Camping options surround Shawsville, Virginia at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet along the Blue Ridge Mountain corridor. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically 10-15°F cooler than surrounding lowlands. Fall camping between mid-September and late October requires warmer sleeping bags as nighttime temperatures often drop below 45°F.
What to do
Fishing and boating at Philpott Reservoir: Salthouse Branch Campground provides direct access to this 3,000-acre lake. "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. Philpott reservoir is magnificent!" notes Patrice.
Hunting for fairy stones: Located near Fairy Stone State Park Campground, visitors can search for staurolite crystal formations. "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!" shares Kirsten J.
Explore Floyd's artistic community: The town of Floyd is accessible from Chantilly Farm RV/Tent Campground. "This campground is located right outside of Floyd, VA and just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a beautiful venue with rolling grassy hills and acres of woods with hiking and mountain biking trails," explains Stafford W.
What campers like
Clean bathhouse facilities: Wytheville KOA maintains excellent restrooms and showers. "All the facilities are extremely well kept and clean, the store has lots of necessities and some fun souvenirs. Our kids loved the arcade, the wagon and train rides around the campground, the craft time, pool and the fishing!" reports Lisa T.
Motorcycle-specific camping: For two-wheel travelers, Willville Motorcycle Camp offers specialized accommodations. "The bathhouse at the top of the hill is quite clean. There's a pavilion for group events or just to hang out. All in all, a favorite place just for motorcycles," writes Joe S. Another visitor adds, "Clean showers, big fire pit, free coffee in the morning. Several restaurants nearby."
Well-spaced campsites: Many campgrounds in the region offer privacy between sites. At Smith Mountain Lake State Park Campground, "The campsites are close enough to the showers/restrooms without compromising all of your privacy. Sites are close enough to meet the neighbors though. Sites are nice and have room for parking," according to Chris L.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many glamping options close to Shawsville, Virginia have poor connectivity. One guest at Fairy Stone State Park mentioned, "There is no cell service or internet/wifi at the cabins though so come prepared with something to do! We found it to be very relaxing to unplug!"
Reservation timing: Weekends fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Most properties require reservations well in advance, particularly during peak summer and fall foliage seasons," with some sites booking 6-9 months ahead for prime dates.
Variable road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigating challenging roads. At Salthouse Branch, one camper warned, "The roads going into the campground is very narrow and steep up and downs. My breaks were gone by the time I got to the entrance."
Alcohol restrictions: Policies vary by campground. Anne F. notes, "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
Ranger programs: Claytor Lake State Park Campground offers educational activities. "Claytor Lake was a great campground for families. We hiked, played at the lake and attended the roving ranger talks. Our camp hosts were great at keeping us informed and sharing ideas to make the weekend fun," shares Angela J.
Private tent sites: Look for established platforms at parks with good drainage. "Great spot for tent camping! Loved the hillside spots bc of all the trees and the multiple levels that the spots are on. They are all built out and flat," explains Paula J. about her experience at Salthouse Branch.
Swimming options: Most parks have designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "There is a beautiful lake for swimming. Tons of hiking trails. They had a great playground for the kids nearby," reports one visitor at Fairy Stone State Park.
Pack extra bug spray: The mountains can have significant insect activity. One camper warned, "We would definitely be back to this site - but I recommend stronger bug spray. We all left with more bites that we usually do camping!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many glamping locations near Shawsville require equipment for uneven terrain. At Fairy Stone State Park Campground, "The sites are a little rough but easy to level your rig," reports Keith F.
Premium sites: For more spacious RV accommodations, Meadows of Dan Campground offers "lovely tree cover in both the RV and tent camping areas. There are also cabins. The manager is very friendly & accommodating."
Dump stations: Not all parks offer full hookups. At Claytor Lake, "Each loop has a bathhouse, and each site has water/electric. C and D loops offer little to no site to site privacy, and loops A and B sites are wooded and angled to afford a scant more privacy."
Hookup options: Different campgrounds offer various levels of service. "We stayed in site #5 this time - at the top of the hill because the sky was rather ominous. The tent pads at this campground are excellent and drain well," noted one visitor describing the water management during heavy rain.
