Best Campgrounds Near Staunton | Tent & RV Camping
Escape the hustle and bustle by camping amid the Shenandoah Valley. Staunton, VA—at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and near Shenandoah National Park—offers a haven for outdoor lovers. With its historic downtown and proximity to Skyline Drive, Staunton also serves as a perfect base for camping.
This guide highlights the best spots, from rugged tent campgrounds to full-service RV parks, around Staunton. You’ll find towering limestone chimneys, riverside hikes, sweeping mountain vistas, and family-friendly resorts with pools and playgrounds—all an hour or less from Downtown Staunton. Whether you crave secluded tent sites or RV hookups, read on for the top campgrounds near Staunton, VA, plus tips to plan your adventure.
Top Campgrounds Near Staunton, VA:
Traditional Campsites Suitable for Tents
Natural Chimneys Park & Campground
📞 (540) 245-5753 📧 camping@co.augusta.va.us 📍Distance from Downtown Staunton: 20 Miles (about 30 minutes)
Natural Chimneys Campground sits among limestone rock formations that rise to 120 feet, creating a dramatic backdrop. This family-friendly spot offers shaded, spacious sites with both RV and tent-only areas. Additionally, scenic trails, a peaceful riverfront, and unique historic events—like jousting tournaments—balance quiet nature with engaging recreation.
- Unique Setting: Towering limestone “chimneys” rise from open grassy fields. Meanwhile, the North River winds through the landscape, adding a gentle soundtrack to your stay. Whether you stroll riverside or relax at camp, the setting feels timeless.
- Activities: Hiking and mountain biking (2.5+ miles of trails), birding, fishing (seasonal trout stocking), basketball, volleyball, a playground, and historic jousting. You can picnic here even if you don’t camp.
- Amenities: Water and electric hookups (30/50 amp), limited sewer sites, and a free dump station. Each site includes a fire ring and picnic table. You’ll also find clean restrooms and two hot showers. The campground welcomes leashed pets with proof of vaccination. The park prohibits alcohol. Golf carts are allowed with registration and insurance.
- Reservations: Reserve seasonally or arrive first-come, first-served. Generally, the season runs from spring through fall. Tent stays max out at five consecutive nights; RV stays at fourteen.
Hear from past visitors:
“I’ve been going here since I was a kid in the 70s. There have been a lot of changes over the years, but some things remain the same. The staff is kind, courteous, and AWESOME as usual. The sites are huge and spacious. The trails are kept in good shape, and the location of the campground is surrounded by farmland for a quiet stay. Last but not least, the Chimneys are spectacular and a must-see from below, and from the trail that takes you above and behind them. This place holds many memories for me, and I will continue to make more.”
Loft Mountain Campground
📞 (540) 999-3500 📧 Send this campground an email 📍Distance from Downtown Staunton: 42.4 Miles (about 1 hour)
Loft Mountain sits high atop Big Flat Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, with panoramic views west to the Valley and east to the Piedmont. With direct access to Big Run Wilderness and nearby waterfalls, it draws hikers, RVers, and tent campers. Although there’s no cell service or internet, the peace and elevation make a restorative escape.
- Unique Setting: A true mountaintop campground with big sunrises and sunsets. Trails, forest, and wildlife surround every loop—without modern distractions.
- Activities: Hiking, access to Big Run Wilderness, waterfalls, seasonal ranger programs, and abundant wildlife. It’s also great for stargazing and relaxed campfire evenings.
- Amenities: Standard tent and RV sites (no hookups), potable water (seasonal), dump station, flush toilets, coin-op showers, laundry, food storage lockers, fire grates, and a seasonal camp store. ADA-accessible sites are available. Due to emerald ash borer rules, use certified firewood or gather dead and down wood only. Skip charcoal grills; choose camp stoves instead. Dogs are welcome on a leash up to six feet.
- Reservations: Choose from reservable and first-come sites. Booking opens in stages up to six months ahead, and weekends fill quickly. Tent and RV stays can last up to 30 days.
Important Notes:
- This is a no-hookup campground—no electric or water at campsites.
- Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., with limited generator use allowed (and prohibited in designated quiet zones).
- Fire safety and wildlife guidelines are strictly enforced.
Hear from past visitors:
“I have been coming here since I was little and I ALWAYS have a great time and usually do a lot of hiking. The campground hosts are amazing, the rangers are amazing, the views are amazing, and there’s just so much to do and enjoy! Definitely plan ahead since this campground (and the best sites) are first come-first serve. Campground does not have hookups but there are several bathrooms located throughout the campground, showers and laundry located at the campstore (within walking distance of campground) and just past that is a larger gift shop and restaurant at The Wayside. Great place for the whole family!“
Crabtree Falls Campground
📞 (540) 377-2066 📧 crabtreefallscampground@gmail.com 📍Distance from Downtown Staunton: 34.3 Miles (about 50 minutes)
Crabtree Falls Campground offers a rustic retreat along the Tye River, just a half-mile from the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi. You can choose peaceful waterfront tent camping, pop-up access, or RV hookups—each tucked into the Blue Ridge.
- Unique Setting: Walk-to sites sit close to the river with shady forest surroundings. Others perch above the water or along the main road. In the fall, foliage frames mountain views.
- Activities: Hike nearby trails, cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway, stargaze, and spot wildlife. Consider day trips to Spy Rock, Humpback Rock, and local breweries. The on-site Tye River is shallow and not stocked; ask the office about a local fishing hole (license required).
- Amenities: Tent, pop-up, and RV sites with varying water and electric access. Renovated bathhouses feature tiled showers and changing rooms. You’ll also find laundry, an on-site general store, a mulched playground, and convenient water spigots. Every site includes a fire pit and picnic table. Dogs are welcome with documentation—review the Pet Policy before you go.
Important Notes:
- Site Types: There are a variety of site types to suit every need, though some do not have vehicle access, and at least one site is not recommended for small children.
- Firewood Policy: Support local—purchase firewood onsite. Outside firewood is discouraged due to pest control.
Hear from past visitors:
“Had a great time at this campsite. Booked online, no issues. I called the camp to ask a question about a pair of sites. They responded within a day and provided exactly what I needed to know. The gentlemen at the check in was great, low key and chill. He showed us where to go and pointed out a few amenities in case we were interested. Bottom line: the camp sites are great especially the ones by the river. Come with family or friends, you won’t be disappointed.”
Best RV Parks Near Staunton, VA (RV & Camper-Friendly)
Misty Mountain Camp Resort
📞 (540) 456-6409 📧 contactus@mistymountaincampresort.com 📍Distance from Downtown Staunton: 24.2 Miles (about 30 minutes)
Misty Mountain is a family-friendly retreat at the foot of the Blue Ridge. With spacious RV sites and four-season activities, it makes an easy base for the wine country, the Parkway, and Shenandoah.
- Unique Setting: Rolling vineyards and foothills surround the resort. Large trees, mountain views, and a nearby creek set a peaceful tone. Fall colors shine, while summer evenings invite fireside chats.
- Activities: Catch-and-release fishing pond, two playgrounds, corn hole, horseshoes, basketball, volleyball, a seasonal jump pad, and gemstone/fossil sluicing at the Mining Company. Summer and fall often feature live music, food trucks, and community events.
- Amenities: Full-hookup 50/30 amp sites, water/electric options, pull-throughs and back-ins, gravel pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and Wi-Fi. The property includes 100 campsites, 16 cabins, event venues, two modern bathhouses, and a laundry room. You’ll also find a country store, fitness room, and a seasonal pool. Leashed pets are welcome.
- Reservations: Book online or call. Summer weekends and leaf season fill fast, so reserve early. The resort opens year-round; most amenities run March–November.
Hear from past visitors:
“We’ve been going to Misty Mountain for about 10 years or more and have always loved everything about it. The wonderful people who work here, the events and activities, the location, and the accommodations are all fabulous. We’ve done primitive camping, primitive cabins, and regular cabins, and regularly go on a joint trip with a family with an RV and we’ve all always had a wonderful experience. I’m so grateful to have learned about Misty Mountain and look forward to our annual winter trip here!”
Walnut Hills Campground & RV Park
📞 (540) 337-3920 📧 office@walnuthillscampground.com 📍Distance from Downtown Staunton: 8.8 Miles (about 20 minutes)
Walnut Hills blends historic charm with modern RV comfort on 44 scenic acres once part of a colonial-era estate. From shady creekside retreats to sunny pull-through pads, the campground makes it easy to relax and explore the Blue Ridge.
Unique Setting: The property dates to the 1700s and sits along Lake Kerplonken and Christians Creek. Towering walnut and locust trees—some more than 250 years old—surround the loops.
RV Site Options: Whether you’re pulling a teardrop camper or a 45-foot Class A, Walnut Hills Unique Setting: The property dates to the 1700s and sits along Lake Kerplonken and Christians Creek. Towering walnut and locust trees—some more than 250 years old—surround the loops.
RV Site Options: All sites include a picnic table, fire ring, and Wi-Fi. Many offer pull-through access, extra length, and open sky for satellite use. Choose from:
- Full Hookup: Lakefront back-ins, patio pull-throughs with propane grills and swings, or wide, shaded hilltop sites.
- Water/Electric: Creekside, meadow, or grove locations for shorter stays.
- Buddy Sites: Dual-hookup options for caravans and traveling companions.
Amenities: A large swimming pool (Memorial Day–Labor Day) plus a kiddie pool, stocked lake, two playgrounds, GaGa Ball pit, basketball court, 9-hole disc golf, and a fenced dog park. Friday nights often feature outdoor movies; seasonal foam parties pop up in summer. You’ll find clean bathhouses, laundry, and a stocked camp store.
Reservations & Events: Book online year-round. Themed weekends run June–October and fill quickly. Families, rally groups, and clubs receive group-friendly options.
Important Notes:
- No sewer hookups on W/E-only sites, but dump stations are available.
- Pets are welcome on all campsites—just leash and clean up after them.
- Some sites have size limitations; check fit lengths before booking.
- Friday night movies and foam parties are weather-dependent.
Hear from past visitors:
“Beautiful Campground and RV Resort located in the Shenandoah Valley. We spent 3 nights on site 416 and in my opinion the best site available. Sits on top of the hill, all alone, overlooking the small lake and waterside sites. Quiet with great views and nearby Waynesboro and Staunton have plenty of restaurants to chose from. Owners seem to have plenty of activities for the kids as well. Excellent weekend getaway or quick overnight stay.”
Sun Retreats Shenandoah Valley
📞 (540) 337-2267 📍Distance from Downtown Staunton: 14.7 Miles (about 25 minutes)
Sun Retreats combines natural beauty with resort-style amenities. Whether you visit for a weekend or stay for the season, you’ll find lake time, recreation, and home-style comforts.
- Unique Setting: Scenic lake access, beach areas, and roomy sites sit minutes from Shenandoah National Park.
- Activities: Swim in the heated pool (Memorial Day–October), play the 18-hole mini-golf course, cast a line in the stocked lake, and explore playgrounds and a jump pad. Friday movies and foam parties add summer fun.
- Amenities: Full-hookup pull-through RV sites with 30/50 amp service, fire rings, picnic tables, and Wi-Fi. On-site perks include a game room, basketball, GaGa Ball, fenced dog park, clean bathhouses, laundry, and a covered pavilion. The Eatery and Snack Bar serve food and drinks; the store sells firewood, propane, duck food, and rentals.
- Reservations: Reserve online or call ahead. Choose nightly, weekend, or seasonal stays, including pet-friendly options. Day passes are available for the lake and mini-golf.
Important Notes:
Many activities and food services are open to the public, including mini-golf, the store, and the lake (daily access fee applies). Most games in the Game Room use a reloadable card system; pool tables accept coins.
Hear from past visitors:
“Wonderful!!! The staff are very helpful as well as friendly. The site was immaculate. The playground, jump pad, swimming pool, and beach were a hit. Very clean. Booking for next year :-)”
Essential Camping Tips for Staunton, VA
Book Ahead: Summer weekends fill up fast. Shenandoah National Park campgrounds and popular parks often require reservations months in advance, especially for holidays. Check each campground’s season (most open late spring through fall) and reserve early to secure your spot.
Follow Leave No Trace: Help protect the Blue Ridge. Camp on durable surfaces (established sites), pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing plants or wildlife. Keep campsites tidy! Trash or food scraps attract animals. Observe quiet hours and respect other campers. Note that in Shenandoah backcountry, no campfires are allowed, and fires elsewhere should only be in fire rings.
Store Food Safely: Black bears are common here. Keep all food (and scented items like toothpaste or trash) locked in your vehicle or bear locker. Do not leave food or coolers out overnight. As Virginia’s “Be Bear Wise” program advises, keep camp clean and store food away from your sleeping area. This greatly reduces bear encounters.
Weather Prep: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Even in summer, expect cool nights (40s–50s°F) and possible afternoon thunderstorms. Bring layered clothing and rain gear. Check the forecast for higher elevations; even lower elevations can quickly change.
Check Regulations: Each site has its own rules. Some parks limit stay length, others ban generators, or have pet restrictions. Read campground info beforehand. In national parks, for example, familiarize yourself with specific rules on food storage, firewood use, and wildlife.
Wildlife Awareness: Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Never feed deer, bears, or other animals. Bring binoculars for safe wildlife viewing, and make noise on trails to avoid startling bears. If you do encounter a bear, remain calm, back away slowly (see Virginia’s bear safety tips).
By following these tips, you’ll help preserve the natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley and ensure a safe, enjoyable trip.
Find More in Staunton, VA
Camping near Staunton, VA, offers everything from rustic riverside retreats to full-service RV resorts. Whether you pitch a tent under the stars or pull into a grassy RV pad with hookups, the surrounding Blue Ridge scenery won’t disappoint.
After a few nights under the stars, you might just fall in love with the area. If so, Big Sky Apartments in Staunton offers modern comfort with scenic views and easy access to the region’s natural beauty. Plan ahead, pack appropriately, and head out – the forests and mountains around Staunton are waiting to welcome you. Happy camping!
Check out our other local guides for a list of State Parks near Staunton, Local Parks in Staunton, The Best Coffee in Staunton, Local Staunton Farmers Markets, and so much more!