Twenty-three of our Virginia State Parks have hook-ups for recreational vehicles. So don’t hesitate to bring your rolling lodging with you! Try one of these seven parks that are ready to host you and your family.

1. Birders’ Best: Belle Isle State Park

Located beside the Rappahannock River in Virginia’s Northern Neck, Belle Isle is your place to  explore a wide variety of tidal wetlands. A great choice for birders, Belle Isle is also home to other wildlife you’ll discover from its many multi-use trails. Rent a bike or kayak if you don’t bring your own, or take a guided canoe trip (offered during the summer season).

RV at a Belle Isle State Park campsite

You can also check out many of the Northern Neck’s cultural attractions nearby, including the Mary Ball Washington Museum, Reedville Fishermen’s Museum, and Historic Christ Church, a National Historic Landmark.

2. Serene Stay: James River State Park

One of our most tranquil parks awaits you in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains: James River features rolling grasslands and quiet forests. The uniquely beautiful view found at the Tye River Overlook, where two rivers meet at a 90-degree juncture, is worth the visit alone! Hike or bike the 22 miles of multi-use trails – two of them wheelchair accessible. 

Teardrop camper and outdoor gear set up at James River State Park

The James River is a hot spot for smallmouth bass, and you can cast your line from our fishing pier. Don’t forget to check out the replica of a historic batteau at the visitor center.

3. Special Meeting Place: Machicomoco State Park

One of our newest parks, Machicomoco takes its name from an Algonquian word meaning “special meeting place” – and now it’s your place to discover the stories of Virginia’s native tribes. Located in the southern part of Gloucester County along the York River, Machicomoco features an open-air interpretive pavilion where displays provide information on the culture and movement of Virginia Indians. This very landscape was most certainly associated with Tsenacommacah and Powhatan’s extensive Chiefdom. Archaeological evidence includes two ancient shell middens, as well as various sites used as bases for fishing, oystering and hunting.

Machicomo's open-air interpretive pavilion

Today Machicomoco is home to deer, turkey, and many species of songbirds and birds of prey. After a walk along the park road, use the car-top boat launch and explore the Poplar Creek tidal ecology and York River by paddle craft. You can also fish at the floating docks located on Timberneck Creek.

4. Nature Made: Natural Tunnel State Park

Once called the "Eighth Wonder of the World," the natural tunnel that gives this park its name is more than 850 feet long and 10 stories high. Natural Tunnel was naturally carved through a limestone ridge over thousands of years. Follow the seven walking trails to the unique features of the park: the tunnel floor, Lover’s Leap, Tunnel Hill and Gorge Ridge. A 500-foot boardwalk and observation deck provide accessibility to guests with disabilities. And anyone can ride the chairlift to the mouth of the tunnel. 

A Natural Tunnel campsite showing off how beautiful it can be to RV in October

Expand your knowledge at the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center, a satellite facility of this park where programs take place. Take to the nearby Clinch River in a kayak or canoe. And check out the volleyball net and horseshoe pits at the Lover's Leap campground.

5. Fabulous Fishing: Occoneechee State Park

With 24-hour access to Virginia’s largest lake, Occoneechee holds special appeal for anglers and boaters. Catch catfish, bass and more! If you’re not pulling your own, rent a boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard from Clarksville Water Sports near Boat Ramp 1. And cool off in the splash park during the hottest months. You can also swim along the shoreline at your own risk.

Sunset on Kerr Lake viewed from one of Occoneechee's lakeside campsites

Occoneechee also has 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Take an indoor break at the visitor center and museum to learn about Native American history and the indigenous Occoneechee people who give the park its name. Or bring your bow and arrows for some archery at the 10-target outdoor range! 

6. Stargazing Spot: Staunton River State Park

There’s no better place to experience the majesty of the night sky than Staunton River, officially designated a Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International. Time your visit to observe a special astronomical event like a meteor shower, or a park event like the Staunton River Star Party! Two Newtonian-reflector telescopes may be rented at the visitor center – we'll even give you a star map, printed instructions and a hands-on tutorial.

Telescopes set up at Staunton River for a star party

For your daytime enjoyment, Staunton River offers woodlands, meadows and shoreline along the Dan and Staunton Rivers, as well as access to the nearby Buggs Island Lake (home to Occoneechee State Park, above). Ten wooded multi-use trails provide more than 17 miles of hiking or biking. And don’t forget your discs! Staunton River is home to a challenging, woodsy nine-hole disc golf course, the only one in our state park system – so far. 

7. Segregated Start: Twin Lakes State Park

Twin Lakes has a rich history. It began as a pair of federal parks in the 1930s before becoming Virginia’s eighth state park in 1950: Prince Edward State Park, established to serve Black Virginians who were not allowed access to other parks during the segregation era. After Goodwin Lake Recreational Area – also segregated until the early 1960s – merged with Prince Edward, the combined site was renamed Twin Lakes State Park. Visit with park rangers to learn more of this park’s history and take time to read the interpretive signage throughout the park.

A lifeguard and park ranger working together at Twin Lakes

Both lakes are great for fishing, and you can swim in the designated swimming area of Goodwin Lake. Hike the six miles of trails.through hardwood forests and along the lakes. Or try the eight-mile, non-loop multi-use trail in the adjacent Prince Edward-Gallion State Forest (with a state forest permit). If culture is your thing, venture out to the Moton Museum or Longwood University Visual Arts Center in nearby Farmville.

Book Now

You can book RV sites at any of these state parks online at reservevaparks.com. We hope to see you and your RV soon!