The best camping near Douthat State Park

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

97% (17 reviews)

Can’t decide between lake or mountain? Douthat—one of Virginia’s original state parks—has both.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Douthat State Park

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Douthat State Park

97%

(17)

Douthat State Park Campground

58 sites · RVs, Tents In Douthat State Park

Explore camping beyond Douthat State ParkDiscover 200+ magical spots to camp in State Parks

Top-rated campgrounds near Douthat State Park

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(534)

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. We want to share our property with those who want to stay for more than one night, so we do not accept inquiries of single night stays.

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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.

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(63)

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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Swedish Lilac Campground & Events

15 sites · RVs, Tents16 acres · Vesuvius, VA

With 15 campsites, business class WIFI, over 1,000 feet of river frontage. Swedish Lilac Campground is the perfect getaway to reconnect with nature and relax with loved ones. Campsites accommodate RVs and tents with access to bath house, pavilion, dump station, and picnic areas, and is only a 20-minute drive to beautiful historic Lexington Virginia. Hiking, fishing, swimming, dining, and shopping a short distance away which means there is something for everyone at Swedish Lilac Campground. Remote workers welcome! Fiber optic internet with Wi-Fi access points that cover the entire campground.

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(701)

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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(115)

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.

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(129)

River Trail Hollow

19 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Hillsboro, WV

-MAXIMUM vehicle height is 10 FEET (to clear the GBRT bridge at Stamping Creek) -GREENBRIER RIVER and TRAIL (GBRT) steps from your campsite -PEACEFUL, quiet, NO big rigs, NO generators, limited occupancy -DARK SKIES, no unnecessary lighting (fireflies are spectacular!) -PET FRIENDLY -COUNTRY STORE with rentals, beer, food, supplies - 0.5 mi -HILLSBORO- gas, convenience, breakfast (seasonal), beer package - 4 mi -MARLINTON- restaurants, shopping, tavern - 12 mi by road, 10 mi by trail -WATOGA STATE PARK, lake and pool - 5 mi -THE BEACH in Seebert yards away -Active MAPLE FARM on premises - https://hillsboromaple.com/ LOCATION: At junction of the Greenbrier River, Greenbrier River Trail and Stamping Creek, sits on approximately 40 wooded acres. Convenient to all Pocahontas County Attractions - Highland Scenic Hwy, Cass Scenic Railroad, Greenbank Telescope, Beartown SP, Falls of Hills Creek, Snowshoe Mountain Resort and more - https://pocahontascountywv.com/ AMENITIES: Primitive sites or RV sites w/water and electric Porta-johns and hot showers Pavilion with wash sink and charging station Tables and fire rings at each site Firewood - 1st crate FREE, $5 per additional crate Hammock friendly sites COUNTRY STORE: Jack Horner's Corner - 0.5 miles downriver along Greenbrier River Trail. Open 7 days a week, 9am-9pm, Apr-Oct. Tubes, bicycle & kayak rentals. Fast food, soft-serve, craft beer, grocery, supply & souvenir sales. (304) 653-4515 CELL SERVICE LIMITED: 1-2 bars (good enough to text) at the beach; 2-3 bars (maybe a call) at store; Full signal at 219 (2 miles away)

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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. There are two bridges that cross Thrashers Creek to get to Arcadia. The first is not suitable for large vehicles and trailers. The second bridge is our recommended entry way. Be aware we live on side of Mount pleasant and the roads on site are graveled and somewhat windy.

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(3)

Wild River Farm

2 sites · Lodging, RVs11 acres · Buchanan, VA

Wake up refreshed in this cozy, well equipped camper on Wild River Farm. Tucked away on stunning, secluded acreage close to the scenic James River, the 2 bed/ 1 bath camper sleeps 4 comfortably and is packed with all the electric amenities you need including AC, microwave, 2 propane burners, refrigerator and even WIFI. Sip your coffee in the hammock as the sun rises then gear up for a day of exploration! Say good morning to our friendly goats, ducks, and chickens then enjoy a chef inspired farm breakfast. Whether you're paddling down the James River, foraging in the forest, or sipping local wines on the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, our farm is your ideal home base. As the sun sets unwind with smores by the firepit under a blanket of stars. Prefer to bring your own ride? No Problem! Set up your RV with 50 amp electric. A well water fill-up is available too! Customize your experience with: A Chef Inspired, locally sourced Breakfast or Lunch Fresh eggs, seasonal vegetables and fruits from the farm Locals Only Welcome Basket Gourmet Mushroom Grow Class Kayak and Tube Trips down the James River Book your stay today for a getaway filled with fun, relaxation, and unforgettable memories!

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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!

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Greenbrier River Campground

49 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Alderson, WV

Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Greenbrier River, our unique 8-acre campground offers an unparalleled outdoor experience from April through October. With tree-lined RV sites and serene wooded tent camping by the riverside, guests can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the privacy and tranquility of our beautiful surroundings. Our campground features a variety of accommodations, including four fully-equipped cabins, charming vintage Airstreams, and a classic 1964 Shasta trailer. Guests can take advantage of our expansive riverfront, boasting a thousand feet of prime fishing spots and one of the finest swimming holes in the area. For those seeking adventure, we provide full-service tubing, kayaking, and canoeing trips in the heart of the Greenbrier's best paddling waters. With a range of Class I to Class III rapids, our offerings cater to paddlers of all skill levels, ensuring an exciting experience for everyone. Come and discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at our campground!

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Indian Camp Lane

1 site · Lodging98 acres · Fishersville, VA

98 acre working produce farm with lots of wild space and creek that flows the entire property. Close to Downtown Staunton and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Lots to see and do in this area or just relax and enjoy the wildlife and the sounds of blue herons passing. The handmade timber frame cabin has lots of character and complete visual privacy. 12x16 space with twin mattress bed, kitchen area with propane cookstove, water filter, dry sink. Small woodstove and loft for sleeping. Outhouse available close by the cabin. Access is fairly easy but would be best in 4wd vehicle. Please, no dogs as we have lots of farm animals.

The best camping near Douthat State Park guide

Overview

About

The 50-acre Douthat Lake is the epicenter of its namesake state park, framed by the forested slopes of the Allegheny Mountains. Take to the water to cruise or kayak, rent a hydrobike or stand-up paddleboard, or fish for bass, trout, and crappie in the lake and streams. There’s plenty for landlubbers to explore, too, with more than 40 miles of wooded trails ready to hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride. Spending the night? Choose from four campgrounds dotted throughout the park, including equestrian camps with stables, rustic cabins, and plenty of RV/tent sites, some right by the lake.

Notable campgrounds

Best for family campers: Whispering Pines Campground has 23 sites with electric and water hookups, space for up to 50-foot RVs, and a playground nearby.
Best for horse lovers: Beaver Dam Campground has equestrian camping with covered stalls available for rent.
Best for water activities: Lakeside Campground has 19 RV/tent sites with gravel pads and electric hookups.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve a cabin or a campsite at one of the park’s four campgrounds online.
Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance and must be made at least one day before arrival.
Campsites can book up fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of six months in advance.

When to go

Peak season at Douthat State Park is April through October, and this is the most popular time for hiking, camping, and water sports. Outdoor activities are enjoyable year-round, but summer visitors have the added bonus of a swimming beach (open from Memorial Day to Labor Day) and trout-stocked waters (twice weekly through the high season). Whispering Pines is the only campground open year-round, but cabins are also available for winter rentals.

Know before you go

Douthat State Park is just over an hour’s drive north of Roanoke.
Day-use parking fees and camping reservation fees are charged at Douthat. State fishing licenses and equestrian permits are also required.
Facilities include a visitor center and gift shop, camp store, restaurant, restrooms, and picnic areas. Cell phone service is patchy throughout the park, but free wifi is available near the bathhouse.
You can bring your own non-gasoline-powered boats to Douthat, and boats and watercraft are available to rent in season. Swimming is only permitted at the swimming beach.
There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Douthat State Park. The swimming area is also accessible.

97%

17 ratings · 2 reviews

Recommends

· October 2018

Great campsites near the end of the reservoir. Cabins look great too, but we didn't have a chance to check them out. Great, easy camping for young families.

Alicia E.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2018

Make reservations