Planning a getaway filled with fresh air, scenic trails, and peaceful nights under the stars? Whether you’re searching for a rustic tent site, a full-service RV park near Lynchburg, VA, or a family-friendly campground close to hiking and lake access, this region has something for every kind of camper. From primitive creekside escapes to amenity-rich destinations with pools and playgrounds, camping in Lynchburg offers the perfect mix of nature, comfort, and convenience. In this guide, you’ll find top-rated campgrounds near Lynchburg, VA—ideal for weekend adventures, long-term RV stays, or unplugged retreats in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Camping near Lynchburg:
Tent Camping Destinations near Lynchburg, VA:
While the next section focuses on RV-friendly campgrounds, many of the traditional sites listed below also accommodate RVs, though access may be more limited and amenities more basic.
Camp Karma Primitive Camping
Fishing – Camp Store – Pets Allowed
🛶 Best For: Unplugged tent camping and peaceful creekside retreats
Camp Karma is a quiet, primitive campground nestled along Goose Creek between Bedford and Smith Mountain Lake. With 37 campsites set in a wooded bend of the creek, this low-key retreat is all about slowing down and soaking up the natural beauty of central Virginia. Whether you prefer a simple tent site or a more equipped camping cabin, Camp Karma offers a back-to-basics experience with a few modern touches.
Activities & Amenities:
- Outdoor Recreation: Fishing in the on-site pond or wading in Goose Creek. Playground for younger guests. Open wooded areas for exploring and relaxing. Easy day trips to the Peaks of Otter and Smith Mountain Lake for hiking, fishing, and sightseeing.
- Campsites & Comforts: Primitive tent sites and simple cabins for a rustic stay. 20-and 30-amp electric sites available. Picnic tables and fire rings are at most sites.
- Facilities & Services: Hot showers, clean restrooms, and a dump station for RVs. Small daily-open camp store with firewood available (kindling may be gathered on-site). Pets welcome (must be leashed). Quiet hours begin at 11 PM
- Reservations & Policies: Online reservations are available with a clear refund policy. Guests should plan for late arrivals. No public alcohol display allowed—please review all campground rules before arrival
Peaks of Otter Campground
Fishing – Hiking – Pets Allowed
🏞️ Best For: Scenic hiking, nature watching, and low-frill mountain camping
Tucked between the towering peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Peaks of Otter Campground offers a peaceful, wooded escape along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Surrounded by lush forest and mountain views, this rustic campground is a favorite for those seeking quiet moments in nature with easy access to hiking, wildlife, and historical sites.
Activities & Amenities:
- Outdoor Recreation: Fishing and walking around Abbott Lake. Hiking trails range from easy strolls through meadows to challenging climbs with scenic views. Wildlife sightings include deer, wild turkeys, and rare bird species. Seasonal interpretive programs explore local ecology and history.
- Campsites & Comforts: Shaded campsites available for reservation or walk-in. No electric or water hookups. Each site includes a picnic table, lantern post, and fire ring. Food lockers are provided for safe storage.
- Facilities & Services: Flush toilets, drinking water stations, and a dump station on-site. No showers, but campers can access facilities at the nearby Peaks of Otter Lodge, which also has a restaurant and general store.
- Reservations & Policies: Online reservations available; walk-in sites offered on a first-come basis. 30-night annual stay limit. Only certified heat-treated firewood is allowed (or collect fallen wood on-site). Quiet hours begin at 9:00 PM; overnight generator use is restricted. Bear safety rules apply—store all food and scented items properly.
Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp
Swimming – Hiking – Pets Allowed
🌲 Best For: Lake swimming, walking, and family-friendly nature escapes
Tucked in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp offers a quiet, rustic retreat surrounded by natural beauty and steeped in Civilian Conservation Corps history. Its serene seven-acre lake, grassy beach, and wooded trails make it a peaceful place to unwind. With easy access from I-81 and close proximity to Lexington and Natural Bridge State Park, this site is a favorite for both weekend escapes and nature getaways.
Activities & Amenities:
- Outdoor Recreation: Designated lake swimming area with a sandy beach. Youth-only fishing from April to mid-June, then open to all with a license. Hiking trails range from short loops to longer treks, including Wildcat Trail and Panther Knob Trail. Birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and nature photography are popular. Trail connections are available to the Appalachian Trail and nearby wilderness areas.
- Campsites & Comforts: 41 reservable sites with picnic tables, lantern posts, and fire rings with grills. Tent pads and paved roads throughout. No electric, water, or sewer hookups. Pets allowed (maximum two per site).
- Facilities & Services: Seasonal bathhouse with hot showers. Flush toilets and water spigots throughout the campground. Dump station and creek access available. Generator use is restricted to daytime hours.
- Reservations & Policies: All sites must be reserved in advance via Recreation.gov. Two-night minimum on weekends; three-night minimum on holiday weekends. Maximum stay is 14 nights. Main gate closes at 10 PM—late arrivals must wait until morning. Expect limited cell service. Food must be properly secured due to bear activity.
RV Camping Destinations near Lynchburg, VA:
If you’re traveling with an RV or camper van, the Lynchburg area has a great selection of well-equipped parks to choose from. These RV campgrounds offer the perfect blend of convenience and comfort, with everything from full hook-up sites and pull-through pads to family-friendly amenities and scenic views. They’re ideal for both quick getaways and longer stays.
Middle Creek Campground
Swimming – Biking-Riding – Pets Allowed
🚐 Best For: RV travelers seeking full hookups, natural beauty, and dark sky stargazing
Tucked away in a quiet mountain hollow at the foot of Fork Mountain, Middle Creek Campground offers a true escape into Virginia’s Blue Ridge wilderness. The campground sits beneath dark skies—perfect for stargazing—and is surrounded by natural beauty, including the James River, Appalachian Trail, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you’re relaxing creekside or trekking a mountain trail, this family-owned campground invites you to unplug and reconnect with nature.
Activities & Amenities:
- Outdoor Recreation: Kayaking on the James River, hiking nearby trails, and biking around the campground. On-site creek offers natural swimming spots and a fish pond. Seasonal entertainment includes corn hole, karaoke, and group gatherings. Close to Apple Orchard Falls, Balcony Falls, Sharp Top Mountain, and Appalachian Trail access. Fishing is available in stocked streams and the James River.
- Campsites & Comforts: Wide range of sites including tent and hammock camping, large RV pads (up to 55’), and simple creekside cabins with A/C, bunk beds, and mini-fridges. Water and electric hookups available (30/50 amp); several sites include sewer. Group camping areas, shaded spots, and quiet loops provide different atmospheres.
- Facilities & Services: Bathhouses, pool, general store, and space for weekend events. An online site-matching tool allows guests to filter by RV size and driving comfort. Cellular reception varies—bring your own Wi-Fi solution if needed. Quiet hours, fire policies, and pet rules are enforced.
- Reservations & Policies: Online reservations are recommended due to the terrain. The campground is organized into loops—some quiet and wooded, others more social. Heritage weekends and seasonal events add to the charm. Roads into camp are scenic but may be challenging for large RVs or new drivers.
Thousand Trails Lynchburg RV Campground
Fishing – Canoeing – Pets Allowed
🏕️ Best For: Seasonal stays, large RV setups, and social campground activities
Located in the rolling hills of central Virginia, Thousand Trails Lynchburg is a seasonal RV campground in Gladys, just outside of historic Lynchburg. Open from late April through October, this family-friendly retreat is nestled among scenic farmland and offers lake access for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. The peaceful rural setting makes it easy to unplug, unwind, and enjoy nature at your own pace.
Activities & Amenities:
- Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy swimming, fishing, and canoeing, along with walking trails and lakefront relaxation. Seasonal events, movie nights, and sports options like tennis, pickleball, mini golf, and shuffleboard keep everyone active. Kids will love the playground, and nearby attractions in Lynchburg and the Blue Ridge Mountains make great day trips.
- Campsites & Comforts: Choose from 223 sites, including full-hookup RV pads and rustic tent areas. Waterfront campsites are available. Spacious grounds feature picnic areas, basketball courts, and spaces for both group gatherings and solo retreats.
- Facilities & Services: Amenities include bathhouses with showers, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, clubhouse, pavilion, ballroom, horseshoes, and dog-friendly grounds. Wi-Fi hotspots are available in select areas. On-site RV storage adds convenience for frequent campers.
- Reservations & Policies: Open to members and non-members. Reservations can be made online or by phone. Check-in starts at noon (4 PM for cabin rentals); late check-out available for a fee. Must be 25+ to book. Pets welcome with leash; quiet hours begin at 10 PM.
Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA Holiday
Fishing – Seasonal Pool – Pets Allowed
🎯 Best For: Convenient access to top attractions and family-focused campground fun
Tucked just off the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, this KOA offers a cozy mountain retreat near some of Virginia’s most iconic natural and historic sites. Guests can enjoy peaceful evenings under the stars while still being within reach of popular attractions like Natural Bridge, Peaks of Otter, the National D-Day Memorial, and Appomattox Court House National Historic Park. Whether you’re here for sightseeing or solitude, this family-owned campground offers a convenient basecamp with a personal touch.
Activities & Amenities:
- Outdoor Recreation: Seasonal fun from Memorial Day to Labor Day includes shuffleboard, tetherball, Poly Pong, and a playground for kids. A seasonal pool offers a cool break in summer, and the on-site gem mine lets guests pan for treasures. KampK9 provides a dedicated space for dogs to play and stretch their legs.
- Campsites & Comforts: RV and tent sites available with up to 50-amp service and accommodations for rigs up to 90 feet long. Some sites offer cable TV and satellite-based Wi-Fi. Cabins are also available for non-campers who still want the outdoor experience.
- Facilities & Services: Guests enjoy family-style bathhouses, laundry, propane refill, firewood for sale, a well-stocked camp store, and a covered pavilion for group use. Site escorts assist with setup. Quiet hours begin at 10 PM, and the entrance gate closes from 9 PM to 9 AM for added security and quiet.
- Reservations & Policies: Reservations are required for all stays and can be made online or by phone. Cell service is reliable for most providers, though AT&T may have limited coverage. Pets are welcome with supervision, though livestock animals are not permitted. The campground’s welcoming hosts and relaxed setting make it an ideal stop for families, couples, and solo adventurers.
Paradise Lake Family Campground
Fishing – Trails – Pets Allowed
🏝️ Best For: Relaxed year-round camping near Lynchburg with long-term site options
Located in scenic Appomattox County, Paradise Lake Family Campground offers a peaceful, family-focused atmosphere with convenient access to Lynchburg. Open year-round, this campground is gated for added security and provides a relaxed outdoor setting surrounded by woods, a fishing lake, and walking trails, making it a great choice for weekend campers or long-term stays.
Activities & Amenities:
- Outdoor Recreation: Swim or fish in the scenic lake, take a dip in the sparkling pool, or enjoy a stroll along peaceful walking trails. The game room, basketball court, and playground keep families entertained, while picnic shelters and a camp store offer added convenience.
- Campsites & Comforts: Full hook-up sites and water/electric options available, with limited winter access (heated hoses required). Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Seasonal and monthly sites cater to longer stays. Pets are welcome with some restrictions.
- Facilities & Services: Two bathhouses with restrooms and showers, laundry room, dump station, LP gas, and a well-stocked camp store carrying wood, ice, and bait. Gated entry provides added security and privacy for guests.
- Reservations & Policies: Reservations must be made during office hours (10 AM–4 PM), and late arrivals should call ahead for gate access. Cancellation policies vary—holiday and special event stays have limited refund options. Guests are encouraged to plan during busy weekends.
Camping Tips for the Lynchburg, VA Area
Before you pitch your tent or back in your RV, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your camping experience near Lynchburg, VA:
- Prepare for Varying Cell Service: Many campgrounds in the Lynchburg area are tucked into valleys or nestled along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which means cell reception can be limited. Download maps ahead of time, and don’t rely on GPS alone.
- Stock Up on Essentials: While most campgrounds offer a camp store or are close to small towns, it’s smart to bring basics like firewood (purchased locally or on-site), extra drinking water, bug spray, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Mind Wildlife and Leave No Trace: Bears, deer, and other wildlife are common in the area. Follow campground food storage rules, never leave trash out, and respect posted guidelines to help keep nature safe for you and the animals.
- Watch the Weather: Weather in central Virginia can shift quickly, especially in higher elevations. Bring rain gear, and stake your tent securely in case of afternoon storms.
- Book Ahead When Possible: Many popular campgrounds near Lynchburg, VA, offer online reservations, and some fill up fast, especially during holidays and fall foliage season. Booking early can help you secure your preferred spot and avoid last-minute stress.
Whether you’re tent camping under the stars or enjoying a full-hookup RV site, a little preparation can go a long way toward a safe, relaxing trip in one of Virginia’s most scenic regions.
Ready to Camp Near Lynchburg?
With so many scenic tent sites, riverside retreats, and RV parks just a short drive from downtown, camping in Lynchburg, VA, is the perfect way to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re planning a peaceful solo getaway or a fun-filled family weekend, each campground near Lynchburg, VA, offers a unique backdrop for unforgettable outdoor experiences.
And if you find yourself falling in love with the area’s charm and natural beauty, consider making it your home base. We invite you to discover The Vistas at Dreaming Creek Apartments in Lynchburg, VA. Our apartment community offers comfortable, modern living with easy access to hiking trails, rivers, and local favorites. So grab your gear and hit the road—your next great adventure in campgrounds and RV parks near Lynchburg, VA, is waiting. Happy camping!
Check out our other local guides for a list of State Parks near Lynchburg, The Best Coffee in Lynchburg, Local Lynchburg Farmers Markets, and so much more!