166 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Purcellville, Virginia range from full-service sites with tent, RV hookup, and cabin options to primitive hike-in camping, spanning the Northern Virginia and West Virginia border region. The area includes Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA and Harpers Ferry Campground, both offering full-service camping with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Watermelon Park Campground near Berryville provides riverside camping options approximately 20 miles west of Purcellville. Sky Meadows State Park, located about 15 miles south, offers primitive tent camping with hike-in access for those seeking a more secluded experience. These campgrounds provide varying levels of amenities from basic toilets to full hookups.
Reservations are essential at most established campgrounds in the region, particularly during peak season from April through October. A recent review noted, "The beauty in this area is undeniable. Hiking, scenic views, the whole 9 yards." Road access to most sites is well-maintained, though some tent-only areas require short hikes to reach. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with hot, humid summers and mild springs and falls making shoulder seasons ideal for camping. Elevation changes throughout the region create microclimates worth considering when planning trips. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, particularly at Sky Meadows and along portions of the Potomac River corridor.
Several visitors highlighted the historical significance of camping in this region, with Harper's Ferry National Historical Park and the Appalachian Trail providing popular day trip destinations from nearby campgrounds. The C&O Canal Towpath offers additional opportunities for hikers and cyclists, with hiker/biker campsites available along the trail. Campground reviews consistently mention proximity to water as a key feature, with the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers providing scenic backdrops for many camping areas. According to one camper, "Harpers Ferry is a cute little historic town and the hiking is amazing, being right on the Appalachian Trail." While sites closer to town offer more amenities and activities, those seeking quieter experiences may prefer the more primitive camping options at state parks or along the C&O Canal.
"We were able to walk or ride our bikes to the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and access the C+O Canal Tow Path from there."
"This KOA offers close and cozy get away near Harper’s Ferry Virginia. Technically within walking distance to the National Park shuttle to downtown."
from $40 - $80 / night
Check Availability"Harper's Ferry is a little town in WV nestled right next to the Potomac River. It's also a convenient halfwayish point on the Appalachian Trail."
"This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don’t let this deter you from completing it. The trail is well maintained, marked, and exciting."
"Picked this location because it is close to our home in Silver Spring, MD but far enough to make us feel like we were leaving town."
"Great location right next the river. Easy to walk into the river or tube down it. Lots of different activities for kids and plenty of space at each site to make your home away from home."
from $10 - $90 / night
Check Availability"It is a nice campground, decent and clean facilities and a nice location near the river. Price is a little high considering there is no sewer hookup (dump station is on site)."
"Well maintained and owner was around everyday doing work on the property and was friendly."
from $60 - $150 / night
Check Availability"We have lived in northern Virginia for over 30 years and never been to this campground until this month! Very nice campground with friendly staff and friendly campground hosts."
"History buffs will like to explore the park surrounding the campground. Fun little water park within walking distance of all campsites that was great for kids."
from $43 - $100 / night
Check Availability"Positives
- Big, immaculately groomed tent pads
* Mostly tent campers!"
"Our site was private and kind of faced away from most other sites. There was a hiking trail behind us that led to the lake."
from $23 - $29 / night
Check Availability"Parking is in a locked lot steps away from trail head which leads to campsites about a mile away. Campsites are in a wooded area of park well away from other park attractions so it's very quiet."
"But you have to drive up to the main building, register, go back to the overnight lot, put in the gate code, hang the lot tag on your mirror, and hike in to the site."
from $21 - $112 / night
Check Availability"If you are looking for camping in Fairfax County Virginia, this is it, because there are only a couple to choose from."
"We set up our tent in the far side of the campground close to the lake ( site 27). It is slightly slant but still comfortable in the tent. Bathrooms are close by and kept clean."
from $30 - $70 / night
Check Availability"We prefer hiking as a family and staying away from crowds and this camp site wasn’t crowded or felt busy. It’s a quick drive from NOVA but just far enough where you feel away from it all."
"We live in Montgomery County and this is a nice camping get away close to home."
"All the sites are very open and run along the multi-use trail. People are constantly walking, running, and biking by."
"Pretty standard campground—the perks are it’s location to nearby attractions and the river/creek. It depends on what you’re looking for—easy camping and proximity to Antietam and Harper’s? Golden."
from $20 / night
Check Availability
RangerThis KOA offers close and cozy get away near Harper’s Ferry Virginia. Technically within walking distance to the National Park shuttle to downtown. Spots are open and spaced out and they offer private showers/bathrooms
ScoutThe staff is certainly at the office not competent. Someone ran over my house when we were away and damaged it. The WiFi didn’t work any of the day but upon assistance request no one was willing to help. It couldn’t be worse. We have no other words except never a KOA location again.
ScoutIt was a great spot for a little fire and outdoors camping. No permit needed and there are some places around where u can easily rent a kayak to go on the river. You can also park your car easily at this spot.
ScoutTrip -week before labor day , temps 93 degrees, nothing on website when booked said about peak and non peak days on booking page. Said there were only 7 sites left(complete lie) campground was empty. First time we ever been to a place where EVERYTHING was closed. Campstore, jump pillow and the final straw was we went to go to the pool and that was closed. It was 545 pm sun still bright in the sky , nowhere near dusk( when its suppose to close) . So much conflicting info from what the paper we got handed vs what internet site said. Charged a resort fee ? for what a place to park? This is no resort. Grass was high enough to be seeding itself. My wife was so upset she was actually crying. This was supposed to be a fun trip for our da6ughter before going back to school. We decided this place over Buttonwood just because it was alittle closer. Did a full tour of the place. Realized there is nothing here. Went to dinner in town. Decided we didnt want to stay where we knew our Daughter would be bored. She's pretty easy to entertain but this was just ridiculous. 12 HOURS OF MY LIFE AND $400 BUCKS i will never get back. (Loading , driving , realizing we got screwed, driving, unloading) yup was pretty bad.
ScoutGreat camp ground, spots are a little un-level
GuideThis spot was good for a one night pull over and just wanted to rest; I would not set up camp and spend some time at this site.
There are several spots with a vault toilet. We stayed at campsite 6. This spot had a tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table but overall pretty small. It did offer a slight more privacy due to the tent pad being below the parking spot and surrounded by overgrown brush. There are no views with this spot but does offer a trail. I would not recommend the trail being it has been used as a bathroom spot with toilet paper and heavy smell included.
The vault toilet was just a vault toilet. It is a heavy noise area with other campers and ATV so if you are looking for a secluded peaceful site with spectacular views, this is not it. If you just need a place to lay your head or wanting to bring your ATV along this is for you.
GuideWhat a gem! We found this place as an alternative to staying in DC during 4th of July festivities. Nice spacious sites, cabins were super clean and smelled great! Did I mention they were air conditioned during the hotest week of the summer!
Bathrooms and showers were spotless.
Many things to see and do there. Historic property, big lake (no swimming), boating, fishing, hiking. There is an Art Center with juried displays for sale.
ScoutThe park is very well maintained, and the campsites have clean fire pits and cooking grills. The restrooms are clean, spacious, and well maintained, and my campsite was large enough to comfortably fit a 6-person tent and a canopy.
However, there were a few concerns during our stay. Despite the campground’s quiet hours policy starting at 10:00 PM, many campers continued to make noise well past that time. I did not notice any campground staff or maintenance personnel making rounds to enforce the quiet hours.
I also felt concerned about security. One of my neighboring campers, who was visiting from South Carolina, told me that his generator had been stolen during the night. He reported the theft to the police, and an official report was filed. Incidents like this made me feel unsafe while camping.
I recommend increasing staff or security patrols, especially during the evening and overnight hours, to enforce quiet hours and improve the safety and security of campers and their belongings. With better enforcement and security, Burke Lake Campground would provide an even better camping experience.
GuideWonderful campground that has all you need: full hookup, bathrooms, shower, laundry, gift shop, parts shop
Camping opportunities around Purcellville, Virginia range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots at both private and public campgrounds. The region sits at elevations between 500-1,000 feet in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from December through February, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for tent camping in this area.
Tubing and river activities: Watermelon Park Campground near Berryville offers affordable tube rentals with shuttle service. According to a visitor, "Cheap tube rentals with busses that take you 2-3 miles up the road and drop you at boat landing. Bring your own tubes and have a camp member drop you off as well," notes Matt S. The campground sits alongside the Shenandoah River with mountain views.
Mountain biking trails: Bull Run Regional Park features an extensive trail network for cyclists of all skill levels. "A lot to do: mountain bike trails (horses and walking, too); wooded hikes with water along the trails (great for dogs in the summer heat), skateboard park, BMX park, Water Park near the campground, fishing, & canoeing)," says Amy B. The campground maintains well-kept, shaded sites.
Historic exploration: Multiple campsites provide access to Civil War battlefields and historic towns. The Antietam Creek Campground offers convenient access to nearby attractions. A camper observed, "It depends on what you're looking for—easy camping and proximity to Antietam and Harper's? Golden. Especially if you want to camp but also do site seeing and/or paddling in the area."
River views: Harpers Ferry Campground - River Riders offers waterfront sites that campers consistently rate highly. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing," says Darcy S. The campground provides direct river access from most sites.
Privacy between sites: Many visitors appreciate the spacing at Sky Meadows State Park Campground. "The hills are fantastic for helping each site feel like a little private oasis. Even if the campground is full, I think most of the sites would still feel shaded and private because of how they're dispersed throughout the hills," writes Reba H. This hike-in campground requires a one-mile trek to reach the sites.
Clean facilities: Brunswick Family Campground receives praise for maintenance. "Our spot was on the river with a short walk to the boat ramp and access. It was very quiet, serene, & clean," notes Sabrina H. The campground features riverside sites and access to the C&O Canal towpath.
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds in the region sit near active rail lines. At Brunswick Family Campground, "The campground is adjacent to a very large, very busy train yard. It's not bothered me but you should be aware," reports Dale Y. Harpers Ferry Campground experiences similar train activity with some campers noting trains pass "almost hourly."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Bull Run Regional Park, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level," explains Drew M., while at Lake Fairfax Campground, reviews mention that "many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant."
Weather considerations: Spring and fall provide the most comfortable camping weather. Summer brings high humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, particularly in July and August. One camper at Greenbrier State Park noted their camping trip included "decent space between sites, with trees, though could easily see the neighbors" providing needed shade during hot weather.
Water activities for kids: Lake Fairfax Campground offers a waterpark plus regular camping amenities. "There is a waterpark that is an extra cost which is fun for kids. Bathrooms are well maintained and huge," writes Erin W. The campground provides relatively close access to Washington DC while maintaining a natural setting.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Watermelon Park Campground, a visitor noted they have a "Nice playground that they plan on expanding. Well maintained and owner was around everyday doing work on the property and was friendly."
Educational opportunities: Bull Run Regional Park offers structured activities for younger campers. "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish," shares Bridget H.
RV site selection: Little Bennett Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its RV accommodations. "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup. D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C & E are tents only," explains Ray & Terri F. Cell service reports indicate "AT&T 5 MB/s w/o booster(1 bar), 8 MB/s with it(2 bars)."
Tight navigation: Several campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Watermelon Park, a camper noted, "The road in is very narrow so our moterhome had a little difficulty getting in, but we made it!" Similarly, at Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA, a reviewer warned, "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air."
Hookup availability: Not all campsites near Purcellville offer full hookups. At Watermelon Park Campground, one RVer noted, "Price is a little high considering there is no sewer hookup (dump station is on site). A few things I'm disappointed in 1) no fire rings but you can use an above ground pit, 2) not all sites have picnic tables."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Purcellville, VA?
The Purcellville area offers excellent camping options within a short drive. Harpers Ferry / Civil War Battlefields KOA provides convenient access to historic sites and recreational activities with both shaded and open sites. It's family-friendly with a pool and kid-focused amenities. For a more peaceful experience, Watermelon Park Campground near Berryville offers riverside camping with basic amenities. Both locations are within 30 minutes of Purcellville and serve as great basecamps for exploring the region's hiking trails, historic sites, and natural beauty.
What amenities are available at Purcellville camping areas?
Camping areas near Purcellville offer a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views features beautiful manicured grounds, a large dog park, swimming pool, and friendly staff, all adjacent to a working farm with livestock. Brunswick Family Campground provides riverside sites with welcoming staff and easy water access. Other area campgrounds typically offer clean restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, and access to outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and paddling. More developed campgrounds include electric hookups, water, shower facilities, and camp stores, while more primitive sites offer a back-to-nature experience with basic facilities.
When is the best season for camping in Purcellville?
Late spring through early fall offers the best camping conditions near Purcellville. May through June brings comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities at places like Mathews Arm Campground in Shenandoah National Park. September and October showcase spectacular fall foliage, particularly at Sky Meadows State Park Campground, with pleasant days and cooler nights. Summer months (July-August) provide the fullest camping experience with all facilities open, though higher temperatures and occasional thunderstorms should be expected. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with limited or no winter camping options due to freezing temperatures and potential snow.
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