Scottsville camping areas sit along the James River watershed at elevations around 300-500 feet, creating mild conditions for year-round camping. Yurt accommodations in this region provide a temperature-controlled alternative to traditional tents, with several state parks featuring these semi-permanent structures. The central Virginia location positions campers within easy reach of both the Blue Ridge Mountains and coastal plains.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lake Anna State Park offers multiple difficulty levels with varying terrain. A visitor noted "There are opportunities for motor boating, kayaking, swimming, hiking, fishing, etc. The only downside I found was that the grass really needed mowing. Even though there had been a few rainy days, the grass at our campsite was knee high and higher."
Water activities: At Holliday Lake State Park Campground, the 40-acre lake provides multiple recreation options. One reviewer mentioned, "We loved kayaking and fishing. We watched a Bald Eagle and an Osprey for over an hour while kayaking on the lake."
Fishing spots: Montebello Resort offers both a stocked trout pond and a bass lake. According to a camper, "The trout pond is not catch and release, it is catch and keep, whatever you catch, you pay for power pound." Another visitor added, "The kids are guaranteed to catch something in the fishing hole."
Archery range: Bear Creek Lake State Park provides archery facilities for those seeking land-based activities. One review emphasized, "It has a lake for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are programs every weekend. There is even an archery range."
What campers like
Individual bathrooms: Powhatan State Park Campground offers unusual privacy in its facilities. A visitor explained, "Bathrooms are individual with a shower in each one. Lots of geocaching on grounds, fishing, hiking, boat launch, canoe racks, playground, a store with a nature center, and a Junior Ranger program for the kids."
Tent platforms: Bear Creek Lake State Park uses an innovative tent pad design. According to a camper, "The tent pads are filled with shredded tires instead of gravel or dirt, which provides a little extra cushion, but can be uncomfortable on bare feet."
Pet-friendly areas: Crabtree Falls Campground offers dedicated spaces for dogs. A reviewer mentioned, "Bonus is having the dog only section at the swimming beach, which made for a fun afternoon with our pups."
Natural sounds: Riverside campsites provide calming natural white noise. One camper at Crabtree Falls noted, "The tent sites we stayed in were 10 ft away from the Tye river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Most campgrounds have minimal cell coverage. A visitor at Holliday Lake mentioned, "There is very limited reception in the park for radio and cell. We were able to check with the ranger to get updates on weather."
Site leveling challenges: Prepare equipment for uneven terrain. One camper noted, "Bring leveling supplies! Some sites are reservable, some are not."
Seasonal fluctuations: Water activities vary significantly by season. A camper at Lake Anna stated, "There weren't any lifeguards on duty during our stay, but the beach was still open. Plenty of families were in the water. The sign says swim at your own risk."
Weekend crowds: Walnut Hills Campground sees significant weekend traffic. According to a reviewer, "Many long-term sites (lots of weekenders) around the lake and up in the hilly area. Short-term sites are in the very front but you do have to take a circuitous route through the campground to get back to that area after checking in."
Tips for camping with families
Waterfront selection: Choose sites with natural barriers for child safety. A visitor at Bear Creek Lake noted, "We chose a reservable waterview site (#18) and I'm glad we got the one we did! It is not directly on the water, there is a fence around the site and then a short walk to the water. I'm glad we had the beautiful view of the lake while camping, but didn't have to stress about the kids getting in the water the whole time."
Program participation: Take advantage of ranger-led activities. One camper at Holliday Lake mentioned, "Some of the activities included spear throwing, how to start different types of fires, nocturnal animals sounds, and watching fish at night. On Saturday nights they turn on a few lights underneath the water so you can see the fish swimming around."
Playground options: Cozy Acres Campground has significant play facilities. A reviewer shared, "The playground is impressive and the staff is very welcoming upon arrival."
Swimming areas: Look for designated kid-friendly swimming sections. One visitor at Bear Creek Lake described, "There is a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun!"
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Choose locations based on privacy needs. At Shenandoah Crossing, a visitor noted, "Big beautiful paved sites with furniture to boot. Complete with gas grills and outdoor sinks."
Access limitations: Check campground specifications before booking. One camper at Bear Creek Lake warned, "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer."
Dumping facilities: Evaluate sewage options before arrival. A visitor at Walnut Hills mentioned, "Short-term sites are electric and water only but there is a free dump station down in the back."
Road navigation: Consider campground layout for easier maneuvering. At Montebello Resort, a reviewer advised, "VA56 is a very windy road not recommended for pulling a camper through. Use the blue ridge parkway."
