Best Campgrounds near Roanoke, VA

Camping near Roanoke, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. At Hanging Rock State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "The park has 5 waterfalls... almost all the hikes involve a steep hill climb of stairs." This makes for a great workout while enjoying nature.
• Fishing and Swimming: Enjoy the water at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. One camper said, "The lake beach area is particularly nice and staffed by lifeguards," making it a safe spot for families.
• Mountain Biking: Check out the trails at Douthat State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Great camping, nice beach and swim area, lots of hiking and biking trails," perfect for those who love to ride.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, one guest said, "Park is fantastic, best I’ve ever seen for cleanliness and friendly staff."
• Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous space between sites. A visitor at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area mentioned, "The site was nice sized and shaded," which adds to the comfort of camping.
• Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, a reviewer shared, "The staff was UNBELIEVABLY awesome and nice."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper noted, "There are signs warning everyone with instructions on how to avoid a bear visit," so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
• Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. One visitor at Hanging Rock State Park Campground mentioned, "The place was pretty packed," suggesting a weekday visit for a quieter experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: Be aware of wildlife in the area. A camper at Douthat State Park Campground mentioned, "Bear warnings were posted throughout the campground," so keep your food secured.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. At Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, one reviewer said, "The park has shade. You can hear some road traffic at night but it did not bother us," making it a good option for families.
• Plan for Activities: Bring bikes and fishing gear to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground noted, "There are many camping areas in the park, some near creeks and on the lake as well."
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. A visitor at Goose Point Park mentioned, "The campground offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere," perfect for enjoying a picnic.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA said, "The folks I interacted with in the office were very nice," which can help with site selection.
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need water and electric, check the campground features. At Claytor Lake State Park Campground, one camper noted, "The campsite was large and quiet which was nice."
• Be Prepared for Narrow Roads: Some campgrounds have winding roads. A visitor at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area mentioned, "The road in is a little narrow and windy but wasn't too bad," so drive carefully.

Camping around Roanoke, Virginia, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakeside spots to adventurous mountain trails. Whether you're tent camping or RVing, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.