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Steeles Tavern, Virginia sits at the crossroads of several notable camping destinations in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. George Washington National Forest lands surround the area, with Sherando Lake Campground offering both tent and RV sites about 20 miles northeast. Devils Backbone Camp provides a unique brewery-adjacent camping experience with 73 sites, while Crabtree Falls Campground offers riverside camping with tent, RV, and cabin options. The region includes both developed facilities with full hookups and more primitive options like Spy Rock, which provides free dispersed camping accessible only by hiking trails. Several campgrounds feature waterfront locations, with sites positioned along lakes, creeks, and the Tye River.
Reservations are essential during the peak season from April through October, particularly for waterfront sites and holiday weekends. Many campgrounds in the George Washington National Forest have limited or no cell service, with spotty coverage even at more developed sites. As one camper noted about Crabtree Falls, "The tent sites we stayed in were 10 feet away from the Tye River; we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night." Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. Road conditions vary significantly, with some campgrounds accessible via paved roads while others require navigating gravel roads with occasional potholes. Weather patterns can change quickly in the mountains, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations even during summer months.
Mountain views and water access rank as top priorities among camper reviews. Visitors consistently praise the privacy between sites at forest campgrounds, with one camper describing Devils Backbone Camp as having "large group sites in the trees. Private. Fire ring and picnic table. Everything you could need." Families appreciate campgrounds with swimming areas and hiking trails directly accessible from campsites. Noise levels vary significantly between locations, with some campgrounds like Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley described as having "activities until 10:30 at night," while others offer more secluded experiences. Weekdays typically see lower occupancy rates than weekends, even during summer. The camping season generally runs April through October, though several campgrounds including Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA remain open year-round with varying levels of services.
"Sherando Lake is a well-maintained, popular campground located in the George Washington National Forest near Lyndhurst, VA."
"The lakeside is wonderful for sitting, reading and swimming. The "upper lake" is great for fishing. "
from $25 - $47 / night
Check Availability"First time camping in any part of Virginia, very nice and clean campground, not too much outside noise besides the random car driving on the one road near by."
"We set up camp then walked over to the brewery/ restaurant for some flights and dinner. I recommend grabbing some growlers to go. Showers and restrooms were clean."
from $25 - $140 / night
Check Availability"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."
"I’ve camped at a completely different part of this place before which was a site without access to bathrooms and showers."
from $28 - $55 / night
Check Availability"You can fish in the lake though we didn't catch anything. Wifi is free and open so no password and therefore, not secure. Trash picked up each day."
"Good location close to I81 but little road noise. I did hear a train."
from $45 - $99 / night
Check Availability"This is one of Virginia’s best kept secrets for Cabins, RV or Tent camping. The location is awesome; close to some great hiking spots, very accessible & well laid out."
"The upstairs neighbors were probably as quiet as they could be but you could still hear them walking around and using the plumbing. The trout pond is not what they make it out to be on the website."
from $38 - $55 / night
Check Availability"It should be noted that the warning about water moccasins posted previously is inaccurate as there are no water moccasins in this part of Virginia."
"Only thing is that there’s a dog, we think from a property nearby, that acts aggressive towards campers."
"And of course their lake that has two jumping decks, water slide, snack bar , restaurant and off to the side a little store for floats with putt putt golf and Jenna,etc."
"Lots for them to do, great swimming lake, employees were a pleasure. Trash pick-up was awesome !! Our site was gorgeous. Not a full hook up(more on that later), but absolutely perfect."
from $29 - $45 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful surroundings. No phone signal and wifi was a joke but that's not a bad thing!"
"Ate at their on-site restaurant while a local band played outside. Mostly used by local folks as a seasonal CG. Lots of semi-permanent fixtures attached to rigs. Did get a PassPort America discount."
"Spy Rock is this awesome hike about an hour away from Charlottesville, Va. It is a great hike with a small rock scramble at the top for an extra bit of fun."
"The views from atop Spy Rock are some of the best in Virginia, and the campsite is one of my favorites. You hike in and there is a decent sized area to set up tents."
"This campground is open year round and is right off the highway. There is a gas station right next to it as well as a safari park. "
"Located in a beautiful part of central Virginia, this campground gives you lots of options for sightseeing. It is definitely worth a trip to the Natural Bridge."
from $35 / night
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GuideNo other available sites, so used tent site 35 parking spot to stay in campervan. Worked fine. Nice campground. Saw at least 10 deer along sides of road from entrance to campsite.
GuideStopped here on my trip from Cherokee NC to Front Royal VA on the Blue ridge parkway and skyline drive. As in most NPS campgrounds, there are no hookups but the campground was nice and the weather was great. No AC needed.
GuideThe campground is nice but needs a little upkeep. It is apparent from the algae and moss on the buildings that it's a very damp area. The restroom facilities were working but needed touched up All in all it was ok for a nights stay and the lake and sharp top mountain were incredible despite the little issues I wouldn't hesitate to come back.
RangerCool campground in a remote part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As such, very little phone service and lots of narrow, winding roads. Plenty of hikes and several interesting little towns within 30 minutes. I thought it was an interesting mix! We had a power outage during our visit, which also eliminates water access at this site. I was grateful to have an inverter to keep us online since there is zero AT&T service. I had a pull-through site and I'm not certain that I could have made the exit if the campers ahead of me didn't leave.
ScoutThe wifi test was done with my starlink not the campground wifi bc it doesn't exist.
To begin with I came physically up here from SC to check availability for long term stay. I was told there was a list and I would be put on that list and if a spot became available I would be notified (8-3-26). I was called (8-23-26) with availability and request for payment I paid then on the phone. My card the next following 3 days was ran for an additional total of 2400.00 every single morning an 800.00 charge I luckily had my card locked bc if not I would have been screwed. I was not given a reason why my card was ran so many times and not even an apology. I checked in on September 1st and was put in a site completely covered with tree limbs which is a problem as the only requirement I had was a clear view of the sky for my starlink to work for my remote work. For 2 whole weeks I went back and forth with the new GM Peggy. For 2 whole weeks I could NOT work the campground wifi is non existent. I was given the run around and a disrespectful attitude saying it wasnt there fault when it was known to begin with this was an absolute NEED not a want. Fast forward to today (9-12-26) I had issues with my power pole showing a short to ground and I was told its bc the poles are grounded to themselves but finally moved. The only catch was if I was to move I HAD TO LEAVE on october 1st per PEGGY the nee GM. So because of a miscommunication between staff of mine and my families needs bc my kids homeschooling I am forced to scramble to find another campground in two weeks when we live in our camper and work OTR. Its been nothing but problems here. The water taps are full of rust the GM judges you based off how you apear and treats you like dirt under the door mat. I was hoping this would be a good fit for me and my family but it has been nothing but the worst camping experience I have had in the past 5 years. The staff themselfs are great they tried to remedy the issue day one but PEGGY wouldnt allow it. I highly recommend going somewhere else and spending your hard earned money bc this place does not respect you as a customer or tenant. I talked with many campers who have been coming here for years since the 90s and they even say and feel the same the campground has declined since a management company purchased it. Also the long term rentals will be al.ost non existent unless you've bene coming here for 4 years or more. Cable is also non existent here. Its been a very VERY bad regretful experience. The lies from management and corporate baseline excuses are disgusting. Will NEVER camp here again. Take this as your honest warning from a normal person and a combat veteran. It dont take much to please me but this place has fell well below the bar. The site is was moved to before I get kicked out because they couldnt properly meet the needs of my stay allowed my starlink to work so I will be able to work 2 weeks before I am essentially nomadic again. If your tent camping bring water boots bc the tent sites seem to hold water. ALSO DONT LEAVE HONEST REVIEWS THAT SHED LIGHT ON THE NEGATIVES AND DOWNFALLS OF THIS PLACE OR THEY WILL TELL YOU YOU HAVE TO LEAVE.
ScoutBeautiful area and lots of amenities but $95 a night for RV camper even if you’re in a van. The tent spots fill up fast if there are any
GuideNot far from the National park, we went the weekend before school started for the little ones so not as many campers as we have seen in the past. The brew pub is within walking distance. Great for family camping.
TravelerWe really enjoyed our one night visit there. It has a nice pond with a few hiking trails. The dispersed camping sites are fairly private. Each has a nice gathered rock fire ring. The pit toilets in the day area not at all clean. Trash cans were overflown, but we did arrive on a Sunday night so maybe it was a busy weekend? I think we would go back, love that area.
TravelerWhat a delight to rest here for two nights! The park is small (10 campsites, I think) and blanketed by a lovely green canopy. Amenities are few, but the nearby showers are clean, with hot water and electricity, and fresh water is available on site by a hand pumped cistern. The office and maintenance headquarters are also nearby, and the folks in the office are friendly and welcoming. I’ll visit here again!
Campsites near Steeles Tavern, Virginia sit at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping season. Fall temperatures can drop into the 30s at night even when valley temperatures remain mild. Most campgrounds in this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains and George Washington National Forest operate from early April through late October, with limited facilities available during shoulder seasons.
Fishing opportunities: Montebello Resort maintains both a stocked trout pond and a bass/crappie lake on property. "The trout pond is not what they make it out to be on the website. It's a very small pond with zero shade at the entrance of the resort. It is not catch and release, it is catch and keep, whatever you catch, you pay for power pound," notes one camper, adding useful context for fishing enthusiasts.
Rock scrambling: Spy Rock offers challenging terrain for those seeking elevated views. "It is a great hike with a small rock scramble at the top for an extra bit of fun. Not only that, but the top has almost 360 degree views of the Shenandoah Valley," writes one visitor. The site requires a 1.5-mile hike from the Fish Hatchery in Montebello to access camping areas.
Swimming: Walnut Hills Campground provides water recreation with its fishing pond and swimming pool. "The lawns were kept up and looking good. There is a very nice playground and a pet exercise area. You can fish in the lake though we didn't catch anything," reports one camper, highlighting the multiple recreation options beyond just camping.
Privacy between sites: At Devils Backbone Camp, campers appreciate the thoughtful site layout. "Walking distance to devils backbone brewery. Clean bathrooms. Close distance to hiking trails and other breweries and cideries," notes one reviewer. Another mentions, "Large campground with plenty of room. The bathhouse is top notch! Squeaky clean with lots of space."
Bathroom facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom quality across several campgrounds. At Sherando Lake Campground, one visitor reports, "The shower houses are at the center of each loop and have been rebuilt to ACA standard with in the last five years." Such specific details about facilities matter to many campers selecting sites.
Off-grid tranquility: Many campers value the lack of connectivity. At Montebello Resort, a reviewer notes, "This place was certainly beautiful; our site was right on the pond. Be aware; there is zero cell service at the campground. To get decent service it's a bit of a drive." This disconnection from technology appears as a positive feature in many reviews.
Bear activity: Multiple campgrounds report bear encounters. At Sherando Lake, one camper warns, "A young bear was repeatedly visiting site A9 up the road from me and I had to chase him off when he came near my site!" The campground provides individual food lockers at each site to address this concern.
Site availability patterns: During peak season (June-August), weekday availability vastly exceeds weekend options. At Crabtree Falls Campground, sites along the river are particularly sought after. One camper advises, "The tent sites we stayed in were right on the river, we literally fell asleep to the sound of the water every night."
Road access considerations: Access to several campgrounds requires navigating steep mountain roads. For Montebello Resort, a reviewer cautions, "VA56 is a very windy road not recommended for pulling a camper through. Use the blue ridge parkway." Similarly, roads to dispersed camping areas often require high-clearance vehicles or careful driving.
Swimming options: Family campers consistently mention water features as key amenities. Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley offers structured aquatic recreation. One camper reports, "There's always tons of activities to do for everyone of age. Gold cart parades, crafts hours, poker run, corn hole tournaments. And of course their lake that has two jumping decks, water slide, snack bar."
Playground locations: Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA receives positive mentions for its family amenities. "The campground itself has a pool, open seasonally, a game room, and a playground. It's an old school playground but the gkids love it. They also have a couple of walking trails and a small dog park," notes one grandparent who visits regularly.
Kid-friendly hiking: Sherando Lake offers graduated hiking options suitable for different age groups. "The kids enjoyed playing on the playground, skipping rocks, and fishing as well. There are big loop and small loop hiking trails close by," reports a family that visits annually, suggesting the varied activities keep children engaged.
Hookup positioning: At Devils Backbone Camp, RVers note unusual utility arrangements. "The hookups in this area where different than I have ever experienced as the hookups were shared between two sites. If you were on an even number site, this was no problem. However, if you were on an odd number site, you either had to hope you had the length on your water and power lines," explains one RVer.
Seasonal road closures: Many forest service roads accessing remote campgrounds close seasonally or after heavy precipitation. For campgrounds along mountainous routes, several RVers recommend calling ahead during spring and fall to confirm access. The Blue Ridge Parkway occasionally closes sections during winter weather and high winds.
Site leveling requirements: Multiple RVers mention bringing extra leveling blocks for mountain campsites. At Stoney Creek Resort, sites require additional adjustment. "Site was somewhat level," notes one RVer, with the understated assessment typical of those accustomed to mountain camping conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Steeles Tavern, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Steeles Tavern, VA offers a wide range of camping options, with 137 campgrounds and RV parks near Steeles Tavern, VA and 19 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Steeles Tavern, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Steeles Tavern, VA is Sherando Lake Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 34 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Steeles Tavern, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Steeles Tavern, VA.
What parks are near Steeles Tavern, VA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Steeles Tavern, VA that allow camping, notably George Washington & Jefferson National Forests and Monongahela National Forest.
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