Camping

Virginia is known as “the gateway to the South” due to its location situated between the New England states to the north and the “deep South” below. Geographically, it is considered part of the mid-Atlantic region of the United States.

Its location gives it a unique topography unlike any other state. In the western part of the state, you'll find the rugged Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains, along with the Shenandoah Valley between them. As you make your way east, the mountains slowly turn into rolling hills, eventually turning to a flat, sandy coastal terrain as you near the Atlantic Ocean on the eastern border.

These unique geographical regions, along with its mild climate and four distinct seasons, make Virginia a perfect place for camping any time of year.

Here is our list of the 10 best campgrounds in Virginia.

1. Chippokes Plantation State Park

Enjoy a unique camping experience at one of the oldest continually farmed plantations in the country, located just across the river from historic Jamestown. Take in the history, go for a hike, or enjoy a horseback ride during your visit. Learn more here.

2. Shenandoah National Park

Located just a short drive away from the nation's capital, Shenandoah National Park offers a quiet respite from all the hustle and bustle. You'll love the beautiful views of cascading waterfalls and thick woods as you enjoy a hike or a picnic on your Shenandoah National Park camping trip. Learn more here.

3. Smith Mountain Lake State Park

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If you're a water enthusiast, then this is the camping destination for you. Located on the second biggest freshwater lake in Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake State Park is the perfect place for fishing, boating, swimming and water sports, along with miles of hiking trails. Click here to learn more and start planning your trip!

4. Bear Creek Lake State Park

This 40-acre lake offers a boat launch, fishing pier, boat rentals and swimming beach. With plenty of beautiful walking and hiking trails and quick access to the nearby Cumberland State Forest, any outdoorsman is sure to enjoy a trip to Bear Creek Lake State Park. Click here to learn more.

5. Belle Isle State Park

This state park is gorgeous, with seven miles of Reppahannock River shoreline and access to Mulberry and Deep creeks. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, picnicking, boating and horseback riding. Click here to learn more about Belle Isle.

6. Occoneechee State Park

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This state park, located on Buggs Island Lake, is popular among fishing and boating enthusiasts. It also boasts over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. No matter your tastes, you're sure to love camping at Occoneechee. Learn more here.

7. New River Trail State Park

This 57-mile linear park runs parallel to the New River and is a gorgeous place to go hiking, biking or canoeing. For the convenience and enjoyment of its visitors, the park offers guided horseback trips, canoe and bike rentals, boat launches, a gift shop and a horse arena. Learn more here.

8. Sky Meadows State Park

A combination of rolling farmland and dense woods make this park a rare treat. Nature and history programs are offered year-round, and visitors will love the primitive camping offered throughout the park. Learn more at the official website.

9. False Cape State Park

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One of the last remaining undeveloped areas on the Atlantic coast, this park is a camping destination unlike any other. Enjoy hiking, biking, boating and fishing along 6 miles of Atlantic coast, then retire to your spacious campsite. Learn more here.

10. Pocahontas State Park

This beautiful state park boating, picnicking, camping, camping cabins, hiking, aquatic center and nature and history programs. Rowboats, paddleboats, kayaks, paddleboards and canoes may be rented at the boathouse on the 225-acre Swift Creek Lake during the summer. Learn more here.