Camping areas near Saluda, Virginia offer river access and forest experiences across Virginia's coastal plain at approximately 160 feet above sea level. The region's mild climate allows for extended camping seasons from April through mid-November, with summer temperatures typically ranging between 75-90°F. Water-based recreation dominates the local camping experience with fishing and paddling opportunities on the Rappahannock, York, and Mattaponi Rivers.
What to do
Fishing from piers and docks: At Cross Rip Camp, visitors have access to a "great big pier for fishing" according to one camper who added, "We liked camping here. Rustic but with hook ups. Nice big pier for fishing."
Biking on the Virginia Capital Trail: Cyclists can access this paved path from Chickahominy Riverfront Park, which one visitor noted offers "a great paved biking path that goes for a number of miles." Another camper mentioned regretting "not knowing this campground also caters to people riding the Virginia Creeper bike trail! It went for miles and was beautiful!"
Kayaking and paddling: Water activities are accessible directly from campsites at many locations. A Chickahominy Riverfront visitor explained, "Could take kayaks straight into the water from our site. Close to Jamestown and many other activities!"
Mini golf and yard games: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities on-site. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, visitors can enjoy "mini golf, ice cream shop, friendly staff, restaurant, water park," as one camper listed among the campground's pros.
What campers like
Spacious camping spots: Many campgrounds offer well-sized sites. One guest at Grey's Point Camp reported, "The sites are spacious and always clean when we arrive. The new bath house is excellent. The views of the 'Rivah' are phenomenal."
River views and water access: Waterfront sites are highly valued. A Cross Rip camper mentioned, "Water view from campsite. Loved it! Great owners who made sure we had everything we needed. Beautiful views of sunset and sunrise."
Clean facilities: Many visitors comment on bathroom cleanliness. A Machicomoco State Park visitor noted, "All the facilities are new and very clean. I love that the campground bathrooms are all unisex/family bathrooms and there are plenty of them, at least eight I believe."
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Saluda, Virginia, Gee Haven: Yurt & Cabin provides private yurt accommodations. One guest simply stated: "Everything was wonderful! The host was a call away. But we never needed him."
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: At Anvil Campground, trains pass frequently. One camper warned, "This is a 4 acre parking lot with a good number and quality of very small amenities (pool, dog park) with 60 'sites' sandwiched between roads and very active train tracks... Train is so close that it shakes our RV."
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some campgrounds experience water issues during heavy rain. A visitor to Thousand Trails Williamsburg reported, "We arrived on opening day for the season. They had unfortunately been a victim of the rain and the main road to the campground had washed out... I understand from reading other reviews that they can routinely have problems when it rains."
Limited grocery options: Pack supplies before arrival. A camper at Cross Rip Camp advised, "Not too much in the area. We did some bike rides. Take your groceries bc the grocery stores aren't great."
Golf cart traffic: Several campgrounds allow golf carts, which can create congestion. A Grey's Point visitor observed, "What's most noticeable are all of the golf carts. There's a lot of area to cover, so most bring their carts or you can rent one."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Multiple campgrounds offer water features for kids. A Bethpage Camp-Resort visitor shared, "We loved this campground! It was also kid friendly which is something we're always looking for. We had so much fun and there is quite a bit to do."
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Dedicated play spaces are available at many sites. Another Bethpage camper noted, "The lake and pools are fantastic. We love having both options for spending some time in the water. The playgrounds are large and fun for the younger kids."
Secure environments for children: Some campgrounds offer contained areas for safer play. At Machicomoco State Park, "The interpretive area was really fun to explore in the evening during golden hour and beyond. Great view of the sunset over the river."
Activities by age group: Different amenities suit various age ranges. A Bethpage visitor explained, "We enjoyed the site Mulberry 2A that was a full hookup and a patio...backed to the lake. We hope to be back."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. A visitor to Thousand Trails Williamsburg warned, "The sites are close, many are not level, not very big rig friendly and satellite is near impossible due to trees."
Hookup accessibility: Location of utilities can be challenging. One camper at Bethpage noted, "Sewer is in 2 locations for each site. WiFi available. Multiple kids playgrounds."
Road conditions: Interior roads vary in quality. A visitor at Grey's Point Camp mentioned, "About half of the campground are permanent sites. These are neatly organized like a neighborhood in the woods and along the water."
Water and electric reliability: Some parks experience utility issues. A camper at Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay reported, "Water, electricity, and the pool do not work consistently. They have an excuse for everything there."
