Best Camping in and near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

100% (8 reviews)

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

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Stay at a public campground in Smith Mountain Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Smith Mountain Lake State Park

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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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(674)

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.

94%

(24)

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 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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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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(211)

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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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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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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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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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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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 small, uncovered tree house which is available on a first come, first served basis. 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. We also now have a purple bus which is retrofitted as a camper and has a refrigerator, stove and television which is connected to our internet. 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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Muddy Creek Campground and Farm

41 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Copper Hill, VA

Welcome to the “Boondocks!” Muddy Creek Campground and Farm is currently a work- in-progress. The property was purchased with a multi-phase dream in mind. Our short term and long-term goals are to provide a get-away, your way. Nestled in the hills of Copper Hill, Virginia, (elevation 2600 feet, population 1758, Muddy Creek Campground and Farm is 17.5 acres of pasture and a woodland get-away that includes rolling hills, rescued livestock, micro farming, RV and tent campsites, and primitive camping glamping. While staying with us, enjoy the change of seasons on the Blue Ridge Parkway (one mile from Muddy Creek), ziplining and hiking at Buffalo Mountain, swimming, tubing, and kayaking complements of the Little River, and follow the Crooked Road music tour. Our neighbors also include wineries, breweries, paintball courses, corn mazes in the fall, horseback riding trails and one week a year at the popular July FloydFest. At Muddy Creek you choose the accommodations, activities, food, and the amenities (or the lack there of) where we believe that your experience needs to fit your needs. Sometimes that may include eating and sleeping under the stars and nothing more. We recommend that, too. Phase 1 – The Camp Side Camp sites offer RV camping, camper vans, primitive tent camping, glamping, and eventually tiny cabin camping. Maybe you’d prefer nightly “boondocking” or RV/van camping (no utilities provided). We will host tent/primitive camping (use what you bring in). Tents and sleeping bags may be rented based on availability or you may bring your own. Amenities may include fire pits, picnic tables, tents, RV and Camper Van rentals, cast iron cookware for open fire cooking, hawk watching, and woodland critter sightings. Muddy Creek Campground and Farm Highlights Raw resources: 17.5 acres of pasture, trees, fresh air, forest bathing and Mother Nature Accommodations: RV/Camper Van, primitive, and glamping camping. Location/Proximity: (Remember country miles take a little longer to travel) • 1.0 miles to the Blue Ridge Parkway -2 minutes • 28 miles to Exit 114 Interstate 81 -33 minutes • 1.5 miles to Route 221/Floyd Hwy - 3 minutes Recreation: hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, kayaking/tubing, paintball, golf, college football games Communities, transportation, shopping, restaurants, breweries/wineries: • 46 miles to Roanoke, VA via 81 N – 50 minutes • 38.2 miles to Roanoke, VA via 221 N – 59 minutes • 14.4 miles to Floyd, VA - 19 minutes • 17.3 miles to Virginia Tech - 27 minutes • 37.3 miles to Roanoke College - 42 minutes • 6.8 miles to Radford University -28 minutes • 1.5 miles to FloydFest - 5 minutes • 43.8 miles to Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport - 50 minutes • 46.0 miles to Amtrak – Roanoke – 53 minutes Phase 1 –The Farm Side-Spring of 2024 A portion of the property will be used for micro-farming. Our vision is to provide yearlong gardening via hoop-houses, raised beds, and old-school planting in the ground that will lead to seasonal vegetables and fruits, a hoop house for year-round gardens, classes that teach planting, cultivating, harvesting - all near hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding and shopping. Instead, you may choose to stay on-site for rest and relaxation…less can be more! Limited rescued livestock will roam the property. Goats serve as an eco-friendly form of land maintenance and fertilizer, donkeys protect the goats, hens produce eggs, and even a couple of cows may wander because we just love cows! This will be by no means a sanctuary, but our animal residents will live out their natural lives at Muddy Creek – the compost makers. Our intention is to build and grow with purpose while being thoughtful stewards of the property, guests, community. One of the many great perks of camping is the uniqueness that each campground provides. You may note similarities, but the location and the land provide a different adventure for everyone. Camping is about experiencing and making memories. Muddy Creek is literally built from the camp site/farm ground up, merging two passions into one - farming and camping. Farm camping does not target any specific demographic, but instead provides an array of opportunities for leisure and travel (even if that travel is just one county away). Design your vacation as you wish: sleep, eat, tickle a goat's ear, or decide how much recreation or relaxation you want. All are part of the Muddy Creek Campground and Farm community experience, providing something or perhaps the want for “nothing” for everyone. Many camp sites are targeted for the high energy outdoor enthusiasts that are loved by many, but we cater to the get-out-of town, disconnect, rest, cook and eat over an open fire. Mountain or metro camper, recreation is right around the bend. Muddy Creek is affordable, accessible, and inclusive of all guests.

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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!

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.