Cabin camping near Somerset, Virginia offers access to the Blue Ridge Mountains, with elevations ranging from 600 to 3,500 feet across the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F while fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Winter camping options remain available with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking at Big Meadows: Located on Skyline Drive, Big Meadows Campground provides direct access to numerous hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. "Busy traffic in park but nice trails are accessible from campground. Visitor Center, gas station, food walking distance from campground," notes Kim L. who visited in 2024.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Anna State Park Campground offers multiple fishing piers for anglers. "It has great hiking trails and fishing piers with ample sitting area. The sunsets over the water are priceless," according to Jennifer G., who found the park ideal for relaxing afternoons.
Horseback riding: For equestrians, some Somerset area campgrounds offer riding facilities. "Beautiful grounds, something for everyone. Large back in sites. Three pools, playground, marina, Minigolf, stables and bike rental," reports Kathie M. about Shenandoah Crossing, mentioning the on-site riding facilities.
Trail connections: Several campgrounds connect directly to the Appalachian Trail. "The AT runs right through the campground," explains Katrin M. about Loft Mountain Campground, making it convenient for hikers to access the famous long-distance trail without driving.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common throughout the Somerset area campgrounds. "You will definitely see deer in the campground as they walk through and browse the understory. They are unafraid of humans unless directly approached," shares Veronica S. about her stay at Big Meadows Campground.
Natural swimming areas: Many campers appreciate the lake access available at certain campgrounds. "The beach area is clean and very family oriented. It has great hiking trails and if your looking for a relaxing fishing afternoon, they have some of the nicest fishing piers with ample sitting area," mentions Jennifer G. about Lake Anna State Park.
Evening programs: Ranger-led activities enhance many camping experiences in the region. "Nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," notes Kim L. about Big Meadows, referring to the educational evening presentations that highlight local ecology and history.
Privacy options: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. "The sites were fairly close, but separated by trees, so you felt private. You could hear people on the other side of the trees, but no one was loud and it was very quiet and peaceful at night," reports Annie B. about Loft Mountain Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: First-come, first-served campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Out of the 31 sites (including host site), only 3 remained when we arrived at about 1:45 PM on a Friday afternoon, and those remaining filled up within the hour," warns Danielle V. about Lewis Mountain Campground, suggesting arrivals before 11:30 AM for weekend camping.
Weather preparedness: Higher elevation sites experience significant temperature fluctuations. "It was an especially cold night hitting a low of 14F. Very happy for the nearby heated restrooms with hot running water," reports Carol B. about a late-season November stay at Big Meadows, highlighting the importance of cold-weather gear.
Bug activity: Insects can be problematic during warmer months. "The bugs when we got here were kinda crazy. They don't bite but they swarm your head and try to enter every orifice for some reason. A head net was helpful to get the tent and screen room set up," advises Veronica S.
Shower availability: Shower facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The shower left SO MUCH to be desired... There is a push button to turn water on (no temp adjustment) and it only allows 36 SECONDS of water before it shuts back off," notes Tina C. about Christopher Run Campground, emphasizing the need to prepare for limited amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Several campgrounds offer specialized amenities for children. "There is a nice pool, arcade, camp store, horse riding, and the camp sites are pretty nice. All around good place to camp," explains Sam M. about Small Country Campground, which includes playgrounds and recreational activities.
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of ranger-led programs designed for young visitors. "There is a nice amphitheater with interesting ranger programs," notes Kim L., referring to the family-oriented educational sessions at Big Meadows.
Wildlife safety: Teach children proper wildlife viewing etiquette. "The deer are unafraid of humans unless directly approached (I did not do this, but I watched someone's child do it)," observes Veronica S., highlighting the importance of maintaining safe distances from wild animals.
Camping proximity: Consider the location of facilities when selecting sites with children. "Our site was not exactly level but I think it was because we were in the first spot on a row and it had a slant. The others looked pretty level. The laundry facility was very nice and clean... and free," shares Brenda L. about Shenandoah Crossing.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. "The sites are good size, but not very level. We did finally get ours squared away," reports Joel R. about Christopher Run Campground, suggesting RVers bring leveling blocks.
Hookup locations: Check the position of utility hookups before setting up. "Our only complaint was that the sewage connection was slightly higher than the black tank outlet on our Airstream," notes John H. about Madison Vines RV Resort & Cottages, formerly Shenandoah Hills Campground, highlighting a common challenge with sewage connections.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise from nearby highways. "The motorcycle noise from the nearby interstate" was noted by Chaz M. during their stay at Misty Mountain Camp Resort, suggesting selecting sites farther from main roads.
Storage limitations: Not all campgrounds offer secure food storage for RVs. "Bear box provided," mentions Terri S. about Big Meadows Campground, indicating that even RV campers should prepare for wildlife safety requirements including proper food storage.
