Camping in Virginia

Iconic hikes, history, and golden beaches await campers in Virginia’s 41 state parks.

97% (16550 reviews)
97% (16550 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Virginia

Under $50

Available this weekend

12 top campgrounds in Virginia

95%
(1007)

Bears Den Campground

5 sites · Tents66 acres · Bluemont, VA
Set up your tent in our remote but easily accessible campground, 100 yards off the Appalachian Trail. Roast marshmallows by the fire pit and watch the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Individual site capacities are varied! Please take note of this when selecting your site upon checkout. Site #1 is on a hilly slope and accommodates 4 campersSite #2 accommodates 8-10 campersSite #3 accommodates 4 campersSite #4 accommodates 6-8 campersSite #5 accommodates 6-8 campers About the property Located on a 66-acre plot just five miles from the Shenandoah River, our property offers amazing access to hiking and the outdoors while also keeping civilization within striking distance. Bear Chase Brewery is just a half mile walk across the street, and we are 15 miles from Purcellville. The land and lodge used to be the summer home of a trained opera singer, whose singing could be heard throughout the mountain. Your Host lives onsite in the stone house that also acts as a hostel for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Built in the 1930's all from locally sourced hand-hammered stone, the house is open every night from 5pm - 9pm. Note that we offer several campsites relatively close to each other, so you should expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. About the listing Pitch your tent in a forested area just a short walk up from where you’ll park your car. Enjoy unbeatable proximity to hiking and panoramic views while still having basic amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. You’ll have access to a composting pit toilet, and can access potable water from the tap in the lodge. That’s also where you can access hot showers. As noted above, we host Appalachian Trail thru hikers on the property, so you may see them hanging around or sleeping in the bunkhouse near the shared facilities. so please be respectful of hours when you come in for a shower. No showers after 10 pm For meals, we have picnic tables, and you are encouraged to cook over the fire pits that accompany each site. Please practice Leave No Trace practices during your stay, as the property has raccoons and other critters who will be drawn to any food scraps that are left behind. Pets are allowed! Please keep them on leash during your stay. Trash can be disposed of in dumpster up the hill Additional details to note Expect to see and hear other campers on the property during your stay. No kitchen equipment is provided, so campers must bring their own supplies if they'd like to cook. We do not offer WiFi, but there is good cell reception for all common carriers.
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$12
 / night
98%
(200)

The Guinea Farm, Field, and Forest

4 sites · Lodging, Tents18 acres · Diggs, VA
The Guinea farm is 18 acres of feild and forest on the rural middle pennensula. Only 1 mile from 2 separate secluded beaches and a boat launch. There is verly little traffic or light polution here, nature is at your fingertips. Come visit the farm and experience agrotourism at it's finest. Pick your own veggies in the community garden and meet the Guinea fowl! Enjoy the windernes and learn about the local ecosystem here on the middle pennensula. There are 3 sites spaced out across the 18 acres set apart for privacy. Wisteria is a primative site closer to the entrance gate. Trilogy is a suspended tree tent in the pines 700' beyond that and seperated by dense forest. Stargazer Tiny cabin is an offgrid rustic camping cabin on the back side of the property. Each site is surronded by several acres of forest and close to the edge of a large feild. There are romaing guinea fowl that may come make a very loud appearance as they canvas the property eating bugs. Deer, Turkeys, Bald Eagles, foxes, and other wildlife are common guests also. Mid-summer is what I call frog season, Tree frogs are abundant and provide a wonderful soundtrack. There are free to use bicycles, an axe throwing board, and cornhole boards available. 4 miles from shopping and dining in Mathews Virginia, 15 miles to Gwynn Island. Gwynn's Island is an island located in the Chesapeake Bay off of Virginia's Middle Peninsula. The island is located in the northeast part of Mathews County, south of the mouth of the Piankatank River. It is connected to the rest of the county by a swing bridge over Milford Haven.
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$49.68
 / night
97%
(70)

Ultimate private camping

1 site · RV, Tent235 acres · Hot Springs, VA
Since Hipcamp called to clarify... we are indeed offering the entire property to only one group at a time. You read that right you can camp anywhere on the property, move around, and feel free to stay multiple nights. This 235.51 acre property has all of the most sought-after characteristics: close to the amenities of Hot Springs and The Homestead resort, total privacy and protection, beautiful trout stream, direct access to hiking and mountain bike trails on the adjoining 3000 acres of National Forest, and a 60-mile sunset view. It offers over 1,000 ft of vertical gain. The property includes a half mile of Cowardin Run. With generally mild winter weather, the property is perfect for experience the magic of the Allegheny Mountains. Significant improvements to the road with addition of culverts and a top coat of stone were done over the 2023-2024 winter. We offer the same low light level as the International Dark Sky Park in Millboro for excellent astronomy and night-sky viewing. *Note: Game trail cameras in use - they are not hidden and are not for the purpose of video surveillance* *Note: During business hours Environmental Specialist, VDOF or USDA may visit to check in on the forest/structures/habitat. *
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$43.20
 / night
99%
(972)

Rivers Edge Trail Camp

7 sites · RVs5 acres · Allisonia, VA
LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp Standing on the New River Trail looking up where the campsites are located will give you the feeling that you truly are sleeping on the edge at Rivers Edge campground. Unique limestone formations can be found on the property. Large birds and even an eagle or two seem to prefer this area for hunting. Watch from a distance as farmers cut hay throughout the summer. This private cliff top setting has 6 newly created camp sites on 5 Acres. Enjoy less crowds and more nature! The long range views or the river and farmlands will take your breath away. At the bottom of the drive you have access to the New River and the New River Trail so bring your bike, or kayak for more fun. Bike the trail, bird watch, or star gaze; the choices are endless. Don't be surprised to see bear, turkey, eagles, deer, or a coyote. PLEASE give us a rating on YELP also if you enjoyed your stay! The direct link to our place on Yelp is https://www.yelp.com/biz/rivers-edge-trail-camp-barren-springs?osq=Camping Please LIKE us on FACEBOOK at https://www.facebook.com/riversedgetrailcamp This is a great spot for people looking for peace and quiet. 26 Minutes upriver of Claytor Lake State Park. There is a zoo in nearby Ft. Chiswell. Each site has full hook ups. No tent sites at the present time. Area grocery stores are located about 30 minutes away in Wytheville, Pulaski and Hillsville. A portion of the profits will be donated to a non-profit! Bookmark the direct link to our site here on HipCamp: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/discover/virginia/rivers-edge-trail-camp
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$50
 / night
99%
(476)

City Camp on Reedy Creek

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Richmond, VA
Learn more about this land: Come take a load off at this forested Richmond retreat overlooking Reedy Creek. Set up a tent, car camp, or bring your small trailer to one of two sites on a unique property backed up to 20+ acres of woods. Imagine a hidden gem where you can relax to the sounds of rushing water and chirping birds, but can walk or bike to coffee shops, breweries, restaurants, parks or the river. If you are coming into Richmond for a Brown's Island event we are a five minute Uber to an access point using the Potterfield walking bridge (it's a beautiful walk across the James River to the island). Each campsite includes 3 level spots to pitch tents (see dimensions below), and a connected space to park one car, van or small trailer. The large parking space can be used as a fourth tent footprint if needed. There are additional parking spaces. Each site has a fire pit (with firewood on site), a grate to grill over the fire, a picnic table, and a hammock. There is a shared outbuilding with a composting toilet, hand washing sink, outdoor shower (solar warmed), and space to change privately.  Campsite W ~  Tent footprints: 1) 10' x 12' 2) 10' x 13' 3) 9' x 10' Campsite E ~ Tent footprints: 1) 15'x16' 2) 10' x 15' 3) 9' x 10' **Pricing is based on groups of up to four adults or two adults with children. For groups of five to seven adults there is an additional charge of $10 person per day. For groups of eight or more we suggest you reserve both sites and have the entire camp to yourselves. Campsites W and E are about 80' apart. Both are around 100' to the creek. The spots can accommodate a total length (towing vehicle plus trailer) of up to 35 ft. There is an outdoor spigot with potable water and hoses for clean up. The woodlands and creek adjacent to the campsites have trails that are accessible to the public. You and your furry friends are welcome to use these paths, but know that others may be using them too. Richmond has so much to offer and we are just a hop, skip, and a jump to many wonderful attractions - kayak or sunbathe on the James River, walk or bike on trails around the city, rock climb, dine, imbibe. PLEASE NOTE* These sites are on a private property with a house that is visible to campers, but we give our guests complete privacy and don't plan to interact unless you need something from us. While you are on a 2 acre property backed up to a 20 acre wooded area, we are still in the middle of the city and you will hear city sounds. This is a safe space. We do not discriminate based on anything that makes you...you.
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$36.90
 / night
91%
(639)

Traveler's Meadow

26 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Broadway, VA
Enjoying 8 acres of the simpler life with our children and farm animals. OFF SEASON DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE. See us on Facebook!! The last 4 years of hosting have been an unforgettable adventure! (Including meeting with guests, listening to suggestions, and often working all night on property improvements.) All in all, we are grateful for the opportunity to introduce our farm and the Shenandoah Valley to travelers from around the world. We love animals, planting gardens, preserving quality food, and hiking in both of the world-famous national parks here. This year we put the final touches on a new all-season bathhouse with flush toilet, an A-frame cabin, bigger electrical service, wider road entrance for 30ft RVs, and Wi-Fi. We are located 45 minutes from the Shenandoah National Park. If you are a hiker or outdoor adventure seeker, or just want to experience local culture and history, please reach out to us and we will help you plan your trip. We want you to make many great memories while you are in the area! Find us on our website or send us a message. Broadway/Harrisonburg, Virginia area food and activities: ADORABLE animals and fun farm experiences: GRAMPY'S VILLAGE ZOO Back Home On the Farm Fajita Factory (BEST Mexican food!!) Bowl of Good Shenandoah Heritage Market, Harrisonburg Southern Kitchen, New Market Traditions Family Restaurant, Harrisonburg Ruby's Arcade (Wood fired pizza, 150 year old Duck Pin game) Valley Pike Farm Market Beards and Broads, Broadway. Pizza!! Axe throwing, line dancing, MORE!! BLUE RIBBON NURSERY (plants, gifts, wind chimes) DARK HOLLOW FALLS, Shenandoah National Park. ALPINE GOAT BREWERY (Weyers Cave) High Knob fire towers Fridley Gap/ Mountain Run Swimming Hole and Grubb Knob overlook. Pleasant pet friendly hike, option to complete 6 mile loop, rock scrambling. Take Mountain Valley Rd to Armentrout Path to Airey's Lane dead end (trailhead) Meem' Covered Bridge Wildflower Trail (see a real, lost millstone) Blue Ridge Tunnel, Afton Rockfish Gap Country Store Hone Quarry falls Reddish Knob Emerald Pond Yellow Rock Cliff (New Market) Frontier Cultural Museum STORYBOOK TRAIL OVERLOOK Tray foot Mountain to Blackrock Summit from Port Republic Rd Melrose Caverns
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$15.30
 / night
99%
(484)

Thunder Bridge

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Natural Bridge Station, VA
Situated at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and bordering the Jefferson National Forest, Thunder BRidge has scenic, large, private tent sites and cabins in the woods for those who want to experience camping at its finest. Many of the sites border Elk Creek. Our RV sites are large, flat and at the edge of the forest in a well kept open green space. Our 100 acres was originally a camp built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the "30s and early '40s, then a boys' juvenile detention center and Big Brothers'/Big Sisters' camp, which closed in 2009. The tent sites and cabins are in the forest, away from the buildings out front, but you're free to walk around and check out the historic site. We'd like to share the camp with others and see it come back to life. All within a short driving distance are the Natural Bridge, wineries, breweries, Natural Bridge Zoo, Safari Park, Dinosaur Kingdom, Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, James River, historic Lexington, Devil's Marbleyard, Glenwood Horse Trail, swimming holes, etc. We have river access 2 miles up the road if you'd like to fish or put your kayak or canoe in. Truly, there is something nearby for everyone. We'd be happy to give you recommendations of things to see and do. If you are a star gazer you won't be disappointed by our dark sky.
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$35
 / night

Dog-friendly getaways

Star Hosts in Virginia

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Virginia guide

Overview

Whether you want to dive into Civil War history, follow in the footsteps of former presidents, or drive the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia rarely disappoints. The birthplace of America has thousands of miles of Atlantic coastline and more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state. Still need convincing? Virginia’s 41 state parks boast more than 600 miles of trails and 1,800 state campsites, leading the way to forested mountains, rambling rivers, and beaches. Camping is a year-round affair, whether you prefer fall foliage hikes, pitching a tent on the beach, or snowshoeing from a cozy winter cabin. 

Where to go

Central Virginia

Gleaming lakes and pine-clad foothills characterize the central Piedmont region, known for its lakeside camping, canoe and kayak trails, and Civil War sites. Pocahontas State Park is just a half-hour drive from the state capital, Richmond, where multi-use trails are popular for biking and horseback riding. Also within a short drive, Bear Creek Lake State Park offers easy access to Cumberland State Forest trails, while James River State Park has RV, tent, and canoe-in campsites.

Atlantic Coast & Chesapeake Bay

Wide beaches and fishing villages pepper the coast of Chesapeake Bay, Virginia’s top choice for beach lovers. You can pitch your tent right on the beach at First Landing State Park and False Cape State Park, camp on the grounds of Chippokes Plantation State Park, or get on the water at York River State Park.

Shenandoah Valley & The North

The dense woodlands are the star attraction in Shenandoah National Park and along its renowned Skyline Drive. The closest state campgrounds can be found in Shenandoah River State Park, a popular spot for summer hiking, canoeing, and picnicking, while further south, Douthat State Park has a swimming beach, waterfall hikes, and mountain biking trails.

Appalachian & Blue Ridge Mountains

The rugged Appalachian Mountains fringe Virginia’s southwestern borders, merging into the wooded slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Grayson Highlands State Park is the gateway to the region’s two most popular hikes: the Appalachian Trail and Mount Rogers. Alternatively, paddle the scenic waterways of New River Trail State Park, book a cabin in the woods in Hungry Mother State Park, or escape the crowds at Clinch River State Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Virginia is an excellent destination for camping. The state offers a diverse range of landscapes, including mountains, forests, beaches, and rivers. Virginia boasts numerous state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds that cater to tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and those looking for cabin rentals. Some popular options include:

With its rich history, outdoor recreational opportunities, and beautiful scenery, Virginia is an ideal camping destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

Yes, boondocking, or camping without amenities in undeveloped areas, is legal in Virginia on certain public lands, such as national forests and wildlife management areas. The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, for example, allow dispersed camping in designated areas. However, it's essential to follow regulations and guidelines, such as staying at least 200 feet away from water sources, practicing Leave No Trace principles, and adhering to any posted rules. Private landowners on Hipcamp may also allow boondocking on their properties. Always research the specific area or land manager's rules before boondocking in Virginia. You can find RV camping options in Virginia on Hipcamp, such as those in Bedford, Virginia Beach, Berryville, and Roanoke.

Yes, you can camp in Virginia state parks, but only in designated campgrounds and sites within the parks. Virginia state parks offer a variety of camping options, including tent camping, RV camping, cabins, and yurts. Some popular Virginia state parks with camping facilities include Shenandoah River State Park, First Landing State Park, Grayson Highlands State Park, and Pocahontas State Park. To ensure a spot and follow park regulations, it is essential to reserve a campsite or accommodation in advance.

Virginia offers a variety of state parks with camping options. Some of the popular Virginia state parks with camping facilities include:

For a comprehensive list of Virginia state parks with camping facilities, visit Hipcamp.

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