Camping options near Raphine, Virginia range from established campgrounds with full amenities to primitive sites along mountain streams. Located in the central Shenandoah Valley at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, the area experiences mild springs, warm summers, and vibrant fall foliage seasons that draw campers from September through early November. Winter camping is available at select year-round facilities, though temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 5 minutes from camp: At Montebello Resort, the fishing pond gives instant gratification for novice anglers. "The trout pond is not what they make it out to be on the website. It's a very small pond with zero shade at the entrance of the resort. It is not catch and release, it is catch and keep, whatever you catch, you pay for power pound," notes Adrian K., explaining the unique fishing setup.
Hiking with elevation gain: 1.5-mile trail: The challenging trail to Spy Rock rewards with panoramic views. "You hike in and there is a decent sized area to set up tents. There are few amenities, but a few fire pits, etc. I've heard it can get pretty crowded," explains Rob U. The path includes a rock scramble at the summit for added adventure.
Swimming options: Seasonal access: Natural swimming areas provide refreshment during summer months. "Sherando Lake is a well-maintained, popular campground located in the George Washington National Forest near Lyndhurst, VA. Convenient to both Richmond and Charlottesville, it brings people in for camping and day-use alike," writes Stephanie J., highlighting the swimming facilities at the 25-acre lake.
What campers like
Brewery access: 5-minute walk: Devils Backbone Camp offers unique direct access to craft beverages. "A short walk through the tent area brought you to the large brewery area. This area includes a brewpub, large outdoor seating area with fire pits and an outdoor stage, a distillery, cigar and cocktail lounge, an additional outdoor bar and grille," explains Steve V., detailing the entertainment options.
Clean facilities: Recently upgraded: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at certain sites. "Sherando Lake campground was clean and easy to access just off of the BRP. The sites were level and everything looked recently upgraded. We didn't get in the water, but we saw the beach and it looked perfect for kids," notes Mike G., emphasizing the well-kept grounds.
Solitude options: Limited cell service: For those seeking disconnection, Oronoco Campground provides genuine unplugged camping. "Nice spot, it's small but the sites are free and surrounded by clear mountain streams. We originally were only going to stay the night but liked it so much we stayed for three," shares Rogue1 B., highlighting the rustic appeal of this free camping option.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Fire restrictions: During dry periods in late summer and fall, fire bans may be implemented. Check with rangers before arrival.
Pet waste management: Station availability: Beyond designated waste stations, campers should pack extra bags. Not all trails and primitive sites have disposal facilities.
Booking windows: 6-month advance: Popular sites fill quickly. "The only drawback is that many people love this park and it is difficult to get reservations. The window opens six months out and are usually booked for the high season summer months," Linda C. explains about Sherando Lake Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity: Food storage requirements vary by site but are essential. "A young bear was repeatedly visiting site A9 up the road from me and I had to chase him off when he came near my site!" reports Lisa M., emphasizing the importance of using provided bear boxes.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple options: Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA provides kid-friendly facilities. "This campground is open year round and is right off the highway. There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park. The campground itself has a pool, open seasonally, a game room, and a playground. It's an old school playground but the gkids love it," explains Bridget H.
Bathroom proximity: Check site map: When camping with young children, bathroom access matters. Some campgrounds have limited facilities that require driving. "I stayed in the tent area. The site has a fine gravel pad, picnic table and fire ring. I was in site 2 near the lake. A crowd with chairs sat above my site on the hill that were rather noisy. But biggest drawback was distance to bathroom which I had to drive to," notes Michelle W. about her experience at Montebello Resort.
Lake swimming: Family-friendly: Several campgrounds offer controlled swimming environments. "The kids enjoyed playing on the playground, skipping rocks, and fishing as well. The campsites are clean and well kept up. The site we usually get (A-13) is well situated near the bathrooms and showers," Katie M. shares about her family's experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Check site layouts: Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park offers full-service sites with unique configurations. "Our site 33 was full hookup and a very nice, mostly level, spacious, and had a covered picnic table on a deck. Not all sites have full hookup," notes Laure D., providing important context for RVers.
Leveling challenges: Bring blocks: Uneven terrain may require extra equipment. "You will need an extra long sewer hose to reach the connection. For example, we have a small travel trailer and we needed a 30 foot hose. The sewer connection for the odd number sites is on the opposite side of the RV than the electricity and water," advises Erika S. about Devils Backbone Camp.
Road conditions: Narrow access: Interior roads at some campgrounds pose navigation challenges. "The campground is old and has small sites with pooly marked utilities. Not big rig friendly, lots of trees," cautions Steve J. about Montebello Resort's limitations for larger vehicles.
Site selection: Space considerations: Pet-friendly camping near Raphine, Virginia requires strategic site selection. "Short-term sites are in the very front but you do have to take a circuitous route through the campground to get back to that area after checking in. Many long-term sites around the lake and up in the hilly area," explains Mary W. about the layout at Walnut Hills.
