Summer Guide: Virginia campgrounds and glamping essentials

Pick your campingsite and then transform it into a luxurious glamping getaway.

By Editorial • Posted July 28, 2016 at 10:00 a.m.

Photo courtesy of Alinal Sakovich/Adobe stock

Whether you seek back-to-basics digs or a well-equipped cabin, escape the city this summer at these local campgrounds. –CJ

Sky Meadows State Park
Nestled against the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sky Meadows offers visitors a unique and peaceful camping experience. Hiking, picnicking, fishing and hike-in camping for families and groups are well-known activities at this site. Guests must hike a mile from the overnight parking area to get to the campsites via Hadow Trail. No vehicles are allowed near campsites. // 11012 Edmonds Lane, Delaplane, $15 per night

Lake Fairfax Park Campground
This campground is kid-friendly. Surrounding an 18-acre lake, there are many water activities such as the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, a Western-themed activity pool with twisting slides. Paddleboat rentals are available. // 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, $28 per night

Bull Run Regional Park Campground
If you want to go camping but not too far from home, Bull Run Regional Park’s campground features 150 shaded campsites, a camp store, mini golf, disc golf, a playground, trails and an outdoor pool. All camping sites have a charcoal grill, fire ring and picnic table. Two bathhouses with both bathroom and laundry facilities are in the campground. // 7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville, $27 in-jurisdiction

Big Meadows Campground
As one of four campgrounds in Shenandoah National Park, this one is a popular site. The Meadow is within walking distance of the campgrounds. It is well-known for its many plants, Blue Ridge Mountains scenery and wildlife. Pets are allowed. Campgrounds are equipped with bathhouses, though there is no electricity. // Skyline Drive mile 51.2, Stanley, $20 per night

False Cape State Park
A beautiful choice for coastal camping and accessible only by foot, bicycle or boat, the park is popular for remote camping. But it also offers a variety of other activities for visitors, including guided kayak excursions, biking paths and 6 miles of untouched beachfront for swimming and sunbathing. // 4001 Sandpiper Road, Virginia Beach, $11 per night

Once you pick your destination, toss out the rules and turn your trip into a glamping getaway by taking along some luxury to the campingsite. –AW