RV camping near Palmyra, Virginia offers outdoor experiences in central Virginia's Piedmont region, where elevations range from 300 to 500 feet. This area sits at the transition zone between the Virginia coastal plain and Blue Ridge Mountains, creating a diverse camping landscape with moderate seasonal variation. Fall camping typically features 40-60°F temperatures while summer months regularly exceed 85°F with higher humidity.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: At Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort, campers access three fishing ponds. "They have a catch and release pond successfully but didn't try out the catch and keep catfish pond," notes one reviewer who appreciated the fishing variety within walking distance of the campsites.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds maintain trail systems for easy access to nature. At Shenandoah Crossing, visitors enjoy a half-mile nature trail through wooded areas. "Walked around the property and saw the horses and checked out the primitive sites," reports one camper who explored the extensive grounds.
Water recreation: Bear Creek Lake State Park offers a 40-acre lake with multiple water activities. "We brought innertubes and just floated but we saw people fishing, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, and paddle boating," explains a visitor who enjoyed the water access.
What Campers Like
Pool amenities: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming pools that operate seasonally. "New pool, waffle breakfasts, clean facilities, great staff all helped to make our stay great," shares one camper at Charlottesville KOA, noting the combination of swimming facilities and complementary breakfast options.
Family activities: Campgrounds often schedule weekend events. At Misty Mountain Camp Resort, "the jump pad and the pool tables were our favorites," explains a family who particularly enjoyed the recreational facilities. Another adds, "Enjoyed the music and smores offered by the campground."
Wildlife viewing: Big Meadows Campground in Shenandoah National Park provides opportunities to see deer and bears. "We saw many deer and bear while camping. Just being in Shenandoah is a soothing experience," reports a visitor who appreciated the natural surroundings and wildlife encounters.
What You Should Know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Bear Creek Lake State Park maintains year-round access, while others close during winter months. Americamps RV Resort and Misty Mountain Camp Resort both stay open year-round, providing consistent camping options.
Site variations: Many campgrounds offer multiple site types. At Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park, "the sites along the lower area near the lake were shaded mostly, some more than others, while the sites up the hill at the top and near the front entrance (pull-through sites) were not shaded much."
Reservation needs: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. A camper recommends, "If you are wanting to stay make sure to call in advance for this one. It is too nice to pass up on making a smart reservation."
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity planning: Campgrounds often provide structured recreation for children. "The playground is impressive and the staff is very welcoming upon arrival," mentions a visitor at Cozy Acres who appreciated the family-friendly amenities. Another adds, "They do an awesome job for 4th of July!"
Swimming options: Pool facilities vary between locations. Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground features "a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun!" as described by a visitor who appreciated the designated swimming zones. The park also includes "a dog only section at the swimming beach."
Spacing considerations: Site layouts impact family comfort. "The sites were close together but a few sites are worth it right on the water. It had a good weekend program for the family," explains a camper about Bear Creek Lake, pointing out the value of waterfront sites despite proximity to neighbors.
Tips from RVers
Hookup arrangements: Some campgrounds have unusual utility layouts. At Walnut Hills, a visitor noted, "Our site 33 was full hookup and a very nice, mostly level, spacious, and had a covered picnic table on a deck. Not all sites have full hookup."
Big rig access: Madison Vines RV Resort & Cottages accommodates larger vehicles but site types vary significantly. "The campground is a lot of money upgrading services, capabilities, and extra activities. Campsites are level gravel (no pads)," explains a recent visitor who stayed for two weeks.
Seasonal RV sites: Several campgrounds accommodate extended stays. "We stayed here for a few months. The staff were accommodating to all guests and solved every issue we observed. The facility is very well kept and has all the amenities you need," notes a long-term visitor at Madison Vines.
