Best Campgrounds near Newport, VA
The Blue Ridge Mountains region surrounding Newport, Virginia contains several established campgrounds accommodating both tent and RV camping. Facilities like Sherando Lake Campground and Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park provide developed sites with varying amenities. Many campgrounds in this area sit near lakes or along mountain streams, with locations ranging from 15-30 miles from Newport in national forest or privately operated land. Devils Backbone Camp and Crabtree Falls Campground offer cabin options alongside traditional camping, catering to visitors seeking different accommodation levels.
Road access varies throughout the region, with some campgrounds requiring navigation on winding mountain roads. Most established sites remain open from April through October, though several operate year-round. A visitor noted, "The campground is butted up against Sherwood lake and a small mountain ridge range that divides West Virginia and Virginia," highlighting the cross-border recreational opportunities. Elevation changes affect temperature and weather conditions, with mountain locations providing cooler summer temperatures but potentially challenging access during winter months. Cell service can be limited or nonexistent in more remote areas, requiring advance planning for communication needs.
Waterfront campsites receive consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly those along lakes and rivers. Sites at Sherando Lake Campground allow campers direct access to swimming and fishing. Proximity to natural features like Crabtree Falls and the Blue Ridge Parkway provides additional recreational opportunities beyond the campground boundaries. As one camper observed, "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." Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping dominate the region, though site size and privacy vary considerably between locations. Weekend occupancy rates typically run high during summer months, making advance reservations advisable for peak season visits.
