Tent camping near Thaxton, Virginia provides access to the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and James River Valley ecosystems, with elevations ranging from 900 to over 3,000 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, while spring and fall bring cooler camping conditions with occasional morning fog that typically burns off by mid-morning. Most camping areas remain open year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lynchburg KOA (formerly Wildwood Campground), campers enjoy fishing in the nearby waters. One camper noted, "It's quiet and peaceful, and the surrounding area is gorgeous."
Hiking to unique formations: The Dragon's Tooth trail offers a challenging but rewarding hiking experience about 30 miles from Thaxton. As one reviewer explains, "The arrows and the trail are very clear, it's a moderate to hard hike! Bring lots of water! No need to pack a life straw of any kind because there's not really water around except right in the beginning of the trail from the parking lot."
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Water activities are accessible at several locations. At Walnut Grove, a visitor shared, "It was wonderful for our paddle boards. Given that there are only 20 sites you don't get a feeling of crowded."
Night sky viewing: Star gazing is exceptional in this region due to minimal light pollution. A Walnut Grove camper reported, "The night sky was amazing. You could see stars for miles. Enjoyed a nice sunset by the river."
What campers like
Large, level sites: Campsites at many locations offer ample space. A visitor to Canoe Landing Group Campsite mentioned, "The Canoe Landing camping area is spacious with fire rings, and lots of room to set up tents right along the river."
Privacy between campsites: The spacing between sites creates a sense of seclusion. At Breeden Bottom Campground, one camper observed, "Sites are extremely private and spaced out; we couldn't see or hear anyone."
River access: Many camping spots offer convenient water access. According to a Canoe Landing review, "The parking area is very close by, and the bathrooms, while more primitive, are close by as well. There are tons of trails to explore in this park, and the views in this campground can't be beat!"
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms are a common highlight. One Branch Pond visitor noted, "Very clean bathrooms and showers! Would highly recommend."
What you should know
Train noise: Some campsites near rivers may experience occasional train noise. A Branch Pond camper shared, "My only complaint, which is 100% personal, is that there was a train that came through about 2 times a night. I'm a light sleeper and heard it coming miles away."
Limited cell service: Connectivity is restricted in many camping areas. When staying at Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812, a visitor reported, "No cell service (T-Mobile), but if I drove towards the main road, Route 501, I could get some service."
Water access challenges: Some waterfront sites have difficult water approaches. A Branch Pond reviewer explained, "Sites 11, 12, and 13 are nice but the landing is in a shallow algae filled cove. Not ideal for swimming."
Weather considerations: Tent pads may not drain well in rainy conditions. One camper at Branch Pond observed, "The tent pads don't drain well and huge puddles develop - some sites were completely overtaken by a full inch of water."
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Some parks offer educational activities. At Walnut Grove, a visitor mentioned, "My 4 yr old spent hours playing with all the little animals the ranger station had."
Walk-in site planning: Families should pack efficiently for sites requiring a walk from parking areas. A Catawba walk-in camper advised, "We were not prepared for the stairs. They say walk in but it's a more a short hike. So getting our gear (we aren't minimalist people) in was a workout but worth it."
River safety: Water conditions can vary based on recent rainfall. At Catawba Mountain Shelter on the AT, a camper noted, "Near water (collect water with a filter only)."
Swimming spots: Not all water access points are suitable for young swimmers. One visitor cautioned, "Would be careful swimming with children. Most areas are very calm but the river can get rapid at times!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Only certain campgrounds accommodate RVs. Lynchburg KOA (formerly Wildwood) specifically mentions being "big-rig friendly" with level sites.
Parking logistics: For non-RV-specific sites, advance planning is needed. A Dragon's Tooth visitor explained, "This was a fine place to park overnight. The trailhead connects to the Appalachian Trail, so there were several other cars parked overnight as well. It is a gravel lot, pretty level."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the immediate Thaxton area. Lynchburg KOA offers electric, water, and sewer hookups for RVs, while most other camping options have minimal or no hookups.
