The James River provides the centerpiece for pet friendly camping near Scottsville, Virginia, with elevations ranging from 300-1500 feet throughout the surrounding areas. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-75°F range. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures, though many campgrounds remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Explore Appalachian Trail access points: Devil's Backbone Camp offers hiking enthusiasts direct shuttle service to the AT. "Walking distance to devils backbone brewery. Clean bathrooms. Close distance to hiking trails and other breweries and cideries. Close to humpback rock, spy rock, crabtreefalls and many more trails to explore," notes camper Chyna K. The campground connects to numerous day hikes suitable for various skill levels.
Take advantage of dark sky viewing: Red Oak Campground at James River State Park holds International Dark Sky Park designation. "The park is part of the Dark Sky Parks Association and if you are into astronomy and stars this is the place to stay. They have miles of trails, a playground, marshland, and it is right on the James River with multiple river access points," writes Bridget H. Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions year-round.
Try riverside fishing: The James River watershed supports diverse fishing opportunities directly from campsites. "Camping along the river at the Canoe Landing Campground is great in the slower seasons. The sites are pretty close together so I'm sure it would be much more cramped when it's busy but it's a beautiful place. And you can fish right off the bank less than 50 yards from your tent," reports Christina from Canoe Landing Group Campsite.
What campers like
Convenient brewery access: Devil's Backbone Camp provides unique camping with craft beverage options. "5 minute trail walk to the Devil's Backbone brewery. You can have several great beers with your meal and safely walk back to the camp site," writes Robert M. This eliminates driving concerns after enjoying local craft beverages.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Misty Mountain Camp Resort consistently receives praise for hygiene standards. "The bath house was very clean and very well thought out. Electric sites have 20a, 30a, and 50a hookups so small trailers can use a normal extension cord," notes Mike G. Many campers mention this differentiator when comparing regional camping options.
Waterfront camping options: Direct river access enhances the camping experience at several locations. "Horseshoe Flats has been the location for my neighborhood car camping/kayak trip for the last several years, and it is a fantastic location. Big enough to accommodate a bunch of tents and a couple RV's, and right on the river, which makes paddling or tubing a breeze," says Rob U. at Horseshoe Flats Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal impacts on camping experience: Summer heat and humidity affects comfort levels significantly. "Cumberland County is only at 455' elevation, so the heat and humidity in the summer is intense—we were very uncomfortable our first night because of this, so fall would probably be the best time to go as it is when central Virginia has the best weather," advises Stephanie J. at Bear Creek Lake State Park.
Reservation challenges: Some smaller campgrounds fill quickly or have limited booking systems. "Just went to book a site since I'm in the area, and it's a two-night minimum to tent camp. This seems crazy for a Sunday night and the campground is not at all packed. It's also $50/night, which is too high for primitive sites," notes RL about Warren Ferry Landing. Check minimum stay requirements and book well ahead during peak seasons.
Variable site privacy: Site selection significantly impacts experience. "Site 50 is a bit strange. Camping area is big enough for a small rig but the power pedestal is far away, so you might have to be creative in setting up. Unless you have a long power cord or don't hook up at all," writes Mara S. about Misty Mountain Camp Resort. Research specific site layouts before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Find campgrounds with planned activities: Misty Mountain Camp Resort offers structured family programming. "Very laid back atmosphere, plenty for the kids to do! Kept them occupied the whole trip! Enjoyed the music and smores offered by the campground, site was close to level and felt we had plenty of room around us!" reports Christopher T. These organized activities provide entertainment without additional planning.
Consider water safety near campsites: Waterfront sites require extra vigilance with children. "The water view loop was not heavily trafficked, though the water does provide a hazard if you have small children as it is not roped off in any way. Our kids loved having the water right there and we loved watching them, it just requires extra vigilance," explains Stephanie J. about Bear Creek Lake State Park.
Look for dedicated swimming areas: Designated swim zones provide safer water recreation for families. "There is a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun! We did a hike around the whole lake, lots of great views," shares Katie M. Many campgrounds separate swimming from fishing and boating areas.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup placement before arrival: Devil's Backbone Camp has unusual utility arrangements. "Some of the pads (#9 in our case) had a septic cap that was too high. We didn't have those things to raise the hose up, so I had to manually lift and empty the hose for the duration of our emptying. Also, the power station was on the opposite side of the septic, so make sure you have a 30ft power cord at least!" advises Robert M.
Consider cell service needs: Mobile connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Verizon service is spotty 1 to 2 bars and unreliable data but with a directional cell booster we are able to get enough signal for our Verizon Jetpack to work," notes Micah B. at Red Oak Campground. Plan accordingly if remote work requirements exist.
Research site dimensions carefully: Charlottesville KOA offers varying RV site configurations. "Our campsite was a back-in which was in a quiet corner of the campground. The site was long enough for our 45' motorhome and tow car. The site was perfectly level, gravel, and had nice grass on the patio which our dog enjoyed," shares Nancy W. Verify your specific rig will fit your reserved site.
