Looking to unwind with fresh air, forested trails, and starry nights near Farmville, VA? Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, this central Virginia region offers something for every type of camper. From primitive campsites tucked into state forests to full-hookup RV parks with family-friendly amenities, camping near Farmville blends natural beauty with down-to-earth charm. In this guide, you’ll find top-rated campgrounds close to Farmville—perfect for lakeside relaxation, group outings, or quiet nights around the fire.
Camping near Farmville:
Tent Camping Options near Farmville, VA:
While the next section focuses on RV-friendly campgrounds, many of the traditional sites listed below also accommodate RVs—though access may be more limited and amenities more basic.
James River State Park
Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, James River State Park offers a beautiful mix of riverfront shoreline, rolling meadows, and quiet wooded trails. With three miles of river access and stunning views, it’s a favorite for paddlers, nature lovers, and stargazers alike, especially since earning its International Dark Sky Park designation in 2019.
Activities & Amenities:
- Paddle, float, or fish along the scenic James River
- 22+ miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding
- Several freshwater ponds for quiet fishing
- Accessible fishing pier at Green Hill Pond
- Wildlife watching and interpretive nature programs
- Excellent stargazing opportunities
- Replica bateau display at the visitor center
- Picnic shelters and a natural playground
- Camp store and gift shop
- Amphitheater for events and programs
- Universally accessible trails and facilities
- Pet-friendly (leash required)
Campground Areas:
- Red Oak Campground: 30 water/electric sites (up to 50-amp), large tent pads, bathhouse with laundry, RVs up to 40 ft
- Canoe Landing: 10 primitive sites with river access, plus a large group tent-only site
- Walnut Grove & Branch Pond: Secluded primitive tent sites in wooded areas
- Horseshoe Campground: 9 pull-through water/electric sites with covered horse stalls, ideal for equestrian campers
Holliday Lake State Park
Nestled within the Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest, Holliday Lake State Park offers a peaceful forest retreat with a rich historical backdrop. Just minutes from the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, this scenic getaway features a 150-acre lake created in the 1930s, surrounded by a hardwood forest full of native wildlife and Civilian Conservation Corps history.
Activities & Amenities:
- Six hiking trails, including the popular 6.7-mile Lakeshore Trail around the lake
- Designated swimming beach and multiple playgrounds
- Excellent fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and pickerel
- Seasonal ranger-led hikes and nature programs
- Boat rentals: Jon boats, kayaks, and pedal boats
- Self-guided aquatic trail for lake exploration
- Access to the Carter Taylor multi-use trail for biking and horseback riding
- Beachside snack bar and boat ramp
- Accessible fishing pier and clean bathhouses
- Pet-friendly (leash required)
Campground Areas:
- Laurel Ridge Campground: Water/electric sites (up to 50-amp), picnic tables, fire rings, bathhouses, and RV access up to 40 ft
- Redbud Campground: Water/electric sites for tents, trailers, and pop-ups up to 30 ft
- Group Camping Area:Tent pads, grills, and fire rings (no electricity)
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Tucked within the scenic Cumberland State Forest, Bear Creek Lake State Park is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts in central Virginia. Just a short drive from Farmville and less than an hour from Richmond, this lakeside park offers a peaceful getaway with hiking trails, forested campsites, and a 40-acre lake for swimming and fishing. With its mix of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities, Bear Creek is a great home base for everything from weekend camping trips to group events.
Activities & Amenities:
- Designated swimming beach (unguarded)
- Fishing pier and excellent bass and catfish fishing on the lake
- Boat rentals are available for on-the-water exploration
- Over 30 miles of forest trails for hiking and biking
- Access to Willis River Trail and Cumberland Multi-use Trail (open to horseback riding with permit)
- 10-lane archery range with 3D targets and rental equipment
- Archery classes and seasonal group instruction
- Shaded picnic tables and metal fire rings at each site
- Clean bathhouses with restrooms and showers
- Seasonal snack bar and Wi-Fi in the campground area
- Firewood and ice are available for purchase
- Park hosts stationed in the Acorn and Chestnut Loops
- Pet-friendly (leash required)
Campground Areas:
- 48 campsites across three loops: Acorn, Black Oak, and Chestnut
- Electric-water (EW) hookups and RV pads for rigs up to 35 feet
- Scenic tent-only sites, including waterfront locations
- Large group campsite available
RV-Friendly Options near Farmville
If you’re traveling with an RV or camper van, the Farmville area offers a variety of well-equipped parks to meet your needs. From full hook-up sites and pull-through pads to family-friendly amenities and scenic views, these RV campgrounds combine convenience with comfort—perfect for both quick getaways and extended stays.
Cozy Acres Campground & RV Park
Cozy Acres Campground in Powhatan is a family-owned retreat. This peaceful 100-acre wooded campground offers a variety of camping options. Guests enjoy a sparkling pool, playground, fishing ponds, modern bathhouses, laundry facilities, a camp store, and scenic walking trails. It’s often praised for its clean facilities, friendly staff, and quiet, homey atmosphere, making it ideal for families and RVers.
Activities & Amenities:
- Swimming in a newly renovated pool and fenced kiddie pool
- Horseshoes, beach volleyball, and seasonal fire engine rides for kids
- Indoor game room with ping pong, foosball, billiards, and pinball
- Planned camper events and seasonal activities
- Peaceful nature trails for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing
- Renovated private bathhouse and clean restrooms
- Indoor clubhouse with camper kitchen and meeting space
- Trading Post stocked with snacks, RV parts, and camping supplies
- Laundry facilities, LP gas refill station, dump station, and camper services
- Golf cart rentals and seasonal pool memberships
- Indoor and outdoor RV storage options
Lodging & Campsites:
- Full hook-up RV sites with 20/30/50 amp service
- Pull-through super sites and waterfront sites with patios or gazebos
- Kottages and rustic cabins featuring AC, bathrooms, and kitchens
Horseshoe Flats Camping
You can have a fantastic family getaway at Horseshoe Flats campsite, where the James River is your playground. Enjoy swimming, tubing, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking right here. Campers are just a short walk from the historic river town of Scottsville, offering everything from restaurants and antique shops to a laundromat and tennis courts. Don’t forget your bikes—they’re perfect for exploring both the campground and town.
Activities & Amenities:
- Tubing, canoeing, swimming, and fishing on the James River
- Convenient tubing shuttle service—float back to your site
- Grassy riverfront picnic areas for relaxing outdoor meals
- Walk or bike into Scottsville to explore shops, taverns, and parks
- Vineyard and brewery tours are available upon request
- Small game room nearby, plus easy access to gas, groceries, and laundry
- Bathrooms with hot showers (indoor and outdoor options)
- Wi-Fi available in many areas; strong Verizon signal
- Firewood for sale—generous supply for all your campfires
- Friendly, attentive staff known for top-notch hospitality
Campsites:
- 25 total RV sites (9 full hook-up, 25 water/electric)
- 25 primitive tent sites, many shaded with river views
- Max RV length: 35 feet
Amelia Family Campground
Amelia Family Campground is a charming, family-run retreat located just outside Farmville in Amelia Court House, VA. Known for its warm hospitality and homegrown bluegrass legacy, this campground offers a peaceful stay with all the basics, plus a friendly atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family. Whether you’re stopping in for the night or settling down for a longer stay, this is a relaxing home base just off US-360.
Activities & Amenities:
- Swimming pool and catch-and-release fishing pond
- Horseshoe pits and a shaded playground for kids
- Bluegrass music events are held seasonally on-site
- Peaceful setting perfect for porch sitting, slow mornings, and stargazing
- Clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities
- Well-maintained, shaded grounds
- Pet-friendly (leash required)
- Small camp store for essentials
- Pavilion with concessions during events and festivals
Campsites:
- 80 total campsites, including:
- 50 full-hookup pull-through sites
- 20 electric-only sites
- 30-and 50-amp service available
- Spacious sites (some may require leveling)
- Long-term stays welcome
Paradise Lake Family Campground
Located in scenic Appomattox County, this campground offers a peaceful, family-focused atmosphere. Open year-round, this campground is gated for added security and provides a relaxed outdoor setting surrounded by woods, a fishing lake, and walking trails, making it a great choice for weekend campers or long-term stays.
Activities & Amenities:
- Swimming and fishing in the lake
- Sparkling pool for warm-weather relaxation
- Walking trails for casual strolls and nature enjoyment
- Game room, basketball court, and playground for family-friendly entertainment
- Picnic shelters for group meals and gatherings
- Two bathhouses and a laundry room
- Dump station and LP gas refills
- Camp store stocked with firewood, ice, and bait
- Pet-friendly (some restrictions apply)
Campsites:
- Full hook-up sites and water/electric options
- Limited winter availability (heated water hoses required)
- Seasonal and monthly sites are available for extended stays
- Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring
Camping Tips for the Farmville, VA, Area
Before you pitch your tent or back in your RV, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your camping experience near Farmville, VA:
- Prepare for Varying Cell Service: Many campgrounds in the Farmville area are tucked into valleys or nestled along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which means cell reception can be limited. Download maps ahead of time, and don’t rely on GPS alone.
- Stock Up on Essentials: While most campgrounds offer a camp store or are close to small towns, it’s smart to bring basics like firewood (purchased locally or on-site), extra drinking water, bug spray, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Mind Wildlife and Leave No Trace: Bears, deer, and other wildlife are common in the area. Follow campground food storage rules, never leave trash out, and respect posted guidelines to help keep nature safe for you and the animals.
- Watch the Weather: Weather in central Virginia can shift quickly, especially in higher elevations. Bring rain gear, and stake your tent securely in case of afternoon storms.
- Book Ahead When Possible: Many popular campgrounds near Farmville, VA, offer online reservations, and some fill up fast—especially during holidays and fall foliage season. Booking early can help you secure your preferred spot and avoid last-minute stress.
Whether you’re tent camping under the stars or enjoying a full-hookup RV site, a little preparation can go a long way toward a safe, relaxing trip in one of Virginia’s most scenic regions.
Ready to Camp Near Farmville?
With peaceful lakes, wooded trails, and welcoming campgrounds nearby, camping in Farmville, VA, is the perfect way to unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you’re planning a solo tent escape or a fun-filled RV weekend with the family, each campground around Farmville offers a relaxing base to explore Virginia’s scenic countryside.
And if the quiet charm of the area makes you want to stick around, we invite you to explore Poplar Forest Apartments in Farmville, VA—designed with comfort in mind for singles, couples, and families alike. For adults 55 and older, Parc Crest, our senior living community, provides thoughtfully designed apartments in a warm and friendly environment.
So pack your gear, hit the road, and embrace your next adventure—Farmville is ready to welcome you. Happy camping!
Check out our other local guides for a list of State Parks near Farmville, The Best Coffee in Farmville, Local Farmville Farmers Markets, and so much more!