The views from atop Spy Rock are some of the best in Virginia, and the campsite is one of my favorites. You hike in and there is a decent sized area to set up tents. There are few amenities, but a few fire pits, etc. I've heard it can get pretty crowded, but it was not when I was there in October of 2015. Scramble up to the top for amazing sunsets and sunrises.

A little research ahead of time can help, as well. You can hike from Crabtree Falls, which is longer, but alternatively, you can park at the Fish Hatchery in Montebello and make a much shorter hike to Spy Rock, a quick (though admittedly steep) 1.5 miles. There seems to be an occasional debate about whether the trail that connects the fish hatchery road to the Spy Rock trail is open, as it passes through private property, but last I check it WAS.

We tried camping here for one night during a beach trip…but between the bugs and the swampy air we were happy to pack up and get back to the beach house in the morning. The sunrise was very beautiful, though! Guess I'm just not much of a beach camper.

My family has camped at West Branch for years, and it makes for a great, quick getaway. Summers can be very crowded, it's always best after the kids go back to school and it cools off a bit. Great swimming, and Nelson Ledges is not to be missed!

Spent a steamy night here early in the season, and plan to return when it's cooler. Not too crowded, but I reserved in advance. Very convenient to Frazier Discovery and RipRap trails.

Horseshoe Flats has been the location for my neighborhood car camping/kayak trip for the last several years, and it is a fantastic location. Big enough to accommodate a bunch of tents and a couple RV's, and right on the river, which makes paddling or tubing a breeze. Downtown Scottsville is well within walking distance, should you need a little dose of civilization. Other than the occasional train passing by during the night, it's a perfectly quiet and peaceful campsite.