Burnsville Lake offers 165 miles of shoreline with multiple access points for campers. The lake reaches depths of 80 feet in certain areas, creating habitat for a variety of fish species and aquatic activities. Winter temperatures around the lake often drop below freezing between November and February, while summer highs typically reach 85°F with moderate humidity compared to coastal areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Burnsville Lake waters contain bass, catfish, and crappie with designated fishing areas near multiple campgrounds. At Bulltown Camp, visitors can fish directly from their campsites. "I've gone to park twice this month, it's only 90 minutes from my house. Both times I got a spot on the lake…just 10-15 yards from the water," notes camper Mara D.
Historic exploration: Visit the Bulltown Historic Area to see Civil War battle sites and period buildings. The area features self-guided tours through preserved structures. "Civil War buffs and historians alike will thrive at this location! Research dates/times for Civil War battle re-enactments," suggests Dave V. The historic district connects to multiple hiking trails appropriate for all skill levels.
Water recreation: Bring kayaks or rent boats from nearby marinas during summer months. Water levels remain relatively stable throughout camping season. At Gerald Freeman Campground, "Bring a kayak or tube to have easy access the the water right on the campground! Spaces had plenty of room to spread out," notes Elana C.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Most campsites around Burnsville Lake provide ample room between neighbors, especially in less crowded loops. "Each site has a firelight and picnic table. Nice manager and friendly staff," notes Todd S. at Flatwoods KOA, where the campground "has 4 distinct areas for rigs which keeps it from feeling it is a RV parking lot."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance throughout the day at most campgrounds. "Bath houses are cleaned three times a day. The sites have electric and at the shower house there is a spigot for fresh water," explains Cassia M. about Holly River State Park, where facilities remain well-maintained even during busy periods.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to see deer, turkey, and various bird species around campsites. "We saw deer and a skunk came up to our site twice," reports Elaine L., highlighting the natural setting that makes dog-friendly campgrounds at Burnsville Lake particularly appealing to nature lovers.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds around Burnsville Lake have limited or no cellular coverage. At Eagle's Nest Campground, Rose notes that satellite internet users might find better connectivity: "The sites were level and easily accessible, no shade but that worked well for us using the Starlink."
Road conditions: Some access roads to campgrounds require careful driving, especially with larger vehicles. "If you are coming from route 19 north about 10 miles from intestate 79 past the Stonewall Resort there is a huge dip in the road. I missed part of the huge dip that swallowed my camper and left it bouncing around the road," warns Jim L.
Weather preparedness: Summer thunderstorms occur frequently in the region, sometimes causing brief power outages. "A huge storm rolled through with 40/50 mph winds. We had a little heads up thanks to buying a day of WiFi but most people were caught flat footed. We saw 30 plus awnings and canopies destroyed," reports Jeremiah S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas within walking distance of campsites. At Bulltown Campground, "Each loop has its own showerhouse, remarkable children's playground, and pavilion," making it easy for families with dogs to maintain supervision of both children and pets.
Swimming options: The main beach area at Burnsville Lake provides designated swimming with gradual entry points suitable for children. "Nice beach and swimming area just a short drive," mentions Elaine L., though pet owners should note dogs aren't permitted at the main beach area.
Kid-friendly trails: Several short hiking paths appropriate for younger children start directly from campground areas. "Lots of bike paths," notes Stephanie V., adding that Bulltown is a "Family friendly site" with multiple activity options for children of varying ages.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For larger RVs, loops C and D at Burnsville Lake offer better access than the older, more densely wooded areas. At Camp Creek State Park, "Nice sites they have; full hookups, water and electric, some just electric," explains John R., recommending advanced planning for optimal site selection.
Water pressure considerations: Some campgrounds experience variable water pressure, particularly during peak season. "Our water pressure at our site was very low, only around 20 lbs, so we had to rely on our pump and tank," reports Brian P., suggesting that RVers should arrive with fresh water tanks already filled.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for potentially uneven sites at some campgrounds. "Very unlevel spot. Not sure if they are all like this, but it's a big ugh," cautions Snooz H., recommending bringing extra leveling blocks to dog-friendly campgrounds around Burnsville Lake, particularly for larger rigs.
