Cabin options near Shawsville, Virginia sit at elevations between 1,200-3,000 feet in the western Blue Ridge region. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with occasional snow, while summer daytime temperatures average 75-85°F. Most cabin campgrounds operate year-round, though some amenities like swimming areas close seasonally from October through April.
What to do
Creek exploration: 15-minute drive from Shawsville to Fairy Stone State Park Campground offers water activities for all ages. "The creek was the big hit for our family of small boys. Grab some lawn chairs and a cooler and let them play and explore for hours," reports a visitor at nearby Wilderness Adventure.
Hiking nearby trails: 1-2 mile options at many cabin locations. At Claytor Lake State Park Campground, "There are a fair amount of trails in the park (roughly 5 miles worth). Trails are wide and seemingly cleared of leaves...new trail signage and tree placards abound, as well as new benches strategically located near lake views."
Disc golf: Free 9-hole course at Chantilly Farm provides entertainment between hiking sessions. "They have free wifi along with a brand new 9 hole disc golf course!" mentions a camper who visited in May.
Fairy stone hunting: Unique activity for geology enthusiasts. "We learned about the mysterious 'Fairy Stones' and went to the hunt site to see for ourselves. Sure enough - we found several fairy stones and the kids were very happy!" reports a ranger review from Fairy Stone State Park.
What campers like
Private sites: Wooded settings provide a secluded feel at Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground. "These campsites are close enough to the showers/restrooms without compromising all of your privacy. Sites are nice and have room for parking."
Mountain views: Elevated cabin locations offer scenic vistas at several properties. "We were on top of a hill with other RV's with gorgeous views and sunsets. The grounds were very well kept and mowed," notes a visitor at Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground.
Stargazing: Minimal light pollution in mountainous areas creates ideal viewing conditions. A Smith Mountain Lake camper commented simply: "boy are there some amazing stars out here," highlighting the night sky quality away from urban centers.
Evening entertainment: Weekend concerts at select locations during summer months. A Claytor Lake visitor mentioned: "We went swimming down at the beach in the morning... There was a concert going on somewhere at the park so we had some beautiful orchestral music playing as we were winding down for bed one night."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Prepare accordingly at most mountain cabin locations. "Note that there is not great cell service in this area," warns a camper who stayed in a yurt at Fairy Stone State Park.
Cabin amenities vary significantly: From basic to luxury. At Peaks Of Otter Campground, "The bath house has flush toilets, water spigots, but no showers. There is also no electric, water, or sewer hook-ups," which applies to their more rustic cabin options.
Reservation timing: Book 3-6 months ahead for weekend stays during peak season (May-September). Weekday availability is typically better, especially for shorter notice bookings.
Firewood restrictions: Outside wood prohibited at most locations due to invasive species concerns. "Firewood and ice are available at the entrance station (can use credit card), and wood is available from the camp host (cash only)," notes a Claytor Lake review.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Educational activities for kids at multiple parks. At Fancy Gap-Blue Ridge Parkway KOA, families appreciate organized activities. One Fairy Stone visitor shared: "Perfect places for families. We loved all the ranger programs, especially finding all the fairy stones."
Swimming options: Beach access included with some cabin stays. "We went swimming down at the beach in the morning - $3 per person, but free for campers - just bring your pass!" explains a family who stayed at Fairy Stone State Park.
Pack extra towels: Multi-use necessity for lake swimming, unexpected rain, or cabin stays where linens aren't provided. Most cabins near Shawsville require guests to bring their own linens and towels.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Stocked ponds at several locations make fishing accessible for beginners. "The camp store is well stocked...there is a nice little camp store in case you forget anything. Frisbee golf and cornhole is available too!" mentions a visitor to Chantilly Farm.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request specific numbers when making reservations at Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing. "We stayed in Meadow 10 with our friends. So much space and privacy and able to pull through. We had zero problems with mosquitos but enjoyed the night show of fireflies."
Leveling challenges: Bring extra blocks for mountain campgrounds with uneven terrain. "Most of the sites are not level and it felt very crowded," notes a candid review of Fairy Stone State Park.
Water hookup preparation: Heated hoses needed during winter months for cabins with plumbing. "We arrived late around 7pm and it was getting dark, our lovely Host was very kind and showed our site - It also had heated water hose so that was a big bonus," shares a December visitor to Chantilly Farm.
Access considerations: Research road conditions before booking remote cabins. Some locations like Claytor Lake have easier access than more remote mountain options: "We pulled into this campground the long way! We followed dirt roads through hollers and through cow pastures, passing turkey's and all kinds of creatures along the way!"
