The best camping near Lake Anna State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Anna State Park adventure.

90% (5 reviews)

Discover Lake Anna State Park's scenic trails, beaches, and camping.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Lake Anna State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Lake Anna State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Anna State Park

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Watercress Inn at Landon Farm

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Etlan, VA

Welcome to our small Farm, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Madison County, Virginia. Located just minutes from Shenandoah National Park, we offer intimate nature-inspired cottages and camping on our 120-acre working farm. Enjoy an evening under the stars with fireflies and a campfire after a long day hike, fly fishing on one of our beautiful trout steams or touring the local vineyards and breweries. We currently offer one cottage, glamping and a few campsites for our guests. Our campsites are all private, located acres apart with tables, chairs, firepits, some elevated sleeping areas, some hammock spots and a few with a roof. Three of our spots require walking away from your vehicle, short distances. We have four drive-in sites that will accommodate two or three vehicles. We do not allow RVs or trailers on our main farm due to our narrow mountain driveway. Wisteria Camp has a private driveway, it can accommodate small RV/Trailers. Camper vans are welcome at the main farm! Our farm store includes our Animal Welfare Approved products such as Eggs, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Lamb and Dairy, as well as produce, jams, coffee and other items from our local community. We offer camping essentials, local art, bike rentals, farm experiences and tours. The property has miles of trails along mountain spring-fed streams, a small pond and access to three private acres on the Robinson River, a stocked Trout stream, just 2 miles down the road. Our property is centrally located to White Oak Canyon (20 minutes) and Old Rag Mountain (10 minutes) trailheads in the Shenandoah National Park as well as many vineyards and breweries. A few offerings on the farm. Tasting in the 1850s Chestnut log cabin, tubing trips, breakfast and picnic lunches, Animal experiences and Yoga. Please inquire about renting the property for private small events.

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Graves Mountain Farm Campground

40 sites · RVs, Tents1800 acres · Syria, VA

Campground by Shenandoah National Park - it touches us. Maximum Length of Stay 7 Days 1800 Acre Farm to Play On 22 activities from yoga to fishing to riding to music listening, mountain biking, road biking, Lots of activities - from live music, to nature walks, horseback trail rides, fly fishing, 18 miles of trails, mountain biking, road biking, eating good food. Campground is 7 to 55 acres on the Farm; on large attendance weeks it goes up to 55 acres. Campground is free-form. You make your own area, no reserved "spaces". Yes, you can drive across the fields to where you want to set up and park right there. Same for RVS, groups of RVS. Porta-toilets, pit toilets, excellent mountain well water. Wet toilets and showers - 150 yards in Dorms Area - "Jam Camp" No picnic tables or fire rings as we use the spaces for different events. No hook-ups. We do have a dump station with a fee of $40.00. 2 Mountain Streams - Rose River& Robinson River 2 Fishing Ponds - no license needed 28 Miles of Hiking Trails on property - one of our mountains is higher than Old Rag Old Rag and White Oak Canyon - just up our back hollow road - 7 miles. See map of our trails and the key Shenandoah National Park ones > https://www.gravesmountain.com/wp-content/uploads/Trail_map_graves_mountain_legal_size_04272024.pdf Seasonal Pool - fee payable $10 pp per day in 2024 Well Behaved pets are welcome - on leads please & please clean up after your pet. Please stay within signed areas as the size of the campground changes according to festival events Wood - May be purchased at the Graves Mountain Market, Campground Entrance or at the Main Lodge. Water spigots up front near the red barn. Excellent, potable. Fiber Optic WiFi- that allows for Cell service calling and receiving - even without cell service - up front. Get password at bulletin board, Market or Main Lodge Cell phones - connect to your network via our WiFi both to call out and receive calls. We are remote so no cell towers available Open 24 hours - at night please be respect your neighbors while setting up. Old Rag Mountain Hike- 6.5 miles to the back entrance (Weakley Hollow/Berry Hollow Fire Rd and Old Rag Shelter |10.5 miles to Nethers/Front Entrance. White Oak Canyon Falls Hike - 6.5 miles up our back hollow road 12 Outdoor Adventures and a Whole Farm to Get to Know: goats, horses, rabbits, chickens, sheep, black angus calf, and more. Hiking and fishing on our 1800 acres and National Park, horse-back riding, nature hikes, guided hikes, yoga, live music, own hard cider, Farm to Table Restaurant, Market Deli and tackle for needs, prepared foods - or giving in to a massage - even Reiki. Gift Shop located in the lower level of the Main Lodge for t-shirts, hats, gifts, Graves Mountain specialty products and more. Live sing-along, open mike on Friday evenings and live Bluegrass on Saturday evenings. Our own hard cider "Mountain Squeeze", fire-pit, marshmallow roasting---all at the Main Lodge. What will be happening on the farm - see our calendar of activities: https://www.gravesmountain.com/calendar-events-shenandoah-blue-ridge/ Huge seasonal pool, volleyball, badminton, horseshoes, corn-hole, ping pong, board games, and books - a whole library for you.

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Private Paradise on Rivers Bend

4 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · Brightwood, VA

Welcome to Private Paradise on Rivers Bend!Campsite has a firepit, picnic table, river frontage with beach, and fishing hole. Campers can enjoy hiking and the many breweries and wine vineyards in the Shenandoah. Great access point for kayaking. Firewood available (reasonable rates)close to:-Scenic Skyline DriveThorton Gap entrance (33 miles)Swift Run Gap entrance (29 miles)-Shenandoah National Park (50 miles)-Many great VineyardsPrince Michele (3 miles away)Early Mountain (10 miles away)DuCard (16 miles)Barboursville (24 miles)Horton’s ( 25 miles)Old Rag Mountain which was voted #10 in the Top 25 hikes in the world,(20 miles)Historic homes of Founding Fathers Thomas Jefferson (Monticello - 41 miles) or James Madison (Montpelier- 21 miles)

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Private Farm Minutes to Cville

7 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · Charlottesville, VA

This was a 55-acre farm, split in half to accommodate a bypass through Charlottesville, so the previous owners had to give up half the land, and actually moved the house down to the other half of the property! They had to build a land bridge to get to the new home site, so they turned the bridge into a dam and created a beautiful large swimming pond, complete with beach and gazebo. My wife Stephanie and I bought the property in early 2017 and have turned it into a private horse farm, adding pastures, a riding ring, and 6-stall barn. There are ~21 horses who live on the property. The property is unique in that you can hardly see another house from anywhere on the property and yet we are only 2 miles from Barracks Rd. Shopping Center, and 4 miles from the University of Virginia.

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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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Peaceful Meadows Farm

17 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Palmyra, VA

Learn more about this land: When you arrive you will drive up to your campground destination which is 16 acres of Loblolly Pine trees. There is a 1 1/2 acre pond stocked with Catfish, Bass, Crappies, Brim and Shell Cracker. Also there are two smaller ponds with minnows and one is home to Tucker the Turtle 🐢 . We have several trails on the property to walk as well. You are welcome to 🐠 fish for dinner but we ask that you notify your host if you want to keep some fish. Otherwise please practice catch and release policy. Each site will have a fire ring available. We are AUTISM Friendly 💙,so if you have a camper that needs a little more encouragement about camping or other accommodations please let your host know. You are welcomed to bring your furry family members, bikes and kayaks. We are only 35 minutes from Carter’s Mountain, Monticello and Jefferson Winery’s. Thistle Gate Winery is only 5 minutes away and 20 minutes to Scottsville were you can enjoy the James River. UVA sports complex is only 30 minutes away and your able to go the back way in to skip the gridlock of the traffic. There so much more within 30 to 45 minutes of this camping area I can’t list it all. I promise you will Enjoy your stay!

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Cross Creek Farm

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Southern Gateway, VA

Originally part of Blake Farm, built in the 1930's. Blake Farm was subdivided into 5 acres farmettes in the 1990's. The original farmhouse is next door, now known as Agape Farms. The forest has reclaimed much of the original Blake Farm land. Visit over 4 acres of available land, from the pastures, to the wooded creek, or the very back edge of the farm abutting deep woods. Spend relaxing time petting the Nigerian Dwarf goats, Rhode Island Red chickens, and the super-friendly livestock guard dogs (Thomasina, Bucky, and Sarge). We are also located adjacent to Agape Farms, with its horses, ducks, and chickens. All this in horse country just minutes from I-95 and an hour from Washington, DC or Richmond, VA.

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The Forge at Fiddler's Ridge

4 sites · Tents120 acres · Scottsville, VA

The farm was owned in the 30's by a musical family who's members were invited to play for FDR at the White House. My background is as a horse shoer and black smith and I have made Fiddler's Ridge my home since 2003. I have a forge on site and will be happy to demonstrate or give a beginner lesson. Just ask for details.Learn more about this land:Explore 100 acres of forest in eastern Albemarle county including beautiful walking trails & nearby creek. Peaceful and private camping sites with individual fire pits and outhouse access. A shower is available 1/2 mile up private driveway if desired. 20 minutes to Charlottesville and 15 minutes to Scottsville.Site 1- Beautiful pastoral views from a hilltop campsite perfect for 1-2 tents. Site 2- Great for couples to larger groups. Includes use of older pole barn in case of inclement weather.

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Camping at Wilderness Run

2 sites · RVs, Tents175 acres · Locust Grove, VA

Learn more about this land:Rustic campsite near cool running creek. Located on the same farm as Wilderness Run Vineyards and 1781 Brewing Co. RV/ Truck Camping in field within walking distance to live music in the evenings.

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Casa Vargas

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents104 acres · Culpeper, VA

Bring your tent, travel trailer or RV to our farm, Located 5 miles from the town of Culpeper VA, 22 miles from skyline drive, some of the best wineries, breweries, and many more tourist attractions. Here you can spend some quality time with family and friends, go for a hike, bike ride, horse back riding, stargaze or just do nothing. We are 1 mile down a dirt road on 104 acres, our sites are very private and secluded.

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Narrow Gate Farm

7 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Washington, VA

We are a working farm, scenic setting with a 200 year old farm house, quiet and peaceful, nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge mountains. Close to historic sites, such as Monticello, Montpelier, and the Manassas Civil War Battlefield. Luray Caverns and Sky Line Drive can be found 30 to 40 miles west. We are one hour southwest of D.C. and one hour northeast of Charlottesville. During your stay you can sample from one of the many wineries/breweries in the area. If your traveling with your horse, we have indoor stalls and turnout available.

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Sharp's Island

1 site · Tent1 acre · Richmond, VA

NEW IN 2024: There is a beautiful cabin for guests to use. Sleeps 4 easily. Also new is the outdoor kitchen and bar. Check out @sharpsislandrva on Insta to see pics! NOTE: The parking situation has changed due to construction! The parking information in the pictures is not correct (but Hipcamp won't let me delete them). Contact Andy at 804-212-6639 for parking instructions. There is no bridge to Sharp's Island, but we can rent you a canoe or kayak (it's super easy). Sharp's Island is so named because the Sharp family of Richmond owned it as far back as the 1850s. The old brick foundation you see in the pictures is all that remains of a house that was built on the island in 1895 and stood for 75 years! We consider ourselves stewards of an amazing historic, ecological, geologic, and recreational asset, and we would love to have you add your story to this island's long history! Learn more about this land: One-of-a-kind really only begins to describe 1-acre Sharp's Island! For starters, this is the only legal camping option in the city of Richmond. You read that correctly. This is your own private island, and it's right in the heart of downtown RVA! The Piedmont meets the Coastal Plain right here at Sharp's Island. That makes for amazing fishing, especially during the spring shad and striper runs. Some other incredible things about camping at Sharp's Island: You can motor up to it from Ancarrow's Landing, canoe over from the trail just below Mayo Bridge, or make this the destination for your downriver raft/kayak trip; at summer river levels there are oodles of great swimming holes along the banks; fire pit ready and waiting for you. And lots more!

The best camping near Lake Anna State Park guide

Overview

About

Paddles dip into the glass-still water, small ripples shattering the once mirror-like images of the adjacent shoreline into a kaleidoscope of mosaics. “Oh look, everyone,” exclaims the leading paddelist, reassuring everyone of her unwavering need for attention. “Look at the fish below! Aren’t they gorgeous?” For the lagging kayakers, her words come across as hollow interjections. After All, her aggressive strokes had made quick work of the wary fish, now hidden beneath the algae enveloped rocks below.

Words to the wise: don’t be the obnoxious kayaker. Lake Anna State Park is inundated by the area’s namesake lake and, as one could imagine, is a popular hydrophilic outlet for the amphibious camper. Canoe and kayak launching sights are plentiful, nestled alongside the healthy population of game fish that stock the fauna heavy lake. And, for those of us who aren’t too keen on getting our feet wet, be sure to explore the nearly fifteen-miles of hiking trails that comb the well manicured shoreline—but do so without making a ruckus.

Notable campgrounds

Cabins: Cozy retreats with rustic furniture, fireplaces, and scenic lake views, perfect for a family getaway.
Lodges: Spacious 6-bedroom lodges with modern amenities, ideal for larger groups seeking comfort amid nature.
Yurts: A unique blend of tent and cabin, these yurts offer a charming and secluded camping experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak season stays, to ensure your spot in this popular park.
Consider mid-week visits for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations if the park is full.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Anna State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm swimming conditions but expect larger crowds. Winters are quieter but with limited services.

Know before you go

Check the park's capacity before visiting, especially on weekends, as it may close due to reaching limits.
Remember to bring your own linens and towels when staying in cabins or lodges.
Be aware of unguarded swimming areas and swim at your own risk.
Accessibility is a priority, with features like ADA-accessible cabins and fishing ponds.
Alcohol is permitted only in private areas or with a permit from the Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.