Best Campgrounds near Salem, VA

Are you in need of a campground near Salem, VA? Salem is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Discover great camping spots near Salem, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Salem, Virginia (115)

    1. Dixie Caverns

    16 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 380-2085

    "just off the highway but easily accessible, everything works, friendly staff. Showers in bathhouse are a bit dirty but other than that great!"

    "We had a pull-thru site that was pretty much level but was very close to the other campers. This campground seems to have a lot of permanent residents."

    2. Don's Cab-Inns Campground

    7 Reviews
    Hardy, VA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 427-1800

    $25 - $100 / night

    "First, it is a private campground located in a public park - in this case, Explore Park in Roanoke, Virginia (milepost 115 on the Blue Ridge Parkway)."

    "The AC is very welcoming after a long hot day outside and mini fridge is perfect to unload your cooler from traveling. Also, an outlet to charge your phone."

    3. Dragon's Tooth

    3 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 552-4641

    "dragons tooth is off a path that is part of the Appalachian Trail, there is a good amount of parking with a bathroom and garbage, once you begin the trail there are a few dispersed obvious camping spots"

    "This was a quiet spot that felt safe, with a pit toilet nearby to the trailhead parking area. Car camping is the only option at this time."

    4. Johns Spring Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    2 Reviews
    Salem, VA
    7 miles
    Website

    "There is not a water source too close to the shelter. The closest one is about 3 miles North. The sites aren't bad though, pretty flat."

    5. Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT

    1 Review
    Hollins, VA
    7 miles
    Website

    "Near water (collect water with a filter only)

    I was able to make a fire but make sure it's okay when you go.

    Lots of space for many people.

    Not too far from McAfee knob."

    6. Tina's Dream

    2 Reviews
    Troutville, VA
    14 miles
    +1 (540) 855-4383

    $40 / night

    7. Explore Park

    1 Review
    Hardy, VA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 427-1800

    $25 - $150 / night

    8. Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing

    5 Reviews
    Oriskany, VA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 864-6792

    $25 - $75 / night

    "We were not sure about taking such a detour from our path to Asheville, but are so glad we did! We booked a spot “in the meadow” but when we arrived, they had rooms in the lodge for just $20 more."

    "If you’re up for a fun hike, take the Outerspace trail up to “The Bluff” and enjoy the mountain views."

    9. Peaks Of Otter Campground — Blue Ridge Parkway

    23 Reviews
    Thaxton, VA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 586-7321

    $30 / night

    "Picked for price

    Quiet

    Enjoyed Blueridge parkway

    NIce retreat in SW Virginia"

    "It was a pull-through site with an additional area containing a picnic table and fire ring, accessible via a small set of steps up the hill."

    10. Caldwell Fields Group Campground

    2 Reviews
    Blacksburg, VA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (540) 552-4641

    $35 / night

    "Stayed here for two nights with 13 vehicles and 16 people to visit Potts Mountain Jeep trail. nice sized camp spot, vault toilet, and small stream running right behind the canpsite"

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Showing results 1-10 of 115 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Salem, VA

540 Reviews of 115 Salem Campgrounds



Guide to Salem

Camping near Salem, Virginia, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Hanging Rock State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The park has 5 waterfalls... almost all the hikes involve a steep hill climb of stairs." This makes it a great spot for those who love a good workout while enjoying nature.
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Douthat State Park Campground, you can fish and swim in the lake. A reviewer said, "There are many camping areas in the park, some near creeks and on the lake as well." This makes it perfect for water lovers.
  • Bowling and Mini Golf: If you're staying at Wytheville KOA, you can enjoy bowling and mini-golf on-site. One camper shared, "We got in early enough that we were able to get a game of bowling in before they closed."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA. A visitor noted, "Park is fantastic, best I’ve ever seen for cleanliness and friendly staff."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA. One happy camper said, "There is a row towards the front that are pretty close together... We were in a tent and loved our spot."
  • Beautiful Scenery: The views at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground are a big hit. A reviewer exclaimed, "I have camped here for 15 years... the warmest clean waters that will make you forget the ocean."

What you should know

  • Limited Swimming Areas: At Douthat State Park Campground, swimming is restricted to a kiddie area. One camper mentioned, "Swimming in this beautiful and very swimmable and safe lake is limited to a kiddie area - useless if you're looking for exercise."
  • No Showers at Some Campgrounds: If you're heading to Peaks Of Otter Campground, be prepared for no showers. A visitor noted, "There are no showers. The staff were friendly and were able to help with all questions I had."
  • Cell Service Can Be Spotty: Many campgrounds, like Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, have limited cell service. One camper said, "There isn't any cell service yet near the camp loop... you can get service."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Wytheville KOA has a playground and activities for kids. A reviewer mentioned, "The pool was nice. Restroom/Showers were wonderful and clean."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Hanging Rock State Park Campground said, "We got our workout in seeing all the sites."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A visitor at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground noted, "The campground was busy while we were there, but was quiet at night."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, some sites may not be level. One RVer mentioned, "A lot of the sights were not level... the landscaping was not very well taken care of."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Campgrounds like Bolar Mountain Recreation Area may not have many amenities nearby. A camper advised, "There is a small general store that sells somethings and gas but it's not a real grocery."
  • Use the Dump Station: Make sure to utilize the dump station at campgrounds like Claytor Lake State Park Campground before leaving. One visitor said, "There is a dump station on the way out."

Camping around Salem, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any waterfront camping available near Salem, VA?

Yes, several excellent waterfront camping options exist near Salem. Lake Sherwood offers beautiful campsites right on the water, with the majority of sites providing direct lake access. The campground is situated against a small mountain ridge that divides West Virginia and Virginia. Bolar Mountain Recreation Area provides stunning lakeside sites with breathtaking views, clean facilities including showers and flushable toilets. Another option is Douthat State Park, which features a nice lake for kayaking and canoeing alongside well-spaced campsites. Most waterfront options are within 1-2 hours of Salem, making them perfect for weekend getaways.

What are the best campgrounds in Salem, VA for tent camping?

For tent camping near Salem, Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp is consistently rated as one of Virginia's best campgrounds. It offers well-maintained sites with personality, clean bathrooms, and potable water throughout. Most sites accommodate vehicle parking right at your campsite. Another excellent option is North Creek Campground, which provides affordable tent camping ($15) in a serene natural setting. For those willing to drive a bit further, Caldwell Fields Group Campground offers drive-in tent sites with basic facilities. Dragon's Tooth provides a more primitive experience with hike-in access, perfect for adventurous campers seeking solitude in nature.

How far is Dixie Caverns Campground from Salem, VA?

Dixie Caverns is located at the outskirts of Salem, VA. The privately owned campground and tourist site is directly off Interstate 81, making it extremely accessible from Salem. The distance is minimal, approximately 5-10 minutes driving time from downtown Salem. Its convenient location means you're very close to town while still having access to camping facilities. For those seeking alternatives in the area, Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA is another option, though it's further from Salem (about 30-40 minutes south) but offers more amenities including a pool, game room, and playground.