Philpott Lake camping options range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks across southern Virginia and northern North Carolina. The lake sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging in the high 80s. Winter camping remains available at several locations, though amenities may be limited during colder months when temperatures can drop below freezing.
What to do
Disc golf access: Chantilly Farm RV Campground offers a 9-hole disc golf course open to all campers. "They have full hookup RV sites along with dry ones and multiple tent camping options! They also have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course," notes a reviewer at Chantilly Farm.
Fishing opportunities: Fort Chiswell RV Park maintains a stocked koi pond on property. "You are surrounded by farm land on two sides and it was relaxing watching the cows and sheep graze on the hillsides. There's a large pond stocked with koi fish," explains a camper at Fort Chiswell RV Park.
Waterfall hiking: Camp Alta Mons provides trail access to Stiles Falls. "Great hiking trails to a beautiful waterfall," states a camper, noting the falls derive their name from "the untimely demise of a young Confederate Navy soldier who fell to his death while horsing around at its top."
What campers like
Laundry facilities: Fort Chiswell RV Park offers coin-operated laundry machines. "We did laundry, sat by the pool or watched the sheep grazing on the hill. Sites are a good size and doesn't feel cramped."
Privacy in premium sites: Chantilly Farm accommodates tent campers with spacious premium sites. "My wife and I like to frequent this campground because it's not too far from home. It's usually not crowded. The premium tent sites are huge! Clean bath house. Friendly staff!"
Motorcycle-specific camping: Willville Motorcycle Camp provides dedicated motorcycle camping near Philpott Lake. "Great motorcycle campground. Clean facilities, friendly host. Good spread of water spigots and electrical outlets if you need to charge your equipment, although electric isn't available at each spot."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Winter camping remains viable at several Philpott Lake rv parks. "We stayed here for one night in December. We arrived late around 7pm and it was getting dark, our lovely Host was very kind and showed our site - It also had heated water hose so that was a big bonus."
Campfire restrictions: Rules vary across campgrounds, with some limiting fire options. "No fire pits allowed" at Fort Chiswell RV Park, while Sweetwater RV Park permits fires in designated areas.
Pet policies: Not all campgrounds welcome pets. Willville Motorcycle Camp does not allow pets, according to reviewers: "Pets aren't allowed as far as I can tell."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sweetwater RV Park offers dedicated play areas for children. "We went to the playground to play and pool to swim - had it to ourselves - with our 18 month old. The staff is amazing and clearly love what they do."
Pool availability: Check seasonal pool operations. "There is a very nice pool which is heated, allowing it to be open much longer than many campgrounds in the area," notes a reviewer at Fort Chiswell.
Kid-friendly activities: Lake Ridge RV Resort provides multiple recreational options for families. "Great campground for families. Pools, fishing, and golf cart rentals available. Plenty of space for RV's/campers."
Tips from RVers
Road navigation: Access to mountain campgrounds requires planning. "Getting there was quite a journey over narrow curvy roads but once there it was a nice area," reports a Chantilly Farm RV visitor.
Site selection: Black Dog Acres RV Park offers convenient pull-through options. "Super easy pull through sites with convenient hookups. Every body was super nice and friendly, 10/10 would stay again," states a reviewer at Black Dog Acres RV Park.
Truck stop alternative: Love's RV Hookup provides basic overnight accommodations. "I really like what loves is providing RVs. Groceries, gas, Arby's, private showers, dog park and full hookups for a reasonable price... It's a truck stop not a state park. I would stop here again if I needed a place to hook up, dump, and fill my propane."