Camping areas near Rocky Mount, Virginia range from expansive RV parks to specialized motorcycle campgrounds. Most facilities sit at elevations between 700-1,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations between valley campgrounds and mountain sites. Weather patterns often bring afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, with September and October offering the driest camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Salthouse Branch Campground provides direct access to Philpott Reservoir for boating and fishing. "Philpott reservoir is magnificent! The launch ramp was adjacent to the campsite and while we could have portaged our kayak to the ramp, there is an ample parking lot ramp-side," reports one visitor.
Disc golf courses: Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground features a 9-hole disc golf course on site. "They have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" notes a camper who stayed at the facility.
Trail systems: Hiking options range from moderate to strenuous across the region. "Great hiking trails to a beautiful waterfall," mentions a camper about Alta Mons, while another visitor at Chantilly Farm highlights "rolling grassy hills and acres of woods with hiking and mountain biking trails."
What campers like
River and lake swimming: The natural water features allow for cooling off during hot weather. At Salthouse Branch, "accessibility to both beach swimming areas" is available, though one camper notes it can be "risky for those needing to use a cane or crutches."
Wildlife viewing: Camp Alta Mons and surrounding areas offer opportunities to spot native species. "The first bear of the season was spotted the morning we arrived and promptly skidaddled back into the wooded mountains. Song birds are prolific and wake you early with their welcomed chorus," reports one camper.
Community fire pits: Some campgrounds facilitate social interaction through shared fire areas. At Willville Motorcycle Camp, "there's a community fire ring where Will has a fire most nights," creating opportunities to meet fellow travelers.
What you should know
Terrain challenges: Most campgrounds in the area feature uneven ground that requires preparation. "Leveling blocks are recommended as sites often feature slight grades on gravel pads," notes a visitor, while another camper at Salthouse Branch mentions their site had "good drainage" which was helpful "during a time of limited personal mobility."
Seasonal operations: Operating dates vary significantly between facilities. Thousand Trails Lynchburg operates "seasonally from April 28 to October 29," while Chantilly Farm and Indian Heritage RV Park remain open year-round.
Alcohol regulations: Rules regarding alcohol consumption vary by campground. At Salthouse Branch, "the police visited us bc we were drinking outside of our camper. He was very nice and explained no alcohol allowed. This is clearly stated and we were in the wrong."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Sweetwater RV Park provides swimming options for children. One family reports: "The pool was great for my son and we had it to ourselves multiple days," making it ideal for those with young swimmers.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain playground equipment. A visitor to Salthouse Branch mentioned, "We love visiting the Salthouse Branch! The lower loop is pretty level, fun to walk and ride bikes around, and the kids love the playground!"
Site selection: For family camping, requesting sites away from main roads improves safety. "We were on top of a hill with other RVs with gorgeous views and sunsets. The grounds were very well kept and mowed," noted one family about their experience at Chantilly Farm.
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Don's Cab-Inns Campground and Explore Park provide easier access than more remote options. The roads to Salthouse Branch are "very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance," warns one RVer.
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have size limitations for larger rigs. At Salthouse Branch, "sites are a bit small for anything over 35' but we did mange our 41' in there... they do have some lrg back in FHU sites if you need but not many."
Heated water connections: Winter camping requires special preparations. At Chantilly Farm, one December visitor appreciated that their "lovely Host was very kind and showed our site - It also had heated water hose so that was a big bonus."
