Virginia is for lovers, so they say. It’s also for families, solo outings and everything in between. Glamping in Virginia offers many possibilities and, in most cases, is possible all four seasons. We’ve found five spots you won’t want to miss. All are ideal year-round and most make for glamping perfection in winter, too.
1. Skipping Rock
In the Shenandoah Valley sits a wonderful piece of private land that hosts Skipping Rock, a secluded riverfront glampsite next to (and high above) the Middle River. About 45 minutes from Charlottesville, this glamping tent has a woodstove, a cookstove (with gas), firewood, and lanterns. You won’t find a more comfortable place for glamping in Virginia.
This luxurious site also comes with its own bedding on a comfy queen-sized bed. There is even a toilet inside the tent, so no need to venture outside on cold, dark nights. Up to six adults can set up camp here. Skipping Rock has only two campsites and they are out of view from one another. The spacious farm property is near wineries and breweries, and offers plenty of quiet hikes from your tent.
2. Flowing Brook
In the Blue Ridge Mountains of central Virginia, you’ll find Flowing Brook. As its name implies, this glampsite sits alongside a creek that flows year-round. Wildlife here is abundant, from deer to bird life to an occasional bear. Best of all, the comfy dome tent sleeps six in luxury. In winter, you may want to spring for clean sheets and a comforter (for $15 extra). The sound of flowing water is perhaps the best amenity here, but nearby toilets and plenty of seating are provided, too. Inside the tent is a comfy bed and gas heater. You’ll find firewood already supplied for a roaring fire.
Winter visitors enjoy driving the Blue Ridge parkway, where views abound. This site is a working farm with miniature goats, chickens and ducks, which makes it an excellent camp adventure for kid.
3. Creek Side at Pony Pines Farms
If you are exploring Virginia, its beaches should be on your list. Two of the most famous, on the eastern shore, are Assateague and Chincoteague, known for herds of wild horses. If you are trying out glamping in Virginia, Pony Pines Farms is an excellent introduction. In winter, the beaches are uncrowded and quiet.
Pony Pines is private sanctuary land with dogs, horses, goats, and donkeys. This four-camper site receives 5-stars from neary every visitor, as the gorgeous meadows and sunsets are hard to beat. The tent is an affordable $100/night and includes the usual luxuries: queen bed, platform, and firepit and grill. Bathrooms are close-by but guests should be aware there is a ¼-mile walk from car to tent.
This location is extremely family-friendly, as children enjoy meeting the sanctuary animals. On-site hosts know the area well, and can recommend plenty of fun activities in town or at the nearby beaches.
4. Sheperd's Meadow Sheep Fam
Near the border with North Carolina sits the delightful Shepherd’s Meadow sheep farm. The secluded location is near two state parks, so hiking is always available. In southern Virginia, the winter climate is milder. On this working sheep farm, the owners offer a 6-person tent site to enjoy the best of glamping in Virginia.
This tent comes fully stocked with plentiful kitchen cookware, a sink, and dish towels. The firepit is ready to go, and the tent includes family games and a cozy retreat.
Because this is a sheep farm, dogs are not allowed. Humans are free to roam the grounds, however, or explore nearby woods and creek. The onsite, 20-foot deep pond is stocked for fishing.
5. "Top of the Rock" at Beaverdam Falls
In the southwest part of the state, there is a fabulous spot to discover the best of glamping in Virginia. It’s called “Top of the Rock” and sits above Beaverdam Falls. It’s a little pricier ($179/night) but it’s tough to beat a camp spot literally on top of a waterfall.
The tent is nestled in 60 private acres at the headwaters of Dunlap Creek. The falls are 40-feet high and rush down into beautiful cascades below. The site offers a wood bridge for viewing the falls, and nearby hiking.
Inside the tent, you’ll find a winter-ready bed and enough room for four campers. This camp is unique in offering spring water but in case of a freeze, five-gallons of freshwater are still provided. There is a site shower, camp loo, and firepit and grill. This area is dog-friendly (but they must be kept leashed) and ideal for children as long as they are supervised around the falls and rocks.
Glamping in Virginia is a four-season sport but be sure to check all sites to make certain they will stay warm enough. At Top of the Rock, the hosts have made the tent comfy even when the weather outside is frightful.