Cave camping in Virginia with wildlife watching

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

99% (1300 reviews)
99% (1300 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Virginia

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

12 top cave campgrounds in Virginia with wildlife watching

98%
(301)

Arcadia Sanctuary

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents83 acres · Buena Vista, VA
Arcadia is the name we gave to our 83-acre mountainside retreat center for Earth-Based Spirituality. It’s nestled on the south-eastern slope of 4000-foot Mount Pleasant in Central Virginia, convenient to I81. (Note, there is a town called Arcadia off I81, but that is not us. Not to confuse.) We have a mountain creek with waterfalls, towering Beech and Sycamore trees, Witch Hazels leaning over the water, trout, crayfish, snakes, salamanders, and all the rest. We have about 2000 feet of the vertical mountainside with trails to explore. (But the stage and most of the camping is down closer to creek-level.) There are more sites higher up the mountain if you like more isolated camping. More of a trek to the bathrooms/showers/freshwater. We have one of the finest private stages on the East Coast with a top-notch sound system and a natural amphitheater which is like a single pie wedge of a Stadium that has regular live performances throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Our yurt is regularly booked as a unique glamping experience. There are chickens, ducks, turkeys, and guinea fowl free-roaming. Two dogs, nine cats, and several humans are blessed to call this home.
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$22.50
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98%
(537)

Savage Acres on Craig Creek

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · New Castle, VA
In a remote valley, along the banks of Craig's Creek, just north of Roanoke VA, 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 Craig Creek and our big swimmin' hole. Totally secluded in a remote valley - no houses or roads 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.
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$40.05
 / night
98%
(495)

Wilderness Adventure

92 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents500 acres · New Castle, VA
Wilderness Adventure is more than just a campground. Along with our wide range of camping and lodging options, we also offer free and paid adventure activities like tubing, canoeing, hiking, biking, and more! Don't miss out on our group program offerings like retreats, corporate gatherings, youth groups, and weddings. Camping WA offers private and communal campsites to fit the needs of any size group you are traveling with and has a shared bathhouse with showers and toilets. Drinking water is available from multiple locations Activities for Guests Hiking, mountain biking, and trail running on our onsite trails, Canoeing, tubing, swimming or fishing in our pond, creek sitting, fire pits, sand volleyball, horseshoes, disc golf, corn hole, and endless open space to wander and relax. Basecamp Adventure Activities Canoe Rentals/Shuttle $40/trip/boat Sit on top Kayak Rentals/Shuttle $30/trip/boat Tubing/Shuttle $20/trip/person Mountain Bike Rental $25/half day, $50/full day Area Activities Hiking, Mountain Biking, Gravel Biking, Bikepacking, 4-wheeling, Rock Crawling: Virginia's Triple Crown - Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs Hoop Hole Roaring Run North Mountain/Dragons Back Carvins Cove Mill Mountain Douthat State Park Craigs 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. Campstore: 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. (hours vary or by appointment) Check out our event calendar for all upcoming events. Annual Events Include: Camp Reckoning Yoga Venture WA Fest DiscVenture Appalachian Mountaineer Retreat Center, Group Program, Corporate Retreats, Family Reunions https://www.wilderness-adventure.com/groups Whether you’re organizing a group retreat or looking to get away for a weekend with the family in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, let us be your Basecamp for Adventure. Wilderness Adventure offers an extensive list of adventure activities for any group along with easily accessible rentals for quick getaways. 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, ponds for fishing and swimming, canoeing and tubing. Giant Swing, Team Building, Low Ropes, High Ropes, Caving, Rock Climbing, Mountain bike lessons and guided trips, Other Cool Stuff The Swinging bridge Restaurant - Paint Bank VA The Mill Mountain Star - Roanoke VA Lasterday Market - New Castle, VA Lemon & Vale Cakery, New Castle, VA Bibos Pizzeria - New Castle, VA Parkway Brewing Company - Salem, VA And so much more!
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$25
 / night
100%
(53)

Beaverdam Falls

4 sites · Lodging65 acres · Covington, VA
Nestled on a private 65-acre farm in the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia, Beaverdam Falls is located on VA SR-311 (Kanawha Trail) in the Sweet Springs Valley. Nestled in the old community of Earlehurst, between Covington & Roanoke, Beaverdam Falls are an historic series of waterfalls on private property. The Falls are at the headwaters of Dunlap Creek and are the terminus for the Sweet Springs. Available for guest stays & recreation, are the Upper Falls portion. Surrounded by the verdant George Washington National Forest, the Upper Falls, displays a constant waterfall of around 40-feet in height, & decorates the final mile stretch of the Sweet Springs, both on our property. Additional beautiful cascades pepper our tract of Beaverdam Falls as well. This private tract of unparalleled Virginia countryside will simply astonish your expectations. As the source of the Falls, Sweet Springs Creek, serves as a long, unique home for trout, calcified travertine rock, chalybeate water, and ancient beaver dams (as well as active ones!). Beaverdam Falls is a rare place for the lack of stone and the centuries of beavers who have left their trace in & on our creek—and swamp, the Stick Marsh, which has an active beaver dam. Be careful! They do bite!
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$100
 / night
100%
(322)

Rendezvous Farm

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Basye, VA
This raw forested land bordering George Washington National Forest on two sides was purchased in 2002. Over the next six years a 2 acre pasture and .8 acre house site were cleared on weekends, a small pond was dug, additional land was cleared and a wildlife planting made, then our home and multiple outbuildings were constructed. We began raising chickens for meat and eggs, as well as rabbits, quail, doves and pigeons, and developed two vegetable and fruit gardens to provide food for ourselves and to sell at farmer's markets. The property is a state certified Wildlife Partners Habitat because of the many improvements made for wildlife. Allen and Peggy were married atop a special rock on the property in 2004. NOTE: For the late summer and fall of 2023 the pond is almost dry. We haven't had enough rain to keep enough water in it.
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$35
 / night
97%
(19)

Kennedy Historic Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents165 acres · Cleveland, VA
This camping experience takes place on a 200+ year old farm. We currently offer 8 camping options, 7 of which are all accessible by either all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive vehicles.  The first location (along the main road) is solely for RVs or travel trailers (TT). The other 7 camping locations are for tent camping, and much smaller/narrower and rugged RV/TT with a 4-wheel drive towing vehicle. Daniel and Cherith Kennedy purchased this 164-acre farm in 2014, and Daniel's parents, Brent Rita Kennedy, purchased the 1800's era farmhouse from Daniel and Cherith a couple years later. Together, we have transformed this farm back into a working farm with hay fields, cattle, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and any other critters we buy or rescue. We are currently rehabilitating the 1700's era one room schoolhouse at the front corner of our land as well. This farm is full of memories, hard work, and is absolutely stunning. Your hosts on-site are Brent and Rita Kennedy, and they are famous for spoiling our guests rotten. They can give you tours of the farm, some in-season eggs and veggies as they have available, and even throw in some goat-petting opportunities. They love having visitors and are sure to make your trip memorable.
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$25
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99%
(50)

Cobbler Mountain Cellars

50 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Delaplane, VA
Enjoy tastings, tours, hiking, camping and picnics on 90 acres of wildlife protected forest located on Big Cobbler Mountain, just 45 miles West of D.C. Open year-round for visitors to enjoy each season on the mountain.As the scenery changes, the menu changes...including summertime seasonals of Ginger Peach, Wild Blackberry Hop and Smackin' Orange. Winter favorites start in the Fall with Harvest Pumpkin before Halloween and keep us warm with Maple Stout and Jammin' Cranberry Ginger to celebrate the holidays, crackling fires and the winter wonderland of the mountain. Year-round, enjoy the classic Traditional Jeffersonian, Original Honey, Mountain Top Hop and our Kickin' Cinnamon! Award-winning Farm Winery & Cidery products are distributed in retailers near you in DC, VA, MD, & WVA. Residential and business shipping available via UPS.From Highway 66, exit 27 and follow state signs.Learn more about this land:Update: Unfortunately, we are unable to host overnights at this time due to regulations. We are sad to not be able to have you here but could recommend Sky Meadows or Shenandoah State Parks nearby.  You are welcome to visit the cidery to order drinks and bottles-to-go during our open hours (Sat.11-5; Sun 12-5; weekdays by appt.) or request after-hours pick-up.  We hope to be available by Fall or Spring and offer you a $15 credit to use on your next visit. We recommend advance reservations especially for Columbus Day & Memorial Day. Usual Listing: Enjoy self-sufficient camping at our 90-acre VA Cidery located 50 miles west of D.C. Visit year-round to enjoy the wildlife, serenity and changing seasons on Big Cobbler Mountain! HipCamp uses a number system but we do not. You may choose your own spot, from our vast property, depending on your needs. Everyone should be spread out, giving privacy to each site. Many, many areas to camp all the way up into the mountain foothill. Welcome to arrive after 8:00 a.m. to begin setting up. Prior to arrival, reply back to our check-in email letter we will send you requesting a copy of photo IDs per adult, names & description of children and pets, emergency contacts per person and a Release of Liability statement, all due via email PRIOR to your arrival. Tents, trailers and RVs are welcome. Bring portable potties for comfort. No smoking allowed on property. No charge for children and pets camping. Do not bring wood to the property (may transfer insects). Plenty of fallen wood to forage for your campfires. Fires out @ midnight. If planning to build a campfire, pack a shovel for assistance in managing the fire and water buckets for emergency. We have hoses for filling (unless you are camping near the creek you won’t need). Cider Bar open 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturdays / 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sundays and weekdays by appointment. Order our seasonal ciders for the campsite. Available by the pint, 64 oz. growler, 4-pack & 24 bottle case for take-home selections.
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$59.99
 / night
98%
(22)

Passage Creek Acres, LLC

2 sites · Tents53 acres · Edinburg, VA
The original property started as nearly 100 acres of cattle farm lands. The property was purchased in the 90s to be used as grazing land for the Thomas Families horseback riding business. The Thomas family sold the horseback business in the early 2000s but kept the farm and subdivided it into 4 tracts. The original farmhouse still exists on the neighboring property. Nearly 20 acres of the property is currently used as pasture for cattle, chickens, horses, and goats. Views of Catback Mountain, Kennedy’s Peak. Plenty of hiking trails on property and property boarders George Washington National Forrest.  There is one semi-private campsites that we rent out via HipCamp. Passage Creek runs right next to the site to allow some privacy, since it is in the mountains noise does tend to carry but should not be problematic. The site allow you to set up tents or campers close enough to the creek to allow the flowing of water to lull anyone to sleep. 
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$27.55
 / night
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(60)

A Most Steller Place Too

2 sites · Lodging1 acre · Fancy Gap, VA
Unearth a gem on the Blue Ridge Parkway! A Most Steller Place Yurts sit majestically atop a scenic mountain, shrouded in the whispering woods, a mere 100 yards from the BRPW. Experience nature's grand symphony, surrender to the tranquility it offers. Gather around the outdoor fire pit or immerse yourself in a soothing hot tub. This is not just comfort; it's an invitation to a dream vacation, where you craft timeless memories. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity!
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$123.25
 / night
100%
(1)

The Quarry

1 site · RV8 acres · Stuart, VA
Come enjoy our hidden spot near Meadows of Dan, centered on an old Quarry. Created to extract aggregate for paving the nearby highway in the middle of the 20th century (no exotic metals or noxious quarrying methods). A tucked away enclave of sheer stone faces and abundant wildlife at approximately 3,000 ft. in elevation. Less than 3 miles to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the historic Mabry Mill. Minutes away from spectacular hiking at Rocky Knob, Rock Castle Gorge, and Buffalo Mountain. Walking distance to stocked trout fishing in the Dan River. A beautiful place to come get away in the mountains.
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$25
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Riverside Retreat

1 site · Lodging6 acres · Monterey, VA
Welcome to Riverside Retreat! Our unique and enchanting nature retreat offers a variety of amenities and experiences to our guests. For $500 per couple per weekend minimum, we provide a cozy cabin for lodging, a campfire ring beside a freshwater stream, scenic views, unlimited campfire wood, and a shuttle service to all the surrounding natural attractions, including streams, hiking areas, and caves. We even provide tubes for tubing and transportation to the nearby river! At Riverside Retreat, we are committed to preserving the beauty of nature and ensuring that our guests have an unforgettable experience. Our land is blessed with scenic mountains, enchanting landscapes, and a plethora of wildlife, offering a serene and rejuvenating experience for all our guests. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring our extensive network of hiking and biking trails that meander through the beautiful forest, leading to breathtaking mountain vistas. For those who prefer water-based adventures, tubing down the nearby river is a must-do activity that provides endless hours of fun. One of our most unique features is the opportunity for cave exploration, where our guests can uncover the hidden wonders of the subterranean world. With experienced guides and proper safety equipment, you can delve into the depths of the earth and discover stunning rock formations and fascinating ecosystems. Our well-maintained campsites cater to both seasoned campers and beginners, offering a safe and comfortable environment for your outdoor stay. You can immerse yourself in nature while camping under the stars, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the forest. In addition to on-site activities, our location provides easy access to nearby attractions, ensuring that there's something for everyone during their stay. Whether you're seeking peace and tranquility, adventure, or a combination of both, you'll find it here in our enchanting natural paradise. And with our hosting services available throughout your stay, we'll make sure you have everything you need for an unforgettable experience.
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$120
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100%
(2)

Camp at Falls Ridge Nature Preserve

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Christiansburg, VA
Enjoy a relaxing retreat on a historic, riverfront property on a gorgeous nature preserve tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Located only 15 minutes from Virginia Tech, you’ll feel like you’re in another world. Our historic property dates back centuries. It was once a whistle stop for the railroad that still runs through it (Don’t worry! They don’t blow the train whistle!) and operated as a mill, general store, cannery, post office, and more. The property is adjacent to the Falls Ridge Nature Preserve, a hidden gem with miles of hiking trails, including waterfalls and caves. (Please note: the Nature Conservancy has temporarily closed Falls Ridge Nature Preserve for regrowth and repair after an extended period of high visitation and overuse during Covid. Check their website for latest info). Your campsite can be either in the back or the side of the cabin. We have a toilet and sink available but no shower. We also offer laundry for $5, and can accommodate large bedding items. We live at the front of the property in an 1830s log cabin we are fixing up. We can socialize or leave you alone, completely up to you! We have 2.5 acres adjacent to Falls Ridge Nature Preserve, situated on the North Fork of the Roanoke River. Please check the Preserve's website before booking as they have been temporarily closed for some post-lockdown regrowth. There are multiple hiking trails, caves, and waterfalls to enjoy. You can fish and wade and when the water is high enough, kayak. We are fifteen minutes from Blacksburg or Christiansburg and thirty minutes from McAfee's Knob (the most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail). We offer kayak and float rentals for $10 each (we have two kayaks and floats to accommodate six). We can drive you to the New River for an excellent float or a more serious kayak with rapids for $30. We also can create VT tailgating packages, s'mores kits, Appalachian Trail slackpacking adventures, picnics and just about anything else you may want for an additional fee. Just ask! We are thirty minutes from the Appalachian Trail and Virginia's Triple Crown (McAfee's Knob, Dragon's Tooth, and Tinker Cliffs) as well as The Cascades and Jefferson National Forest. RV'ers: please note we have a small bridge that may be challenging for larger sizes. Moving vans and UPS trucks cross it no problem but longer vehicles may not want to consider it.
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$40
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Cave camping in Virginia with wildlife watching 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.

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