Tent campers exploring the Round Hill, Virginia area will find opportunities for primitive camping in the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains at elevations between 900-1700 feet. The region offers a mix of Appalachian Trail access points and riverside camping locations within an hour's drive of Round Hill. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Hike the Appalachian Trail: Near Annapolis Rock Campground, backpackers can access multiple trail sections. "About a dozen campsites to choose, and several group sites. Some fairly private. No camp fires allowed. Short walk to cold natural spring for water. Short walk to Annapolis rock. Rock climbing available," notes Christopher B.
Tube or paddle the Potomac: The riverfront camping at Antietam Creek Campground provides water access. According to Shawn W., "Antietam creek is very close by and is perfect for tubing or just enjoy the river & nature from your campsite!" Many campers bring inflatable tubes or kayaks for day trips.
Historical exploration: The C&O Canal towpath runs near several campgrounds, offering opportunities to visit Civil War sites. "It's nice being so close to cool historical stuff," reports Casey L. about Antietam Creek Campground. Guided battlefield tours operate daily during summer months from nearby visitor centers.
What campers like
Spacious sites with natural separation: At Sky Meadows State Park Campground, the terrain creates natural boundaries. Alexander H. mentions, "Everything at the park is laid out pretty clearly and straight forward enough so you shouldn't have too many issues. Make sure to have cash to simplify paying for things such as firewood (you can pay upfront)."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk bring animal sightings at many camping areas. Russ L. reports from Sky Meadows, "We had a family of deer pay us a visit each morning - didn't come across any bears." Birdwatching is particularly good during spring migration in April-May.
Tent-specific amenities: Some campgrounds offer features designed for tent campers. According to Amy S., Sky Meadows provides "fire rings with grates and a picnic table. Sites are large enough for three one person tents. Pit toilets, no showers, cell service. Make sure you bring a bear bag or box with you."
What you should know
Bear safety is essential: Most tent camping areas require proper food storage. "If it hadn't rained, I also would've been able to use the hammock posts at my site (you could use these to hang a clothesline too if you wanted)," notes a Sky Meadows visitor. Bear boxes are available at some sites but not all.
Limited water access: Potable water isn't universally available. Justin S. explains about Sky Meadows: "There is no camp store at the campground, only at the main visitor center where you check in." Campers should bring water treatment solutions or carry sufficient supplies.
Weather considerations: The Round Hill area experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in summer. A camper at Dahlgren Backpacker Campground mentioned, "This is a stop on the AT open only to multi-day backpackers. I've heard it is sometimes enforced. It's a bit different than most AT stops, as there are no real sites, just a large grassy area to pitch tents."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shorter hike-in distances: For families with young children, select campgrounds with minimal walking. About Sky Meadows, Russ L. advises, "The campsites are about 1 mile from the overnight lot, which was a great hike-in if you don't overpack! We brought a wagon with extra gear with us, but we definitely took in too many items."
Consider activity options: Campgrounds with varied terrain provide natural play spaces. At Horseshoe Bend Hiker-biker Overnight Campsite, Miranda M. found, "Small campsite but no one else was there, so it was perfect. There is a porta potty, water pump, and picnic table. Wonderful spot on the river."
Plan for bathroom facilities: When camping with children, bathroom access matters. Katie M. shares about Sky Meadows: "They have wheelbarrows you can borrow to help bring in your stuff from the car. There are pit toilets and non potable water available as well as firewood when you get to the campground."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access at tent-focused sites: Most tent camping areas near Round Hill don't accommodate RVs. At Gathland State Park Campground, one camper noted, "Solid camping area... felt safe and had a great time," but the hike-in only access restricts RV use.
Parking considerations: For RVers who want to tent camp, secure parking is available at some trailheads. Andrew M. explains about Antietam Creek: "It's also a weird setup with respect to parking—as you have to park on the opposite side of the canal and walk to your campsite. If you got one close to the bridge over the canal then you're 100ft from the car."
Hybrid options: RV travelers seeking tent experiences can park at designated overnight lots and hike to tent sites. According to Lucas B. at Sky Meadows, "Parking is in a locked lot steps away from trail head which leads to campsites about a mile away."
