Philpott Lake in southwestern Virginia features multiple Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds alongside state park and private camping options. Established sites at Goose Point, Salthouse Branch, and Horseshoe Point provide water and electric hookups for RVs while also accommodating tent campers in wooded settings. Several campgrounds offer both lakefront and forest sites, with Fairy Stone State Park providing developed camping alongside cabin rentals. Chantilly Farm, located near Floyd, offers a private camping alternative with RV sites, tent areas, and glamping accommodations.
Most Philpott Lake campgrounds operate seasonally, with peak availability from May through September, though some remain open year-round. The Corps of Engineers campgrounds enforce a strict no-alcohol policy that is actively monitored, with local law enforcement making regular visits. Reservation requirements vary by location, with most developed sites requiring advance booking during summer months. Bathhouse facilities at Corps sites are consistently maintained and receive positive reviews for cleanliness. One camper shared, "We always enjoy staying at Corp campgrounds when we travel. The sites are consistently level, spacious, with reliable facilities and you can always count on a pristine body of water for camping and kayaking."
Waterfront sites consistently rank among the most desirable camping locations around Philpott Lake. The reservoir provides excellent opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating, with several campgrounds featuring dedicated beach areas and boat launches. Tent campers particularly appreciate the hillside spots at Salthouse Branch for their built-out platforms and natural separation. "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots because of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat," noted one visitor. While most campgrounds offer wooded settings providing natural shade, the level of privacy varies considerably between sites. Camp hosts at most locations receive positive mentions for their helpfulness, contributing to the overall positive camping experience in the region.
$26 - $68 / night
"Great family campground in Va On Philpott Lake. Bottom level in lake has all electric sites. the middle level above lake is primitive and great sites with top of mountain with cabins."
"Nestled along Philpott Lake, the campground offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere."
$26 - $52 / night
"Very nice campground upon hill from Philpott Lake. Staff very friendly and helpful. Campground very beautiful and clean. Place to unload your kayaks and boats. Even have campsites on island."
"The lower loop is pretty level, fun to walk and ride bikes around, and the kids love the playground! The bathhouse is always clean and you can't beat the atmosphere around the campground!"
"Not sure about other sections of the venue but we had privacy due to the very few people in sites around a huge field that appears to be a venue for outdoor music festivals."
"This campground is located right outside of Floyd, VA and just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway."
$27 - $311 / night
"The Yurt we stayed in was a little weird because the Fire Pit and Picnic table is behind and almost under the yurt, down a decently step slope and the yurt sits on stilts on the back side."
"This weekend was a great adventure in SW Virginia. We stayed in a Yurt. It has no electricity or water but the bath house was close."
$30 - $45 / night
"Rocky Knob Campground is right outside of Floyd, VA off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Southwest region of the state. Why stay here? It's right outside of Floyd."
"Inner part of the loop sites are quite close to each other but have convenient access to bathhouse, which is kept pretty clean."
$26 - $34 / night
"It was as little off the beaten path but the roads were good. All of the sites were wooded, the outside loop sites had more privacy since your door opened to the lake/woods."
"The drive there through the mountains and backroads was pretty but make no mistake, this place is remote. There is no WiFi and my T-Mobile was useless there. There is a nice lake with trails nearby."
"Five Stars– A True Mountain Sanctuary Camp S’mores in Floyd, Virginia is something truly special."
"Plenty of trails to walk and a few ponds on property to fish. Open year round but im too much a wimp to winter camp, cant wait to head back in the spring!!"
"nice place, oh and the best thing, it is free till oct 31 ,17 the lake is 4 feet low at this time ,and there is not much of a lake access at this time"
"just off the highway but easily accessible, everything works, friendly staff. Showers in bathhouse are a bit dirty but other than that great!"
"We had a pull-thru site that was pretty much level but was very close to the other campers. This campground seems to have a lot of permanent residents."
$75 / night
"Beautiful lake area clean,peaceful and in tje sticks friendly va hospitality beautiful land and water,awesome camp sites friendly staff"
Guidethe host is easy to deal with. If you arrive late, pay in the morning. My wife said the restrooms were old but were in excellent condition and clean. In fact, she raved about them.
ScoutIf you’re an outdoor lover like myself and you want to enjoy the gorgeous sights and sounds of Mother Nature, this campground is the perfect location.
Don’t forget your telescope for when the sun goes down. There’s a perfect spot on the side of mountain for breathtaking views.
ScoutCamped a few times with a group of veterans. The site is perfect for tent camping with multiple fire pits and firewood on site. Place isnt too far from Roanoke where I live so was a perfect weekend getaway without having to go far. We had cookouts and hung by the fire just relaxing and taking in the mountain scenery. Plenty of trails to walk and a few ponds on property to fish. Open year round but im too much a wimp to winter camp, cant wait to head back in the spring!!
ScoutCaldwell Fields is a great group campground with clean, large bathrooms (one for men, one for women, but they're identical pit toilets in the toilet facility) with a large firepit and creek access. Nice hikes walking distance with lots of beautiful stars, trees, and wildlife! Make sure you don't need to text though, you only are able to send messages via satelite.
ScoutI would definitely recommend this place.
Scout⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Stars– A True Mountain Sanctuary Camp S’mores in Floyd, Virginia is something truly special. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains on nearly 100 acres, this property isn’t just a campground— it’s a place of peace, restoration, and purpose. From the moment you arrive, you feel the quiet. The kind of quiet that settles your spirit. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Rolling mountain views, stocked ponds, winding creeks, well-kept trails through beautiful hardwoods— it feels untouched yet thoughtfully cared for. Evenings around the fire pit under a sky filled with stars are unforgettable. You wake up to birds singing instead of traffic noise. It’s the reset we all need. What makes Camp S’mores stand out is the potential and the heart behind it. This is the perfect setting for:• Church retreats and ministry gatherings• Veterans looking for rest, healing, and brotherhood• Scout troops building skills and character• Families wanting a safe, peaceful outdoor experience• RV travelers seeking a quiet, resort-style mountain escape Whether you’re tent camping, van camping, or bringing your RV, the setting feels private, spacious, and serene. You truly feel like you have room to breathe. If you’re looking for a place to unplug, reconnect with nature, and spend meaningful time with people who matter— Camp S’mores delivers in every way. We will absolutely be back. Highly recommend supporting this hidden gem in Floyd, VA.
ScoutMyself and a small group of friends spent an extended weekend on the property of Camp S’mores and thoroughly enjoyed the peaceful and serene setting. The property has an abundance of everything that you would want when wanting to get away. The nature trails, ponds, creeks, beautiful trees, fire pit, and a night sky lit up by stars. So PEACEFUL! We couldn’t have found a better site to stay at! We have decided to make this an annual trip and will be heading back this spring!
ScoutVery beautiful scenery, amazing views.
GuideTypical campground with rv spots close together with no shade. Fill hook ups at each site.
Philpott Lake camping offers primitive and developed sites spread across 2,900 acres of water surface in Virginia's Blue Ridge foothills. The elevation ranges from 800 to 1,000 feet, creating varied camping terrain with seasonal temperature shifts between 30°F in winter and 85°F in summer. Most campgrounds follow strict quiet hours between 10pm and 6am, with enforcement patrols especially active on summer weekends.
Disc golf course nearby: Floyd's Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground & Event Venue features a 9-hole course perfect for beginners and experienced players. "They have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" notes Stafford W., making it an option for recreation beyond water activities.
Mountain biking trails: The wooded areas surrounding many campgrounds offer challenging terrain for cyclists. Chantilly Farm provides "acres of woods with hiking and mountain biking trails," according to one reviewer who appreciated the diverse terrain options beyond lakeside activities.
Cavern exploration: While visiting the region, Dixie Caverns offers underground tours at discounted rates for campers. "The caverns are worth visiting pretty cool cave system. We got in late in the afternoon after the last tour woke up early and caught the first tour before heading on our way," shares Shane T.
Stargazing opportunities: The minimal light pollution makes this area excellent for night sky viewing. "Boy are there some amazing stars out here," mentions Jonny D. about Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground, which offers clear views on cloudless nights.
Well-maintained facilities: The bathhouses at many locations receive regular cleaning. "Bathrooms are clean and campground was quiet," reports Paula J. about Salthouse Branch Campground, noting the importance of basic amenities for comfortable stays.
Campground layouts: Visitors appreciate thoughtful site arrangements that maximize privacy and views. "Loop a has 19 sites with water and electric hookup. This loop is a little distance from the lake. Loop c is located on a peninsula and offers 34 sites, many of which are lake front sites," explains Glenn F. about COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park.
Built-out tent platforms: Tent campers specifically value the constructed platforms at hillside locations. Paula J. notes about Salthouse Branch: "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat."
Spacious tent sites: Rocky Knob Campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway provides generous space for tent setups. "Wide open beautiful sites. Many with pull through sites. Lots of room. Great for astronomy buffs," comments Linda B., highlighting the practical benefits of ample camping space.
No alcohol policy enforcement: Corps of Engineers sites strictly prohibit alcohol consumption with active monitoring. "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong," shares Anne F. about her experience at Salthouse Branch.
Variable cell service: Connectivity ranges from nonexistent to limited across campgrounds. "There is no WiFi and my T-Mobile was useless there," notes Gail B. about Horseshoe Point, emphasizing the need to plan accordingly for communication needs.
Narrow access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach routes. One Salthouse Branch visitor warns: "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance."
Campfire wood availability: Firewood policies vary significantly between locations. Samuel mentioned about Chantilly Farm: "One negative, the firewood they sell is next to impossible to light," suggesting campers might want to source firewood elsewhere.
Ranger programs: Educational activities provide structured entertainment for children. "We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones," shares Bonnie T. about Fairy Stone State Park Campground, highlighting organized learning opportunities.
Beach facilities: Designated swimming areas with safety features cater to families with children. One visitor noted about Horseshoe Point: "The campground has 2 swimming areas that are roped off, with life jackets provided," offering peace of mind for parents with young swimmers.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. Tamara B. shares about Salthouse Branch: "We love visiting the Salthouse Branch! The lower loop is pretty level, fun to walk and ride bikes around, and the kids love the playground!"
Educational experiences: Fairy Stone hunting provides a unique activity for families. Russell C. reports: "Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!" demonstrating how special experiences create lasting memories.
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. At Horseshoe Point, one reviewer observed: "It seemed that most sites required a little help to get level," suggesting RVers should bring leveling blocks.
Limited hookup options: While water and electric connections are common, sewer hookups are rare at lakeside sites. "They have full hookup RV sites along with dry ones and multiple tent camping options!" explains a Chantilly Farm visitor, highlighting the variable amenities.
Site selection strategy: Positioning affects both views and comfort levels. "The sites in the lower loop are close to each other but the views make up for that," notes Timothy W. about Goose Point, suggesting RVers prioritize what matters most when selecting sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Philpott Lake?
According to TheDyrt.com, Philpott Lake offers a wide range of camping options, with 100 campgrounds and RV parks near Philpott Lake and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Philpott Lake?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Philpott Lake is COE Philpott Lake Goose Point Park with a 4.8-star rating from 19 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Philpott Lake?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Philpott Lake.
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