Hiking Campgrounds in Virginia

Hiking Campgrounds in Virginia

Discover the best hiking campgrounds across Virginia. Experience the best of both worlds with camping that puts you right at the heart of incredible hiking opportunities. Direct trail access and stunning mountain vistas.

43+ Campgrounds4.2★ AverageBest: Late Spring through Fall (May-October)

Hiking Campgrounds in Other States


Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Hussy Mountain Horse Camp
Photo coming soon
Star
0.0
(4)
Hussy Mountain Horse Camp
Speedwell
George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Top-rated campground with excellent reviews

2
Sherando Lake Group Camp
Photo coming soon
Star
4.7
(32)
Sherando Lake Group Camp
Natural Bridge
George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Top-rated campground with excellent reviews

Tents
3
Sunrise Cabin
Star
4.8
(23)
Sunrise Cabin
Ivanhoe
George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Top-rated campground with excellent reviews

RVs

About Hiking Campgrounds in Virginia

Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian highlands offer some of the finest hiking camping on the East Coast. From the iconic Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park to the rugged trails of Cumberland Gap, hiking enthusiasts will find everything from gentle nature walks to challenging summit climbs, all within reach of well-appointed campgrounds.

Best Time

The best time for hiking camping in Virginia depends on your preferred terrain. Spring (April-May) brings wildflower explosions and rushing waterfalls, though trails can be muddy and bugs emerge.

Activity Highlights

  • Direct trail access
  • Mountain and forest settings
  • Backpacking base camps
  • Scenic wilderness views


Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Hiking Campgrounds in Virginia

Map Key
1
Hussy Mountain Horse Camp
2
Sherando Lake Group Camp
3
Sunrise Cabin
4
Hurricane Campground
5
Hopper Creek Group Camp
6
Turkey Run Ridge Group
7
North Bend Park
8
Horseshoe Point
9
Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp
10
Elizabeth Furnace
11
Buffalo Park
12
Rudds Creek Rec. Area
13
Salthouse Branch
14
Goose Point
15
North River Campground
16
Old Virginia Group Horse Camp
17
Bull Run Regional Park - Centreville
18
Pound River Campground (Va)
19
Big Meadows Campground - Shenandoah (Va)
20
Cave Mountain Lake Group Camp

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Hiking on the Appalachian TrailWaterfall hiking (Dark Hollow Falls, Overall Run Falls, Crabtree Falls)Summit climbing (Hawksbill, Old Rag, Mount Rogers)Nature trail walks and interpretive loopsWildlife viewing (black bears, deer, wild turkeys)Fall foliage viewing along Skyline Drive

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1**Reservations**: Shenandoah National Park campgrounds book out months in advance for fall weekends—reserve at recreation.gov exactly 6 months ahead. George Washington National Forest sites operate first-come-first-served at many locations, offering more spontaneous options.
  • 2**Gear essentials**: Bring trekking poles for steep Appalachian terrain, rain gear (afternoon thunderstorms are common), and layers—mountaintop temperatures can drop 20-30 degrees from valley floors. A headlamp is essential as most campgrounds lack electric lights.
  • 3**Trail intel**: Download offline maps before arriving, as cell service is unreliable. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's app works offline and covers Virginia's 550+ AT miles.
  • 4**Regulations**: Backcountry permits are required for overnight AT hiking but not for campground-based day hikes. Some Shenandoah trails close seasonally for peregrine falcon nesting.
24 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Hiking Campgrounds in Virginia

How to Book These Campgrounds

The most popular campgrounds for hiking campgrounds in virginia book up months in advance. Here are the tools to help you get a site.


Hiking Campgrounds in Virginia FAQ

We've ranked 43+ hiking campgrounds in Virginia based on trail access, hiking variety, scenery, and user reviews. Top options are near national forests, state parks, and wilderness areas.

Permit requirements vary by location in Virginia. Many wilderness areas and popular trails require day-use or backcountry permits. Check with the managing agency (National Forest, National Park, or State Park) before your trip.

Late Spring through Fall (May-October) is generally best for hiking camping in Virginia. High-elevation trails may have shorter seasons due to snow. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.

Availability Alerts

Popular Virginia Campgrounds Book Fast

The best hiking campgrounds in Virginia book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.

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Hussy Mountain Horse Camp
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