Swimming Campgrounds in Virginia

Swimming Campgrounds in Virginia

Discover the best swimming campgrounds across Virginia. Beat the heat at campgrounds with pristine swimming spots. Lakes, rivers, beaches, and swimming holes just steps from your campsite.

15+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: Summer (June-September)
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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

1
Sherando Lake Group Camp
Star
5.0
(32)
Sherando Lake Group Camp
Natural BridgeGeorge Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Exceptional 4.96 sentiment with pristine swimming facilities at two mountain lakes (25-acre lower lake with designated swimming area). Reviews specifically praise accessible swimming and family-friendly water activities. Perfect greenbook status (vibe: 100) ensures welcoming environment.

Tents
2
Hopper Creek Group Camp
Star
4.7
(36)
Hopper Creek Group Camp
Natural Bridge StationGeorge Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Outstanding 4.73 sentiment with creek-based swimming opportunities near James River. Group camping focus with spacious grassy areas. Excellent greenbook status (vibe: 93.45) and strong privacy ratings make this ideal for families seeking authentic mountain swimming experiences.

Tents
3
Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp
Star
4.6
(345)
Cave Mountain Lake Family Camp
Natural Bridge StationGeorge Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Strong 4.63 sentiment with dedicated 7-acre swimming lake featuring sandy beach. Reviews praise clean facilities and family-friendly atmosphere. Excellent greenbook (vibe: 97.71) with youth fishing programs adds family appeal. Designated swimming area with beach is major draw.

Tents
RVs

About Swimming Campgrounds in Virginia

Swimming camping Virginia offers an exceptional blend of mountain lake retreats and waterfront adventures across the state's diverse landscapes. From the pristine waters of Sherando Lake nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains to the expansive shores of Kerr Lake in Southside Virginia, campers discover designated swimming areas with sandy beaches, crystal-clear mountain streams, and family-friendly facilities.

Best Time

Peak swimming season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with water temperatures reaching comfortable levels by late May in lower elevation lakes and mid-June in mountain locations. July and August offer the warmest water temperatures, typically 75-82°F at major reservoirs like Kerr Lake and Philpott Lake, while mountain lakes like Sherando remain refreshingly cool at 68-75°F even during peak summer.

Activity Highlights

  • Lake and river swimming access
  • Natural swimming holes
  • Beach and waterfront sites
  • Family-friendly swimming areas
Staunton River Campground
Asher Creek Campground
San Elijo State Beach Campground

Explore Swimming Campgrounds in Virginia

Browse 25 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.

Interactive MapAdvanced Filters25+ swimming campgrounds

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Swimming in designated lake areas and natural swimming holesBeach lounging and sunbathing on sandy shoresKayaking and canoeing on calm lake watersFishing from shore, docks, and boatsHiking trails to scenic overlooks and waterfallsMountain biking on forest service roads

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve early for summer weekends at popular swimming destinations—campgrounds like Sherando Lake and Cave Mountain Lake book solid months in advance.
  • 2Bring water shoes for rocky lake bottoms and creek beds, especially at natural swimming areas where submerged rocks are common.
  • 3Pack reef-safe sunscreen as some campgrounds request environmentally-friendly products to protect water quality.
  • 4Life jackets are essential for children and weak swimmers, even in designated swimming areas, as depths can change quickly and most swimming areas are not lifeguarded.
15 campgrounds ranked
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Curated for Swimming Campgrounds in Virginia

Swimming Campgrounds in Virginia FAQ

We've ranked 15+ swimming campgrounds in Virginia based on water access, swimming areas, safety, and user reviews. Top options include campgrounds on lakes, rivers, and beaches with designated swimming areas.
Swimming safety varies by location. Many campgrounds have designated swimming areas with lifeguards during peak season. Always check for posted warnings, water conditions, and currents before swimming. Never swim alone.
Summer (June-September) is the best time for swimming camping in Virginia. Water temperatures are warmest and swimming areas are typically staffed. Some mountain lakes may be too cold for swimming even in summer.
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