River, stream, or creek camping in Virginia with showers
Iconic hikes, history, and golden beaches await campers in Virginia’s 41 state parks.
98% (5444 reviews)
- Virginia
98% (5444 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Virginia
Available this weekend
Under $50
12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Virginia with showers
99%
(428)
Thunder Bridge
24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Natural Bridge Station, VA
Situated at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains and bordering the Jefferson National Forest, Thunder BRidge has scenic, large, private tent sites and cabins in the woods for those who want to experience camping at its finest. Many of the sites border Elk Creek. Our RV sites are large, flat and at the edge of the forest in a well kept open green space.
Our 100 acres was originally a camp built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the "30s and early '40s, then a boys' juvenile detention center and Big Brothers'/Big Sisters' camp, which closed in 2009. The tent sites and cabins are in the forest, away from the buildings out front, but you're free to walk around and check out the historic site. We'd like to share the camp with others and see it come back to life.
All within a short driving distance are the Natural Bridge, wineries, breweries, Natural Bridge Zoo, Safari Park, Dinosaur Kingdom, Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, James River, historic Lexington, Devil's Marbleyard, Glenwood Horse Trail, swimming holes, etc. We have river access 2 miles up the road if you'd like to fish or put your kayak or canoe in. Truly, there is something nearby for everyone. We'd be happy to give you recommendations of things to see and do. If you are a star gazer you won't be disappointed by our dark sky.
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$35
/ night
99%
(176)
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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$40
/ night
99%
(193)
Crooked Mountain
11 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, 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, all with access to trails. 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 with essential camping needs, local products, artisan items, coffee, and souvenirs. During the summer we offer a "YouPick" flower experience in our crop field (come get a container and pick your own bouquet of flowers) and special/tourism events. Peak season for flowers is from July to September. We would love for you to camp and give us feedback as we are constantly improving things. Our newest amenity is a 1 mile hiking trail that starts at the campground and takes you through the woods to the top of our property.
Come ride, camp, and explore the area!
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$20
/ night
98%
(1211)
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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$33.25
/ night
99%
(89)
Phantom Hill Forest Retreats
5 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Louisa, VA
Three creek-side tent sites and an RV site in an enchanted forest! Enjoy well maintained walking trails, hidden treasure boxes, scavenger hunts, gnome hide and seek, and learning about a working shiitake mushroom farm! All sites are spaced out for maximum privacy - see map!
Each site includes a large propane grill, fire pit, solar string lights, tables and seating, hammocks, critter proof boxes for food, and firewood available for purchase (conveniently located at the site). Clean composting toilet (serviced 2x a day).
Rental items include tents (we will set up for you), sleeping pads, coolers with ice, potable water jugs, and insect screens.
Within a couple miles of Southern Revere Brewery/Winery and scenic Forrest Green Farm.
There is a lot to do on the property:
* 40 acres with a couple miles of trails you can hike or bike (map provided)
* Self-guided tour of mushroom farm
* Hidden creature scavenger hunt
* Gnomes are hidden throughout the forest for you to find AND hide!
* Hidden treasure boxes - take something and/or leave something!
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$65
/ night
95%
(11)
Stoney Creek Campground
5 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 with toilet and hot shower 300 ft from site. A cool mountain stream rushes next to the site 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 all there is to offer in the Blue Ridge Mountains 5 miles from very popular hikes and waterfalls.
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$15.20
/ night
99%
(211)
Cross Creek Farm
8 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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$20
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98%
(300)
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
/ night
99%
(83)
Ginkgo Ridge
4 sites · Lodging66 acres · Gordonsville, VA
With views over the ocean of trees and town below, we offer three private and very comfy Glamping Cabins. Each of them provides a terrific place to experience the outdoors in comfort. We make it easy and fun to experience nature. Here, you can enjoy the breathtaking vistas, watch the spectacular sunsets, chase fireflies, make a campfire, search for the Milky Way, and then sleep easy in your own queen-sized bed on this historic property.
The two original, off-grid, Jefferson Sea Cabins are perched on the eastern side of Ginkgo Ridge, And the newest, the Boxwood Overlook, sits on top of the ridge and includes electricity, AC, heat and lights.
Ginkgo Ridge sits on the eastern side of the Southwest Mountains, which is the first mountain range west of the Atlantic. The views are big and far. Some say you can even see Portugal!
Wildlife, including eagles, hawks, turkey, fox, rabbit, deer, fireflies and more are abundant on the 66-acre property. If you are interested in history, ask John. He will tell you about the Civil War battle fought here and the tobacco baron who once owned the estate.
Two of our cabins are off grid — no electric and no plumbing but with alternative water and light. The third and newest enjoys electric.
While there is no "running" water, we bring you fresh spring water. And while there is no electric in 2 cabins we make up for it with solar and battery lights and fans. We also offer a propane heater in all 3 to keep you toasty in cooler weather.
Both off-grid cabins are equipped with a comfy, luxury queen-sized bed and box spring with fresh linens and plenty of pillows, a chair, and tables. The cabins are approximately 12x14 of interior living space plus a semi covered 16’ x 8’ deck with chairs and table. The original cabin is slightly smaller interior than the lower cabin.
The newest third cabin is called the Boxwood Overlook Cabin, because it is surrounded by huge boxwoods and overlooks the entire property. It sits where the original main house was located, but burned down in the 1920's. It is more luxurious that the other 2. It's 12x20, includes an organic queen bed, refrigerator, reclining chairs, interior and exterior lights. And you can drive right to the front door.
Each cabin gets a propane heater which keeps you toasty even on the coldest winter nights.
In warmer months, the 2 off-grid cabins have battery-powered fans with plenty of industrial batteries. They also enjoys plenty of solar powered torch lamps which offer a terrific ambiance. We do recommend you bring flashlights and or headlamps. If you forget, no worries, we got you covered.
The Boxwood Overlook cabin has electricity with interior and exterior lights, refrigerator and AC in the summer.
All the cabins enjoy 5-gallon containers of fresh spring water and their own private Loo House/bathroom.
The Loo Houses or bathrooms are semi open air. They have roofs, a solar bag shower, and bedside commodes with large, disposable, biodegradable bag inside with special sand that solidifies your waste. You dispose of the bag at a nearby trash box off property, just like a diaper. Extra bags are available.
Each cabin has its own fire pit and grill with everything you need to make a fire, including split wood, kindling, newspaper and lighter. Firewood is $7.50 per crate. And if you need help starting your fire, no worries, John will help you.
The "Jefferson Sea" is a description many attribute to the nation's 4th President, Thomas Jefferson, who enjoyed the same ocean-like view (but better) of fields and trees below his home at Monticello, that is located 15 miles down the road.
Enjoy giant Ginkgo trees (especially in the Fall), boxwood gardens, colossal Tulip Poplars, and Osage Orange trees, and wild organic raspberries in July.
We support BIPOC and all are welcome to enjoy our property :)
There is a 2-night minimum on weekends.
Just down the hill is the historic town of Gordonsville with perhaps the best BBQ on the east coast, wine tasting room, two breweries, several cafes and restaurants, grocery store and liquor store. Within minutes are Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, James Madison’s Montpelier and some of the nation’s finest vineyards, including Barboursville Vineyard and many others.
The Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, the University of Virginia and downtown Charlottesville are within 30 minutes.
It’s just an hour to Richmond or Harrisonburg and less than two to Washington, DC, or 3 to
We are very COVID-conscious!
We comply with all COVID cleaning precautions which includes cleaning hard surfaces and fresh linens
PETS
We love dogs! Friendly and well-behaved dogs are welcome but we have pet rules out of necessity.
Prior to making your reservation, please email us and tell us about your dog, describing their breed, size, temperament, owners ability to control dog, confirm that dog will be leashed and under your control at all times and that all vaccinations and flea/tick meds are up to date.
There is a $25 fee per dog with a maximum of 2 dogs.
Please see separate Pet Policy for details.
EXTRAS
$20 weekend rental Kitchen Package includes Coleman 2-burner stove with gas; spatula, fork, tongs; tea kettle and French Press to make hot water and coffee; small & large pots & frying pan; cups, bowls, plates, silverware; sharp knife & mini-cheese grater; large bowl; wine/bottle opener; dish soap & sponge; & smattering of other items.
Also available are additional are:
crates of firewood for $7.50 per
a large cooler
fresh flowers in season
Any of these can be purchased in advance or paid on site via cash or Venmo.
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$85
/ night
99%
(279)
Camp Cedar Creek
6 sites · Tents20 acres · Middletown, VA
Creekside camping on Cedar Creek, one of the cleanest creeks in America. You'll be surrounded by beautiful scenery with a fire pit at each site. Enjoy birdwatching, wood turtles, wood ducks, eagles, hawks, blue crane, and other wildlife. Cell phones optional! Take day trips to wineries, farm markets, orchards, historic sites, and more. Enjoy fishing, hiking, National Forest, biking, solitude and nature. Outdoor shower and port-a-john on site. Cornhole boards, firewood and load-in assistance available upon request for a small fee. Nearby attractions include fishing, hiking, swimming, wineries, biking, orchards, Skyline Drive, and GW national forest.The oral history of Coal Mine Hollow has it that a moonshine still once graced the banks of Camp Cedar Creek. It was run by a recluse, who was always on the move from the Revenuers. A revenuer went missing along Cedar Creek one moonlit night, never to be seen again. The bearded recluse who ran the still, owned two mules, and an old car frame without a motor. Those mules would pull him through the hollow, and up into the mountains, where the revenuers never found him. Some say on a cold, moonlit night, they’ve seen his two old mules, pulling an old car frame past Camp Cedar Creek.
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$61.60
/ night
98%
(536)
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
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Camping on the Hazel River
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Rixeyville, VA
Located on the scenic Hazel River, River Hills is 70 acres of private family property. The owners are dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the land and the Hazel River. This land has been in the family for over 200 years. The owners live on the property.
Nestled within the embrace of nature’s tranquility lies a secluded camping site on private property, where serenity reigns supreme. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, this hidden gem offers a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The gentle melody of the nearby river serves as a soothing soundtrack to the outdoor adventure that awaits. Campers can pitch their tents on soft, grassy patches beneath the sprawling canopy of stars, finding solace in the symphony of crickets and rustling leaves. As dawn breaks, the golden rays of sunlight filter through the foliage, illuminating the picturesque landscape and inviting explorers to embark on nature trails and riverside strolls, forging unforgettable memories amidst the untamed beauty of the wilderness.
Those who visit River Hills are awed by the beauty and serenity. There are wide open fields and miles of well-maintained trails in the woods. In a time where open land is disappearing, we are determined to keep our land as natural as possible and to have it remain in the family. This is not an inexpensive task. All proceeds are used to maintain and improve River Hills.
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$50
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Star Hosts in Virginia
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Explore the area’s public lands.
River, stream, or creek camping in Virginia with showers 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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