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.
$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"
$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."
$16 - $97 / night
"access to human food."
"Like most Virginia state parks the River Bend campground is well spaced out and great for RV camping."
$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."
$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!"
$32 - $427 / night
"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."
$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."
$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."
"We want to check out the other sites and walk the trails, so we will be back!"
LegendWe stayed in site #27 for two nights. It was a walk-in tent site, but the car was very close. The site offered plenty of privacy. We could see the other sites, but they weren't close. We had a nice bear box and good hammock trees, plus a picnic table and decent tent sites. Lots of deer walked through our site in the morning, and we had easy access to several trails.
ScoutShowers are well removed from the center of activity
Also the personalities at the office are extremely short
GuideThis is an awesome campground that is definitely worth the cost. The sites are really nice, there’s a decent bathhouse and you can walk to the brewery for beers and food. Plus the area is beautiful!
GuideI chose Big Meadows to stay at because my traveling companion is definitely a bit bougie and was anxious about camping in the mountains of a NP. Due to this site having showers, toilets, a laundromat, camp store(s) and even a lodge/taproom, they felt more comfortable. We stayed at site D142, right near the entrance by the registration office and showers. I didn’t expect the site to be so nice and quiet and still feel quite private despite the location! We checked out the loops and besides the tent sites, I actually preferred our site. We stayed the week before Memorial Day weekend and I was pleased with how quiet it was. Quiet hours were strictly adhered without rangers having to ask, other campers were respectful toward each other and we had no issues. The NP staff were awesome and the concession employees for the showers, camp store, and the Wayside grill were genuinely friendly and obviously cared about their jobs, which I sincerely appreciate. Wayside grill with attached camp store was fun and had some great gift items as well as some pretty solid quality hiking and camping items. The grill even had a beyond burger which I greatly appreciated! The lodge was funky but not my cup of tea, the taproom was ok, although the employees were really nice.
It did rain half the time we were there with extremely heavy fog so we only did a few hikes but they were still a lot of fun. We didn’t see any bear either! The number one animal we had invade our campsite on the regular were birds. Two catbirds regularly tried to involve themselves in everything, including landing on a pot of oatmeal I was actively cooking and standing next to! We followed leave no trace of course but any chance the birds got, from catbirds, robins, brown thrashers, towhee, and even a redstart, they would try to investigate.
There is clean drinking water listed on the campsite maps, there are utility sinks for grey water (don’t use the bathroom sink!), bathrooms were always clean and bathrooms and showers are open 24/7 and are well lit. I didn’t buy the firewood so I’m unsure how much it is but the little camp store was open from 9-6 (right by the bathroom) for firewood, ice, and other various supplies.
Only downsides to the site are 1) showers are not cheap ($5 for 10 mins) and don’t stay warm for long so you’re showering in chilly water. Some stalls last a bit longer than others. 2) The biggest issue though was surprisingly the bear boxes. They are quite large and fit a lot of stuff which is great. However, you are expected to keep your cooler in them. I have a bear proof cooler (IGBC) so I’ve never had to experience this situation before. The bear box being made of metal, heated everything up in it which caused rapid melting of ice. Despite pre-chilling it and my ice usually lasting for days and days, we had to refill it daily. The camp store thankfully sold ice (10 lb bags for $5) but it was frustrating that there was no other option for bear proof items. I didn’t fight the rangers regarding it because it’s their rules, it’s for the safety of the bears and people, and the rangers and park staff have enough stuff to deal with.
All in all, I’ve never really glamped before so it was quite a luxurious trip even with the rain and fog for half the trip. I’ll most definitely be back and would even stay at the same site or a tent only site with no driveway.
GuideWe camped here Labor Day weekend 2025. Our site was nicely situated between a trail down to the lake and bathhouse.
We had a long driveway that was perfect for throwing a ball around. Plenty of space to spread out, and surrounded by trees.
Enjoyed a sunset walk down to the lake and exploring the entire beach area. Loved seeing the turtles at the pond and exploring two different play areas.
GuideWe stayed in the tent only section for Labor Day weekend in 2024. The tent sites were not very level and close together. They were entirely gravel.
The kiddos enjoyed the swimming beach and some of the play items built in. The slide and some other pieces had seen better days and needed a bit of a refresh.
We didn't have a chance to check out any trails, but plan to go back on the future.
GuideMy wife and I stayed here one night, while driving south to north, Skyline Dr. the drive has been awesome and this campground is the perfect resting spot for us, for the night. Had a couple drinks at the lodge while watching a spectacular sunset. I’d definitely come back.
ScoutI will start with the negatives. They do not enforce quiet hours. At all. We had multiple nights with a large group neighboring campers partying well past midnight. Yelling, slamming car doors, absolutely no regard for fellow campers. I would not recommend staying along the road sites unless you are equipped to deal with noisy neighbors in close proximity.
And the good... The sites in the more wooded areas on the edge of the campground are beautiful. You are less likely to deal with groups of campers there to party. Bathrooms were clean and well maintained, with pay showers available. Firewood, though expensive, was plentiful. Being close to hiking, the lodge, camp store, and visitor center are excellent perks for the price of each site.
I really wish the staff was there to better enforce the quiet hours, as there were multiple campers that struggled to sleep/relax with the raucous crowd so close.
ScoutThe river is nice for floating when water is high enough. Nice waterfall for pics. Sites are close together but still ok. They have planted trees between sites so in time it will get even better. Camping by the river is very peaceful.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping options in Palmyra?
Palmyra, Virginia offers several camping options within a short drive. Powhatan State Park Campground provides camping facilities with nice amenities, though it's recommended to research sites before booking. For RV enthusiasts, Americamps RV Resort north of Richmond offers full hookups, a seasonal pool, and clean facilities while being mostly surrounded by woods. Other nearby options include James River State Park with spacious campsites and Small Country Campground near Louisa. Most campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities like water and toilets, with many offering reservable sites.
What historical attractions can I visit while camping in Palmyra?
While camping near Palmyra, you can explore numerous historical attractions in the region. When staying at Shenandoah National Park, you'll have access to historical sites along Skyline Drive, including original Civilian Conservation Corps structures and historic mountain homesteads. James River State Park offers historical interpretive programs about the canal systems and early settlements along the James River. Nearby, you can visit Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, James Monroe's Highland, James Madison's Montpelier, and historic Charlottesville. The area is rich with Civil War battlefields, historic courthouses, and colonial-era churches that provide glimpses into Virginia's significant role in American history.
What is the best time of year to camp in Palmyra?
The best time to camp in Palmyra is during late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when temperatures are moderate and comfortable. Devils Backbone Camp provides a pleasant experience during these seasons with minimal outside noise and comfortable conditions. At Sherando Lake Campground, the mild temperatures of late spring and early fall make for ideal camping and hiking conditions. Summer months (July-August) can be hot and humid with occasional thunderstorms, while offering full access to water activities. Winter camping is possible but less common, with fewer facilities open and potential for cold temperatures. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers, while fall offers spectacular foliage colors, making both excellent choices for Palmyra area camping.
Keep Exploring
