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Best Campgrounds in Virginia

3,736 Reviews
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Virginia's campground landscape spans diverse ecosystems from coastal beaches to mountain highlands. The Shenandoah National Park region features multiple established campgrounds including Big Meadows, Loft Mountain, and Mathews Arm, which operate seasonally from May through October or November. State parks like First Landing, Pocahontas, and Kiptopeke offer year-round camping with various accommodation options including cabins, tent sites, and RV hookups. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities such as drinking water, picnic tables, and toilets, while amenity levels vary significantly between primitive and full-service locations.

Campground reservations are essential during peak seasons, particularly for popular locations in Shenandoah National Park and coastal state parks. A camper noted, "The campsites on the A loop are a little more on an angle, they converted tent site lots to camper lots so they come with a level tent area as well." Many Virginia campgrounds feature mixed-use designs that accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying hookup capabilities. Water and electric hookups are common at state park campgrounds, while Shenandoah National Park campgrounds offer more limited services. Seasonal considerations affect campground availability, with mountain locations closing during colder months while coastal and central Virginia parks often remain open year-round.

Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout Virginia, with several campgrounds situated along rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. One visitor described their experience at a riverside site: "We had a large grass space with water and power on the edge of a beautiful creek and enjoyed the sounds of it both nights. There were a variety of birds who frequented the stream and were fun to watch." Higher-elevation campgrounds in the Shenandoah region provide cooler temperatures during summer months. Family-friendly amenities are common at larger established campgrounds, while more primitive sites offer greater solitude. Wildlife viewing opportunities vary by region, with both coastal and mountain habitats supporting diverse ecosystems accessible from campground locations.

Best Camping Sites in Virginia (548)

    1. Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    127 Reviews
    Stanley, VA
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3500

    $30 - $75 / night

    "While the campground is very nice, with clean conveniently located bathrooms, the site itself is probably not suited for a large group of people."

    "Our site had the AT running right behind it. The was plenty of access to trails, and pretty central to the park. The campground is near showers, laundry, campstore, and visitor center."

    2. First Landing State Park Campground

    123 Reviews
    Virginia Beach, VA
    Website
    +1 (757) 412-2300

    $32 - $163 / night

    "FLSP is a real Gem in the midst of a very busy Virginia Beach. The campsites range from tenting with no hookups to 20, 30, and 50 foot sites with water and electric."

    "Our game ground was surrounded by the forest but your in walking distance to the beach. The shower and rest rooms are sit up nicely the best I’ve seen at a campground."

    3. Pocahontas State Park Campground

    81 Reviews
    Chester, VA
    Website
    +1 (804) 796-4255

    $37 - $459 / night

    "Largest State Park in Virginia - nearly 8,000 acres. We stayed two nights and paddled around Swift Creek Lake on Sunday. The staff was amazing."

    "The day use area is incredible and less than a mile walk through the woods on a hike/bike/crawl/stroller gravel surface. "

    4. Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    68 Reviews
    Dyke, VA
    Website
    +1 (434) 823-4675

    $30 - $75 / night

    "This campground is perfect for those looking to just get away from things for a couple of days."

    "We got a walk in site, so our tent was way far away from cars and other people. The site included a fire pit w/grill grate, picnic table, and metal bear box."

    5. Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground

    58 Reviews
    Bentonville, VA
    Website
    +1 (540) 622-6840

    $27 - $427 / night

    "Our patio was on the side next to the road which was a little close to traffic but we still loved siting there, especially in the evening with a campfire."

    "Virginia has the best state park campgrounds. Water and electric. Large sites. The bathrooms are clean with separate shower rooms. Nice hiking in the park. Near SNP. Responsive and friendly rangers."

    6. Hickory Ridge Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park

    56 Reviews
    Troutdale, VA
    Website
    +1 (276) 579-2374

    $27 - $98 / night

    "With camping just a moderate day hike away from Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia, this campground is a hiker's paradise."

    "Campground Review: There are two campgrounds in Grayson Highland SP which is located by The Mouth Of Wilson, VA, near the North Carolina border."

    7. Kiptopeke State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Townsend, VA
    Website
    +1 (757) 331-2267

    $32 - $459 / night

    "Virginia has some wonderful state parks and this is one of my favorites. Its got a nice beach, boat launch and a couple miles of hiking trails."

    "We love staying in the yurts at Virginia State Parks because they are always an affordable, easy way to camping without having to set up a tent or spend the extra money for a cabin."

    8. Mathews Arm Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    46 Reviews
    Rileyville, VA
    Website
    +1 (540) 999-3132

    $30 - $75 / night

    "This is a nice and very large campground tucked away in the northern part of Shenandoah. The facilities and grounds were well kept and it’s a short car’s travel (but there’s also a trail!)"

    "There are a few trails encompassing and leading out from the campground, and it's nice to have a central location from which you can out on small hikes."

    9. Royal Oak Campground — Hungry Mother State Park

    42 Reviews
    Marion, VA
    Website
    +1 (276) 781-7400

    $27 / night

    "We stayed here for an overnight stop on our road trip through Virginia, and it was lovely!"

    "Hungry Mother State Park, just a short drive off I-81 in southwestern Virginia, is an easily accessible gem offering modern cabins, yurts, and campgrounds equipped for tents or RVs, with limitless activities"

    10. Holiday Trav-L-Park

    46 Reviews
    Virginia Beach, VA
    Website
    +1 (866) 849-8860

    $25 - $92 / night

    "We stayed at Holiday Trav-L-Park in Virginia Beach for the first time for 3 nights in July.  As our travel trailer is small, we were able to stay in site #152. "

    "I stayed here to go to a concert in downtown Virginia Beach when high-season hotel rates made booking a room too pricey."

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Recent Camping Photos in Virginia

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Recent Reviews in Virginia

3736 Reviews of 548 Virginia Campgrounds

  • E
    Jul. 17, 2026

    Indian Heritage RV Park

    Perfect Everything!

    It’s not too often you get amazing hospitality anywhere these days, BUT THIS PLACE HAS IT! From the phone call to the arrival, the Indian Heritage RV Park is impressive. The park has level gravel sites, both pull-thru’s and back-ins, and they vary from fully- to partially-shaded to full sun. Solid-connecting WiFi is available with speeds to easily watch a movie. There’s even a trash can at each site. But wait, there’s more. If you’ve been on the road way too long and crave personal bathroom space, check out their bathhouse—individual rooms make it feel like you’re at a resort…plenty of space and super clean and inviting! The laundry room offers two washers, dryers, folding tables, and a hanging rack (bring your own hangers); again, super clean. This park is located on the Smith River and I highly recommend getting a lakeside spot if one’s available…spectacular view if you have a back porch on your rig! Jody was our host and makes you feel like you’re part of the family. The owner (sorry I forgot his name) is also very friendly. Restaurants are a few blocks down the street but you wouldn’t know it unless you took a short walk…that’s how tucked away this place is. Definitely staying here again the next time I travel Hwy 58!

  • John P.
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Fairy Stone State Park Campground

    Nice new sites

    This is a nice little place with level sites and easy shower/restroom access. I thought it was a little pricey and we had to drive to the lake, but it's a nice place to paddle board or kayak because they don't allow motor boats. They have a nice beach that our kid liked. You also have to the fairy stone hunting ground - we didn't find any. But there's a cool hiking trail with a couple of abandoned mine entrances.

  • Debra W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 16, 2026

    First Landing State Park Campground

    Great for Beachside Camping

    This campground was a great location for a Virginia Beach vacation. It’s in the Chesapeake Bay so the water is calm and there is a large sandbar making for shallower waters which is great if you have littles in your trip. It was calming to stay there and spend everyday at the beach. There is hiking and biking paths as part of the park as well. I love that the shower rooms are not gendered so you don’t have a long wait to use one. I went for July 4th and was able to watch the fireworks right from the beach. So that was awesome. Overall good stay.

  • eugen V.
    Jul. 16, 2026

    Longwood Park

    Great camping spots

    Always got great spots by the water . Town is very close and convinient

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2026

    Hidden Valley WMA

    Ultimate Zen

    The lake is so beautiful if you catch it at the right time of day it’s like l looking into a mirror dimension because it’s so clear.

  • Cari E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2026

    Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    A classic for good reason

    This is a classic National Park campground, and it’s important to keep in mind that it opened in 1937–the sites are small as travelers weren’t equipped with large vehicles, as such, it may not be the best option for large rigs but my van fit comfortably though the neighbors were rather close. If you’re expecting that, you’ll be more than happy. Walking distance via a connector trail to Dark Hollow Falls trail. Sustainable T-Mobile service for remote work, but Zoom may lag. No shore power or water hookups, but drinking water spread throughout the park and modernized bathroom and showers. There was also a circular, shaded tent area as part of D155, behind the drive. I’d stay again in a heartbeat.

  • Cari E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2026

    Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park Campground

    A lovely, quiet state park

    I stayed two nights in between bookings at the national park and I was surprised by how lovely the state park was. Quiet with great trails for strolling and peaceful river views. Level, spacious sites with some privacy offered by tree/bushes and a clean, modern bathroom (loved that the showers told you what temp the water is and that each shower was private/in its own room).

  • T
    Jul. 7, 2026

    Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    Beautiful as always (despite re-paving project)

    Great summer destination to escape the heat! Weather in late June was amazing - highs in the 70s; lows in the 60s; and crystal clear skies. Not too buggy either. Pulled ONE tick off of me before it bit me, but otherwise not much to speak of in the way of mosquitos or biting gnats/flies.

    This particular site was smaller (RV back in) but private and level near the bath house. There IS a bear box present, and you'll want to use it for any unattended food outside an RV. The mini-bears are beggars. We saw several chipmunks in our site and a particularly clever bird successfully stole from our neighbors. 

    If you are RV-ing, fill your tanks at the dump station before heading to the ranger station for check-in. You don't want to carry all that water up the mountain, and they don't like you to block the campground road trying to fill along the loop. The dump station is located on the right prior to arrival at the ranger station.

    Also, there are no dumpsters at the dump station (weird). So upon departure, pull your trash prior to leaving the site. 

    As always, there is virtually no cell signal in this site and no electric hookups anywhere in the campsite. So bring a generator or a lot of solar if you want to run your electrical. (Though this site being so shady doesn't provide a lot of solar power.) There IS wifi at the visitor's center if you want to call home or do a daily socials check. ;-) 

    We DID have one day there that was a pretty noisy from paving equipment re-doing the road. But I think they're almost done with their project, and honestly it wasn't that big a deal because we were on trails most of the time anyway.

    There are great ranger programs here - it's one of the larger hubs for programming, and they're listed at the visitor's center because they change seasonally. Don't miss out on the chance to explore the meadow. What may LOOK like a vast, boring expanse of grass is actually a fascinating variety of foliage when you're out in it. Many, many wildflowers that can't be seen from the visitor center's overlook. 

    Also, many of the park's most popular hikes can be easily accessed from here, including Dark Hollow Falls and Bearfence Rock Scramble.

Guide to Virginia

Camping in Virginia offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, family-friendly activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Virginia's campgrounds have something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Many campgrounds, like Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park, provide direct access to stunning hiking trails. One camper mentioned, “We went and did several hikes, including Dark Hollow Falls, and spent a late evening in the Big Meadow on a picnic blanket stargazing.”
  • Water Activities: At Sherando Lake Campground, you can swim, fish, or kayak. A reviewer shared, “The lake is beautiful and refreshing. You can swim out to an island if you want to.”
  • Family Fun: Campgrounds like Misty Mountain Camp Resort offer activities for kids. One family said, “Our kids had a blast on the inflatable jump pad which was open all day.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Pocahontas State Park Campground noted, “The bathrooms were clean but the one close to my site the outside was falling apart.”
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Lewis Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park remarked, “We liked this campground so much, smallness and setting, we almost cancelled our next reservation to stay here.”
  • Proximity to Nature: Campgrounds like Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park provide beautiful views and easy access to trails. One reviewer said, “Campsite was right next to the lake, beautiful views and easy water access.”

What you should know

  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, which can be a challenge during peak times. A visitor at Lewis Mountain Campground mentioned, “I arrived at about 1:00 pm on a Tuesday, and got the last (worst) site.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Devil’s Backbone Camp expressed frustration, saying, “This is a parking spot in a field with no trees and the sewer likely on the wrong side.”
  • Wildlife Caution: Bears are common in some areas, so be cautious with food storage. A camper at Big Meadows Campground advised, “There are bears so make sure you don't leave any food out.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Misty Mountain Camp Resort. One parent said, “This campground was really great for a family with small children.”
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise, especially at campgrounds with close sites. A camper at Canoe Landing Group Campsite noted, “Our neighbors were noisy, obnoxious, and trashy into the wee hours of the morning.”
  • Pack Essentials: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A family at Pocahontas State Park Campground enjoyed the playground, saying, “The playground was decent and pretty centrally located on the campground.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park mentioned, “We would not have been satisfied with the slope of more than a few of the sites here.”
  • Be Prepared for Costs: Some campgrounds charge for showers and other amenities. A visitor at Loft Mountain Campground said, “Showers were pretty expensive at $5 for 10 minutes.”
  • Plan for Limited Connectivity: Cell service can be spotty in some areas. A camper at Sherando Lake Campground noted, “No Verizon or ATT cell service I could find and no WiFi.”

Camping in Virginia offers a unique blend of nature, family fun, and adventure. With the right preparation, you can enjoy all that this beautiful state has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Virginia for families?

First Landing State Park Campground is exceptional for families, offering sites surrounded by forests yet within walking distance to the beach. Kids love climbing the live oaks, and the secluded beach is perfect for family fun. Another excellent option is Prince William Forest RV Campground, which features clean bathrooms, a pool, and is less than an hour from Washington DC, making it ideal for educational family day trips. Both campgrounds provide spacious sites with varying hookup options and clean facilities that families appreciate.

Where can I find camping sites in Southern Virginia?

Hickory Ridge Campground — Grayson Highlands State Park in southern Virginia offers excellent camping near Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia. It's a hiker's paradise with virtually no cell signal, making it perfect for truly disconnecting in nature. Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA provides another southern Virginia option along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Southern Virginia's camping areas typically offer more seclusion and wilderness experiences than northern locations, with beautiful mountain views and extensive hiking opportunities.

When is the best time of year to go camping in Virginia?

Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the best camping conditions in Virginia with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Summer provides full access to all Virginia campgrounds, but expect higher temperatures, humidity, and more crowds, particularly at popular destinations like Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park. For coastal camping at places like False Cape State Park Campground, late spring through early fall is ideal. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations, though many mountain campgrounds close seasonally due to snow and ice conditions. Always check seasonal opening dates as they vary by location.

What camping resorts in Virginia offer the best amenities?

Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views stands out with its beautiful views, manicured grounds, and impressive amenities. The resort features an exceptionally large dog park, a nice swimming pool, and the unique experience of camping adjacent to a working farm where animals graze near campsites. American Heritage RV Park offers exceptional amenities including concrete, level sites, clean air-conditioned bathrooms, and a strategic location that provides convenient access to Williamsburg, Richmond, and Virginia Beach. For luxury camping experiences, Endless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages combines natural attractions with resort-style amenities.

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