Virginia glamping experiences near Pamplin include elevated tent and yurt accommodations nestled within forested parks. The foothills of central Virginia create varied terrain ranging from 400-600 feet in elevation with mild seasonal temperatures. Camping areas feature a mix of hardwood forests with occasional wetland areas, especially around lakes and rivers that provide fishing and kayaking access.
What to do
Lake swimming: Explore Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground, which offers a 40-acre manmade lake with designated swimming areas. "We had a fun camping trip at Bear Creek Lake! The swimming area with a little kids area was so fun! We did a hike around the whole lake, lots of great views," shared Katie M.
Stargazing: Visit Staunton River State Park Campground at night to take advantage of their International Dark Sky designation. "The park offers rentals of telescopes too. If you love stargazing this is the park for you. It is an International Dark Sky Park. There is a large open field by the park check in and store," according to Bridget H.
Fishing access: Try freshwater fishing at multiple lakes within 30 miles of Pamplin. "The lake itself is very pretty, 40 acres and manmade. We brought innertubes and just floated but we saw people fishing, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, and paddle boating. There were lots of people fishing, and someone got a catfish and kept it for dinner," notes RL about Bear Creek Lake.
What campers like
Tent pads: The Holliday Lake State Park Campground offers uniquely cushioned tent areas. "The tent pads are some of the most generously sized I've seen in a state park. They were mostly level and topped with crushed gravel," explains Andrea N.
Privacy between sites: Some campers appreciate separation at Holliday Lake. "It is completely off grid, and we like that! With busy jobs during the week it's nice to unwind and enjoy nature. The staff are friendly and check on you frequently; bathhouses are well maintained and clean," Jennifer K. mentions.
Lakefront camping: Several parks offer waterfront sites with easy access. "The tent-only section of the campground is alongside a lake, which provides beautiful views. There are lots of hiking trails to explore in the park. The facilities are well-maintained," Brittany B. observed at Bear Creek Lake.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Expect minimal connectivity at several parks. "It is completely off grid, and we like that! With busy jobs during the week it's nice to unwind and enjoy nature," shares Jennifer K. about Holliday Lake. Phone service is inconsistent or absent at many campgrounds around Pamplin.
Site leveling challenges: Pack leveling equipment for Twin Lakes State Park Campground. "The campsites were nice but some of the sites are a little small so definitely pay attention to the camper length per individual site," advises Bridget H. Many RV campers note the need for leveling blocks throughout the region.
Campsite proximity varies: Site spacing differs significantly between parks and loops. "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," says Ross B. about Bear Creek Lake. At Twin Lakes, "Tent sites are shady, although some can be VERY close to one another," according to RL.
Tips for camping with families
Water playgrounds: Check out lakeside amenities designed for children. "The swimming lake has a nice beach and we happened to be there this last weekend and the temperature was nice and warm and the kids enjoyed playing on the beach and on the water playground," explains Bridget H. about Twin Lakes State Park.
Nature programs: Participate in Crabtree Falls Campground ranger-led activities. "The owner was very helpful and was able to get us a site last minute. The site backed up to a creek that created natural flowing water that we enjoyed wading through," reports Emily R. Many parks offer weekend educational programs focused on local wildlife.
Scenic hiking: Choose trails appropriate for your family's ability level. "We hiked the Plantation Trail, a large historical site that was once a homestead. Mellow, family-friendly walk with a cemetery, historical markers, and an old chimney," RL says about Occoneechee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Power options: Many parks offer both 30-amp and 50-amp hookups. At Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort, "Level sites with brick paver pads, full hookups, RV storage, playground, pool, store, fire rings, 3 fishing ponds, awesome owners. Mid sized campground," says Jennifer B.
Size restrictions: Note maximum vehicle lengths before booking. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," warns Erica M. about Bear Creek Lake State Park. Several parks have similar restrictions due to narrow roads and tight turning radiuses.
Bathhouse proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. "The bathhouse is in the center of the loop so that makes it convenient to most of the sites," notes Bridget H. about Twin Lakes State Park. For RVers using onboard facilities less frequently, sites further from busy bathroom areas often provide more peace.
