With 24 state forests, 38 state parks, 19 national park services, and tons of private campgrounds, Virginia has a plethora of amazing places to go camping.
Some of the best places to go camping in Virginia are along the Atlantic Ocean coastline, especially along Virginia’s world famous Virginia Beach.
To the west you have the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains within George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. With amazing campgrounds sprinkled all over within these forests and mountains, you are sure to find a Virginia campground that you’ll love.
Best Camping in Virginia Beach
What better place in Virginia to start off our best places to go camping, than Virginia Beach.
Located along the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia, this stretch of
While there are hundreds of hotels along the beach, if you want to experience in a truly unique way, then camping in Virginia Beach is the way to go.
Virginia Beach KOA
This KOA campground in Virginia Beach is an ideal place to camp for a fun family vacation. Centrally located to the beaches, the boardwalk, and other great attractions, It offers sites for camping in your tent or with an RV and even has cabins for rent.
There are two pools, an activity park with lots of games like horseshoes and cornhole, and an outdoor cinema. There is even a dog park for camping in Virginia beach with your four-legged friends.
Holiday Trav-L-Park
This resort style campground in Virginia Beach is located just one block from the water and it can accommodate everything from tents to big RV rigs.
The park has “supersites” that are 100 ft long by 50 feet wide that feature full hookups, including cable and sewer. Each of these sites also has concrete pads and patios, making them ideal for even the largest RV’s.
There are four pools, four playgrounds, and loads of activities to keep you busy at this 1000+site property for Camping in Virginia.
North Landing Beach RV Resort And Cottages
Located on the water and featuring its own private beach, North Landing offers world-class amenities and an abundance of things to do.
A fully equipped rec center, spa, private bath suites with showers and an onsite massage therapist available on weekends are just a few of the perks of staying at this campground.
Free wifi and cable, miniature golf, and kayak and canoe rentals will keep every member of the family happy while staying at this Virginia beach campgrounds. Hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities will appeal to nature lovers.
North Bay Shore Campground
Surrounded by Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in a peaceful setting, North Bay Shore is a Virginia beach campground offering RVing, tenting, and cabin rentals.
The park features a swimming pool, rec hall, playground, and clean and modern restrooms. Freshwater fishing and canoe and kayak rentals are available. North Bay Shore is located near Sandbridge Beach, an excellent location for surfing, swimming, and other watersports. Ice, wood, and necessary sundries items are available for purchase.
First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park has miles of hiking, biking, and walking trails and 1.5 miles of beach right on the Chesapeake Bay.
This campground offer sites with or without hookups for tenting and RVing. A camp store with bike rentals, picnic areas, and boat ramps are all on site. Fishing and crabbing are favorite pastimes at the campground. You can walk to the beach from any location within the campground, and the boat launch is free for campground guests.
Surfside at Sandbridge
If you are looking for an RV campground that is right on the water, then Surfside at Sandbridge will be perfect for you.
The park has a full suite of amenities like two pools, a hot tub, a sauna, a fitness room, tennis courts, and more. This pet-friendly gated community is close to dozens of great shops, restaurants, and attractions. Golf carts, kayaks, bikes
False Cape State Park
This State Park offers primitive campgrounds along Virginia beach. Rates vary from season to season and reservations are required.
Drinking water is available, and there are several non-flush toilets throughout the park. While open fires are not permitted, campers can use camp stoves. This is a beautiful park for nature lovers who want to tent right on the beach in a protected wildlife area but is probably not suitable for young children or anyone not prepared to do a lot of walking. Access to the park is by boat.
Sea Mist RV Campground
Sea Mist has some of the best camping in Virginia Beach that is open to Active, National Guard, Reservists, Retired, and 100% DAV. Dam Neck DoD Civilians. As long as someone in your party has the required identification, you can camp here.
They have excellent level sites with concrete pads, full hookups, cable, and Wi-Fi. The park is within walking distance to the beach. It has clean and modern restrooms and shower facilities. Picnic tables are at each site, and the commissary is located nearby for your convenience.
Best Tent Camping in Virginia
Tent camping is my personal favorite camping style. It forces you to embrace the outdoors and enjoy all that it has to offer.
With the Atlantic ocean along the eastern boarder and 1.9 million acres of public land with mountains along the western boarder, Virginia has some of the most beautiful landscapes that you enjoy while camping.
If you plan on tent camping in Virginia, make sure to check out some of our resources such as our Tent Buyers Guide, Sleeping Bag Buyers Guide, find even more on our Start Here Page.
Sherando Lake Recreation Area
Sharando Lake Recreation Area offers amazing camping in Virginia nestled in the blue ridge mountains on a 25-acre spring fed
The campground offers tent camping at reasonable rates of around $20 per night. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire pit with grill, and a bear box to store your food in.
The whole family will enjoy the full range of outdoor activities available at this beautiful state park including swimming, hiking, and nature watching. The property has flush toilets, vault toilets, and warm showers.
Outlanders River Camp
Outlanders River camp offers Virginia camping for tenters with beautiful walk-in riverfront sites on the Shenandoah River.
Fresh water is available, as well as a bathhouse with hot showers. They also have pull up sites with utilities. The park features a playground, a well-stocked camp store, hiking trails, and golf cart rentals. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do like fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Local attractions include caverns, museums, wineries and many other cultural events to enjoy.
Big Meadows Campground
Big Meadows Campground is part of the Shenandoah National Park and offers terrific tent Camping in Virginia. The nicely wooded sites are equipped with fire grates and picnic tables. Many are walk-in only.
The facilities include coin-operated showers and laundry machines as well as a camp store. The park is located within walking distance of three waterfalls and has many favorite hiking trails for spending quality time in nature. Reservations are highly recommended for weekends and holidays.
Loft Mountain Campground
Loft mountain campground is also located in the Shenandoah National Forest and offers primitive Virginia
The park has lots of wildlife (this is bear country) and natural scenic features. The campground is situated on top of Big Flat Mountain with beautiful views of the surrounding area. There are two waterfalls as well as trails that lead into Big Run Wilderness area. Tenting is only 15 dollars a night making this some of the most affordable camping in Virginia.
Camp Outback
Camp outback is part of Shenandoah River Outfitters and is an ideal spot for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and tubing on the river. The campground offers tent camping with picnic tables, fire pits, and grills at each site.
Hamburger lunches are served by the river, and steak dinners take place in the pavilion. This is an excellent spot for river sports and fishing or just relaxing at your campsite next to a crackling fire. The park borders George Washington National Forest.
North Bend Campground
This Virginia campground is located on the John H. Kerr Reservoir, a 50,000-acre lake. There are 70,000 acres of land for fishing, camping, boating, and relaxing.
The campground features both primitive and hookup sites situated on or near the water. Amenities include a fishing, pier, playgrounds, three boat launches, an amphitheater, and swimming beaches. It is the perfect spot for tent Camping in Virginia.
Misty Mountain Camp Resort
Misty Mountain Camp Resort is located in historic Charlottesville, Virginia at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 50-acre park boasts primitive camping in Virginia nestled among the trees and features a pool, fishing pond, playground
Activities like hayrides, live music and dancing are always on the schedule. Guests can enjoy horseshoes, relaxing by the creek, or exploring the properties nature trails.
Riverside Camping and Marina
Riverside Camping and Marina is located in Lanexa Virginia. It is an ideal spot for tenters who want to enjoy some boating as well.
The park offers some of the best camping in Virginia with features like clean bathroom facilities and beautiful tent sites overlooking the historic Chickahominy River.
There are plenty of things to do, and if you don’t already have your own boat, you can rent one. The campground is a favorite place for fishing and makes an excellent family friendly vacation spot for the budding anglers of the family.
Best RV Camping in Virginia
Virginia has great RV camping destinations all over the state. Whether you’re looking for beachfront camping, oceanside, resort style or a secluded woodsy location to park your RV, Virginia has them all.
If you don’t already own an RV, don’t worry, check out our posts all about renting a camper or RV or The RV Buyer’s Guide for the perfect family getaway.
Also, make sure to check out our post Everything You Need To Know About Pop Up Campers if you love pop ups!
Wilderness Presidential Resort
Wilderness Presidential Resorts
The facility offers some of the best camping in
Aquia Pines Camp Resort
This campground in Virginia is situated on 20 wooded acres in the town of Stafford. It has level pull-through sites that are big enough to accommodate your RVs without having to remove your tow.
The park offers free WiFi and cable, a pool, laundry facilities, a dump station, and modern restrooms. There are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy such as hiking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and more. The park is within driving distance of Busch Gardens Williamsburg and other popular attractions.
Hidden Acres Family Campground
One of the best campgrounds in Virginia, Hidden Acres is situated in a scenic wooded location close to Bowling Green. It features a hot tub, pool, shuffleboard, mini-golf, a fully stocked fishing pond, and more.
The campsites are spacious and level and will allow for any sized rig. There are lots of planned activities like treasure hunts, hayrides, bingo and more that will keep visitors of all ages entertained. The park is located near many historical sites that would make a great day trip for history enthusiasts.
R&D Family Campground
This is a Good Sam RV Park located close to Fredericksburg. As one of the best campgrounds in Virginia, it has both open and shaded sites that will accommodate rigs of even the longest length.
With a swimming pool, and air-conditioned lounge, and a general store, this park offers comfortable RV camping. Activities include basketball and horseshoes, or you can go sightseeing at many nearby historic sites. There are 11 whitewater rafting outfits all located within a one hour drive to the campground.
Pohick Bay Regional Park Campground
Pohick Bay Regional Park Campground is ideal for RV Camping in Virginia. All of their wooded sites are pull-in and include picnic tables and fire rings.
There are clean and modern restrooms, laundry areas, and a camp store that has firewood and ice as well as camping supplies and groceries. There are also trails for visitors to walk to the waterfront and play mini golf or visit pirates cove waterpark. Nearby Fredericksburg VA has an abundance of historic sites to visit.
Natural Bridge/Lexington KOA
Natural Bridge is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and a national historic site that you don’t want to miss on your RV travels through Virginia.
This campground is surrounded by 58,000 acres of the George Washington and Jefferson National F
Chesapeake Bay RV Resort
Located on the Piankatank River, this 280-acre waterfront RV campground offers full hookups on both open and shaded sites, a full suite of amenities, and
The campground has dozens of features including a pool, spa, dog park, clubhouse, a boat dock and marina, mini golf, nature trails and more. Historic sites and charming villages are just a short drive from the park where you can enjoy tours and quaint shops.
Bethpage Camp Resort
This RV campground has a poolside cafe and grill, mini golf, an ice cream shop, swimming pool, boat rentals, bike rentals
Situated on the Rappahannock River, the park offers plenty of opportunity for boating and watersports. The park features themed weekends, live music, and riverboat tours all within its well-maintained park with clean and modern facilities. A helpful and welcoming staff is available to assist you with your needs.
Best Free Camping in Virginia
Virginia has tons of amazing campgrounds for everyone, but did you know that this state actually has lots of options for free camping?
There are locations all over in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests as well as other places throughout the state.
Free camping is a great way to save some money when the budget might already be tight. We’ve actually put together a huge guide on Free Camping in the US that tells you everything you need to know to get started camping for free.
Also make sure to check out our huge Family Camping Checklist to make sure you’ve packed everything that you’re going to need!
State Route 606 Bland, VA
This spot is owned by the National Forest Service and offers primitive tent camping, fishing, hiking, and swimming near the water. Campgrounds are walk-in only, and there are a few parking spots.
The campsite has a fire ring but no facilities. It is an ideal little spot for exploring the Appalachian Trail and enjoying peace and serenity in the outdoors. There are lots of opportunities for wildlife viewing as well.
Braley Pond Dispersed Campground
There are six sites in this dispersed camping area operated by the USDA Forest Service. Located in West Augusta, Virginia, the campsite offers a vault toilet and primitive camping.
The campground is located in bear country so visit the website to know what to expect. It is open year-round and provides access to several trailheads, including Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness. There is no drinking water available so be sure to bring your own.
Walnut Flats/Jefferson National Forest
Walnut Flats has eight sites and is open from April through December. This gorgeous campground in Virginia is part of the Jefferson National Service and is run by the USDA Forest Service.
Located in Pearisburg, VA it is suitable for small campers or tents. There are restrooms, picnic tables, and nice flat gravel sites surrounded by tall trees. Water is available for washing, but it is recommended that you bring your own drinking water as its source cannot be confirmed.
Need clean water? Check out our review on the Katadyn Water Filter here.
Eastern Shore Welcome Center
The Eastern Shore Welcome Center offers Camping in Virginia that allows RV-ers to stay for up to 48 hours for free. The center is open 24 hours a day and has restroom facilities, picnic tables, drinking water, vending machines, and tourist information.
There
Inter-Coastal Boat Ramp
There are tent campsites accessible at this location by canoe or kayak at the Army Corp of Engineers spillway before lake Drummond. They have running water, flush toilets, screened in shelters with lights and electric plugs, picnic tables, and a first aid kit.
The water is for washing only so be sure to bring your own fresh water supply. This is a lovely spot for no fee camping. Campfires are allowed, but you will need to bring your own wood.
The Pines
For Free Camping in Virginia this park located in New Castle has 17 campsites, a horse corral, and space for horse trailers. It is next to land owned by the US Forest Service and is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing.
The property has drinking water, fire rings, picnic tables, and restrooms and you are allowed to stay up to two weeks at a time. The park can accommodate tents and small RV’s
Dry Run
This campsite is located in Hinton Virginia in the George Washington national forest. It is managed by the US forest service, and you may stay for 14 days at a time.
This campground is for tent camping only. With unique walk-in sites, there are lots of opportunities for hiking and primitive camping here. There are no facilities. The property is located along the Dry River, and there is parking available.
Check out our guide on Buying the Best Camping Tent.
Big Bend
Another amazing campground located in Jefferson National Forest near Bland, Virginia, this location offers primitive camping run by the USDA Forest Service.
There are no facilities, but there is a nice picnic area and a fireplace at the top. The road in is rough, and four-wheel or all-wheel drive is recommended. Both RV and tent camping is available but hauling a rig will be tedious. If you have the patience, the view at the top is spectacular.
Best Cabin Camping in Virginia
Is cabin camping really a thing?
Of course it is.
Not everyone wants to sleep in a tent. Even if you love tent camping or even hammock camping (which we have an amazing guide for that you should check out here), sometimes you just want to enjoy nature and at the end of the day
These cabin camping places in Virginia are not only at some incredible campgrounds, but the cabins are cozy and everything you would imagine.
Virginia Landing RV Campground
This RV resort on the Eastern Shore of Virginia offers nice cabin rentals on the water that can accommodate between four and six guests.
All of the cabins feature dish TV service, coffeemakers and microwaves
Cabins have enclosed or screened in porches and picnic tables. The facility has mini golf, a swimming pool, and laundry facilities as well as many other amenities for guests to enjoy.
Cherrystone Resort
Gorgeous cottages and cabins await you inside Cherrystone Resort. This campground is ideal for a fun family vacation and features a huge pool, a bait and tackle shop, restaurant, golf cart rentals, a general store
The 4-9 person log cabins sleep 4 to 6 people and are equipped with electricity, picnic tables, and grills. Cottages are also available with A/C and heat.
Chesapeake Bay RV Resort
This first-class campground in Virginia has all the amenities you would expect plus great cabin rentals that sleep from 4-6 people. All cabins have front porches or decks overlooking the lake. All kitchen equipment is included so you all you need to bring is food and bedding.
The facility has The park is located on the Piankatank River and is perfect boating, fishing, and other watersports.
Yogi Bears Jellystone Park In Natural Bridge
Yogi Bears has several gorgeous style cabins to choose from in one of the nicest Campgrounds in Virginia near Natural Bridge.
Cabins sleep up to eight people and include grills, picnic tables, and fire rings. All cabins are equipped with kitchen utensils and appliances so you will be fully prepared to cook. They also all have their own bathrooms.
While visiting, you can enjoy all of the wonderful amenities this popular park offers such as waterslides, a splash pad, beach, cafe, rec room, game room and more.
Williamsburg RV and Camping Resort
Located near Virginia’s Historic Triangle, this terrific RV camping resort offers amenities like mini golf, a pool, and tennis courts, all within a short driving distance to some of Americas most historic places to visit.
The cabins are equipped with grills, picnic tables, satellite Tv and porches, and they have everything you need in their fully stocked kitchens. Just bring your own bedding.
Lake Ridge RV Resort
This Virginia campground has beautiful rustic cabins that sleep up to 8 people and feature bathrooms, kitchen or kitchenettes, all in a lovely wooded setting.
The park has swimming areas, waterslides, and rope courses as well as lots of planned activities and themed weekends. You can participate in crafts such as tie-dying t-shirts, or enjoy some fishing in the catch and release lake.
Charlottesville KOA
This Charlottesville RV campground has all the great amenities you would expect at a KOA including a pool, peddle cart rentals, nature trails and more.
They also have rental cabins with porch swings, picnic tables
American Heritage RV Park
Located in historic Williamsburg, American Heritage RV Park offers quaint cabin camping in Virginia for four to six people and come with various amenities.
Some have full showers. All have picnic tables or deck furniture and grills. You bring your own linens but kitchens are fully stocked with whatever you need for cooking
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