Camping cabins near Ripplemead, Virginia provide access to the New River Valley region, where elevations range from 1,700 to 2,600 feet offering moderate temperatures even in summer months. Most cabins in this area sit within 30 miles of Ripplemead, typically clustered around larger state parks and private resorts. Seasonal rainfall averages 3-4 inches monthly, creating lush forest conditions and consistent water levels for river activities.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 5 miles of trails at Camp Creek State Park lead to multiple falls within the forested terrain. "The waterfalls were very sparse when we were there so not sure about other times of the year. There is an office with a small store," notes a visitor from Mash Fork Campground at Camp Creek State Park.
Fishing at Bluestone Lake: 2,040 acres of water surface with multiple access points for anglers. A visitor to Meador Campground mentioned, "We stayed in Meador site 14, which was the furthest away from the bath house (still only maybe 150 yards), but it was on the water & was the most secluded. It was freshly mowed, had a fire ring, picnic table, & was right on the water with nice views of the lake & mountains."
Mountain biking: 41+ miles of trails available at Kairos Wilderness Resort, where guests can ride directly from their cabins. "It sits on 1500 acres and has 41+ miles of trails. The only complaint is the campsites are very close but everyone was friendly and respectful so all in all it was a great place," according to a camper.
River tubing: 2-hour floats available from Greenbrier River Campground. A visitor shared their experience: "Rented tubes and floated down the river. The staff was great and the grounds well kept. We will be putting this place on our list of parks to stop at every year."
What campers like
Clean bathhouses with reliable hot water: Visitors consistently mention bathhouse cleanliness as a standout feature. At Stony Fork Campground, a camper noted, "This National Forest CG is located only 4 miles from I-77 (left from exit 47) and has paved roads and sites. About half of the 50 sites don't have facilities but about a dozen have W/E (30A)."
Easy access to water activities: Cabins with direct water access remain most popular. One visitor to Meador Campground shared, "There were also TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay. Additionally, there was a nice trailhead right nearby."
Family-oriented entertainment options: Many cabins sit in campgrounds with organized activities. "We enjoyed a weekend here a couple weeks ago. It was a great campground. Fun for everyone," a visitor mentioned about Wytheville KOA, which offers wagon rides and craft times.
Privacy levels vary significantly: Some cabins offer more seclusion than others. "The sites are spaced perfectly, the forest is beautiful, and the creek is super clear and clean. Our site (44) is great, right by the trail and creek," reported a visitor at Stony Fork Campground.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: 30-40°F temperature swings possible between day and night in spring/fall months. A camper at Brushcreek Falls RV Resort noted, "Beautiful backdrop of the mountains with mist and low clouds. Gravel parking pads."
Variable WiFi and cell service: Most cabins have limited connectivity. "There's no cell service but they upgraded the WiFi and it's very good. This campground is miles from anywhere so make sure you have what you need or the trip into town will take a while," shared a visitor to Gatewood Park & Reservoir Campground.
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some locations. At Greenbrier River Campground, a camper observed, "63 is a very busy road that is right beside the campground with loud traffic moving almost nonstop throughout the day and night. Coming primarily from the Lewisburg direction from what I could gather."
Seasonal availability limitations: Most cabins close or restrict services during winter. "The hill to climb to get there is SUPER sketchy but it's a gorgeous location. If you want to go ride dirt bikes or UTVs this place is definitely the spot," commented a visitor about Kairos Wilderness Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Paved pathways for kids: 3/4 mile loops at some campgrounds provide safe areas for children's activities. A visitor to Stony Fork Campground shared, "Our boys didn't mind- the creek was great and the whole place is paved so it was great for scooters. It's a 3/4 mile loop around the campground."
Pool access: Heated options available at select locations year-round. A camper at Fort Chiswell RV Park reported, "We did laundry, sat by the pool or watched the sheep grazing on the hill. Sites are a good size and doesn't feel cramped. The store is stocked with essentials and staff is friendly."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Deer and bird watching possible from many cabin porches. "There were also TONS of deer all around (just hanging out eating vegetation) during our short one night stay," mentioned a visitor to Meador Campground.
Playground proximity: Some cabin sites offer direct view of play areas. At Wytheville KOA, a camper noted, "This campground is terrific! all the facilities are extremely well kept and clean, the store has lots of necessities and some fun souvenirs. our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal site selection: RVers recommend end-of-row sites for more privacy. "Our site (44) is great, right by the trail and creek. Super nice hosts and everyone we met was friendly. Very quiet place," shared a visitor at Stony Fork Campground.
Leveling requirements vary: Paved sites generally more level than gravel options. A visitor to Claytor Lake State Park Campground observed, "Many trails to hike well maintained.great place for the 4th of july."
Generator restrictions common: Most cabin areas prohibit generator use. One camper at Fort Chiswell RV Park noted, "Very relaxing. Great to take a couple days relaxing out of the hurry of city life. There is plenty of room to walk your pet and some of the sites provide shaded areas."
Water quality considerations: Some locations require filtration. A visitor to Greenbrier River Campground mentioned, "Every spot appears to have all the regular RV amenities, electric...water (though slightly brown with sediment, so bring your filter) and sewer, with most spots taken up by what appear to be seasonal folks."
