Best Campgrounds near Palmyra, VA

Central Virginia's Palmyra area offers a diverse range of camping experiences within a short drive of town. Powhatan State Park Campground, located about 20 miles southeast, provides both developed sites with hookups and primitive canoe-in camping along the James River. Small Country Campground in nearby Louisa features tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations in a wooded setting. The region balances proximity to Charlottesville's amenities with rural landscapes that support various camping styles from primitive tent sites to full-service RV resorts like Shenandoah Crossing in Gordonsville, which operates year-round with glamping options and yurts.

Reservations are essential during peak season from late spring through early fall, particularly for waterfront sites. As one camper noted about Powhatan State Park, "The canoe-in campground is quiet and beautiful, with sites far from each other. Worth the peace of being away from cars." Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours after 10 PM, with rangers actively patrolling in state parks. Cell service varies significantly across the region, with stronger signals near Palmyra and diminishing coverage in more remote areas. Weather conditions remain mild through much of the camping season, though summer humidity can be significant, and afternoon thunderstorms are common from June through August.

Riverside camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with multiple reviewers highlighting the peaceful atmosphere. At Crabtree Falls Campground, one camper shared, "The tent sites we stayed in were 10 feet away from the Tye River. We literally fell asleep to the sound of water every night." Family-friendly amenities are common at established campgrounds, including playgrounds, fishing ponds, and camp stores. Privacy levels vary significantly between sites, with walk-in tent areas generally offering more seclusion than RV loops. During weekdays, even popular campgrounds often have lower occupancy rates, making midweek stays ideal for those seeking quieter experiences. Bear activity is minimal in the immediate Palmyra area but increases in campgrounds closer to Shenandoah National Park.

Best Camping Sites Near Palmyra, Virginia (85)

    1. Small Country Campground

    11 Reviews
    Mineral, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 967-2431

    $31 - $109 / night

    "From the bouncing blob to the oversized chess set, from the lakeside beach to the swimming pool, it seems as though plenty of thought has been placed on how to keep a family entertained when in this area"

    "Campground is tucked away but has nice large sites, large lake , pool. Friendly staff"

    2. Shenandoah Crossing, a Bluegreen Vacations Resort

    11 Reviews
    Somerset, VA
    16 miles
    Website

    $50 / night

    "It's located in Gordonsville, Virginia. There's not much to do in the area, but the campground itself is nice."

    "Such a sweet little spot tucked outside of the Blue Ridge Mountains."

    3. Powhatan State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    Goochland, VA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (804) 598-7148

    $19 / night

    "access to human food."

    "Like most Virginia state parks the River Bend campground is well spaced out and great for RV camping."

    4. Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Cumberland, VA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (804) 492-4410

    "The trails were marked once you got on one, not all were visible as trails. With that being said my pup and I took several paths not walked often without another soul or human sound."

    "Nice little state park close to Richmond and not too far from DC."

    5. Misty Mountain Camp Resort

    37 Reviews
    Crozet, VA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 647-8900

    $35 - $75 / night

    "The winding layout allowed for more distance between other sites. The woods were beautiful with easy walking trails right from the site."

    "Back in sites for smaller trailers such as our teardrop were plenty big enough but still on the outskirts of the field. Bath house was very clean and very well thought out."

    6. Charlottesville KOA

    8 Reviews
    Covesville, VA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 296-9881

    $45 - $80 / night

    "For the past four or five years I have come to this campground each year in the offseason, April or October, to visit while the temps in Virginia are cooler and less humid."

    "It’s small, but we did not feel cramped or too close to others. The hooks were the closest we have ever had - which is very nice!"

    7. Horseshoe Flats Campground

    3 Reviews
    Scottsville, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (434) 286-4401

    $25 - $50 / night

    "Horseshoe Flats has been the location for my neighborhood car camping/kayak trip for the last several years, and it is a fantastic location."

    8. Loft Mountain Campground — Shenandoah National Park

    61 Reviews
    Dyke, VA
    35 miles
    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."

    9. Phantom Hill Forest Farm

    1 Review
    Mineral, VA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 894-7901

    "We want to check out the other sites and walk the trails, so we will be back!"

    10. Phantom Hill Forest Farm

    1 Review
    Mineral, VA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 894-7901

    $65 / night

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Recent Reviews near Palmyra, VA

745 Reviews of 85 Palmyra Campgrounds



Guide to Palmyra

Camping near Palmyra, Virginia, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. From established campgrounds to scenic views, there’s something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails right from your campsite. At Big Meadows Campground, you can easily access trails like Dark Hollow Falls. One visitor 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: Enjoy swimming and fishing at Sherando Lake Campground. A reviewer noted, "The lake has a swimming area and a beach. There is hiking and fishing in each lake."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. One camper at Loft Mountain Campground said, "Beautiful place. Lots of deer!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Pocahontas State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms were clean but the one close to my site the outside was falling apart."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A reviewer at Misty Mountain Camp Resort said, "Love the pool, cabins and all amenities."
  • Proximity to Attractions: Being close to local attractions is a big plus. One camper at Harrisonburg - Shenandoah Valley KOA noted, "I liked the pool, camp shop, and proximity to Massanutten water park."

What you should know:

  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at Lewis Mountain Campground advised, "Arrive early enough in the day to snag a better site."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Matthews Arm Campground mentioned, "No electricity or hookups at Matthew’s Arm, and no cell service."
  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during peak times. A reviewer at Canoe Landing Group Campsite shared, "Our neighbors were noisy, obnoxious, and trashy into the wee hours of the morning."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. One camper at Pocahontas State Park Campground said, "The playground was decent and pretty centrally located on the campground."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A visitor at Sherando Lake Campground noted, "Campsite was right next to lake, beautiful views and easy water access."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise during quiet hours. A camper at Lewis Mountain Campground mentioned, "The campground is right on the AT, so hiking is easy."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Loft Mountain Campground said, "Good clean campsites and showers, my only complaint being the showers were pretty expensive at $5 for 10 minutes."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds don’t offer full hookups. A visitor at Matthews Arm Campground noted, "No electric hookups, but you can run a generator if needed."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump station is located. A camper at Big Meadows Campground mentioned, "There is a dump station nearby that is convenient, in good working order, and also has potable water."

Camping near Palmyra, Virginia, has its perks and quirks. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Palmyra, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Palmyra, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 85 campgrounds and RV parks near Palmyra, VA and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Palmyra, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Palmyra, VA is Small Country Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 11 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Palmyra, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Palmyra, VA.

What parks are near Palmyra, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Palmyra, VA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.