wildlife activity increases during spring and fall seasons.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the higher elevations have minimal to no cell coverage. A visitor to Montebello notes, "There is zero cell service at the campground. To get decent service it's a bit of a drive." Plan communications accordingly before arrival.
Weekend crowding: Midweek camping offers significantly different experiences than weekend stays. "Coming in the middle of the week is the best time if you like to have peace and quiet and the place all to yourself," advises a Sherando Lake visitor.
Flash flooding risks: Some campsites in low-lying areas require careful selection. At Misty Mountain Camp Resort, "T-1 though T-6 sites flood often became they are low and next the the river. We camped at t2 and had to tear down as soon as we set it up."
Reservation windows: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during fall foliage season. Sherando Lake's reservation system opens six months in advance, and sites "are usually booked for the high season summer months." Plan 4-6 months ahead for prime weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: For campers with young children, site selection can impact convenience. At Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley, "If you have young kiddos, the C loop is closest to the playground." This campground offers organized weekend activities specifically designed for children.
Tiered campsite challenges: Some campsites feature natural elevation changes that may present safety concerns. One camper at Sherando Lake noted, "Many of the sites are staggered, with one or more levels of steps leading from the driveways. Because of all there is to do this is a great site for older kids, but we learned that, especially with toddlers, the steps around the campsites can turn a relaxing trip into one of constant vigilance."
Family-friendly programming: Seasonal activities enhance the camping experience for families. "They have activities during the summer like outdoor movies and live music," reports a Sherando Lake visitor. Most organized activities occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
Junior ranger opportunities: Several nearby parks offer educational programs for children aged 5-12. Programs typically run 45-90 minutes and provide interactive learning about local ecology and wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning challenges: Some campgrounds have unusual utility layouts that require planning. At Devils Backbone Camp, "The sewer connection for the odd number sites is on the opposite side of the RV than the electricity and water. The good news is that in a pinch, and your sewer hose does not fit, they do have a dump station on site."
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for potentially uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Some sites are really close to the main office were check-in is, and can come quickly, as ours was," notes a Misty Mountain visitor. Bring leveling blocks as several campgrounds feature sloped sites.
Road access considerations: Follow recommended routes when navigating to mountaintop campgrounds. As one Montebello camper advises, "FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS ON THE CAMPGROUND WEBSITE. VA56 is a very windy road not recommended for pulling a camper through. Use the blue ridge parkway."
Extension cord requirements: Electrical connection distances vary between campsites. "The hookups in this area where different than I have ever experienced as the hookups were shared between two sites," notes a Devils Backbone camper. Bring 25-30 foot extension cords to accommodate unusual utility placements.
