The area around Warm Springs, Virginia sits within the Allegheny Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 4,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the region. Local campgrounds feature extensive river frontage on the Greenbrier River and Jackson River watersheds, with water temperatures typically ranging 5-10 degrees warmer in summer months than surrounding mountain streams. Many sites require advance reservations from April through October when weekend occupancy regularly exceeds 90%.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lake Moomaw at Bolar Mountain Recreation Area offers excellent fishing opportunities with regular trout stocking. "This place is amazing. I could stay here every weekend and not get tired of it. Warm water, fresh air, no service," reports Blake B. The lake provides both boat-in and shore fishing access.
Paddling routes: The 80-mile Greenbrier River Trail runs adjacent to Riverside Campground — Watoga State Park, offering direct river access for kayaking. "Great campsites on the river with great fishing and kayaking opportunities. So many great hiking trails and things to do in the park," notes Zach D. A dedicated kayak launch is available at the campground entrance.
Hiking trails: Multiple access points to hiking trails can be found at Douthat State Park Campground with varying difficulty levels. "There are many hiking trails nearby with a variety of difficulty. We chose a couple that provided nice views," shares Diane P. Trail maps are available at the park office.
What campers like
Swimming options: The beach area at Douthat State Park provides a designated swimming zone from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "The dogs were able to go swimming before the lake opened up in the morning and everything was very clean. There were also many hiking options," explains Molly G. A $5 daily fee applies for beach access.
Privacy between sites: Several reviewers mention the spacious sites at Stoney Creek Resort, particularly in the lower section. "Plenty of room at each site, great lake for fishing even has a beach in the mountains, clean bathrooms both wooded and open lots," states Jerry G. The campground encompasses nearly 400 sites across upper and lower sections.
River proximity: Many sites at Riverside Campground offer direct access to the Greenbrier River. "The river is beautiful, the hiking excellent, and the fantastic rail trail is right there. The area has so much to offer," comments Anne F. Sites closest to the water typically book 4-6 months in advance.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited or no cell coverage. At Poor Farm Dispersed Recreation Area, "No signal, so make sure you have a map or know which way you came," advises Mikaela K. Riverside Campground offers Wi-Fi only near bathhouses, and it's described as "not great."
Reservation timing: Holiday weekends typically fill 3-6 months in advance at most campgrounds. "We only stayed 1 night as we were passing through to our final destination. Staff was very friendly and the park was one of the cleanest parks I've been to," notes Kate A. about Walnut Hills Campground.
Weather variability: Mountain elevations cause significant temperature swings between day and night. "We stayed here 4 days and 3 nights in November. We use a teardrop camper so we appreciated the water and electric hookup (although we disconnected the water at night to prevent freezing)," reports Diane P. about Douthat State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Stoney Creek Resort offers a swimming lake with beach area suitable for children. "Great swimming lake. Family friendly," comments Steven S. The lake has a gradual entry area on one side with a roped swimming section.
Playground access: Glen Maury Park provides playground facilities near camping areas. "There is a playground that is very nice! They offer entertainment on weekends and some other times of the year," mentions Sara L. Weekend activities typically run May through September.
Educational opportunities: Douthat State Park offers ranger-led programs during summer months. "A favorite of our for years! All types of sites and hookups plus cabins. Fishing, lake swimming, hiking, educational opportunities galore," shares Cathy L. Programs typically run Thursday through Sunday in peak season.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: RV sites at campgrounds throughout the region sometimes require extension cords or hoses. At Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park, "I needed a little extra footage for my electrical hookup. They were kind enough to loan us a 25' extension," mentions Ralph P.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate with limited amenities during shoulder seasons. "We only stayed for the night on our way over to I-81. Easy in and out. VERY well kept and super friendly staff. I highly recommend. Larger rigs need to stay in the lower campground and there are no sewer connections, but the dump station is all good," advises Bradley M. about Glen Maury Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA provides escort service to help navigate sites. "I was impressed with this campground from the minute I entered it. We were greeted at the entrance and then sent to an escort who smartly showed us to our site by taking the same path the RV should take; making wise turns and so on," shares Kevin M.
