The best camping near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

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

100% (8 reviews)
100% (8 reviews)

A relaxing lake with an ice cream boats making deliveries? Count us in! RV hookups and cabins, too!  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Riverside Campground at Seneca
  • Riverside Campground at Seneca
  • Riverside Campground at Seneca
95%
(95)

Riverside Campground at Seneca

3 sites · Lodging, Tents140 acres · Elliston, VA
Learn more about this land: Fall asleep to hooting owls and the gentle ripple of the river and creek that flank your campsite. Wake up with a dip in the river or a morning hike in the woods. Feel the hug of the mountains throughout your stay, while also having access to Blacksburg nearby should you need it.  DIRECTIONS: Upon entry the gravel road is shared with my neighbor and it is about 1.5 miles from the entry gate to the site. You'll enter thru a gate (it may be closed, if closed please close behind you as my neighbor sometimes has cows). Go approx 1 mile the road will split...go up the hill on the right. Continue past the Hay barn another half mile. Park on the left side of the gravel road along the tree line. Another 50ft you'll see a wood foot bridge across the creek. The sites are ahead, PawPaw is first, then Bloodroot Base Camp (bell tent), and lastly Cohosh Cove is the most private. Each site has a sign as well When driving, please be respectful of the right of way. Drive slowly and respect the farm equipment. Also please do not venture onto the neighbor’s property other than entry and exit. About the property 20 minutes from Blacksburg and 35 minutes from Roanoke, our campground gives you great access to the “Triple Crown” of the Appalachian trail, consisting of McAfee Knob, Tinker Cliffs, and Dragon’s Tooth. Conquer these iconic peaks of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains for spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. Additionally, explore Falls Ridge Nature preserve, Cascades waterfall, and Carvin’s Cove for hiking, kayaking and mountain biking.  Or just stay on the campground and enjoy the hiking and swimming we offer here.  Nearby in Blacksburg take advantage of the local breweries or Virginia Tech football home games. You can also find Christmas tree cutting in Floyd county, 45mins away.  This property deserves to be shared with others. It is peaceful and beautiful. As your Host, I am passionate about conservation and also teaching people about the medicinal uses of our local herbs. I can lead medicinal herb walks upon request for $25 a person. I typically try to meet the campers if I can upon arrival, I am available for questions and can be hands on or off as the needs of campers suggest. I have had campers ask if I wanted to share a beverage and sit around the fire and have done so. I want to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. I love the peacefulness the property offers, and that you’re in the middle of the wilderness but also have quick access to things in town. The river campsites are my favorite part of the property. At the main cabin I have goats and chickens which hipcampers are more than welcome to greet.  About the listing Pitch your tents at the campsite nestled along the side of the mountain on the banks of the North Fork of the Roanoke River. As you fall asleep, listen to the occasional hoot of an owl, howl of a coyote, and gentle ripple of the river and creek that flank the campsite. Campers will have access to a private composting toilet, fire pit, and picnic table.  We offer two different campsites on the property, so note that you may see or hear other campers on the grounds during your stay.  What to bring Your tent and camping equipment Potable water and/or water filtration and purification equipment Fire starting equipment if needed, assuming there is no local fire ban in place Pets are welcome During warm months, a swim suit to enjoy the river! Additional details to note There are grill grates provided but campers should bring their own camping stoves and cooking supplies if they need more than just a grill grate.  No WiFi is provided, and there is limited reception for some cellular carriers.
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$29.75
 / night
  • Hanging with the chickens
  • Cooling off in the river
  • Hanging with the chickens
94%
(141)

Camping at Lazy River Farm

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Iron Gate, VA
Learn more about this land: Lazy River Farm has so much to offer. Tents sites are in a wooded setting, on a beautiful hill, spread out for privacy. Camp sites also have fire rings with wood available for you to use. Campers are welcome to use any wood that's on the ground near or around your site. Camp sites can be accessed with a 4 wheel drive vehicle or walk up the hill to your site. With easy access down to the river, you can cool off in the beautiful Cow Pasture River. Glamping in the Vardo Wagon is another option, with its close proximity to the river and cozy interior. The Gypsy Rose sleeps 2, but can sleep 2 additional guests with a tent. Rent kayaks or paddle boards if you want to go on beautiful floats that wont disappoint you, paddle boards and kayaks are available for free if you paddle near the farm. (Life jackets not provided but are required) drop in a line to fish, or simply sit by the river and listen to the soft rapids. Lazy River Farm is a working farm, with lovely Scottish Highland Cattle, pigs, chickens, horses and livestock guardian dogs.. Your welcome to come and pet the animals. Do not feed animals. Do not go into fields or stalls with any of them. Nearby there are vineyards and breweries, the beautiful historic Masonic Theater, C&O heritage center, miles of back roads to explore, as well as local restaurants. Contact us directly for a full range of what we have to offer, or have questions regarding any site.
Pets
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from 
$35
 / night
  • Primitive Farm
  • Primitive Farm
  • Primitive Farm
97%
(46)

Primitive Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents54 acres · Stuart, VA
Hi! We're Matt and Kayla! We bought a farm and started learning about farming in 2020 after a good friend of ours passed away from cancer and we started talking through what it would look like to try something we've always wanted to try. We knew nothing about it previously so welcome to our adventure! There are a lot of camping spots on our property and you can choose anywhere you'd like. The top of our ridge called "soil road" used to be the main traveling path back in the settler days. The house at the bottom of our driveway used to be the towns post office, and there is a cave back on the creek where soldiers during the civil war camped out in. We are a working farm during the day so if you choose to walk down the ridge you'll find outside working with the animals or in the flower or produce garden. There is a lot of great fishing in the creek so make sure to bring your rod! We love pets so yours are welcome, and there are a lot of hiking trails and cute towns around us. Learn more about this land: A quiet very private experience on a farm with 180 Blue Ridge Mountain views on top of the ridge or walk down our trail to camp and trout fish on Rock Castle Creek. With clear stars, fireflies everywhere, and a cozy fire, what more could you ask for? Our whole 54 acres is yours to explore during the day to swim in the creek, see our farm animals or take a quick drive to the many surrounding lakes, hiking trails and local towns. Any type of camping set up is welcome from truck tent set ups to converted vans to on the ground camping. The top of our hill is flat so it can accommodate any set up except huge RV's!
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$35
 / night
  • 12 Gates Farms
  • 12 Gates Farms
  • 12 Gates Farms
87%
(124)

12 Gates Farms

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Montvale, VA
This property was once a 300 acre plus tobacco farm. The original log cabin was built in the 1850s and now serves as our dining room. The front portion of the house was completed in April of 1861 and the back in the early 1900s. We have plans to eventually turn it into a working farm which produces tinctures, salves and extracts of various native plants including hemp. Learn more about this land: Heavily wooded mountain side with flowing creek. Easy access (walking distance) to Jefferson National Forest, National Forest horse trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway. (Note: You cannot drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway as the path is an old forest road which has been gated, but you can walk up to it.)  We also have a tree house which has AC, heat and electrical connection.   Only site 4 is next to the brook.  However, the site positions are for the purposes of the listing only.  You may camp anywhere on the property.  There is plenty of frontage on the creek and several tents can go up there. The toilets at the treehouse and the bus are flushing, camping toilets with sinks. To find us easily, use what3words.com and enter the words wished.wobbles.shelves. That square is our driveway. The large white square to the right of it is our house.
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$13.50
 / night
  • The Meadow At Stone Soup
  • The Meadow At Stone Soup
  • The Meadow At Stone Soup
100%
(21)

The Meadow At Stone Soup

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · New Castle, VA
Welcome to your peaceful retreat nestled in the scenic mountains of Craig County, Virginia. Our 20-acre property offers a private escape surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Jefferson National Forest. Immerse yourself in nature as you listen to the soothing sounds of Barbours Creek, providing a serene backdrop to your getaway. With the vast expanse of the Jefferson National Forest right at your doorstep, the possibilities for adventure are endless. Explore the network of hiking trails that wind through the forest, offering opportunities to discover hidden waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic vistas. For the more adventurous, embark on a climb up the cliffs or venture out onto the Pots Mountain jeep trails for an adrenaline-filled excursion. Enjoy the best kayaking in the state of Virginia on Craig County's John's Creek, Craig's Creek, Barbours Creek, and Sinking Creek. After a day of outdoor exploration, retreat to the tranquility of your private oasis, where you can relax and unwind amidst the natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether you prefer to lounge by the fire, sip a cup of coffee while taking in the mountain views, or stargaze under the clear night sky, our peaceful getaway offers the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Conveniently located just 7 miles from the historic town of New Castle, you'll have easy access to charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites to explore. 5.2 miles from the Fenwick Mines day use recreational area were you'll find hiking, fishing, and other recreational activities. Additionally, the nearby towns of Covington and Salem are within a short drive, offering additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and discover the tranquility of our mountain retreat. Whether you seek adventure in the great outdoors or simply wish to relax and recharge, our peaceful getaway provides the ideal setting for your next vacation.
Pets
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from 
$45
 / night
  • "Narnia" is the magical land where you can be a kid again! Catching crawdads, climbing trees & splashing in the creek.
  • We had a spectacular evening on the dock
  • "Narnia" is the magical land where you can be a kid again! Catching crawdads, climbing trees & splashing in the creek.
99%
(108)

Infinity Acres Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents61 acres · Ridgeway, VA
Rick & Laura relocated to Ridgeway VA 18 years ago and are in love with the southern pace and park-like setting of the fields, pond and woods surrounding our Ranch. Folks were fascinated with our animals and kept saying we should open it up to the public!! We finally did just that! Then in 2012 we established an Animal Interactive Educational Non-Profit! Currently we share our domestic and exotic animals to benefit 1000's of folks each year! Now we are opening up the Ranch to you as a HIP CAMPER! You can learn more about us by following Friends of Infinity Acres Ranch on FACEBOOK, and also check out our website and watch the videos! Just google Infinity Acres Ranch to find us online! Many CHOICES!! You can choose to have an interactive experience, or just enjoy the tranquility of being in the country!! (fyi: roosters &; peacocks add to the experience, but also may wake you up!! ) Talk with Laura when you book and decide what will work best for YOU!! Strict supervision of children is required. Any aggressive behavior or harassment of the animals is prohibited!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
  • Hopefully a helpful picture showing where the house is situated relevant to the main road.
  • The Triangle House in Fall and Winter
  • Hopefully a helpful picture showing where the house is situated relevant to the main road.
100%
(1)

Triangle House

1 site · RV2 acres · Eagle Rock, VA
Learn more about this land:The Triangle house in situated on 2 acres of wooded land. Hipcampers are welcome to set up camp anywhere on the property, except for inside the house itself. We have grassy areas surrounding the house and a big porch to watch the sunrise and sunset. Theres also an outdoor fire pit to hang out, roast marshmallows, and watch the stars.
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from 
$16
 / night
  • String lights and wagon-wheel chandeliers inside the barn. Very cool space!
  • Kitchen in cabin
  • String lights and wagon-wheel chandeliers inside the barn. Very cool space!
100%
(103)

Jack's Run, Glade Hill, VA

1 site · Lodging250 acres · Glade Hill, VA
Relax in this rustic, private, farmhouse cabin with full amenities and access to a private pool, tennis courts, fire pit, and restored barn. Located on a large farm and surrounded by rolling hills, creeks, open fields, and woods, the cabin is an ideal private get-away nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills. The cabin is an authentic, historic structure, made of hand hewn logs, but with modern conveniences. 15 minutes from Smith Mountain Lake, the area offers swimming, hiking, kayaking, and fishing. We’re also 15 minutes from Rocky Mount, Virginia, and 40 minutes from Roanoke. You will have the site entirely to yourself. Hosts are available if needed but honor your privacy.
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from 
$110
 / night

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Smith Mountain Lake Campground
100%
(8)

Smith Mountain Lake Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

  • James River Depot
  • James River Depot
  • James River Depot
99%
(688)

James River Depot

6 sites · Tents30 acres · Glasgow, VA
An active hay field nestled between the river and the railroad.  A great place to enjoy some R and R.  We love to float the James and there is easy access to the river on our property.  A beautiful field as well as some trees for added shade. Fun to hear the trains and the water as you get amazing views of the night sky.
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$22.50
 / night
  • Thunder BRidge
  • Each cabin has 6 cots with mattresses. Bring your own sleeping bag/sheets/pillows
  • Thunder BRidge
99%
(525)

Thunder BRidge

26 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. Most of the buildings out front are artist studios (currently for 16 artists). We like to share the camp with others and watch 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.
Pets
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from 
$35
 / night
  • Savage Acres on Craig Creek
  • Savage Acres on Craig Creek
  • Savage Acres on Craig Creek
98%
(558)

Savage Acres on Craig Creek

7 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Catawba, VA
In a remote valley just north of Roanoke VA, along the banks of Craig's Creek, the property includes mature hardwood forest, pasture, and an 1830s log cabin where we live. We love to share this special place with visitors, and have some basic amenities for campers. The campsites are at the edge of a large pasture and just a few steps from the creek and our big swimmin' hole. Totally secluded in a remote valley - barely a house in sight (but our cabin is a short walk through the woods if you need something), no cell service for most providers, but within a short drive of Roanoke and Blacksburg, and countless outdoor recreation opportunities.
Pets
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from 
$40.05
 / night
  • Stoney Creek Campground
  • Stoney Creek Campground
  • Stoney Creek Campground
95%
(40)

Stoney Creek Campground

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents11 acres · Bedford, VA
Learn more about this land: Located 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian trail is a small camping area with a bathhouse that includes a toilet and hot shower. A mountain stream rushes through the campground providing a peaceful and tranquil stay. Outside enjoy a shady relaxing nap next to the stream. At night enjoy a fire while looking at the stars up above. During the day, explore the Blue Ridge Mountains 5 miles away with very popular hikes and waterfalls. Sharp Top Mt and Flat Top trail heads are 5 miles away. Apple Orchard Falls trailhead 15 minutes away. The James River is 20 minutes away which offers canoeing and kayaking. 5 miles south of the campground is Bedford which has food, shopping and historical attractions. Wineries, orchards and national forest are just minutes away.
Pets
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from 
$15
 / night
  • Crooked Mountain
  • Late summer sunflowers
  • Crooked Mountain
99%
(215)

Crooked Mountain

13 sites · Tents47 acres · Floyd, VA
We are a family/veteran-owned small farm offering primitive creek-side and open field camping that's perfect for motorcyclists, car campers, van campers, and tourists traveling on an adventure. We are located along the historic Crooked Road Music Trail and right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile marker 159.3. The picturesque town of Floyd is only 4 miles away, with easy access to music, shopping, multiple grocery stores, local and international themed restaurants - all with a true feeling of Appalachian hospitality. There are 6 creek-side campsites and open-field campsites in the peaceful field with a view of the pond, all with access to our hiking trail. We have been developing our dream property and wanted to welcome visitors with affordable tent camping in an incredibly beautiful area of the country. Also, on the property we have a store stocked with essential camping needs, local products, artisan items, coffee, souvenirs and more. During the summer we offer a "YouPick" flower experience in our crop field (come purchase a container and pick your own bouquet of flowers). Peak season for flowers is during August to September. Check out our web page for special events at www.crookedmtn.com. We would love for you to camp with us and give us feedback as we are constantly improving things. Come ride, camp, and explore the area!
Pets
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from 
$22
 / night
  • Mane Gait Equestrian Center
  • Mane Gait Equestrian Center
  • Mane Gait Equestrian Center
96%
(247)

Mane Gait Equestrian Center

2 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Natural Bridge, VA
Mane Gait is conveniently located right off route 81 and can accommodate large rigs. You won't find better views of the blue ridge mountains on this gorgeous working horse farm. We have hiking trails through beautiful private scenery for beginners to advanced hikers. Pets are welcome if leashed! Picnic area on site as well as laundry machine. We are 10 minutes from downtown historic Lexington Virginia that provides great restaurants and lots of history in the charming town of Lexington. Site 2 should be booked for smaller campers around 25 feet. Site 1 is better for larger campers.
Pets
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from 
$35
 / night
  • Great area for tent sit up
  • Camping in the shade on the river
  • Great area for tent sit up
99%
(113)

Camping in the shade on the river

1 site · RV, Tent60 acres · Eagle Rock, VA
Learn more about this land:Very secluded spot right on the river. Large fire pit. 12by40 pavilion. Great area for wade fishing. Right between to state boat ramps one 20 min upstream is the Iron gate ramp one an hour down stream is the Glen Wilton boat ramp. Picknick tables on site.
Pets
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from 
$40
 / night
  • Basement bedroom
  • A view of the inside of the yurt from the back door.
  • Basement bedroom
98%
(216)

Why be Square?! Blue Ridge Yurt

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Pilot, VA
Blue Ridge Yurts is a woman-owned company in Floyd, Virginia, started by my mother, Sharon. We were staying at Treebones, a yurt 'glampground' in Big Sur, California, and fell in love with yurts together. My mom said, "I think I could build one of these," and the company was born! She does all the woodworking, using sustainable practices, with locally-sourced wood, and her best friend Kathy does the fabric end of things. I was one of her early guinea pigs, and love my yurt property dearly <3 This 24' yurt sits on a beautiful private acreage off an end-state maintenance road, with biking and hiking trails just a 20 minute drive from the touristy town of Floyd, Virginia. There's a steam shower sauna, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a deck overlooking the mountains with a table and seating. Enjoy!
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$102.85
 / night
  • Wilderness Adventure
  • Food and live music offered on seasonal weekends as a part of Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing.
  • Wilderness Adventure
98%
(503)

Wilderness Adventure

92 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents500 acres · New Castle, VA
Our campsites offer beautiful scenery, exciting activities and HOT showers! There are local on-property trails to explore and all the campsite and lodging amenities that make for the perfect family getaway! All of our listings lie on 500 gorgeous acres run by Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing. Bordered by 500 yards of Craigs Creek along the front of our property and mountains in the rear, Wilderness Adventure offers our guests extensive trails to hike and bike, ponds for fishing and swimming, canoeing and tubing. We offer Giant Swing, Team Building, Low Ropes, High Ropes, Caving, Rock Climbing, Mountain Bike lessons and guided trips! Wilderness Adventure is more than just a campground or lodge. Along with our wide range of camping and lodging options, we also offer free and paid adventure activities like tubing, canoeing, hiking, biking, disc golf, and more! Activities for Guests: Hiking, mountain biking, and trail running on our onsite trails, disc golf, canoeing, tubing, swimming or fishing in our pond, creek sitting, fire pits, sand volleyball, horseshoes, corn hole, and endless open space to wander and relax. Basecamp Adventure Activities: Tubing/Shuttle: $20/trip/person Canoe Rentals/Shuttle: $40/trip/boat Sit on top Kayak Rentals/Shuttle: $30/trip/boat Mountain Bike Rental: $25/half day, $50/full day Area Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking, Gravel Biking, Bikepacking, 4-wheeling Virginia's Triple Crown - Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs Roaring Run and Hoop Hole North Mountain/Dragons Back Carvin's Cove Mill Mountain Douthat State Park Craig’s Creek Food, Summer Events and Festivals: Throughout the summer we have delicious made-to-order meals from our Outpost from Friday dinner to Sunday breakfast. Our outpost is open select weekends, check our socials to see! Our camp store is open during select hours. You can purchase firewood, ice, sunscreen, beverages, merchandise, and other items you may enjoy during your stay. Other Cool Stuff Nearby: The Swinging Bridge Restaurant - Paint Bank VA Lemon & Vale Cakery, New Castle, VA Bibos Pizzeria - New Castle, VA The Mill Mountain Star - Roanoke VA Parkway Brewing Company - Salem, VA And so much more!
Pets
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from 
$25
 / night
  • FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins
  • FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins
  • FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins
97%
(29)

FoxDen by Heartwood Farm and Cabins

1 site · Lodging66 acres · Floyd, VA
Get away from it all when you stay among nature in this secluded off-grid tiny cabin in the forest. Complete with outdoor grill, fire pit, picnic table, well maintained outhouse, miles of trails and a large swimming or fishing pond. This is a secluded off grid location without power, wifi, or cell service, so be prepared to UNPLUG and unwind. Firewood for your first campfire is provided along with one tank of propane to run the indoor camp stove. Five gallons of drinking water are included with coffee and a French press. There is a cooler provided. Remember to bring ice for your groceries and sleeping bags! Please include an extra rental fee of $20 for pets. Multiple firewood bundles can be waiting for you at $8 each (a decent fire's worth per bundle).
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$63.75
 / night
  • Getting ready to take off from the put in spot
  • Field of Dreams Creek Camping
  • Getting ready to take off from the put in spot
98%
(21)

Field of Dreams Creek Camping

1 site · Tent13 acres · Concord, VA
All of the land on the gravel road in which we live was at one time a large operating farm. The original farmhouse is still present at the end of the gravel road. In recent years the farm land was sub divided. My husband Jacob and I purchased this piece of property 8 years ago. We absolutely love it here and this land is our own slice of paradise. We have 13 acres of private seclusion with a quiet and peaceful creek spot for camping on the back side of our property. We love having a place where we feel we can be away from it all! Also at the same time we are only a short drive away from downtown Lynchburg as well as quick access to route 460. We enjoy that we can get on the river quickly and we frequently take advantage of the beauty of kayaking the James River. Together Jacob and I find tranquility while camping and exploring new places. We are excited to share our slice of heaven with you and meet people who share our love for the great outdoors. :)
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from 
$25
 / night
  • Hippie Hollow
  • Hippie Hollow
  • Hippie Hollow
98%
(28)

Hippie Hollow

11 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Floyd, VA
Adjacent to Dodd Creek for fishing, swimming, or kayaking 2 miles from downtown Floyd. Unlimited free fire wood. Bring your dogs, blast your music, and enjoy the pleasant mountain weather. Electricity and fresh mountain spring water hookups available No restrooms at this time and traffic noise can be heard during the day
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$21.60
 / night

The best camping near Smith Mountain Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

Fishing? Swimming? Just relaxing? All of those await you at this Virginia state park situated on the second largest body of freshwater in the state. Plan ahead if you want to go in the gorgeous lake, as there's an extra fee for swimming. (Though adults looking for relaxation will be glad to know there's an adults-only section of the swimming area.) Or get out on the water for catfish or bass fishing, including fishing tournaments.

Better make other plans in the event of bad weather, though. This lake in Bedford County shuts down in the event of thunderstorms. If you want to stay on land, you have plenty of activities to choose from. Bring your bike or your bird journal to explore the 1,100+ acres of the park, or attend special lectures and events.

20 cabins and a bunkhouse are available to provide a comfortable stay (1-week minimum stay during summer). Choose from 25 RV spots (5 big enough for a 50' RV) and 25 tent sites. Half are reservable, and half are first-come, first-served.

Notable campgrounds

  • Two-bedroom frame cabins offer a cozy retreat with a queen bed, two singles, and a picturesque wood stove.
  • Three-bedroom frame cabins, ideal for larger groups, feature two queen beds, two singles, and two bathrooms, one being universally accessible.
  • The camping lodge, a unique bunkhouse experience, provides a rustic stay with seven bunk beds and a large covered deck.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak season stays, to ensure your spot amid the park's natural beauty.
  • Consider mid-week reservations for greater availability and a quieter experience.
  • Stay flexible with your dates to increase your chances of finding an open campsite.
  • Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations if the park is fully booked.

When to go

The prime time to visit Smith Mountain Lake State Park is between May and September, when the weather is warm and all facilities, including the guarded beach, are open. Winter offers a peaceful escape, though some amenities may be limited.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's operating hours, open daily from 8:15am to dusk, and plan your arrival accordingly.
  • Be aware that the beach and snack bar are closed outside the summer season.
  • Remember to bring your own linens and towels when staying in cabins or the bunkhouse.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with features like an accessible fishing pier and cabin options.
  • For a seamless experience, familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations before your visit.

Top state parks near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

New River State Park
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Grandfather Mountain State Park
Hanging Rock State Park
Sadlers Creek State Park
Sesquicentennial State Park
Poinsett State Park
Santee State Park

Top parks near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Philpott Lake
George Washington National Forest
Uwharrie National Forest
Jefferson National Forest
Francis Marion National Forest
Sumter National Forest
J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake Park
Croatan National Forest

Top cities near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Charlotte
Richmond
Morrisville
Cary
Columbus
Pittsburgh
Baltimore
Jacksonville

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