Outdoor Blog
The 12 Best Places to Camp in Virginia

Virginia presents a plethora of options when searching for a stunning camping destination. Along the Atlantic Ocean coastline sits the world-famous Virginia Beach, and westward the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains. With 24 state forests, 38 state parks, 19 national park services, and numerous primitive campgrounds, the best camping in Virginia has lots of competition.
Virginia is the perfect state for a back-to-nature getaway, with plenty of secluded spots for pitching a tent. There’s also a big choice of campgrounds offering RV sites, with varied access to amenities. Whether it’s oceanside at Virginia Beach, or within the huge George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, the perfect camping destination for you can be found if you read on.

With large sections of the Appalachian Trail running through the state, Virginia is considered one of the best camping and hiking locations in the eastern United States.
1. Shenandoah National Park
Just 75 miles from the nation’s capital, nearly 200,000 square acres of forest, wetlands, waterfalls, and rocky peaks make up the Shenandoah National Park. It’s the perfect place for relaxation and recreation, attracting many for a city getaway from Washington D.C. One huge attraction to this national park is the Skyline Drive, a road that runs 105-miles along its entire length.
The road follows the ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, with phenomenal views the entire way. Amongst the 75 overlooks from the Skyline Drive are vistas of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and Piedmont to the east. You can also access many popular trails from the road, including the Appalachian Trail, and paths used for mountain biking and equestrians.
Other ways to spend your time inside Shenandoah National Park could include the massive 500 miles of hiking trails, from which you can see cascading waterfalls, more stunning views, or enjoy the famous color-changing leaves with the seasons.
Big Meadows Campground is perfectly located in Shenandoah National Park, close to several of the major sites and facilities, with easy access to popular hiking trails. There are three waterfalls within walking distance of the campground, it couldn’t be better located. The campsites are wooded and equipped with fire grates and picnic tables, and coin-operated showers and a camp store are also on-site. Note that there are no electric or water hookups at the individual campsites, but laundry facilities are available, as are toilets.
2. First Landing State Park
Boating and swimming are everyday activities at First Landing State Park, just outside of Virginia Beach on the Chesapeake Bay. Here, 19 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails and a 1.5-mile beach make a lovely destination, some of the best camping in Virginia. It’s actually the state’s most popular state park, where fishing and crabbing are common activities.
Located on Cape Henry, nearly 3000 acres of natural environment provides space for swimming, hiking, biking, boating, or just a nice setting for a picnic. Rare plants and abundant wildlife make this a great destination for the nature-loving camper, and the gorgeous coastline is just a short walk from your campsite.
The campground at First Landing State Park offers tent sites and RV sites, with or without hookups. A camping store where bikes are available for rental, as well as restrooms and showers are all on-site. A boat launch is free to use for campers, so bring your best tackle box and do some fishing in the Atlantic Ocean. In the area, educational programs can teach campers about the scenic nature and rich history of the Chesapeake Bay area, so your camping trip can be a learning opportunity!

Enjoy some sunbathing and swimming in First Landing State Park, right by Virginia Beach.
3. False Cape State Park
This beautifully scenic park is one of the only undeveloped areas along the entire Virginia Atlantic coast. A beautiful oasis of untouched shoreline, False Cape State Park is perfect for oceanside camping. Six miles of gorgeous untouched beachfront is perfect for campers who want to unzip their tent straight onto the sand. Because it’s a wildlife refuge and preserved area, no there is no public vehicular access of any kind. Instead, the beach and park can only be reached on foot, by bicycle, beach transport, tram, or boat.
Swimming and sunbathing are popular activities at False Cape State Park, and visitors can also enjoy guided kayak tours and biking trails. Walk some of the 15 total miles of hiking trails to see dunes and beaches, maritime forests of oak and pine, wooded swamps, marches, and views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Primitive campsites are available year-round, this campground is perfect for some wild beach camping. There are no showers and no electricity, but several non-flush toilets are available throughout the park. Drinking water is also accessible, and while campfires aren’t allowed, camp stoves are permitted.
4. Lake Fairfax Park
In Fairfax County, this 476-acre park also contains a 20-acre lake, which is ideal for fishing. There are also fun activities on the grounds, such as the Water Mine family water park, as well as a skate park and a pump track. This is the ideal family camping destination, you can even rent paddle boats on the lake.
The campground has 136 tent campsites and RV spaces, with electric hookups available. There are no full hookups and no wi-fi connection. This campground is popular because of its close vicinity to Washington D.C., so it’s recommended to make a reservation ahead of time.
5. Chickahominy Riverfront Park
If you’re looking for riverside camping, this is the best camping in Virginia. This park totals 140 acres right in the center of the historic Triangle region of Jamestown, Yorktown, and Williamsburg. Green scenic waterfront views are offered in every part of the Chickahominy Riverfront Park, where you can boat, canoe, kayak, fish, swim, or just sunbathe along the shores. There’s also a pool in the park, as well as hiking trails which wind around this historic area.
When deciding on a camping spot, you’ll have a choice of 160 campsites that sit along the bluff above the Chickahominy River. Each boasts an excellent view, along with access to a boat launch and canoe and kayak rentals. There are picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal with your group and do some wildlife viewing, and restrooms are available on site.

The beautiful Chickahominy River offers endless fishing and boating opportunities.
6. Douthat State Park
If you prefer mountainous scenery, there’s still a place for you in Virginia. Douthat State Park offers a 50-acre lake, where swimming, boating, and fishing are popular activities. There are also over 40 miles of wooded hiking trails encircling the lake, offering wonderful views and wildlife viewing opportunities. This is one of the six original Virginia state parks and is only a short drive from attractions such as the Warm Springs Baths or the Natural Bridge in Lexington. Here, you’ll find rich Civil War history, so Douthat State Park is a great camping destination for any historical enthusiasts.
As well as campsites for tents and RVs, this park also has 32 cabins and 3 lodges for group rental. Picnic areas and a playground are close by, as well as a camp store for restocking your supplies. Breathtaking mountain scenery combined with lots of useful amenities makes this one of the best camping spots in Virginia.
7. New River Trail State Park
This linear park spans 57-miles along an abandoned railroad right-of-way and is parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles. This area is great for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Guided horseback trips are available, and in the park, there are boat rentals, gift shops, and a horse arena. This park is unique as it offers 57-miles of continuous trail, with peaceful surroundings and pleasant scenery the whole way. Fishing is popular in the river and streams, so this park is good for those wanting a peaceful angling retreat.
Primitive campsites are scattered along the length of the park, offering challenges for all experience levels. Otherwise, the Cliffview and Millrace sites have fire rings, lantern posts, and picnic tables. This park has no showers or bathhouses, so is only for those who can rough it a little bit. In return for giving up some modern conveniences, this peaceful state park offers some of the best camping in Virginia.
8. Grayson Highlands State Park
Near Virginia’s two highest mountains, Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Grayson Highlands State Park offers some of the best views of these alpine peaks. The state’s highest peak (Mount Rogers) is easily accessed from this state park, as is the famous Appalachian Trail. Wildlife viewing in this park is excellent, as wild ponies roam the area freely. The mountain streams contain the opportunity for some superb trout fishing, the scenery of the entire area is just to die for.
The Grayson Highlands State Park Campground offers basic campsites with stunning views, with power on the sites but only water for the peak season. There’s no access to restrooms or bathhouses, however, facilities for horse camping are available. There are so many trails for horseback riding in this area too, we would really recommend it to equestrian campers.

Primitive camping in such a beautiful environment is incredibly rewarding.
9. North Bend Park
North Bend Park sits on the John H. Kerr Reservoir, a 50,000-acre lake. More than 800 miles of scenic wooded shoreline encircles the lake, dotted with coves and all waiting to be explored. Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, waterfowl and Bald Eagles can be observed year-round, as well as scenic lakeside views.
Several trails are available nearby for hiking and mountain biking, and Buggs Island attracts osprey in the summer, great blue herons, and the occasional river otter. The lake is also well known for fishing, with largemouth bass, striped bass, and crappie available. This is the perfect destination for any campers looking to improve their bass angling; check out our bass fishing tips before you go!
There are more than 200 campsites for tents and RVs around the lake, each area has its own beach. There’s also a day-use area with picnic shelters and a swim beach, as well as 3 boat launching ramps. Alternatively, 249 primitive campsites also surround the lake, which offer peaceful seclusion and wonderful private views.
10. Sherando Lake Recreation Area
Locally known as the jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sherando Lake Recreation Area is an ideal family camping destination. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnics, great fishing in the 25- acre spring-fed lake, or sunbathing and swimming on the sandy beach. This beautiful state park is also wonderful for nature watching.
The campground offers tent camping, and each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit with grill, and a bear box for food storage. On-site you can find flush toilets, vault toilets, and warm showers. There are also sites with electric hookups for RVs, and a dump station is located nearby.
11. Sky Meadows State Park
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Delaplane, Sky Meadows State Park is rich in Civil War history. More than 1800 acres of scenic woodlands and rolling pastures make up this park, as well as a historic farm where visitors can learn about colonial life in the Crooked Run Valley. This peaceful getaway destination offers hiking, fishing, and primitive camping in a lush green setting. There are miles of trails, with lots of choice for hiking, biking, and bridle trails.
Hike-in primitive camping is available year-round, for tent campers. Campsites are one mile from the parking area, but bicycles can be used on this journey. Enjoy some tranquil camping while you learn about colonial and Civil War history, this state park is the ideal destination for history buffs.

This scenic pastoral state park is a great destination for history enthusiasts.
12. Pocahontas State Park
Not far from the state capital of Richmond, this state park was the largest at the time of its creation. Pocahontas State Park offers more than 60 miles of hiking trails, as well as nature and history recreation programs. Three lakes offer plenty of good fishing, and at Swift Creek Lake boat rentals are available seasonally.
Campers use the boat launch and swim for free at Pocahontas, where campsites are available for tents and RVs. RV sites have varying hookups, with electric and water available. Amenities include centrally located restrooms and hot showers, grills, picnic tables, and lantern holders. Campfires are allowed in each campsite’s steel fire ring, and firewood is on sale at the campground should you need it.
Final Verdict:
The best camping in Virginia depends on the type of getaway or recreation you prefer. There are options for hikers, anglers, primitive campers, and beach lovers. The many state parks and forests offer numerous options, whether you prefer to primitive camp or glamp with all the modern amenities.
Big Meadows Campground in the Shenandoah Valley National Park is our recommendation for those wanting a peaceful, back-to-nature getaway from Washington D.C. With easy access to some of the most popular hiking trails, as well as three waterfalls to see nearby, this lush green setting certainly is some of the best camping in Virginia. Mountainous scenery and many natural attractions are also on offer in Douthat State Park, which is another option for a tranquil and scenic getaway.
For tenting on the riverside, Chickahominy Riverfront Park is the best camping in Virginia. A great location for history enthusiasts located in the Historic Triangle region, this park also offers great fishing, swimming, and other water activities. Sky Meadows State Park also offers a historical attraction, you can learn about colonial life as well as civil war history, all from this scenic wooded natural area.
The famous Virginia Beach is a huge camping destination, so if you’re looking for beach camping in Virginia, choose one of these locations. First Landing State Park offers a 1.5-mile beach as well as hiking and mountain biking trails, where fishing and crabbing are popular pastimes. False Cape is another favorable option, it’s one of the only undeveloped areas along the whole Virginia Atlantic coast. This is one of the most secluded and natural spots, as it’s not reachable by car. The beautiful surroundings and fun seaside activities make False Cape State Park a big contender for the best camping in Virginia, we highly recommend this destination.
There is also a large number of choices for lakeside camping in Virginia. Lake Fairfax Park offers excellent fishing, as does the Sherando Lake Recreation Area. Sherando Lake is an ideal family camping destination, as there are plenty of recreation activities year-round. Our favorite, however, must be North Bend Park, where the huge lake is surrounded by 800 miles of stunning wooded shoreline. The campsites here each have their own segment of the beach, and fishing for bass and crabbie is popular. This is also a great bird watching location, as Bald Eagles, blue herons, and other waterfowl frequent the area.
So, all you need to decide if you prefer fishing, birdwatching, hiking, or swimming for your next Virginia camping trip. No matter your choice, any of the locations in this article will provide you with an enjoyable and memorable camping experience. Take your friends, take your family, everyone can have a fantastic time camping in the state of Virginia.
Bonus tip: Check out this video to see what trout fishing is like in North Bend Park!
Outdoor Blog
Living Life on the Edge: Embracing Adrenaline-Fueled Moments

Life is an adventure, a journey filled with countless opportunities for thrill and excitement. For some, the idea of living life on the edge, embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is an exhilarating concept that fuels their passion for adventure. This article delves into the world of adrenaline-chasing, highlighting the benefits and experiences of such a lifestyle.
Kitesurfing: Riding the waves of excitement
The first step to living on the edge is stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new. Kitesurfing, a water sport combining wakeboarding, windsurfing, and paragliding elements, is an excellent example of an adrenaline-fueled activity. The activity entails utilizing a sizable maneuverable kite to capture the force of the wind, enabling the rider to traverse the water on a board specifically designed for kiteboarding. There is nothing quite like the exhilaration of soaring through the air, feeling the breeze caress your cheeks, and mastering the art of maneuvering a kite. Kitesurfing is a remarkable adventure that captures the spirit of embracing excitement and pushing boundaries.
The psychological thrill
In addition to the excitement of the tangible experience, embracing a daring lifestyle offers a mental rush that is just as stimulating. Engaging in these activities provides an exhilarating experience that stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s innate pain relievers. This results in a profound sense of joy and an overwhelming feeling of invulnerability. The thrill of this frenzy can become habit-forming, compelling thrill-seekers to pursue fresh and increasingly demanding adventures consistently.
The benefits of embracing the edge
Embracing a daring lifestyle goes beyond pursuing excitement; it presents many advantages. Participating in thrilling adventures can enhance physical well-being, as numerous pursuits demand robustness, stamina, and skill. Furthermore, they have the potential to enhance one’s emotional well-being by offering a means to alleviate tension and unease. Engaging in these activities demands concentration, which can effectively alleviate mental clutter, resulting in a serene state once the surge of excitement diminishes.
The balance of risk and reward
While living life on the edge can be exhilarating, it’s important to remember the balance of risk and reward. Adrenaline-fueled activities often involve a certain level of risk, and it’s essential to approach them with a healthy respect for safety. Proper training, equipment, and precautions can help mitigate these risks, allowing you to enjoy the thrill without unnecessary danger.
Always research your activities and location. This understanding can help you decide if the risk is acceptable and if you have the skills and equipment. Check and maintain your gear, and never sacrifice safety. Finally, embracing adventure with a responsible and safety-conscious mentality lets you enjoy high-risk activities without risking injury.
Living life on the edge embracing adrenaline-fueled moments, is a lifestyle choice that offers a unique blend of thrill, excitement, and personal growth. Whether kitesurfing across the waves, scaling a mountain, or skydiving from a plane, these activities provide an escape from the mundane, a chance to challenge oneself, and an opportunity to experience life at its most vibrant. So, step out of your comfort zone, embrace the adrenaline, and start living on the edge. After all, life is not meant to be lived in the slow lane; rather, it’s about experiencing every thrilling moment it offers.
Outdoor Blog
Renewable Energy Farms That Make Beautiful Hiking Trails

Wind farms and solar panels are not just alternative means to get our natural resources. They have now combined with another industry and are making some unexpected news.
The tourism industry has marked renewable energy farms as hiking trails, and hikers are here for it. You can read more about renewable energy sites. Although you might not think of hiking on a wind farm as beautiful as hiking along a famous mountain trail, you might just be in for a surprise.
Let’s discuss the benefits that renewable energy farms have as hiking trails.
Why are Renewable Energy Farms Important?
Renewable energy farms are important for the future of civilization. These farms provide an alternative to our natural resources, such as wind and energy.
The most important benefit of renewable energy is that it doesn’t produce any greenhouse emissions and reduces the air pollution other traditional processes create when providing natural resources.
These farms also allow for the creation of the country’s own resources without having to import natural resources from another country and save their limited natural resources.
Here are some of the reasons why energy farms are important:
- Allows for sustainable rural development
This will allow landowners to make an extra income by generating energy.
- Test new technologies
Providing the opportunity to test technologies to find new ways to create renewable energy.
- Improving the effect of climate change
Climate change has left the environment filled with toxic pollutants, which has led people to become sick and breathe in harmful air.
Renewable energy can change this by lessening the number of pollutants that are released into the atmosphere and providing much safer, cleaner, breathable air.
- This leads to job creation
Job creation within the renewable energy farms industry is plentiful as there is a need for skilled workers such as construction, maintenance and manufacturing to build the necessary infrastructure that is needed to generate these wind and solar farms.
The Benefits of Renewable Energy Farms As Hiking Trails
Renewable energy farms have many benefits for both the environment and people who love spending their time outdoors.
Embracing the Use of Green Technology
Since wind farms and solar plants are located in areas that are unpopulated, they make for great hiking trails.
By visiting these sites, people get to experience green technology, and by integrating them into recreational spaces, people can visit these sites and embrace green technology by seeing how they work and the positive effects that it has on the environment.
The more people embrace the shift to green technology, the easier it will be to use it.
Energy Farms Offer A Unique Experience For Visitors
Visiting energy farms means you will have a unique experience while there. You will get to see how these large devices work and how they replace the basic resources needed to survive.
Tours can give visitors more information on the background of the construction of devices, their environmental impact and why it is important for us to switch to sustainable energy resources.
Visitors Get to Enjoy Natural Beauty
The sites for these renewable energy farms are often located in areas that are surrounded by natural beauty, such as large landscapes.
Natural pathways can be used as hiking trails without the need for carving out new roads and damaging the ecosystem.
Visitors can even discover native plant life and explore the natural wonders that are located at these energy farms, as they are often placed where no infrastructure has been built on the property before.
Providing Health and Wellness Benefits
Hiking has many health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving fitness, and helping aid mental well-being.
Energy Farms have Community Benefits and Increase the Economy
These hiking trails can help boost economic sales, bringing tourists to the community. This will give the local people the opportunity to expand their businesses.
This can also help increase employment within the community as these sites will be visited frequently and lead to new business openings to cater to tourists.
Conclusion
Renewable energy farms greatly benefit both the economy and the people who want to spend their time on them. These farms are especially important for transitioning from natural resources to newer energy resource power plants.
From learning how to embrace green technology to getting health and wellness benefits to enjoying nature’s natural beauty and finding job opportunities within the market.
Spending time on these renewable energy farms can be educational and recreational for anyone who visits them. To find more renewable energy farm hiking trails, you can visit https://outsidebozeman.com.
Outdoor Blog
Top Recommendations for RV Window Maintenance

Much like other sections of your RV, the windows sometimes need a bit of maintenance. It is essential to clean off dirt and insect smudges and also make sure they are adequately sealed to avoid leaks and water harm.
If you have a broken RV window, then you may want to consult Van Isle Glass. However, if you wish to know more about simple measures to ensure your RV windows stay spotless and secure, you are in the right spot! Continue reading below.
Polish Your Windshield Using Ultra-Fine #0000 Steel Wool
Numerous RV enthusiasts have praised the use of the finest grade of steel wool #0000 for removing stubborn bugs and water marks from their windshields. Before proceeding, first test the #0000 steel wool on a small portion of your windshield. Apply it with light, circular motions. Sweep away any remaining steel wool bits with a microfiber towel. Next, spritz the surface with a residue-free glass cleaner and wipe it down with a separate cloth.
Steel wool is also great when used with a spray lubricant for cleaning tires, maintaining grills, starting campfires, and repelling mice. A gentler alternative is cleansing dish pads. These pads are versatile, suitable for cleaning various materials such as wood, porcelain, stainless steel, chrome, painted areas, and glass.
Apply a Sealant to Avoid Leaks
Silicone sealant is effective in stopping leaks in areas like your windshield, RV windows, sunroof, and vents. It penetrates tiny gaps, creating a robust waterproof barrier. Ensure the surfaces are clean before application and do not have old caulk, dirt, oil, and other residues.
Furthermore, clear away any standing water on windows to prevent hard water stains. Make sure the inside of your windows stay dry to avoid condensation and mold build-up. If there is significant condensation on your windows, consider getting a small dehumidifier.
Use Tools to Access Difficult Regions
Using cleaners with long handles can prevent you from straining to clean those distant parts of your windshield. Windshield cleaning tools often feature a lengthy, swiveling triangular head that is ideal for getting into corners and spots difficult to access manually.
Opt for a Residue-Free Glass Cleaner
A high-quality glass cleaner will maintain the clarity of your windows and windshield. A great glass cleaner performs well on both standard and tinted windows, making sure to remove streaks or leftover residue. Another option is a natural concoction of half vinegar and half water, with a touch of lemon essential oil.
Steer Clear of Cleaning RV Windows in Bright Sunlight
A sunny afternoon may feel perfect for washing your RV windows, but the warmth can speed up the drying of the cleaner, resulting in streaks or spots. It is advisable to tackle your RV window cleaning during early morning, late evening, or when stationed in a shaded area for the best outcome.
Endnote
Keeping your RV windows clean and clear is not only about aesthetics, but is also vital for safety. The subtleties in cleaning, like steering clear of the sun and using the appropriate products, play a key role. Adhering to these guidelines will help you maintain a pristine view during your various journeys.
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