When summer rolls around, camping becomes a favorite for many, even though we all have different tastes.

Tent, RV or other? What’s your Virginia State Parks camping style? In a tent or on a bunk bed?

Your current lifestyle or preference might dictate your Virginia State Parks camping style. When you were young, maybe you had so much fun tent-camping, even using a park bathhouse; those memories keep you going back to the old-fashioned pup tent. Or maybe now that the kids are all grown, you may want a self-contained RV that you hook up and go. Perhaps you prefer the plain old getting back to nature in the great outdoors and keeping it simple.

Maybe tent-pitching is family bonding time, and cooking a hot breakfast of bacon and eggs on a camp stove is the best way to start the day.

Whatever the reason, we all have different preferences in how and where we like to "rough it," but we all agree that Virginia State Parks offers some great campgrounds.

WE'VE GOT YOUR CAMPGROUND

Did you know that 29 state parks offer camping? There are more than 1,800 campsites available to rent for a few nights or longer.

SHAPES AND SIZES

Site sizes, configurations and amenities vary. Some parks offer electric and water hook-ups, often in larger sites for recreational vehicles and campers. Kiptopeke and Hungry Mother campgrounds offer sewer hook-ups. Most campgrounds are open from the first Friday in March through the first Monday in December; primitive sites are available year-round.

Unless otherwise specified, up to two camping units are allowed per campsite; only one-axle campers are allowed per site. In designated high-impact areas, all camping units, equipment, and vehicles must be within the defined area's borders. With few exceptions, campsites accommodate only up to a given maximum equipment size. Campers should be aware that parks have few large campsites for RVs, so they should select an appropriately sized site. See the list of campgrounds with RV sites.

CAMPING CABINS, BUNKHOUSES AND YURTS

Some parks offer alternate camping facilities. Camping cabins are generally one-room wooden buildings with two sets of bunk beds, a table, a ceiling fan, and an electrical outlet. They do not have heating or air conditioning, and guests use the restrooms and showers at nearby bathhouses. The cabins have a picnic table, a fire ring, a grill, or all three. Guests must bring their own sheets, pillows, and towels and a minimum two-night stay is required. Check-in is at 4 p.m., and check-out is at 10 a.m. Available at Lake Anna, Pocahontas, Shenandoah River and Westmoreland state parks, the Westmoreland cabins have two small rooms, each with two single beds. Check the park's web page under Cabins and camping for details.

Recreational yurts are a modern adaptation of an ancient nomadic shelter that combines a beautiful wood frame with durable, electronically bonded architectural fabric. It's a cross between a tent and a cabin.

Learn more about yurts, and bunkhouses and camping cabins here, or ask when you call 800-933-PARK.

EQUESTRIAN

Learn about horse and equestrian camping here.

CAMP HOST

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer camp or park host, click to learn more. Some say it is one of the most rewarding jobs in our parks. Campers love their hosts, and there are a few excellent benefits from volunteer hosting, like free camping after you clock your volunteer hours.

POLICIES

At all parks, loud music and other noise and disturbances heard beyond the campsite are prohibited during quiet hours, from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Generators are not allowed in campgrounds. See our rules and regulations here.  There is no charge for dogs overnighting in the campground. Click here to see the pet policy.

SITE-SPECIFIC

It's always a good idea to reserve a site as early as possible. Reserve now to secure your campsite-specific reservation.

HOW TO RESERVE

Visit the reservations webpage to reserve campsites, cabins, lodges and picnic shelters 24/7 or call 800-933-PARK during business hours. Learn more about reservations here. Our Frequently Asked Questions page  may help answer some of your questions without calling the Customer Service Center.

CUSTOMER LOYALTY PROGRAM

Be sure to sign up for the Customer Loyalty Program to earn points you can redeem for free overnight stays.

Campers have been making memories and enjoying the great outdoors at Virginia State Parks for over 90 years. We have thousands of campsites where you can pitch your tent. Learn more about camping at Virginia State Parks.

WHAT'S YOUR CAMPING STYLE?

Whatever your outdoorsy style, we're glad to have you share your preference and fond camping memories with us. Styles may be a combination of more than one, and styles can be as unique as you are. 

FIND A PARK