Tent camping near Waynesboro, Virginia offers opportunities in the Blue Ridge foothills with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,500 feet throughout the region. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, with higher elevations typically 5-10 degrees cooler than valley locations. Fall camping season extends through late October when nighttime temperatures regularly drop into the 40s.
What to do
Fishing spots: Canoe Landing Group Campsite provides direct river access for anglers. "Camping along the river 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 50yards from your tent," explains Christina.
Hiking trails: Branch Pond connects to multiple trail networks. "Camp here hike up stream then just sit back and float back to your site all to yourself," notes Jonny D., highlighting the combined hiking and water recreation opportunities. The area features trails ranging from 1-5 miles with moderate elevation changes.
Star gazing: Walnut Grove offers excellent night sky viewing without light pollution. "The beat place for star gazing! Just ask for a telescope (free at the store) and stare up at the sky for hours!" reports Chris E. The camp store loans telescopes at no charge, making this an ideal spot for amateur astronomers.
What campers like
Private beach areas: Lake-front tent sites at Branch Pond provide secluded shoreline access. "Long Arm camping area - the BEST boat in campground!!! This is probably my favorite place in North Carolina. Lake James is a true gem, clean and beautiful, with amazing views," says Katy S., noting the pristine water conditions ideal for swimming.
Clean facilities: Hawk Nest Mushroom Farm maintains well-kept camping areas under a canopy of cedar trees. "This place was incredible! Accessibly located and cute as all get out!" reports Elliot F. The farm setting offers a unique camping environment with modern amenities despite the rustic setting.
Seasonal fall colors: October camping offers spectacular foliage viewing throughout the region. "We stayed in Long Arm paddle-in area 2. Park staff was not very helpful at all when we first arrived, but despite the attitude and the terrible rainy weather, we found our site fairly easily," shares Lindsay O., highlighting that even in less-than-ideal weather conditions, the natural beauty remains impressive.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain locations experience rapid temperature changes even in summer. "It can get loud at some of the larger sites. Go deeper into the woods if you have the equipment," advises Mike C. about Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping. Prepare for temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night.
Road access limitations: Some dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. "I have been camping here for the past 10 years. Beautiful area and pretty secluded dispersed campsites... The road is a mix of gravel but also dirt so it can become muddy during rain," notes Emil D. about accessing remote camping areas at Switzer Lake.
Campsite availability: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends from May through September. "Given that there are only 20 sites you don't get a feeling of crowded. Multiple empty sites during the week. Mostly full during the weekend," observes Alisa C. about the walk-in tent sites, suggesting weekday visits for greater solitude.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer ranger programs and junior naturalist activities during summer months. "My 4 yr old spent hours playing with all the little animals the ranger station had. The pool was PACKED in July and it got SUPER HOT!" shares Chris E., suggesting that families explore educational activities at visitor centers.
Site selection for children: Canoe Landing Group Campsite offers spacious sites appropriate for families with young children. "We stayed at P33 in Paddy's Creek. Site was super clean and short walk to the bathhouse that was pristine. Water pumps/faucets are at every other site so you don't have to go far," notes Longview O., highlighting the convenience for families.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds provide bear-awareness programs and wildlife viewing guides. "There are bears here, so lock up your food in the car. We have encountered a bear at or around the campsite 3 times," warns Emil D., emphasizing the importance of teaching children proper food storage protocols.
Tips for RVers
Site accessibility: Hog Camp Gap offers free camping but requires preparation for primitive conditions. "Great free campsite great place to go hiking with beautiful views of the mountains park your car and scout out your ideal campsite the campground is roughly the size of a Walmart parking lot including the store or three football fields," explains Comalee D., noting the parking area's substantial size.
Supply locations: Stock up before arriving as services are limited near most campgrounds. "If you travel back to U.S. 33 and drive 9.1 miles West you will find the Brandywine General Store on your left. They have kiln dried firewood, ice, bait, and supplies you may have forgot at home," advises Mike C., providing specific directions to the nearest resupply point.
Seasonal access: Spring camping may encounter muddy conditions on access roads. "I didn't find any good spots, but it was quiet and peaceful. I drove from there to flag pole. The trail was really fun and moderately difficult," reports Waseem H., suggesting that even when prime spots are unavailable, the surrounding recreation options make the trip worthwhile.
