The Cove Campground sits among the rolling foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, 45 minutes from White Hall. This area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing. Most visitors prefer camping between April and October when rainfall is moderate and waterfront activities are most comfortable.
What to do
Outdoor shooting range: 15-minute hike from main campsites at The Cove Campground. Popular with visitors seeking both natural recreation and target practice. "The Cove is by far one of my favorite places to escape the DC suburbs. With great trails, a lake, and outdoor shooting range we can easily spend the whole weekend or longer," notes Victoriana P.
Fishing in mountain-fed waters: Year-round access with better catches reported in early morning hours. Bass and trout are common catches. "You can fish in the lake, rent non motorboats, ATVs welcome, electrical supply at select camp sites, campers and tenters welcome," explains Shanna B. about the fishing options.
Historic explorations: Under 30 minutes from Harpers Ferry where hiking trails connect to significant Civil War sites. Harpers Ferry Campground provides direct river access with easy hiking connections. "From there you can grab a bite, visit the history of Harper's Ferry or continue exploring more hiking trails," shares Maggie A.
What campers like
Abundant water recreation: Multiple lakes and rivers within 20 miles of White Hall offer swimming, tubing and boating options. "Beautiful lake and overall picturesque setting. Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun," reports Nancy L. at The Cove Campground.
Privacy levels vary significantly: Research site maps carefully when booking glamping close to White Hall, Virginia. Sites with more separation command higher rates but offer better experiences. At Shenandoah River State Park, "Clean grounds and importantly clean facilities. Park offers very doable hiking and mountain biking options for beginners. Campground access to the Shenandoah River," according to Laura N.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer best opportunities to spot local deer, fox, and numerous bird species. "You drive deep into the woods to get here, which gives it that true, off-the-grid campground feel. There are several different camping areas, and depending on where you end up, you might have a short walk to reach the best fishing spots," explains Karl S.
What you should know
Train noise affects several campgrounds: Pack earplugs if staying at riverside locations where railways often parallel waterways. At Harpers Ferry Campground, "There are train tracks behind the campground with a train going through day and night. For me it's a minor inconvenience and my daughter, who even as a baby, slept through it. Do bring ear plugs if you're a light sleeper," advises Maggie A.
Cell service varies dramatically: Download maps in advance as coverage can be spotty in mountainous areas. "It's worth noting that cell service is minimal to nonexistent — not a big deal for most campers, but something to keep in mind," notes Karl S. about The Cove Campground.
Bathroom facilities differ widely between sites: Some luxury glamping near White Hall provides private facilities while others require walks to central locations. "The bathhouses are always clean and well stocked. The camp sites are tucked into the woods with plenty of room for camping," reports Katie H. about Rocky Gap State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Mid-week visits offer significantly more space: School-year weekdays provide quieter experiences with better site selection. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park is "Really nice wooded campground with waterpark. This campground has tons of nice cabins and tent sites, all in wooded surroundings. There is a small creek to play in and a nice little hiking trail within the campground," according to Beth C.
Animal encounters enhance kids' experiences: Several glamping options near White Hall feature farm animals or wildlife. "Free range, friendly goats wander around, which is kinda fun," mentions Nancy L. about her stay at The Cove.
Water-based activities require supervision: Most waterfront sites lack lifeguards outside designated swimming areas. "The beach is large and clean. The staff was very friendly. Camp one had flush toilets on one end, a pit toilet on the other. Campsites were spacious and mostly level," shares Christopher K.
Tips from RVers
Road quality varies significantly: Some access roads require careful navigation with larger rigs. At Brunswick Family Campground, "The road into the campground was badly in need of repair. Site was not level and infested with black flies," warns Robin.
Leveling challenges at some sites: Pack extra leveling blocks for uneven terrain common in mountain settings. "Heads up, big rig owners! Our Pull-thru FHU Patio site(#199) had a serious slope. It was impossible to level my 45' motorhome without elevating the front wheels dangerously in the air," cautions Matt S.
Hookup availability differs by season: Call ahead to confirm electric amperage and water availability during winter months. "Water and electrical available at all the spots even though it was winter. Bathrooms and showers were nearby and clean," notes John B. about Shenandoah River State Park.
