Best Campgrounds near Nellysford, VA
Campgrounds near Nellysford, Virginia range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV resorts within the scenic Blue Ridge Mountain region. Devils Backbone Camp offers 73 mixed-use sites adjacent to its popular brewery, while Crabtree Falls Campground provides tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options near the cascading waterfall for which it's named. The area's developed campgrounds are typically situated along scenic corridors including the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park boundaries, providing strategic access to regional hiking trails and natural attractions. Several properties in the area feature both wooded and open sites to accommodate different camping preferences.
Road conditions and campground accessibility vary significantly by season in the Nellysford region, with many facilities operating from April through October. Public lands like George Washington National Forest offer more primitive options while private campgrounds typically provide additional amenities including showers, electric hookups, and on-site activities. Elevation changes across the region create microclimates that affect camping conditions, with higher elevations providing cooler temperatures during summer months. Cell service can be limited in more remote camping areas, particularly in valley locations. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for developed campgrounds, especially during peak leaf-viewing seasons in autumn. A review noted, "The campground is about 60% wooded, the rest is open ground with buildings from the camp's earlier days. The open area includes several artists' studios."
Campers consistently highlight the natural water features near Nellysford camping areas as primary attractions. Sites along rivers and lakes receive particularly high ratings, with visitors appreciating the sound of flowing water as a natural sleeping aid. According to one review, "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." The region's mixed-use campgrounds often provide a balance between natural surroundings and convenient amenities. Several campgrounds offer direct access to hiking trails, including connections to the Appalachian Trail system. Bear activity is mentioned in multiple reviews, requiring proper food storage at all developed campgrounds. Weekend occupancy rates tend to be significantly higher than weekday periods, with more peaceful experiences reported during mid-week stays.
