Camping near Wingina, Virginia encompasses a range of options in the foothills of central Virginia, with elevations ranging between 400-800 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with moderate humidity, average summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows occasionally dropping below freezing. Most camping facilities are concentrated along the James River corridor, which provides both natural boundaries and recreational opportunities.
What to do
Riverside fishing opportunities: At Canoe Landing Group Campsite, campers can access prime fishing spots with minimal effort. "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 50yards from your tent," reports Christina.
Hiking trail access: The hiking trails around Wingina range from gentle riverside paths to more challenging forest routes. "James River State Park is beautiful! The Canoe Landing camping area is spacious with fire rings, and lots of room to set up tents right along the river. There are tons of trails to explore in this park, and the views in this campground can't be beat!" notes Brittany B.
Brewery excursions: When camping near Wingina, visitors are within driving distance of several breweries. At Devils Backbone Camp, one camper mentioned, "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." The area also offers other beverage attractions as one reviewer points out: "close distance to hiking trails and other breweries and cideries."
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: Red Oak Campground receives high marks for its minimal light pollution. "The park is part of the Dark Sky Parks Association and if you are into astronomy and stars this is the place to stay... The night sky was amazing. You could see stars for miles," explains Bridget H. This designation makes it popular for stargazers.
Privacy between sites: Walnut Grove campers frequently mention site separation. "The campsites are very nice, close to the water, have nice clean tent pads, fire rings, and food storage. Plenty of trees to provide shade and opportunities to hang a hammock," observes Katy S. Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering more seclusion than others.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse conditions are consistently mentioned in reviews of the area. At Sherando Lake Campground, one camper noted, "The shower houses are at the center of each loop and have been rebuilt to ACA standard with in the last five years." While another visitor commented, "A perfect place for family small rv and tent camping. The area is located in the George Washington National forest, has a small swimming, kayaking and fishing lake and log pavillion that was created as a CCC project."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer storms can develop quickly in the area, especially from June through September. Flash flooding can affect low-lying sites. A reviewer at Misty Mountain Camp Resort warned, "T-1 though T-6 sites flood often because they are low and next to the river. We camped at t2 and had to tear down as soon as we set it up."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Wingina area fill quickly during peak season (April-October). At Holliday Lake State Park, one camper advised, "Some sites are reservable, some are not." Weekends often book 3-6 months in advance, especially for waterfront sites.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the area require additional equipment for leveling. "Sites in the older section (red bud) will require leveling," notes George L. about Holliday Lake State Park, while another camper adds, "Bring leveling supplies! some sites are reservable, some are not."
Tips for camping with families
Look for ranger programs: Many state parks near Wingina offer educational activities. "We enjoyed a fire making class followed by s'mores on Friday night and then an owl searching hike on Saturday night," shares Bridget H. about Red Oak Campground. Similar programs often run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Water access considerations: Swimming options vary significantly between campgrounds. "The beach was PACKED in July and it got SUPER HOT!" warns Chris E. about Walnut Grove. Parents should note that many swimming areas lack lifeguards outside peak season.
Tent pad sizing: Branch Pond and other sites in James River State Park offer larger-than-average tent platforms. "The sites were large enough for 2 small tents or 1 largish family tent. All sites have a picnic table, fire pit with grate, and bear box," notes one reviewer about a nearby lake campground, highlighting the practical considerations for family tent camping.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on the campground. At Devils Backbone Camp, a visitor noted, "If you were on an odd number site, this was no problem. However, if you were on an even number site, you either had to hope you had the length on your water and power lines to run to the opposite side of your rig."
Leveling requirements: The rolling terrain around Wingina necessitates leveling equipment. Jennifer K. observed at Holliday Lake, "The only con I will say is for RV'ers bring your leveling blocks - you will need them!" Many campgrounds in the area require substantial leveling due to the naturally sloped terrain.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds offer dump stations rather than full sewer hookups. At Red Oak Campground, sewer connections are limited, with one camper reporting they had "water/electricity hookups" but needed to use the sanitary dump station for waste disposal.
