Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia at an elevation of approximately 800 feet, Nellysford offers camping options that range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV resorts. The area experiences typical Virginia Piedmont weather with summer temperatures averaging in the 80s and mild spring and fall seasons that attract campers seeking relief from urban centers. Winter camping remains viable with proper preparation as temperatures rarely drop below 20°F.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Crabtree Falls Campground provides easy access to one of Virginia's most spectacular waterfalls. "The falls are a great hike and there are lots of services nearby. A great Parkway stop," notes Anna R. This moderate 2.5-mile trail gains 1,200 feet in elevation with multiple viewing platforms.
Brewery trails: Devils Backbone Camp offers a unique combination of outdoor recreation and craft beverage exploration. "Walking distance to devils backbone brewery. Clean bathrooms. Close distance to hiking trails and other breweries and cideries," explains Chyna K. The campground features several small walking paths directly connecting to the brewery complex.
Fishing opportunities: Montebello Resort maintains a stocked trout pond where visitors can fish without a license. "The trout pond is a nice touch you can fish without a license, and you pay for what you catch, we enjoyed fresh trout for dinner during our stay, and from what I saw, anybody with a hook can catch one," shares Anthony I. The resort charges by weight for fish caught, making it accessible for all skill levels.
What campers like
Natural water features: Shenandoah Valley Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "They have it all. Fishing lake, river to swim and tube down, They have a store, a grill, a game room, and a big swimming pool. And large beautiful fields. You can even have a tent right on the river. Across from a beautiful waterfall," writes Joy A. The Middle River runs through the property, creating natural swimming holes.
Wildlife viewing: Misty Mountain Camp Resort has developed a reputation for its pet-friendly amenities and animal encounters. "This campground was really great for a family with small children. There were events the entire time we were there and the staff were awesome," says Chaz M. The resort maintains a dedicated dog park and offers regular organized wildlife observation activities.
Clean facilities: "This campground has some of the nicest facilities of any campground I've stayed at. We camped in a trailer on a site without hookups. At this time of the year, it wasn't very busy. They provide firewood on the honor system," reports Vy N. about Devils Backbone Camp. Most campgrounds in the area maintain well-equipped bathhouses with hot showers, though availability varies by season.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Sherando Lake Campground operates from April through October with peak season running Memorial Day through Labor Day. "Lake Sherando campground was clean and easy to access just off of the BRP. The sites were level and everything looked recently upgraded. We didn't get in the water, but we saw the beach and it looked perfect for kids," notes Mike G. Reservations during summer months should be made 4-6 months in advance.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the Nellysford area have limited connectivity. "No cell service or internet but that was what I was looking for. Campground well maintained and fishing was nice that have a couple of Courtesy watercraft for the campers use," mentions Dan D. about Montebello Resort. Most campgrounds recommend downloading offline maps before arrival.
Terrain challenges: "We stayed on site 4 on this visit, which was a full hook up site. All the full hook up sites are pull thru and in an open field so limited shade. The hookups in this area where different than I have ever experienced as the hookups were shared between two sites," explains Steve V. about the layout at Devils Backbone Camp. Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Misty Mountain Camp Resort caters specifically to families with children. "There were events the entire time we were there and the staff were awesome. The only detractors were that our site (52) was tiny so it was a tad stressful having kids running around right beside the road," shares Chaz M. The resort offers a jump pad and pool tables that many families report as favorites.
Site selection strategy: When camping with children, prioritize proximity to bathrooms and recreational areas. "We always get campsite A13, which is right across from the bathrooms. Very convenient with kids. The site is pretty secluded with trees, so you can't see your neighbors," recommends Katie M. about Sherando Lake Campground. Sites near water features typically book earliest.
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations can create significant temperature variations. "We had another great trip to Sherando Lake! This is our 4th year camping here and we always look forward to the trip. This year the weather was cooler than it usually is, so we got to enjoy some of the other aspects of the park since it was too cold to swim," mentions Katie M. Families should pack layers regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Walnut Hills Campground offers diverse site options for different RV needs. "Located within minutes of I81. We stopped for 2 nights to see the Shenandoah National Park on our way to NC. Called last minute and got a site. Very nice customer service. Grounds were very well kept. Our site 112 had water, 50amp and cable," reports Mimi B. The campground provides daily trash pickup service from sites.
Site accessibility: "Access was easy. The campground was busy and everything was clean and neat. The sites were a little tight. We were there for the local hiking so we didn't spend too much time in the park. I parked a little goofy it seems so I needed a little extra footage for my electrical hookup. They were kind enough to loan us a 25' extension," shares Ralph P. about Walnut Hills Campground. RVers should specify length and slide-out requirements when booking.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Nellysford generally maintain standard 6-foot leash rules with dedicated exercise areas. "Very nice campground with plenty of room. The bathhouse is top notch! Squeaky clean with lots of space. Love that you can just walk to the brewery from your site," Jennifer E. notes about Devils Backbone Camp, which welcomes pets throughout the property with multiple dog-friendly trails.
