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.
What to do
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."
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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."
