Camping options near Ridgeway, Virginia extend beyond Philpott Lake to include mountain parks and riverfront settings within a 25-30 mile radius. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with cooler mountain temperatures dropping to 50-60°F at night. Fall camping season brings spectacular foliage displays starting in mid-October, making it a popular time for campers seeking both water and mountain experiences.
What to do
Kayaking and boating access: At Philpott Lake Goose Point Park, water activities dominate recreation options with multiple access points. "There is a nice sandy beach for swimming, boat ramp and dock in the loop. There is also a second shower house located here," reports Glenn F. Sites 1-19 provide direct lakefront access for easy water entry.
Hiking varied terrain: The trails at Hanging Rock State Park offer everything from short waterfall walks to challenging summit climbs. "Moore's Wall Loop Trail is a 4.3 mile strenuous hike, and it begins by walking by the lake. There is a platform about halfway through the hike in which you can see the skylines of Greensboro and Winston-Salem," notes Myron C. The park features five different waterfalls accessible via trail.
Rock climbing: Pilot Mountain provides dedicated climbing areas with top-rope access. "If you're not a climber, the views are still worth the drive," shares DrDavid P. Climbing routes range from beginner to advanced with bolted anchors available at the top of most routes.
What campers like
Lake swimming: Fairy Stone State Park provides a dedicated swimming beach that campers consistently mention in reviews. "The lake is wonderful. They were updating cabins when we were there last, they look great," notes Keith F. Swimming areas typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards on duty during peak summer months.
Clean facilities: Campground bathhouses receive positive feedback across several locations. "Bathrooms are clean and what you'd expect a campground bathroom to be. Good hiking, mostly moderate with gorgeous views from the overlooks," reports Fletcher S. about Pilot Mountain State Park. Many campgrounds offer free hot showers, though availability varies seasonally.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide opportunities to spot native wildlife. "We saw lots of deer roaming around," shares Katie M. about Fairy Stone State Park. Bird watching is particularly productive along lake edges and in early morning hours when songbirds are most active.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most waterfront sites book up 3-6 months in advance during summer. "Reservations have to be made well in advance for the lower loop sites. Lots of rain was in the forecast so several people cancelled their reservations allowing us to get one of the best spots on the lower loop," explains Timothy W. about Goose Point.
Weather preparedness: Mountain camping brings variable conditions. "We were not disappointed. Facilities were clean, campground was well laid out and accessible, check-in was smooth, and the online reservation process had zero kinks!" notes Russell C. about camping during an unpredictable July 4th weekend at Fairy Stone State Park.
Alcohol restrictions: Some campgrounds strictly prohibit alcohol. "The police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong," warns Anne F. about Salthouse Branch campground. Corps of Engineers sites typically enforce no-alcohol policies.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly programming: Several parks offer ranger-led activities. "The programming was also amazing for our eight and four-year old boys. Ranger Lexie hunted legendary fairystones with our kids and they haven't stopped talking about the magic of the hunt!" shares Russell C. about Fairy Stone State Park's youth programs.
Playground access: Lake Reidsville Recreation Park provides family amenities near camping areas. "All of the sites were amazing. Trash cans, fire pits, level spots, picnic tables were at every location. Easy access to the water, playgrounds & hiking trails were just moments away from the camper," notes Steven F. The playground equipment suits children ages 5-12.
Beach swimming options: Multiple lake beaches provide safe swimming areas for children. "We did enjoy some trails and bikes to the swimming area they offer," mentions Jacqueline F. about Fairy Stone's beach area. Most swimming areas include designated shallow sections for younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks for most campsites near Ridgeway. "Most sites have a different sized pad based on terrain and available space. Some outer loop sites have some steeper drop-aways, so split-rail fences outline the tent pad, picnic area or both for safety," reports Dave V. about Hanging Rock State Park.
Utility connections: Indian Heritage RV Park offers full hookup sites closer to town. "Just got here. The people who run this place have been very kind and great to work with on reservations. The site we have was easy to back in. Everything works well. The WiFi is decent," shares Keith F. The park provides 50-amp service and sewer connections at most sites.
Road access concerns: Some campgrounds require navigating challenging roads. "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance," cautions a reviewer about Salthouse Branch. Larger RVs should research access routes before committing to reservations at mountain campgrounds.
