Camping near Lexington, Virginia places visitors within the Shenandoah Valley at elevations ranging from 900 to 3,000 feet with moderate temperatures ranging from 50-80°F in summer months. The area's proximity to both the Blue Ridge Parkway and Jefferson National Forest provides extensive water access options with multiple campgrounds situated along streams and small lakes, making waterside camping widely available without reservations during weekdays.
What to Do
Hiking from camp: At Otter Creek Campground along the Blue Ridge Parkway, visitors can access multiple trails directly from their sites. "It's close to the AT and blue ridge parkway and about an hour from Shenandoah Nat'l Park. Clean bathroom, spacious sites, very pretty creek," notes Catherine S. The campground connects to three different trail difficulty levels.
Fishing opportunities: Montebello Resort offers stocked fishing ponds where licenses aren't required. "The trout pond is not catch and release, it is catch and keep, whatever you catch, you pay for power pound," explains Adrian K. Morning restocking occurs regularly, making fishing success nearly guaranteed even for beginners.
Water recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature water activities beyond swimming pools. "We partook in all we could and enjoyed the swimming hole, pool, splash pad, jumping pillow and arcade," writes Jennifer H. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Natural Bridge. The park also offers river tubing and access to the James River.
What Campers Like
Creek-side accommodations: Tent sites with direct stream access are highly rated. "We chose site #76 because the creek wound around the back of the campsite and had a gentle slope leading down to the creek. We knew our dogs would love splashing around in it!" explains Andrea N. about Middle Creek Campground.
Seasonal activities: Halloween-themed camping is particularly popular in the area. "We had a great weekend with the whole family! There was a carnival for the kids, trick-or-treating, hiking, tons of bike riding, campfire watching, hammock swinging, laughing, loving, and hanging out!" shares Bridget H. about her fall experience at Jellystone Park.
Mountain biking trails: The region offers technical terrain for cyclists. "We did a decent amount of biking here, the main road is nice for road biking, we rode out about 15 miles and back, saw a black bear. Beautiful country roads. And the trails are great for mountain biking. Bring your legs, lots of climbing!" explains Robyn S.
What You Should Know
Campsite sizing and privacy: Site dimensions vary significantly across campgrounds. "We had a site up their gravel road away from the main campground area. We had a fabulous site tucked beside a little brook, very peaceful and quiet... the sites are a bit more generous than your average private campground," explains Lisa about Middle Creek Campground.
Limited connectivity: Most glamping close to Lexington, Virginia lacks reliable cell service. "This place was certainly beautiful; our site was right on the pond... Be aware; there is zero cell service at the campground. To get decent service it's a bit of a drive," reports Quinn G. about Montebello Resort.
Off-season considerations: Facilities operate differently outside peak months. "Our main season is March 15ish to the end of November, year round WES available," notes Middle Creek Campground. At Douthat State Park Campground, "We use a teardrop camper so we appreciated the water and electric hookup (although we disconnected the water at night to prevent freezing)," shares Diane P. about November camping.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly water options: Beyond standard pools, look for unique water features. "A great place!! Right next to the James River for all of your fishing needs. Have a pool, splash pad, pond/lake with a slide, beach, inflatable obstacle course," reports Matt R. about Jellystone Park.
Animals and petting opportunities: Several campgrounds feature animal encounters. "The kids likes the petting zoo," mentions Stephanie H. about Natural Bridge KOA. Another camper noted, "They had chickens running around and baby goats in a pen."
Organized activities: Structured recreation helps keep children engaged. "Rec staff had awesome activities planned and kept the kids entertained all week with kick ball and karaoke and shaving cream wiffle ball and dance parties," reports Matt R. about Jellystone Park's programming options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Premium sites offer significantly different amenities. "They had brand new premium pull through sites that were amazing! Big patios, bbq grill, tables, fire pit. It was a quiet, well laid out and easy to manage in our 36 ft trailer," shares mae about Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park.
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. "The sites along the lower area near the lake were shaded mostly, some more than others, while the sites up the hill at the top and near the front entrance (pull through sites) were not shaded much," notes Laure D. about Walnut Hills, recommending travelers check site conditions before arrival.
Navigation assistance: Some campgrounds provide arrival support. "They even guided you to your site and help you level," shares Ron H. about Natural Bridge-Lexington KOA, a valuable service for those with larger rigs or less experience backing into sites.
