Camping sites near Gore, Virginia range from full-service RV campgrounds to rustic tent-only settings within the Appalachian foothills. The region sits at elevations between 500-1500 feet, creating moderate summer temperatures that typically range from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Fall camping brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage colors, while spring often sees increased precipitation and variable conditions.
What to do
Fishing access: The creek at Lazy A Campground offers fishing opportunities with easy water access. "It has a creek for swimming or wading at your own risk. It also has horseshoes, playground, large outdoor picnic area, as well as a clean bathhouse with showers," notes one camper.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature on-site trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "The hike that leads to the lookout about harpers ferry was fantastic. This hike takes you well above the town settled in West Virginia. While some points are pretty steep don't let this deter you from completing it," shares a visitor at Harpers Ferry.
Off-road vehicle use: For ATV enthusiasts, The Cove Campground offers dedicated trails for motorized recreation. "This Campground had everything I wanted. Shooting range, ATV trails, fishing, hiking and great campsites," writes one camper about their experience.
Horseback riding: Fort Valley Ranch combines camping with equestrian activities. "The availability of horseback trail riding was an added bonus," explains a camper who appreciated the unique offering at this campground.
What campers like
River proximity: Water access ranks high for campers visiting the area. "Gorgeous spot on the river. Small campground with not a lot of amenities BUT THAT RIVER IS GORGEOUS. Lots of activities - tubing, zip lining, fishing," writes a camper about Harpers Ferry Campground.
Natural settings: The wooded environment provides privacy at many sites. "We were early in the camping season so we had no one around us. The size of the lots were amazing, plenty of room," reports a visitor to Endless Caverns.
Campground amenities: Basic facilities get positive reviews when well-maintained. "Clean bath house. Helpful owners. The only reason it lost a star is that the water has sulfur. It smells and it stained our brand-new toilet," notes one camper about their RV camping experience.
Stone features: The natural stone elements at Endless Caverns RV Resort enhance the camping experience. "Wooded, stone borders, stone walls, and stone fire pits at every site, plus full hookup at each site," writes a satisfied camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds can present challenges. "The road is gravel and could use some work, I'd recommend 4x4 drive," advises a camper at The Cove Campground.
Varying water quality: Water issues affect some campgrounds in the region. "The water from the sink sprayed everywhere, and for the first day and a half of our trip, there was NO SOAP," reports one visitor.
Train noise: Some campgrounds near tracks experience noise disruptions. "A friend and I chose this campground because of its right-on-the-river sites... The river views were amazing, but face the other way and you're looking at a 15 or so foot CSX rail line berm. The trains that come through here almost hourly."
Bathroom facilities: Washroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms and showers located nearby. You're not allowed to park at the tent sites but most of the tent sites allow you to drop all your camping gear off and then park in a designated area," notes a camper at Little Orleans Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds provide play areas for children. "This is a really nice campground. Large grassy sites. Easy to maneuver. Lots of open space," writes a camper at Lazy A Campground.
Swimming options: Water features offer relief during hot weather. "My family stayed here for two nights during the middle of the week, about half the campground was occupied. Our campsite was right along the water (all spots are along the water)."
Activity planning: Consider age-appropriate activities when selecting a campground. "This campground is fantastic for kids and pets. Lots of wide open space to run and play. The owners are fantastic! So friendly and accommodating," shares a camper.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning experiences. "Fort Valley Ranch Campground, near Luray, VA... The kids were able to fish for hours at the two fishing ponds, which both were stocked with bass and bluegill."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV sites near Gore, Virginia often require adjustment. "Our site (site 3) was an easy level pull-through site, making the setup/breakdown very quick and painless. All the RV sites were impressively level, with only minimal leveling needed," notes a visitor to Fort Valley Ranch.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are available but limited. "It has tent sites and level rv sites with 30 amp and water. No sewer. And one 50 amp site. Most sites have partial shade from the tree line."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide sewer connections at sites. "There is a dump station and trash dumpster for your convenience on the way out of the campground," shares an RV camper.
Site spacing: Privacy between RV sites varies by campground. "Each site has a fire ring and plastic picnic table. It has a creek for swimming or wading at your own risk."
