Where to tent camp in Virginia is a question that is often asked of Google. In the old days, before the internet we used to rely heavily on campground guidebooks and word of mouth recommendations to find those special campsites for the best scenery, solitude and most importantly, access to the water in Virginia.

Fortunately we have super reliable word of mouth recommendations from our very own Park'rs, those who love to pitch their tents and spend time outside at Virginia State Parks.

We asked our Facebook Park'rs and they answered, and although I cannot share all of the overwhelming number of responses, we would be remiss to not share some of the most excited responses. The people have spoken and here's what they said...

FAVORITE VIRGINIA STATE PARKS FOR TENT CAMPING, AS SHARED BY CAMPERS:

1. Melanie M: Shenandoah River State Park, especially in the fall. Tent sites are right on the river, it is quiet, great trails, facilities are extremely clean, and the staff is great. You can even go ziplining if you want!
2. Heather B: We have only camped at Pocahontas. Great for the kids to explore, go to the pool, and hike. We are already booked for June! Woohoo!
3. Sara Beth B: This is my list: Sky Meadows, False Cape, James River, First Landing, Kiptopeke
4. Adam H: Occoneechee State Park, lake front tent sites are fantastic
5. Susie S: Westmoreland!!
6. Karen G: Hungry Mother, Fairy Stone, Claytor Lake. Hoping to try more soon!
7. Gwendolyn H: We've been to 16 VA State Parks, our fav tent spots are Beat Creek, Douthat, Fairystone, First Landing, Holliday Lake (group site).
8. Carol L: James River, I camp with my horses!! Absolutely love it
9. Annie C: Have only had the pleasure of one. False Cape State Park, it is so worth the effort! Beautiful and quiet.
10. Shelly W: First Landing State Park! We even camped there for our honeymoon!
11. Lin R: Grayson Highlands, Hungry Mother, James River, First Landing, and James River (again) because it's so awesome!
12. Missy S: First landing! We have a site we even call our own lol. Made reservations for June already, cannot wait! Lake Anna was a fave when my son was young as it was close. Gonna have to do that again soon! Oh gosh and how did I forget Pocahontas?! Camping and a concert?! Oh yes!
13. Jane M: Grayson Highlands State Park and Natural Tunnel. Have not camped at Hungry Mother or Natural Bridge, but LOVE going there!
14. Santina T: Westmoreland is our #1!
15. Teri T: Lake Anna--Love the Lake!! And Staunton River State Park--Love the Pool!

BONUS:

Jason W. asked: Which are best for quiet/privacy?

Holly C. replied: Hungry mother is good for that. You are on wooden platforms, so you are a little farther off the road

Leslie N. replied: There are some fairly private sites at First Landing.

The Lakeside Campground at Douthat State Park

A cool oasis in the woods at Fairy Stone State Park's campground

EXTRA BONUS: Our campgrounds are pet friendly, but there are a few basic guidelines to follow, learn more here.

Dogs can camp for free with their families at Virginia State Parks

Virginia State Parks offers family friendly affordable camping at twenty-eight parks throughout the state, with more than 1,800 campsites to choose from.

Most of our campgrounds are open from the first Friday in March through the first Monday in December, but primitive sites are available year-round.

DID YOU KNOW

When you reserve a campsite overnight that also entitles you and your campers to free swimming (if there is a pay to swim life-guarded beach), and free access to the boat launches.

A grid showing all park fees and seasons here.

You can reserve your campsite online here or call our Virginia State Parks Staff at 800-933-PARK.

And be sure to sign up for the Customer Loyalty Program to earn points with every camping experience that may be used for free future overnight stays.

You can learn more about camping in Virginia on our website here.

Love is in the Fresh Air at Virginia State Parks