Camping spots near Palmyra, Virginia range from riverside tent sites to full-service resort accommodations, with elevations generally below 500 feet throughout the region. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes, with spring and fall offering mild temperatures between 50-75°F and lower humidity compared to summer when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F. Primitive campsites often fill faster during peak fall foliage season from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Horseback riding access: 30-minute drive at Shenandoah Crossing, where equestrian facilities include guided trail rides and carriage tours. "The campground was nice and very clean. Our site was not exactly level but I think it was because we were in the first spot on a row and it had a slant. The others looked pretty level," notes camper Brenda L.
Wine tasting circuit: 5-6 wineries within 15 miles of Palmyra camping areas, particularly accessible from Charlottesville KOA. "We really like the location of this campground as we wanted to explore the VA wine country, Monticello, Skyline Drive and other sites in the area," shares Nancy W., who appreciated the campground's proximity to local attractions.
Flat water paddling: Launch points available at multiple James River access areas near Powhatan State Park Campground. "The park has lots of trails, miles of open meadows, and James River access. Great park for bicycling," according to one camper who noted the park's 1,500 acres provide multiple recreation options beyond just riverside activities.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Notable separation at Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground, particularly in the Acorn Loop. "Sites 4-12 are the best, with #11 being the best best: it's right on the water but also kind of tucked away a bit," reports camper RL who thoroughly explored the various camping loops.
Clean individual bathrooms: Private shower rooms available at newer facilities like Powhatan State Park. "I was very happy to see such a clean bathhouse, especially during the current pandemic. Each staff member I encountered was extremely helpful and polite," notes a visitor who appreciated the thoughtful facility design.
Free laundry amenities: Unusual perk found at some locations like Shenandoah Crossing. "The laundry facility was very nice and clean... and free," reports Brenda L., highlighting an amenity that's rarely complementary at campgrounds.
What you should know
Train noise affects some sites: Regular rail traffic passes Horseshoe Flats Campground. "Other than the occasional train passing by during the night, it's a perfectly quiet and peaceful campsite," explains Rob U., noting this minor disruption at an otherwise tranquil riverside location.
Flash flood risk in lower sites: Sites T-1 through T-6 at Misty Mountain Camp Resort flood during heavy rains. "We camped at T2 and had to tear down as soon as we set it up. The sites with utilities looked fine," warns Jennings A., suggesting campers choose higher elevation sites during rainy seasons.
Uneven terrain at some locations: Level sites can be hard to find at certain campgrounds. "Our site was not exactly level but I think it was because we were in the first spot on a row and it had a slant," reports a Shenandoah Crossing visitor, while another camper at Powhatan State Park noted "We were on site seven which was very long but very unlevel."
Tips for camping with families
Jumping pillow activities: Popular with children at Small Country Campground. "My band had first seesaw ride, swings and had experienced with jump tube," writes Angela L., who found the campground perfect for family getaways with young children.
Multiple swimming options: Both pool and lake swimming available at some campgrounds. "Small 'lake' but has two man made beach spots. The sand is very nice and clean," mentions Rachel S., who advises bringing water shoes as "the bottom of the lake was very slimey and mushy as it's a lake/pond."
Affordable recreation: $3 mini-golf and other budget-friendly activities. "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," Crystal C. observed about Small Country Campground.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Limited at some parks due to terrain. "RV section is typical style in a large field. Back in sites for smaller trailers such as our teardrop were plenty big enough but still on the outskirts of the field," notes Mike G. about Misty Mountain Camp Resort.
Size restrictions: 35-foot maximum at Bear Creek Lake State Park. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," cautions Erica M., information especially important for those with larger rigs.
Hook-up placement: Variable distance between parking and utilities at some sites. "Site 50 is a bit strange. Camping area is big enough for a small rig but the power pedestal is far away, so you might have to be creative in setting up. Unless you have a long power cord or don't hook up at all," advises Mara S. from Misty Mountain Camp Resort.
