L
Lynwood R.
Traveler
TravelerOcconeechee State Park Campground
I was here for a Tuesday night. Staff were outstanding, they helped me check in even though I came right at 4 pm. Site was clean and right by bathroom.
Best Tent Camping in Virginia
Virginia's diverse landscapes provide varied tent camping experiences, from established state park campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. The Washington & Jefferson National Forest offers free dispersed tent camping with drive-in and walk-in options, while Sky Meadows State Park provides hike-in tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings year-round. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping remains popular among tent campers seeking free primitive sites with lakefront access.
Most tent campsites in Virginia state parks feature level tent pads, picnic tables, and nearby vault toilets. James River State Park campgrounds like Branch Pond and Canoe Landing offer tent-specific sites with fire rings and picnic tables, though permits are required. Dispersed tent camping in national forests generally lacks amenities - campers should bring all supplies including water, as most primitive areas have no potable water sources. High-clearance vehicles may be necessary to access certain tent camping areas, particularly at Switzer Lake where the access road can be rough from certain approaches.
Tent campgrounds throughout Virginia offer unique natural settings and varying levels of solitude. At Sky Meadows State Park, the backcountry tent sites are positioned on hills providing privacy even when the campground is full. The hike-in requirement (approximately one mile) helps maintain a more serene tent camping experience. Several campsites at Switzer Lake offer direct water access, with one visitor noting that "most vehicles should be fine coming in off of 33, but it is rough coming the other way with anything other than something that can scale rocks." James River State Park provides well-maintained tent sites with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including deer, owls, and numerous bird species.
Best Tent Campgrounds in Virginia (87)
1. Royal Oak Campground — Hungry Mother State Park
42 ReviewsMarion, VAWebsite+1 (276) 781-7400$27 / night
"Most cabins also have covered porches, exterior picnic tables, and exterior fire rings. The Creekside Campground loop has water and electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings."
"It has 11 car camping platforms for tent only camping . There is no electric or water at each site. There is a bath house for the 11 sites."
2. Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park
29 ReviewsGreenway, VAWebsite$16 - $75 / night
"Ranger led park programs are offered year round, this week included a natural history boat tour in the lake, and a naturalist talk on loons."
"We stayed at site 11 in location 2 on the Lake James campgrounds; it’s a paddle-in-only location. Getting there required canoeing in, which was easy for us to do on the lake’s dock."
3. Shenandoah National Park Dispersed Sites — Shenandoah National Park
16 ReviewsBentonville, VAWebsite+1 (540) 999-3500"Night 1: Overall Run Camp: This is the third established site along the trail downhill from Overall Run Falls, near the junction of the Overall Run Trail and the Tuscarosa Trail."
"If you’re going to invest in a portable bear box for your food, check out http://igbconline.org/certified-products-list/. There are especially so many incredible hikes on Skyline Drive!"
4. Switzer Lake Dispersed Camping
13 ReviewsBrandywine, WVWebsite"Duration of Stay: Oct 16-18, 2020 Average Daily Temp: 61 Average Evening Temp: 30 On Site Parking: ✅ Potable Water: 🚱 Restrooms: 🚫 Firewood: 🚫 Cell Service: 📵 4x4: ✅ Wildlife and Fishing: ✅ Amazing"
"It was an established site with a fire ring. It had a large clearing with a pretty flat spot for my tent. I accessed the site on my motorcycle. You wouldn't get a car/truck to the site."
5. False Cape State Park Campground
11 ReviewsKnotts Island, NCWebsite+1 (757) 426-7128$21 / night
"We hiked in on the East Dike trail through Back Bay, about 5.4 miles, with everything for the weekend on our backs."
"False Cape is a primitive campground that can only be accessed by walking or biking through the Back Bay Wildlife Refuge along the southern coast of Virginia."
6. Walnut Grove — James River State Park
11 ReviewsGreenway, VAWebsite+1 (434) 933-8061$16 / night
"Lake James is a true gem, clean and beautiful, with amazing views of Linville Gorge, Shortoff Mountain, and Table Rock. The State Park has several camping areas."
"This is a lovely little campground set on the shores of James Lake. Sites are big enough for 2 small tents or 1 largish family tent. All sites have a picnic table, fire pit with grate, and bear box."
7. Branch Pond — James River State Park
11 ReviewsGreenway, VAWebsite$16 / night
"The sites were equipped with fire rings and picnic tables and level, gravel areas to park cars In front of your site."
"The camp spaces are nicely set up and there is no available cell service allowing you to be truly out in nature without interruption."
8. Sky Meadows State Park Campground
10 ReviewsParis, VAWebsite+1 (540) 592-3556$21 - $112 / night
"It was a pretty flat walk from the overnight parking area to the campground."
"Came here for the first time in February 2017 to do a shakedown on some new backpacking and camping gear. Super friendly staff and easy check in process."
9. South Fork Shenandoah River
10 ReviewsRileyville, VA"Not too many spaces so it can fill up quick. There is a launch in the middle, so there is a bit of come and go."
"There were plenty of walk in sites beyond ours. Unfortunately there was a decent bit of trash we cleaned up. The road was a little rough, but our 92 ford camper made it, just go slow"
10. Willville Motorcycle Camp
8 ReviewsWoolwine, VAWebsite+1 (469) 614-8620$150 - $200 / night
"Just less than a mile west of the Blue Ridge Parkway on US 58 Business, Willville is THE motorcycle camping slot for me in Virginia. thwres a community fire ring where Will has a fire most nights."
"It is motorcycle only, but he has limited space outside the campground proper for trailers should that be your thing."
Recent Tent Camping Photos in Virginia
149 Photos of 87 Virginia Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Waltons CampgroundL
Lake Land'Or General Campground - Private Campground
Hazeltop Summit Bluff Dispersed CampingB
Corner CoveI
Floating Heaven
Possible Property
Dispersed Camping Site off FR 812D
Misfit Farmz CampgroundS
Willville Motorcycle CampJ
Daybreak Glamp Camp
Hawk Nest Mushroom FarmE
Wisteria Beach Hideaway
Tent Camping Reviews in Virginia
3436 Reviews of 87 Virginia Campgrounds
- KKatie G.
ScoutEndless Caverns RV Resort & Cottages
Escorted to your site- and needed with the steepness of the campground. Sites are large and spacious, though! Also appreciated the gate at entrance. Excellent property!
Sarah and James H.
GuideFlag Rock Recreation Area Campground
Awesome campsite in SWVA
This is an amazing campsite in Norton, VA. It’s really well maintained and the views are beautiful. It was empty on the late fall weekend that we were there. There are electrical hookups and bathhouses
Take a quick drive up and check out Flag Rock, the Woodbooger statue and High Knob while you’re there!
FYI - The campground is closed from 10/31/26 until 5/15/2027.
LucieScoutWestmoreland State Park Campground
Lovely but busy spot. Campground A has hookups but you can also fit a camper into the standard sites. All sites have nice travel pads and fire rings. Campground b is basically an open field as of Nov 2026 recommend avoiding that area.
- SSteven H.Scout
Branch Pond — James River State Park
The camp spaces are nicely set up and there is no available cell service allowing you to be truly out in nature without interruption.
Kaylie/TT G.GuideElizabeth Furnace Campground
I'm excited about visiting here and have heard a lot from a certain friend. I can't wait to hear all of God's peace and be in serenity ❤️
- KKim R.Traveler
Chippokes State Park Campground
Tranquil peaceful
A beautiful campground. Nice wooded sites with decent space between sites. Bathroom and laundry were clean. Showers were just ok. Nice trails and the walk along the James
river was nice. Will definitely stay again.
Mike S.GuideReservoir Road Dispersed Campsite
I would highly recommend this area. It was very quiet with only one other vehicle passing by my camp during the time I was there. I found my spot around 4:30 Thursday afternoon and left around 8:30 Friday morning. I could hear the river which made for a very pleasant sleep. If you check out this area, I really hope that you have as nice of an experience as I did. I was there on 10/22/26
- TTeresa A.Traveler
Big Meadows Campground — Shenandoah National Park
Long drive thru spots, lots of space between campsites. Really inexpensive laundry ($1 to wash $1 to dry) $5 showers for 10 minutes. Nice bathrooms. Dry camping at its finest. Close drive to Grand caverns and Luray caverns.
Guide to Virginia
Virginia offers a diverse range of tent camping experiences, from serene lakeside spots to secluded forest retreats, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Local Activities for Tent Campers
- Enjoy fishing and kayaking at the beautiful Breeden Bottom Campground, where sites are right along the river, providing easy access to water activities.
- Explore the scenic trails and encounter wild ponies at Scales Trailhead Basecamp, a well-reviewed spot located near the Appalachian Trail.
- Experience the thrill of tubing on the Shenandoah River while camping at Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback, which is just a short walk from the river.
Unique Attractions Nearby
- Visit the stunning Leesylvania State Park Campground located on the Potomac River, ideal for picnics and family gatherings.
- Discover the breathtaking views and hiking opportunities at Caledon State Park Campground, known for its wildlife refuge and old-growth forests.
- Check out the historic Luray Caverns, just a short drive from Shenandoah River Outfitters Camp Outback, making it a perfect day trip while camping.
Tent Camping Prices in Virginia
- Tent camping at Cavitts Creek Park starts at around $10 per night, offering a peaceful setting with beautiful lake views.
- Rates at Willville Motorcycle Camp are approximately $20 per night, providing a welcoming atmosphere for motorcycle campers.
- Enjoy a unique experience at Floating Heaven, where tent camping is available for around $30 per night, complete with charming hosts and scenic trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities should I expect at Virginia's tent campgrounds?
What amenities should I expect at Virginia's tent campgrounds?
Virginia tent campgrounds offer a range of amenities depending on the location. At Sandy Bottom Nature Park, primitive sites include access to bathroom facilities, plenty of trails, and designated camping areas. For backpacking experiences, Sky Meadows State Park Campground provides vault toilets, a locked overnight parking area, and established sites in a wooded area. Many primitive campgrounds have basic facilities like pit toilets and fire rings, while lacking electricity or running water. Dispersed camping in national forests typically offers no amenities beyond what you bring yourself. Most developed state parks provide picnic tables, access to water sources, and restroom facilities, though exact amenities vary by park. Always check specific campground information before your trip to ensure it meets your needs.
What are the best tent camping locations in Virginia?
What are the best tent camping locations in Virginia?
Virginia offers exceptional tent camping destinations for every preference. Breeden Bottom Campground provides peaceful, private riverside sites perfect for fishing enthusiasts, though without water or electricity. For backpackers seeking adventure, Veach Gap - GWNF - Backpacking Site offers a moderate 4-mile hike to scenic camping spots. Those who enjoy dispersed camping should explore Washington & Jefferson National Forest, where multiple sites along Bear Creek provide excellent access to hiking, cycling, fishing, and paddling opportunities. For water lovers, James River State Park features canoe-in sites and beautiful riverside camping. Other notable options include False Cape State Park for coastal camping and Shenandoah National Park for mountain views. Virginia's diverse landscape ensures tent campers can find their ideal setting, whether seeking mountain vistas, riverside relaxation, or forest seclusion.
When is the best season for tent camping in Virginia?
When is the best season for tent camping in Virginia?
The ideal tent camping season in Virginia is generally spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are moderate and humidity is lower. At Washington & Jefferson National Forest Dispersed Sites, the shoulder seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery without summer crowds. Canoe Landing Group Campsite — James River State Park is particularly stunning in fall when foliage colors peak. Summer camping (June-August) is popular but brings higher temperatures, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms, especially in lower elevations. Winter camping is possible but requires proper cold-weather gear and preparation. The mountains tend to be cooler year-round, making them more comfortable for summer camping, while coastal areas have milder winters. Always check weather forecasts and campground seasonal availability before planning your trip.
Do I need reservations for tent camping in Virginia state parks?
Do I need reservations for tent camping in Virginia state parks?
Reservation requirements vary across Virginia's state parks and campgrounds. For many state parks like James River State Park, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons (summer weekends and holidays). At Leesylvania State Park Campground, reservations are typically required and can be made online or by phone. Some smaller parks and primitive areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis - for instance, at Sandy Bottom Nature Park, individual campsites cannot be reserved in advance and must be secured in person upon arrival. The reservation window for most Virginia state parks opens 11 months in advance. During off-peak seasons (late fall through early spring), finding walk-up sites is generally easier, but popular parks can still fill up on weekends. For the best camping experience, check specific park reservation policies and book well in advance when possible.
Keep Exploring